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Question 131

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which Union Territory has the highest population density as per Census 2011? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Chandigarh

  2. BOption (b)

    Puducherry 

  3. COption (c)

    Lakshadweep

  4. DOption (d)

    Delhi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Delhi

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Delhi.

Key Points

  • As per Census 2011, Delhi recorded the highest population density among all Union Territories, with 11,297 persons per square kilometer.
  • Delhi’s population density is significantly higher compared to other Union Territories like Chandigarh (9,252) and Puducherry (2,547).
  • The high population density in Delhi is attributed to its status as India’s national capital, with a large influx of migrants for employment, education, and better living standards.
  • Delhi spans an area of 1,483 square kilometers and had a total population of over 16.78 million as per the 2011 Census.
  • Population density is a critical indicator of urbanization, and Delhi’s figure highlights challenges like infrastructure strain, traffic congestion, and pollution.

Additional Information

  • Population Density Definition:
  • Population density refers to the number of people living per unit area, typically measured in persons per square kilometer.
  • It is an important metric for understanding urbanization, resource allocation, and development planning.
  • Other Densely Populated Union Territories:
  • Chandigarh ranks second among Union Territories in population density with 9,252 persons per square kilometer.
  • Puducherry, another prominent Union Territory, has a population density of 2,547 persons per square kilometer.
  • India’s Average Population Density (2011):
  • India’s overall population density was 382 persons per square kilometer as per Census 2011.
  • States like Bihar (1,106) and West Bengal (1,028) also recorded high population densities.
  • Challenges of High Population Density:
  • High population density leads to issues such as housing shortages, traffic congestion, pollution, and stress on public services.
  • Proper urban planning and sustainable development are crucial to addressing these challenges.

Question 132

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

A conductor rod moving with a velocity v perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field B. If the length of the rod perpendicular to both v and B is L, the induced EMF across its ends is given by?

  1. AOption (a)

    BL2v

  2. BOption (b)

    BLv

  3. COption (c)

    Bv/L

  4. DOption (d)

    B/vL

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

BLv

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is BLv.

Key Points

  • The induced EMF across the ends of a moving conductor rod is given by the formula EMF = B × L × v, where B is the magnetic field, L is the length of the rod perpendicular to the field, and v is the velocity of the rod.
  • This phenomenon is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, discovered by Michael Faraday.
  • The motion of the rod through the magnetic field causes the charges in the conductor to experience a force (Lorentz force), resulting in the separation of charges and the generation of EMF.
  • The direction of the induced EMF can be determined using Fleming's Right-Hand Rule, which relates the direction of the magnetic field, motion, and the induced current.
  • This formula is specific to cases where the motion of the rod is perpendicular to both the magnetic field and its length.

Additional Information

  • Electromagnetic Induction:
  • This is the process of generating an EMF or current in a conductor due to its interaction with a changing magnetic field.
  • The principle was discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831.
  • Faraday's Law states that the induced EMF is directly proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux.
  • Lorentz Force:
  • It is the force experienced by a charged particle moving in a magnetic and electric field.
  • The force is given by F = q(E + v × B), where q is the charge, E is the electric field, v is the velocity, and B is the magnetic field.
  • Fleming's Right-Hand Rule:
  • This rule is used to determine the direction of induced current or EMF.
  • It states: Stretch the thumb, forefinger, and middle finger of your right hand perpendicular to each other. The thumb points in the direction of motion, the forefinger points in the direction of the magnetic field, and the middle finger gives the direction of induced current.
  • Applications of Induced EMF:
  • Used in the working of electric generators and dynamos.
  • Essential in electromagnetic braking systems.
  • Forms the basis of inductive charging for devices.

Question 133

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

What is the primary goal of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area (FTA)? 

  1. AOption (a)

    To reduce trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation

  2. BOption (b)

    To establish a common currency among BIMSTEC nations

  3. COption (c)

    To regulate trade policies global

  4. DOption (d)

    To promote cultural exchanges

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

To reduce trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is To reduce trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation.

Key Points

  • The BIMSTEC Free Trade Area (FTA) aims to strengthen economic cooperation among member states by reducing trade barriers such as tariffs and quotas.
  • It promotes regional integration by facilitating the free movement of goods and services between BIMSTEC countries.
  • The initiative helps in fostering economic growth, investment, and trade opportunities among member nations, which include Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan.
  • BIMSTEC FTA is designed to enhance competitiveness by creating a larger market and enabling resource sharing among participating countries.
  • The agreement is a key pillar of BIMSTEC’s broader agenda to boost regional connectivity and cooperation in economic, technological, and trade sectors.

Additional Information

  • What is BIMSTEC?
  • BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.
  • It is a regional organization comprising seven member states in South Asia and Southeast Asia.
  • Established on 6 June 1997, BIMSTEC focuses on promoting economic and technical cooperation among member countries.
  • Key Features of BIMSTEC FTA
  • Focuses on trade liberalization to remove barriers and restrictions.
  • Promotes customs cooperation and harmonization to streamline trade processes.
  • Includes provisions for investment, technology transfer, and intellectual property rights.
  • Importance of Regional FTAs
  • Regional FTAs like BIMSTEC FTA help in leveraging shared resources and boosting local industries.
  • They provide a platform for collaborative development in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and technology.
  • Such agreements contribute to economic stability and growth in participating nations.
  • Challenges to BIMSTEC FTA Implementation
  • Differences in economic policies and priorities among member states.
  • Need for infrastructure development to support efficient trade activities.
  • Addressing issues related to non-tariff barriers and regulatory bottlenecks.

Question 134

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which Indian space mission marked the successful launch of 104 satellites in a single mission? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Astrosat

  2. BOption (b)

    GSLV Mk III

  3. COption (c)

    Chandrayaan-2

  4. DOption (d)

    PSLV-C37

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

PSLV-C37

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is PSLV-C37.

Key Points

  • PSLV-C37 was an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission that successfully launched 104 satellites on 15 February 2017.
  • This mission set a world record for launching the highest number of satellites in a single mission.
  • The primary payload of the PSLV-C37 was Cartosat-2D, an Earth observation satellite.
  • The rocket also carried 103 nanosatellites, including 96 from the United States, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in low-cost satellite launches.
  • The PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) has been ISRO's workhorse for launching satellites into Sun-synchronous orbits.

Additional Information

  • Cartosat-2 Series Satellites:
  • The Cartosat-2D satellite was designed for high-resolution Earth observation, including urban and rural planning, disaster management, and natural resource monitoring.
  • The satellite had a resolution of up to 0.6 meters, making it capable of capturing detailed images of Earth.
  • Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV):
  • PSLV is India’s third-generation launch vehicle, developed by ISRO.
  • It has had a consistently high success rate since its first successful flight in October 1994.
  • The PSLV is versatile and can launch satellites into both geostationary and polar orbits.
  • International Cooperation:
  • The PSLV-C37 mission included nanosatellites from various countries, highlighting India's role in the global space economy.
  • Among the 104 satellites, 96 were from the USA, while others came from countries like Israel, Kazakhstan, the UAE, and the Netherlands.
  • ISRO's Achievements:
  • ISRO has become a key player in the global satellite launch market due to its cost-effective and reliable services.
  • The success of PSLV-C37 reinforced India's reputation for innovation and efficiency in space technology.

Question 135

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

The term "deuce" is associated with which sport? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Football

  2. BOption (b)

    Basketball

  3. COption (c)

    Tennis

  4. DOption (d)

    Hockey 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Tennis

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Tennis.

Key Points

  • The term "deuce" is used in tennis to indicate a tie at 40-40 in a game, where each player requires two consecutive points to win the game.
  • Deuce is derived from the French word "deux," meaning "two," as two points are needed to win from this score.
  • In deuce, if a player wins one point, they gain an advantage, and if they win the next point, they win the game. If they lose the point, the score returns to deuce.
  • This scoring system is specific to tennis and is part of the unique structure of the sport, enhancing its competitive nature.
  • Deuce can occur multiple times in a single game, making the outcome unpredictable and exciting for players and spectators.

Additional Information

  • Tennis Scoring System:
  • The scoring in tennis progresses as 0 (love), 15, 30, 40, and then game point.
  • If both players reach 40, the score is called "deuce," requiring a player to win two consecutive points to secure the game.
  • Advantage:
  • In deuce, the player who wins the next point is said to have an "advantage."
  • If the player with the advantage wins the subsequent point, they win the game. Otherwise, the score returns to deuce.
  • History of Tennis:
  • Tennis originated in France and was initially called "jeu de paume" (game of the palm) in the 12th century.
  • Modern tennis as we know it today was standardized in the 19th century in England.
  • Grand Slam Tournaments:
  • The four major tennis tournaments are the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open.
  • These tournaments are considered the most prestigious events in tennis.
  • Other Tennis Terminologies:
  • Love: A score of zero.
  • Ace: A serve that the opponent fails to touch.
  • Break Point: A situation where the server is at risk of losing their service game.

Question 136

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which scheme was launched to promote entrepreneurship among SC and ST communities?  

  1. AOption (a)

    Start-Up India

  2. BOption (b)

    Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

  3. COption (c)

    Stand-Up India

  4. DOption (d)

    MUDRA Yojana

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Stand-Up India

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Stand-Up India.

Key Points

  • Stand-Up India scheme was launched on 5 April 2016 by the Government of India.
  • The scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women entrepreneurs.
  • Under the scheme, loans ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore are provided to eligible entrepreneurs for setting up greenfield enterprises.
  • It covers sectors like manufacturing, services, and trading, enabling inclusive growth and economic empowerment.
  • The scheme is implemented through Scheduled Commercial Banks across India, ensuring accessibility to credit.

Additional Information

  • Greenfield Enterprise
  • A greenfield enterprise refers to a business that is established from scratch and is completely new, without any existing infrastructure.
  • Under Stand-Up India, the focus is on creating such enterprises by SC, ST, and women entrepreneurs.
  • Eligibility Criteria for Stand-Up India
  • The applicant must be an SC/ST or a woman entrepreneur.
  • The age of the applicant should be between 18-65 years.
  • The enterprise must be a greenfield project in manufacturing, services, or trading sectors.
  • Loan Structure
  • Loans are provided for amounts between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore.
  • Margin money requirement is limited to 25% of the project cost.
  • Repayment tenure is up to 7 years, with a maximum moratorium period of 18 months.
  • Digital Platform for Stand-Up India
  • A dedicated online portal (www.standupmitra.in) has been created to facilitate the scheme.
  • The portal provides handholding support, including guidance for project preparation and connecting applicants with banks.

Question 137

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Match the column with their descriptions:

Column A (Laws)Column B (Descriptions)
A. Law of Demand1. After a certain point, increasing input leads to declining marginal product.
B. Law of Diminishing Marginal Product2. Demand and price move in opposite directions when income increases.
C. Law of Variable Proportions3. Marginal product initially rises with input usage, then falls.
  1. AOption (a)

    A-3, B-2, C-1 

  2. BOption (b)

    A-1, B-3, C-2

  3. COption (c)

    A-2, B-3, C-1

  4. DOption (d)

    A-2, B-1, C-3

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A-2, B-1, C-3

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

  • Law of Demand: States that demand and price move in opposite directions, i.e., when price increases, quantity demanded decreases (A-2).
  • Law of Diminishing Marginal Product: After a certain point, increasing input leads to a decline in marginal product (B-1).
  • Law of Variable Proportions: Marginal product initially rises with input usage, then falls as input increases further (C-3).
  • The correct mapping is: A-2, B-1, C-3, which corresponds to Option 4.
  • These economic principles are foundational to understanding production, consumption, and market dynamics.

Additional Information

  • Law of Demand:
  • The law assumes other factors remain constant (ceteris paribus), such as income, preferences, and market conditions.
  • This principle is crucial for pricing strategies and market equilibrium analysis.
  • Law of Diminishing Marginal Product:
  • This law applies in the short run when at least one factor of production is fixed.
  • It helps explain why increasing production beyond a certain limit leads to inefficiencies.
  • Law of Variable Proportions:
  • This law is also known as the "Three Stages of Production" based on the behavior of marginal product.
  • Stage 1: Increasing returns; Stage 2: Diminishing returns; Stage 3: Negative returns.
  • Economic Applications:
  • These laws are widely used in agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries for optimizing resource allocation.
  • Understanding these principles aids policymakers and businesses in decision-making processes.

Question 138

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which institution was established in 1961 to promote management education in India?

  1. AOption (a)

    Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)

  2. BOption (b)

    University Grants Commission (UGC)

  3. COption (c)

    National Productivity Council (NPC)

  4. DOption (d)

    Indian Institute of Management (IIM)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Indian Institute of Management (IIM)

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Indian Institute of Management (IIM).

Key Points

  • The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) was established in 1961 as part of the Indian government's initiative to promote excellence in management education and research.
  • The first two IIMs, IIM Calcutta and IIM Ahmedabad, were set up in collaboration with international organizations such as the Ford Foundation and Harvard Business School.
  • IIMs are recognized as premier institutions for management education in India, offering MBA, Executive MBA, and doctoral programs.
  • These institutes are governed by the Indian Institutes of Management Act, 2017, which declared them as Institutes of National Importance.
  • Currently, there are 20 IIMs across India, each focusing on developing global leaders through innovative and practical management education.

Additional Information

  • Management Education in India:
  • Management education in India gained momentum post-independence to cater to the growing need for professional business leaders.
  • It includes programs such as MBA, PGDM, Executive MBA, and specialized courses in areas like finance, marketing, and operations.
  • Institutions like IIMs, XLRI, and ISB are leading providers of management education in the country.
  • Indian Institutes of Management Act, 2017:
  • The Act was enacted to provide statutory status to IIMs and empower them to grant degrees instead of diplomas.
  • The Act enhances the autonomy of IIMs in academic, financial, and administrative matters.
  • It designates IIMs as Institutes of National Importance, strengthening their global recognition.
  • Notable Contributions of IIMs:
  • IIMs have produced globally recognized leaders in business, government, and academia.
  • They are known for their rigorous selection process, including the CAT (Common Admission Test).
  • Many IIM alumni have founded successful startups and contributed to India's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
  • Ford Foundation's Role:
  • The Ford Foundation played a crucial role in establishing IIMs by providing financial and technical support.
  • Its collaboration with Harvard Business School helped shape the curriculum and pedagogy of IIM Ahmedabad.

Question 139

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which schedule of the Constitution contains provisions for the disqualification of legislators under the anti-defection law? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Ninth Schedule

  2. BOption (b)

    Eleventh Schedule

  3. COption (c)

    Tenth Schedule

  4. DOption (d)

    Eighth Schedule

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Tenth Schedule

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Tenth Schedule.

Key Points

  • The Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with the provisions related to the disqualification of legislators on the grounds of defection.
  • This schedule was added by the 52nd Amendment Act of 1985, also known as the anti-defection law.
  • The anti-defection law aims to curb political defections by legislators and ensure the stability of elected governments.
  • It applies to both the Parliament and the State Legislatures.
  • The decision on disqualification under the Tenth Schedule is made by the Chairman or Speaker of the respective House, whose decision is subject to judicial review.

Additional Information

  • Defection:
  • Defection refers to the act of an elected representative leaving their political party to join another, often for personal or political gain.
  • It can destabilize governments and lead to unethical political practices.
  • Grounds for Disqualification:
  • A member voluntarily gives up the membership of their political party.
  • A member votes or abstains from voting contrary to their party's directives without prior permission.
  • Independent members join a political party after the election.
  • Nominated members join a party after six months of being nominated.
  • Exceptions under the Tenth Schedule:
  • If a merger occurs, where at least two-thirds of the members of a political party agree to join another party, it is not considered defection.
  • Judicial Review:
  • The decision of the Speaker or Chairman under the anti-defection law was initially considered final.
  • However, in the Kihoto Hollohan case (1992), the Supreme Court ruled that such decisions are subject to judicial review.

Question 140

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

What is the scientific term for white blood cells? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Erythrocytes 

  2. BOption (b)

    Leucocytes

  3. COption (c)

    Thrombocytes

  4. DOption (d)

    Platelets

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Leucocytes

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Leucocytes.

Key Points

  • White blood cells (WBCs) are scientifically known as Leucocytes.
  • Leucocytes play a crucial role in the immune system by defending the body against infections, foreign invaders, and abnormal cells.
  • They are produced in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymphatic system.
  • There are five main types of leucocytes: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.
  • Unlike red blood cells, leucocytes are nucleated and lack hemoglobin.

Additional Information

  • Erythrocytes:
  • Also known as red blood cells (RBCs), they are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide.
  • Erythrocytes contain the protein hemoglobin, which binds oxygen for delivery to tissues.
  • Thrombocytes:
  • Commonly referred to as platelets, they play a key role in blood clotting.
  • They help prevent excessive blood loss during injury.
  • Functions of Leucocytes:
  • They detect and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
  • Some leucocytes produce antibodies, while others directly destroy harmful cells.
  • Leucocyte Count:
  • The normal range of WBCs in a healthy adult is 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood.
  • An abnormal count may indicate infections, immune disorders, or blood diseases.