Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2.

Key Points

• The Aditya-L1 mission, led by ISRO, is India’s first dedicated solar mission aimed at studying the Sun's atmosphere and its dynamic processes.
• The SUIT (Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope) payload is designed to image the solar disk in the near-ultraviolet spectrum to study the temperature, chemical composition, and dynamics of the Sun's photosphere and chromosphere.
• The SOLEXS (Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer) instrument is a high-resolution X-ray spectrometer developed to study solar flares and active regions in soft X-ray wavelengths.
• Both SUIT and SOLEXS are among the seven payloads on Aditya-L1, which aim to provide unprecedented insights into solar activities and their impact on space weather.
• Aditya-L1 will be positioned in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point L1, approximately 1.5 million km from Earth, ensuring continuous observation of the Sun.

Additional Information

• Aditya-L1 Mission:
• India’s first solar observatory mission developed by ISRO to study the Sun’s corona, chromosphere, and solar winds.
• It includes seven scientific payloads to observe the Sun’s electromagnetic spectrum, magnetic fields, and particle flux.
• The mission aims to improve understanding of space weather phenomena and their effects on Earth.
• Lagrange Point L1:
• A point in space where the gravitational forces of the Earth and the Sun balance the centrifugal force of a satellite.
• Provides a stable orbit for continuous observation of the Sun without any interruptions due to Earth’s shadow.
• SUIT Payload:
• Designed to study the solar photosphere and chromosphere in the near-ultraviolet spectrum.
• Helps analyze temperature variations and chemical compositions, providing insights into solar dynamics.
• SOLEXS Instrument:
• A high-resolution spectrometer focused on detecting soft X-rays emitted during solar flares.
• Critical for studying active regions of the Sun and understanding solar magnetic activity.
• Space Weather:
• Refers to the conditions and phenomena in space caused by solar activities, such as solar winds and flares.
• Space weather impacts satellite operations, communication systems, and power grids on Earth.

The correct answer is Investigate the quantity and quality of water on the Moon and explore its dark side.

Key Points

• The LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration) Mission is a collaborative effort between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
• The mission aims to explore the Moon's polar regions, specifically to investigate the presence and characteristics of water ice.
• LUPEX will study the Moon's "dark side," which remains permanently shadowed and holds potential reserves of water ice.
• The findings from LUPEX are expected to support future human exploration and the development of lunar habitats.
• Both ISRO and JAXA are contributing unique technologies, including a rover and a lander, to achieve the mission's objectives.

Additional Information

• Water Ice on the Moon:
• Water ice is believed to exist in the Moon's polar regions, specifically in permanently shadowed craters where sunlight cannot reach.
• The discovery of water ice is crucial for future lunar exploration, as it can be used for drinking water, oxygen extraction, and fuel production.
• The Moon's "Dark Side":
• The "dark side" of the Moon refers to areas that are permanently shadowed, not visible from Earth.
• These regions are of scientific interest due to their unique environmental conditions and potential water ice deposits.
• ISRO and JAXA Collaboration:
• ISRO will provide the rover for the mission, while JAXA will contribute the lander and launch services.
• The collaboration reflects a growing partnership between the two space agencies to explore the Moon and beyond.
• Lunar Exploration Goals:
• Understanding the Moon's resources is essential for future space missions and establishing sustainable lunar habitats.
• LUPEX is a step forward in international efforts to explore extraterrestrial environments and utilize their resources.

The correct answer is Only Statement 3 is correct.

Key Points

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The process of vertical heating of the atmosphere is not called advection; it is known as convection.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The transfer of heat through the horizontal movement of air is termed advection, not convection.
• Statement 3 is correct: 'Loo' winds in northern India during summer are caused by advection, as they involve the horizontal movement of hot air masses.
• Advection is a critical process in meteorology, as it plays a significant role in transferring heat and moisture across regions.
• Convection, on the other hand, refers to the vertical movement of air and is often associated with phenomena like thunderstorms and cloud formation.

Additional Information

• Advection:
• Advection refers to the horizontal movement of air or water in the atmosphere or oceans.
• It is responsible for the large-scale transfer of heat, moisture, and other properties across different regions.
• For example, warm ocean currents like the Gulf Stream cause advection of warm air to nearby land areas, influencing the regional climate.
• Convection:
• Convection is the vertical movement of air caused by differences in temperature and density.
• It is a key process in the formation of clouds, thunderstorms, and other weather phenomena.
• For instance, during the day, the Earth's surface heats up, causing air to rise and creating convection currents.
• Loo Winds:
• Loo winds are strong, hot, and dry winds that blow across northern India during the summer months.
• These winds are caused by advection, as they involve the horizontal transfer of heat from the Thar Desert to nearby regions.
• Prolonged exposure to loo winds can cause heatstroke, making them hazardous to human health.
• Other Heat Transfer Mechanisms:
• Radiation: Transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves without the need for a medium.
• Conduction: Transfer of heat through direct contact between molecules in a solid medium.

The correct answer is Amplitude.

Key Points

• Amplitude is the height of a sound wave and directly determines the loudness of the sound.
• The greater the amplitude of a sound wave, the louder the sound it produces.
• Amplitude is measured in decibels (dB), which is a logarithmic unit representing sound intensity.
• For example, a whisper has a low amplitude, while a shout has a high amplitude, resulting in greater loudness.

Additional Information

• Wavelength
• The distance between two successive crests or troughs of a sound wave.
• It determines the type of sound but does not directly affect its loudness.
• Pitch
• Pitch is determined by the frequency of the sound wave.
• Higher frequency results in a higher pitch, while lower frequency results in a lower pitch.
• Frequency
• Frequency is the number of sound wave cycles per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
• While frequency affects pitch, it does not influence the loudness of the sound.
• Decibel Scale
• Loudness is measured in decibels (dB), with 0 dB being the threshold of human hearing.
• Sounds above 85 dB for prolonged periods can cause hearing damage.

The correct answer is Public Order.

Key Points

• Public Order is listed as a subject under the State List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• Subjects in the State List are primarily under the jurisdiction of the state governments, allowing them to legislate on these matters.
• Public order covers issues such as maintaining law and order, controlling riots, and ensuring public safety within a state.
• The State List includes 61 subjects (originally 66) that pertain exclusively to the states, as per the Constitution of India.
• Examples of other subjects in the State List include police, public health, agriculture, and local government.

Additional Information

• Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution:
• It divides legislative powers between the Union and the states under three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
• The Union List includes 97 subjects (originally 100), such as defence, foreign affairs, and banking, which are under the Central Government's jurisdiction.
• The Concurrent List includes 47 subjects (originally 52), such as education, marriage, and forests, on which both the Union and State Governments can legislate.
• Public Order:
• Defined as the state of peace and tranquility in society, where individuals can enjoy their rights without fear of violence or unrest.
• Ensuring public order is vital for the proper functioning of democracy and maintaining the rule of law.
• Legislative Power Distribution:
• The Indian Constitution follows a federal structure, with a clear distribution of legislative powers.
• In cases of conflict between Union and State laws on Concurrent List subjects, the Union law prevails.
• Key Articles Related to State List:
• Article 245: Empowers the state legislature to make laws for the whole or any part of the state.
• Article 246: Specifies the subject-matter of laws made by Parliament and state legislatures.

The correct answer is BVR Subrahmanyam.

Key Points

• BVR Subrahmanyam was appointed as the CEO of NITI Aayog in February 2023, succeeding Parameswaran Iyer.
• He is a 1987-batch IAS officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre and has held several key positions in the government.
• BVR Subrahmanyam previously served as the Commerce Secretary of India before taking up the position of NITI Aayog CEO.
• He is well-known for his role as the Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir during the region's transition into a Union Territory in 2019.
• His appointment is expected to bring strategic leadership to NITI Aayog's initiatives, focusing on policy formulation and implementation for India's development.

Additional Information

• NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India)
• Established in 2015, NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission to serve as the premier policy think tank of the Government of India.
• It focuses on fostering cooperative federalism through structured support and guidance to states.
• NITI Aayog is responsible for strategic planning, innovation, and monitoring the implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs).
• The organization plays a pivotal role in formulating policies for economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
• Role of a CEO in NITI Aayog
• The CEO ensures effective coordination among various departments and stakeholders in policy creation and implementation.
• Provides leadership in driving transformative projects and initiatives that align with India's development priorities.
• Serves as the link between the government, private sector, and civil society for collaborative efforts.
• Focuses on innovation and technology-driven solutions for achieving national and global objectives.
• Key Initiatives by NITI Aayog
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Promotes entrepreneurship and innovation across India.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Monitors and supports India's progress on global SDG targets.
• National Energy Policy: Frames strategies for energy security and sustainability.
• Digital India: Promotes technology-driven governance and digital infrastructure development.
• BVR Subrahmanyam's Previous Contributions
• Played a significant role in administrative reforms in Jammu & Kashmir during its transition to Union Territory status.
• As Commerce Secretary, he contributed to enhancing India's trade policy and export strategies.
• Known for his administrative acumen and ability to handle complex governance challenges.

The correct answer is It allows Centre to dismiss State governments.

Key Points

• Article 356 of the Indian Constitution grants the President of India the authority to impose "President's Rule" in a state if the state government cannot function according to constitutional provisions.
• This provision allows the Central Government to dismiss the State government and take over its administration temporarily.
• It is invoked when there is a failure of the constitutional machinery in a state, as certified by the Governor of the state.
• During President's Rule, the State Assembly is either dissolved or kept in suspended animation, and the Governor administers the state on behalf of the President.
• This provision has been criticized for undermining the federal structure of India, as it centralizes power in the hands of the Union government.

Additional Information

• Federal Structure in India:
• The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system where powers are divided between the Union and State governments.
• Articles 245 to 255 outline the legislative relations between the Centre and the states.
• Article 356, however, is seen as a mechanism that disrupts this balance during emergencies.
• Constitutional Machinery Failure:
• This term refers to a situation where the state government is unable to function in accordance with the Constitution.
• Examples include the breakdown of law and order, political instability, or governance paralysis.
• Criticism of Article 356:
• It has been criticized for being misused for political purposes, particularly to dismiss opposition-led state governments.
• The Sarkaria Commission recommended that it be used only as a last resort.
• Judicial Safeguards:
• The Supreme Court, in the SR Bommai case (1994), established guidelines to prevent the misuse of Article 356.
• Judicial review of the proclamation of President's Rule is permissible, ensuring its use is not arbitrary.

The correct answer is Vacuoles are generally larger in animal cells than in plant cells.

Key Points

• Vacuoles are significantly larger in plant cells compared to animal cells, where they typically occupy a central position and can take up most of the cell's volume.
• In animal cells, vacuoles are smaller and more numerous, often serving specialized functions like storage and waste disposal.
• Plant vacuoles are surrounded by a membrane called the tonoplast and play critical roles in maintaining turgor pressure, which supports the plant's structure.
• The primary function of vacuoles includes storage of nutrients and waste products, maintaining cell homeostasis, and isolating harmful substances.
• Option 1 is incorrect because vacuoles are larger in plant cells than animal cells, not the other way around.

Additional Information

• Central Vacuole (Plant Cells):
• It is a large vacuole found in most mature plant cells, surrounded by the tonoplast membrane.
• Functions include storage of water, nutrients, and waste products, as well as maintaining cell rigidity through turgor pressure.
• Vacuoles in Animal Cells:
• Animal cells usually have smaller vacuoles that perform specialized roles such as storage, transport, and waste management.
• They do not occupy a central position as in plant cells.
• Tonoplast Membrane:
• The tonoplast is a semi-permeable membrane surrounding the plant vacuole, regulating the movement of ions and molecules.
• It helps in maintaining the vacuole's internal environment and plays a role in osmoregulation.
• Functions of Vacuoles:
• Storage of nutrients, ions, and waste materials.
• Isolation of harmful substances and maintenance of internal hydrostatic pressure.
• Facilitating cellular processes such as autophagy and ion balance.

The correct answer is INSPIRE Portal.

Key Points

• The INSPIRE MANAK Scheme is implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, to strengthen the innovation culture among school students.
• The platform for submitting ideas under this scheme is the official INSPIRE Portal.
• The portal allows students from grades 6 to 10 to submit their innovative ideas through their schools.
• The INSPIRE MANAK Award is given to students whose ideas are selected for funding and further development.
• The scheme aims to encourage creativity and critical thinking by recognizing and nurturing innovative ideas at a young age.

Additional Information

• INSPIRE Programme:
• INSPIRE stands for Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research.
• It is an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to attract talent to the study of science.
• The programme includes various components such as scholarships, internships, and awards for students and researchers.
• MANAK Scheme:
• MANAK stands for Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge.
• It focuses on encouraging students to address societal problems through science and technology-based solutions.
• Around 2 lakh ideas are shortlisted annually, and top innovations are showcased at the national level.
• Submission Process:
• Students need to register their ideas online through the INSPIRE Portal.
• Schools act as facilitators in the submission process.
• The ideas are evaluated based on originality, societal impact, and scientific feasibility.
• Support and Recognition:
• Selected students receive a cash award and mentorship for developing prototypes.
• The best innovations are showcased in exhibitions and events organized by DST.

The correct answer is To appreciate his efforts in promoting Kabaddi in Europe.

Key Points

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Mr. Michal Spiczko, President of the Kabaddi Federation of Poland, to recognize his efforts in promoting Kabaddi as a sport in Europe.
• Mr. Spiczko has been instrumental in introducing and popularizing Kabaddi in Poland and other European countries.
• The meeting reflects India's commitment to fostering global interest in traditional Indian sports.
• Kabaddi, a sport with roots in India, has gained increasing international recognition and participation in recent years.
• This interaction aligns with the Indian government's efforts to promote cultural and sports diplomacy on a global platform.

Additional Information

• Kabaddi:
• Kabaddi is an ancient Indian contact sport that combines strength, strategy, and team coordination.
• The game is widely played in South Asia and has become a key feature of the Asian Games.
• It includes variations such as circle-style Kabaddi and standard-style Kabaddi.
• India is a dominant force in international Kabaddi, consistently winning championships.
• Sports Diplomacy:
• Sports diplomacy refers to the use of sports as a tool to build international relationships.
• It helps in fostering goodwill, cultural exchange, and mutual respect among nations.
• India has leveraged traditional sports like Kabaddi to strengthen ties with countries globally.
• Kabaddi in Europe:
• European countries, including Poland, have shown growing interest in Kabaddi over the past decade.
• Efforts by organizations like the Kabaddi Federation of Poland have led to structured leagues and tournaments.
• Such initiatives contribute to the global expansion of this indigenous Indian sport.
• Globalization of Indian Sports:
• India has been actively working to globalize its traditional sports like Kabaddi and Kho-Kho.
• These sports are introduced at international events to showcase India's rich cultural heritage.