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Question 311

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which constitutional amendment is known as the "Mini Constitution"?

  1. AOption (a)

    52nd Amendment

  2. BOption (b)

    44th Amendment

  3. COption (c)

    42th Amendment

  4. DOption (d)

    24th Amendment

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

42th Amendment

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 42nd Amendment.

Key Points

  • The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 is popularly referred to as the "Mini Constitution" due to its vast and comprehensive changes to the Constitution of India.
  • It was enacted during the Emergency period under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
  • This amendment brought significant changes to the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).
  • The words "Socialist," "Secular," and "Integrity" were added to the Preamble, redefining India's identity as a nation.
  • It also curtailed the powers of the judiciary, giving more authority to the Parliament.

Additional Information

  • Preamble Amendments: The terms "Socialist," "Secular," and "Integrity" were introduced to strengthen India's commitment to democracy and pluralism.
  • Fundamental Duties: The amendment introduced ten Fundamental Duties under Article 51A, emphasizing the moral obligations of citizens.
  • Judiciary vs. Legislature: It attempted to reduce the independence of the judiciary by limiting its power to review constitutional amendments.
  • Directive Principles: The amendment gave precedence to the Directive Principles of State Policy over Fundamental Rights, emphasizing socioeconomic justice.
  • Emergency Powers: It extended the duration of the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies during a National Emergency from five to six years.

Question 312

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)?

  1. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita introduces community service as a punishment for minor offences.

  2. The scope of summary trials has been limited to only serious offences under the new law.

  3. The reformative approach aims to ensure societal reintegration of offenders.

  1. AOption (a)

    1 and 2 only

  2. BOption (b)

    1 and 3 only

  3. COption (c)

    2 and 3 only

  4. DOption (d)

    1,2, and 3 all are correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

1 and 3 only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 1 and 3 only.

Key Points

  • The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) introduces community service as a punishment for minor offences, focusing on restorative justice mechanisms.
  • The reformative approach of the BNS aims to ensure societal reintegration of offenders, reducing recidivism through rehabilitation.
  • The scope of summary trials remains focused on minor offences, contrary to the incorrect statement suggesting it is limited to serious offences.
  • The BNS is part of the Indian government’s broader efforts to modernize criminal laws while aligning them with constitutional and human rights principles.

Additional Information

  • Community Service: A reformative punishment where offenders contribute constructively to society, reducing reliance on incarceration for minor offences.
  • Reformative Justice: A principle focusing on rehabilitating offenders and reintegrating them into society rather than solely penalizing them.
  • Summary Trials: A legal procedure for expeditious resolution of cases involving minor offences, ensuring quick justice delivery.
  • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita: A proposed legal framework that seeks to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), aligning with modern jurisprudence and societal needs.
  • Criminal Justice Reforms in India: The BNS is part of the government’s initiative to modernize outdated laws, ensuring they are more equitable, efficient, and people-centric.

Question 313

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

The cell uses internal compartmentalization to manage its complexity. Which of the following best reflects this idea?

  1. AOption (a)

    Organelles in eukaryotic cells float freely without any specific role.

  2. BOption (b)

    Prokaryotic cells use multiple membranes to isolate cell activities.

  3. COption (c)

    Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles that separate different functions

  4. DOption (d)

    All cellular functions occur in the same space without any separation.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles that separate different functions

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles that separate different functions.

Key Points

  • Eukaryotic cells exhibit compartmentalization through membrane-bound organelles, allowing distinct cellular processes to occur in separate spaces efficiently.
  • Organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum have specific roles, ensuring proper organization and functionality of cellular activities.
  • Membrane-bound organelles enable segregation of biochemical pathways, preventing interference and enhancing metabolic efficiency.
  • The compartmentalization in eukaryotic cells allows specialization, such as energy production in mitochondria and protein synthesis in the ribosomes.
  • This design is absent in prokaryotic cells, where all cellular processes occur in the cytoplasm without membrane-bound organelles.

Additional Information

  • Organelles: Specialized structures within a cell that perform distinct functions, such as the nucleus (stores genetic material) and mitochondria (energy production).
  • Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells: Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have both, enabling compartmentalization.
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum: A network of membranes in eukaryotic cells involved in protein and lipid synthesis. It comes in two types: rough (with ribosomes) and smooth.
  • Golgi Apparatus: A membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotes responsible for processing, packaging, and transporting proteins and lipids.
  • Cell Complexity: Internal compartmentalization is a critical feature of eukaryotic cells that enables higher levels of complexity and functionality compared to prokaryotic cells.

Question 314

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

What was the key scientific objective of Chandrayaan-3?

  1. AOption (a)

    To demonstrate a safe lunar landing and rover operation

  2. BOption (b)

    To study Mars' atmosphere

  3. COption (c)

    To measure gravitational waves

  4. DOption (d)

    To orbit the Moon

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

To demonstrate a safe lunar landing and rover operation

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is To demonstrate a safe lunar landing and rover operation.

Key Points

  • Chandrayaan-3 is the third lunar mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), launched to achieve a safe and successful soft landing on the Moon.
  • The mission aims to test and demonstrate critical technologies required for future interplanetary missions, including the ability to safely land a spacecraft on the lunar surface.
  • It consists of a lander and rover configuration, without an orbiter, focusing solely on the landing and surface exploration.
  • The mission's key objectives include the deployment of a rover to conduct surface operations and collect data on the Moon's composition.
  • Chandrayaan-3 is part of India's efforts to join the exclusive group of nations that have successfully landed on the Moon, including the USA, Russia, and China.

Additional Information

  • Soft Landing: A method of landing a spacecraft gently on the surface of a celestial body, avoiding damage to the craft and its instruments.
  • Lunar Rover: A robotic vehicle designed to traverse the Moon's surface and collect data about its topography, composition, and environment.
  • ISRO's Lunar Missions: Chandrayaan-1 (2008) discovered water molecules on the Moon, while Chandrayaan-2 (2019) aimed for a soft landing but faced challenges during the landing phase.
  • Technological Advancements: Chandrayaan-3 incorporates lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, including upgraded navigation, guidance, and control systems.
  • Global Significance: The success of Chandrayaan-3 would enhance India’s position as a major player in the global space exploration community.

Question 315

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of the following plateaus is located in the northeastern part of India?

  1. AOption (a)

    Malwa Plateau

  2. BOption (b)

    Deccan Plateau

  3. COption (c)

    Chota Nagpur Plateau

  4. DOption (d)

    Shillong Plateau

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Shillong Plateau

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Shillong Plateau.

Key Points

  • The Shillong Plateau is located in the northeastern part of India, specifically in the state of Meghalaya.
  • It is part of the larger Indian Shield and is known as one of the most stable landmasses in the region.
  • The plateau is primarily composed of Precambrian rocks, making it geologically significant.
  • The Shillong Plateau is known for its rich biodiversity, including several endemic plant and animal species.
  • It is also home to the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills, which are significant sub-divisions of this plateau.

Additional Information

  • Plateau Definition: A plateau is a flat, elevated landform that rises sharply above the surrounding area on at least one side. They are often referred to as "tablelands."
  • Indian Plateaus: India is home to several significant plateaus including the Deccan Plateau, Malwa Plateau, and Chota Nagpur Plateau, in addition to the Shillong Plateau.
  • Rainfall in Shillong Plateau: The plateau is one of the rainiest places on Earth, with the town of Cherrapunji (near Shillong) holding records for the highest annual rainfall.
  • Tourism in Shillong Plateau: The region is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic landscapes, waterfalls, caves, and cultural heritage of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes.
  • Geological Significance: The Shillong Plateau is an uplifted block of the Earth's crust, formed due to tectonic forces. It is part of the Indian tectonic plate.

Question 316

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of these is not a feature of Indian federalism?

  1. AOption (a)

    Independent Judiciary

  2. BOption (b)

    Written Constitution

  3. COption (c)

    Dual Citizenship

  4. DOption (d)

    Division of Powers 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Dual Citizenship

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Dual Citizenship.

Key Points

  • India does not provide for dual citizenship under its Constitution or any law. Indian citizens must renounce their original citizenship to acquire citizenship of another country.
  • The concept of dual citizenship contradicts the single citizenship model adopted by India, which ensures uniform rights and duties for all citizens irrespective of their state of residence.
  • The Indian Constitution allows for the acquisition of Indian citizenship in specific ways (birth, descent, registration, naturalization, etc.), but prohibits retaining citizenship of another country simultaneously.
  • The Citizenship Act, 1955 governs the rules regarding citizenship in India and explicitly prohibits dual citizenship.
  • Instead of dual citizenship, India offers the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, which provides certain privileges but does not equate to citizenship.

Additional Information

  • Indian Federalism: India follows a federal structure with a division of powers between the Union and State governments. This is outlined in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, categorized into Union, State, and Concurrent lists.
  • Written Constitution: The Indian Constitution is a written document that defines the framework of governance and distribution of powers in detail, making it the longest constitution in the world.
  • Independent Judiciary: India has an independent judiciary, with the Supreme Court functioning as the guardian of the Constitution and an arbiter in disputes between the Union and States.
  • Single Citizenship: Unlike the federal model in some countries like the USA, India provides for single citizenship applicable to all Indians, irrespective of the state or union territory they belong to.
  • Overseas Citizen of India (OCI): OCI is a special status granted to foreign citizens of Indian origin, allowing them visa-free entry and certain rights in India, but it does not confer full citizenship or voting rights.

Question 317

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of the following statements is NOT TRUE about Rash Behari Bose?

  1. AOption (a)

    He founded Indian Independence League in Tokyo in 1942.

  2. BOption (b)

    He was an important figure in the Ghadar Movement and in the formation of the Azad Hind Fauj.

  3. COption (c)

    He was honoured with the prestigious title 'Order of the rising sun'.

  4. DOption (d)

    He was independent India's first Commander-in-Chief of Indian Army.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

He was independent India's first Commander-in-Chief of Indian Army.

Why this answer is correct

The incorrect answer is He was independent India's first Commander-in-Chief of Indian Army..

Key Points

  • Rash Behari Bose was never the Commander-in-Chief of independent India's army; the first Commander-in-Chief was General K. M. Cariappa, appointed in 1949.
  • He played a crucial role in revolutionary activities against British rule, including his involvement in the Ghadar Movement.
  • Rash Behari Bose founded the Indian Independence League in Tokyo in 1942 to garner support for India's freedom struggle.
  • He was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the formation of the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army), later led by Subhas Chandra Bose.
  • Japan honored Rash Behari Bose with the prestigious title "Order of the Rising Sun" for his contributions to India's independence movement and his association with Japan.

Additional Information

  • Ghadar Movement:
  • An early 20th-century revolutionary movement aimed at overthrowing British rule in India.
  • It was initiated by Indian expatriates, primarily in North America, and spread globally.
  • Indian Independence League:
  • Founded by Rash Behari Bose in Tokyo in 1942 to organize Indians living abroad for the freedom struggle.
  • It served as a precursor to the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army).
  • Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army):
  • A military organization formed to fight for India's independence from British rule.
  • Subhas Chandra Bose later took leadership of the INA and expanded its role significantly.
  • Order of the Rising Sun:
  • A prestigious honor awarded by Japan to Rash Behari Bose for his contributions to India's freedom struggle and his collaboration with Japanese authorities.
  • This award signifies the close ties between Rash Behari Bose and Japan during the independence movement.
  • General K. M. Cariappa:
  • The first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army after India gained independence in 1947.
  • He took over as Commander-in-Chief from British General Sir Francis Robert Roy Bucher in 1949.

Question 318

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

At what orientation does a rotating coil in a uniform magnetic field generate the maximum induced EMF?

  1. AOption (a)

    When the coil's plane is at 45° to the magnetic field lines

  2. BOption (b)

    When the magnetic flux through the coil is maximum

  3. COption (c)

    When the coil's plane is perpendicular (90°) to the magnetic field lines

  4. DOption (d)

    When the coil's plane is parallel to the magnetic field lines

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

When the coil's plane is parallel to the magnetic field lines

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is When the coil's plane is parallel to the magnetic field lines​.

Key Points

  • Induced EMF is given by Faraday’s law, which depends on the rate of change of magnetic flux through the coil.
  • Magnetic flux is maximum when the coil’s plane is perpendicular to the field lines (flux change is zero here).
  • EMF is maximum when the flux changes most rapidly, which occurs when the coil’s plane is parallel to the magnetic field lines (flux = 0 but rate of change is maximum).
  • At this orientation, every small rotation produces the greatest possible change in flux, resulting in maximum induced EMF.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is – When the coil's plane is parallel to the magnetic field lines.

Additional Information

  • Option (1): At 45°, some EMF is induced, but not maximum since the flux change rate is not the greatest.
  • Option (2): When flux is maximum, EMF is zero because there is no change in flux at that instant.
  • Option (3): When the coil’s plane is perpendicular, flux is maximum but EMF = 0 (same as above).
  • Option (4): Correct, because maximum EMF is induced when flux = 0 and change of flux is maximum.

Question 319

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of the following statements based on the Union List entries is/are correct?

1.The Parliament has exclusive power to legislate on lotteries conducted by both the Central and State governments.

2.Matters related to the incorporation and regulation of cooperative societies are included in the Union List.

  1. The Reserve Bank of India, foreign exchange, and currency are all under the legislative domain of the Union.

4.Parliament can make laws regarding corporations whose activities are not limited to one State, excluding universities.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only 1, 3, and 4

  2. BOption (b)

    Only 2 and 3

  3. COption (c)

    Only 1 and 4

  4. DOption (d)

    All four statements 1,2,3 and 4 are correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Only 1, 3, and 4

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Only 1, 3, and 4.

Key Points

  • The Parliament has exclusive power to legislate on lotteries conducted by both the Central and State governments, as lotteries fall under Entry 40 of the Union List.
  • Matters related to the Reserve Bank of India (Entry 38), foreign exchange (Entry 36), and currency (Entry 36) are exclusively under the legislative domain of the Union as per the Union List.
  • Parliament is empowered to legislate on corporations whose activities are not confined to one state, excluding universities, as per Entry 43 of the Union List.
  • The incorporation and regulation of cooperative societies are not included in the Union List; they fall under the State List (Entry 32) as per the Constitution of India.

Additional Information

  • Union List: The Union List contains subjects of national importance on which only Parliament can legislate, such as defense, foreign affairs, banking, and atomic energy.
  • State List: The State List comprises subjects of local or state-level importance, such as police, public health, and agriculture, which are under the exclusive legislative authority of State Legislatures.
  • Concurrent List: The Concurrent List includes subjects where both the Parliament and State Legislatures can legislate, such as education, marriage, and adoption. In case of a conflict, central law prevails.
  • Division of Powers: The distribution of powers between the Union and States is enshrined in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution through the Union, State, and Concurrent Lists.
  • Cooperative Societies: The 97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011, inserted Article 43B and Part IXB into the Constitution, recognizing the importance of cooperative societies but maintaining their regulation under the State List.

Question 320

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which Indian-American author wrote The Namesake, later adapted into a film?

  1. AOption (a)

    Kiran Desai

  2. BOption (b)

    Jhumpa Lahiri

  3. COption (c)

    Arundhati Roy

  4. DOption (d)

    Chetan Bhagat

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Jhumpa Lahiri

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Jhumpa Lahiri.

Key Points

  • Jhumpa Lahiri is an Indian-American author known for her exploration of identity, immigration, and cultural displacement.
  • Her novel The Namesake, published in 2003, is a widely acclaimed work that addresses the struggles of a Bengali family in America.
  • The book was adapted into a film in 2006, directed by Mira Nair, starring Kal Penn and Tabu.
  • Jhumpa Lahiri has won prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2000 for her debut short story collection, "Interpreter of Maladies."
  • Lahiri's works often reflect her personal experiences as a child of Indian immigrants growing up in the United States.

Additional Information

  • Identity and Immigration: Lahiri's works focus on themes like cultural identity, generational conflict, and the immigrant experience.
  • The Namesake (2003): The novel centers around Gogol Ganguli, the son of Bengali immigrants, and explores his struggle to reconcile his Indian heritage with his American upbringing.
  • Film Adaptation: Mira Nair's adaptation of "The Namesake" brought Lahiri's story to a wider audience, earning critical acclaim for its emotional depth and authenticity.
  • Interpreter of Maladies: This collection of short stories won the Pulitzer Prize and solidified Lahiri's reputation as a leading voice in contemporary literature.
  • Literary Contributions: Lahiri has also written works in Italian, demonstrating her linguistic versatility and cultural engagement beyond English-language literature.