Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is Achieving universal sanitation coverage.

Key Points

• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) was launched by PM Narendra Modi on 2^nd October 2014, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary.
• The primary objective of the mission was to achieve universal sanitation coverage and eliminate open defecation in India.
• The campaign aimed to construct toilets in rural and urban areas to provide access to safe and hygienic sanitation facilities.
• It encouraged behavioral changes among citizens to adopt proper sanitation practices and maintain cleanliness in their surroundings.
• The Swachh Bharat Mission is divided into two sub-missions: Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) and Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), targeting urban and rural areas respectively.

Additional Information

• Open Defecation Free (ODF) Status:
• Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, villages, towns, and cities were declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) upon achieving 100% toilet coverage.
• ODF+ and ODF++ statuses were introduced to focus on sustained sanitation practices and cleanliness beyond toilet construction.
• Behavioral Change Campaigns:
• The mission emphasized mass awareness campaigns to promote hygiene and sanitation.
• Programs like "Darwaza Band" and collaboration with celebrities were used to spread awareness regarding toilet usage.
• Financial Support:
• In rural areas, financial assistance was provided for the construction of individual household toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin).
• Various state governments also supplemented central funds to ensure the success of the mission.
• Impact:
• According to government data, more than 10 crore toilets were constructed across India under the mission.
• The initiative significantly contributed to reducing health issues caused by poor sanitation and unhygienic practices.

The correct answer is Subhash Bose.

Key Points

• Parakram Diwas is celebrated annually on 23^rd January to honor the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was one of the most prominent leaders in India’s struggle for independence and the founder of the Indian National Army (INA).
• The Government of India declared 23^rd January as Parakram Diwas in 2021 to inspire citizens with Netaji’s indomitable spirit and selfless service to the nation.
• Subhash Chandra Bose is remembered for his famous slogan, "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom."
• Various programs and events are organized across the country to celebrate Netaji’s contributions and legacy on Parakram Diwas.

Additional Information

• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
• Born on 23^rd January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha, Bose was a revolutionary freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in India’s independence movement.
• He founded the Indian National Army (INA) in 1943 to fight against British rule in India.
• Netaji’s leadership and vision were instrumental in galvanizing Indians to fight for their freedom.
• He was associated with the Forward Bloc, a faction within the Indian National Congress that advocated for radical approaches to achieving independence.
• Indian National Army (INA)
• The INA was established with the help of Japan during World War II to fight against the British forces in India.
• It was composed of Indian prisoners of war and expatriates who believed in Netaji’s vision for a free India.
• The INA adopted the slogan “Chalo Dilli” (March to Delhi) as part of its campaign against British rule.
• Legacy of Netaji
• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is regarded as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and leadership in Indian history.
• His contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s freedom struggle, and he continues to be celebrated as an icon of resistance against colonial rule.
• Many institutions, roads, and programs are named after Netaji to honor his legacy.

The correct answer is No, because he believed in good faith that he was bound by law.

Key Points

• Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, a person acting under the legal orders of a superior officer is generally exempted from criminal liability.
• The soldier, in this case, acted in good faith under the belief that he was bound by law to follow the orders of his superior.
• The principle of "good faith" protects individuals who reasonably believe that their actions are lawful when following superior orders.
• The law emphasizes that such actions are not punishable if performed in compliance with legal orders and without personal malice.
• This principle is rooted in the legal doctrine of immunity for acts committed under lawful authority, ensuring discipline in hierarchical systems such as the military.

Additional Information

• Good Faith:
• It refers to an honest intention to act without taking an unfair advantage over another party.
• In legal contexts, actions taken in good faith are often exempt from liability if performed under lawful authority.
• Superior Orders:
• Also known as the "Nuremberg Defense," it is a legal doctrine where individuals claim they are not responsible for actions performed under orders from a superior.
• Indian law accepts this defense only when the orders are lawful and the individual acts in good faith.
• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023:
• This is the proposed replacement for the Indian Penal Code (IPC), aiming to modernize criminal laws in India.
• It emphasizes accountability, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law.
• Military Discipline:
• Discipline in the armed forces is maintained through strict adherence to lawful orders.
• The exemption for acts performed in good faith under superior orders ensures operational efficiency without compromising legality.

The correct answer is Introducing Italian bees that collect more honey and remain in hives longer.

Key Points

• Italian bees (Apis mellifera ligustica) are known for their high honey yield and gentle behavior, making them ideal for commercial beekeeping.
• These bees have a longer foraging period and are less prone to abandoning their hives, ensuring consistent honey production.
• Italian bees exhibit low aggression, making them easier to manage compared to wild or native bee species with aggressive defense mechanisms.
• They are widely used in commercial beekeeping due to their efficient colony management and ability to adapt well to diverse environmental conditions.
• The introduction of such bees enhances both honey production and overall profitability for beekeepers.

Additional Information

• Apis mellifera ligustica (Italian bees):
• Italian bees are a subspecies of the western honeybee (Apis mellifera) and are native to Italy.
• They are characterized by their golden-yellow coloration and calm temperament.
• They are preferred globally in apiculture due to their efficient honey production and resistance to certain diseases.
• Importance of Bee Behavior in Beekeeping:
• Gentle behavior in bees reduces the risk of stings, making hive management safer for beekeepers.
• Non-aggressive species are easier to handle during hive inspections and honey extraction processes.
• Commercial Beekeeping Practices:
• Beekeepers often select bee species that exhibit traits such as high honey yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to local climates.
• Proper hive management, pest control, and regular monitoring are essential for maintaining healthy bee colonies.
• Economic Significance of Beekeeping:
• Beekeeping contributes significantly to agriculture through pollination services, improving crop yields.
• It provides a sustainable source of income for rural communities through the sale of honey, beeswax, and other by-products.

The correct answer is Alladi Krishnaswamy Aiyar.

Key Points

• Alladi Krishnaswamy Aiyar was an eminent lawyer and jurist who played a key role in the drafting of India's Constitution.
• He headed the Credentials Committee in the Constituent Assembly, a critical committee tasked with verifying the credentials of members.
• Aiyar was also a member of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
• Known for his deep legal expertise, Aiyar contributed significantly to the formulation of constitutional provisions.
• His contributions were instrumental in ensuring the smooth functioning of the Constituent Assembly during India's constitutional drafting process.

Additional Information

• Constituent Assembly of India:
• Formed in 1946, the Constituent Assembly was tasked with drafting the Constitution of India.
• It comprised representatives from various provinces and princely states of India.
• The Assembly had multiple committees, including the Drafting Committee, Union Powers Committee, and Credentials Committee.
• Drafting Committee:
• Chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, this committee was responsible for preparing the final draft of the Constitution.
• It consisted of seven members, including Alladi Krishnaswamy Aiyar, K.M. Munshi, and N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar.
• Alladi Krishnaswamy Aiyar:
• Born in 1882, Aiyar was a distinguished lawyer and served as Advocate General of Madras.
• He was known for his expertise in constitutional law and played a pivotal role in shaping India's legal framework.
• Credentials Committee:
• One of the smaller committees in the Constituent Assembly, it was responsible for verifying the legitimacy of Assembly members.
• Its work ensured that all members were duly elected or nominated as per the rules governing the Assembly.

The correct answer is Dhrupad.

Key Points

• Dhrupad is one of the oldest and most prominent forms of Hindustani classical vocal music.
• It traces its roots back to the Samaveda, one of the ancient Hindu scriptures, which contained melodic chants.
• This vocal style is characterized by its emphasis on purity of notes and disciplined melodic progression.
• Dhrupad is performed in two parts: Alap (a slow and elaborate introduction) and Bandish (the composition set to a rhythmic cycle).
• Renowned Dhrupad vocalists include the Dagar family, who played a pivotal role in preserving and propagating this art form.

Additional Information

• Hindustani Classical Music
• It is one of the two main traditions of Indian classical music, alongside Carnatic music.
• Hindustani music emphasizes improvisation and exploration of ragas (melodic frameworks).
• It has evolved over centuries, incorporating influences from Persian and Mughal music traditions.
• Samaveda
• One of the four Vedas, Samaveda is dedicated to chants and melodies.
• It is considered the foundational text for Indian musical traditions, including Dhrupad.
• Ragas in Dhrupad
• Dhrupad compositions are based on specific ragas, which define the melodic structure.
• These ragas are performed in a meditative and disciplined manner.
• Instruments Used
• Dhrupad performances are often accompanied by the pakhawaj (a barrel-shaped drum) and the tanpura (a stringed instrument).
• These instruments add rhythm and resonance to the vocal renditions.

The correct answer is Presence of water bodies in an area.

Key Points

• Insolation refers to the amount of solar radiation received by the Earth's surface.
• The variation in insolation is primarily determined by factors such as the angle of the Sun’s rays, Earth’s rotation, and atmospheric transparency.
• The angle of inclination of the Sun’s rays impacts the intensity and distribution of solar energy, with higher angles resulting in more concentrated energy.
• The rotation of the Earth causes daily variations in insolation, leading to the alternation of day and night.
• Transparency of the atmosphere affects how much solar energy reaches the surface, as clouds, dust, and pollutants can block or scatter sunlight.

Additional Information

• Primary Factors Affecting Insolation:
• The Earth’s axial tilt (~23.5°) causes seasonal variations in insolation.
• The Earth's shape, being an oblate spheroid, results in uneven solar energy distribution.
• Latitude influences insolation, with regions near the equator receiving more consistent and intense solar energy.
• Earth’s Atmosphere and Insolation:
• The atmosphere filters solar radiation, absorbing harmful UV rays through the ozone layer.
• Cloud cover and atmospheric conditions such as aerosols influence the amount of insolation reaching the Earth’s surface.
• Solar Constant:
• The solar constant is the average amount of solar energy received per unit area at the top of the Earth's atmosphere, approximately 1,366 watts per square meter.
• It provides a reference for understanding energy input from the Sun.
• Factors NOT Primarily Affecting Insolation:
• The presence of water bodies affects local climate and heat retention but does not directly influence the variation of insolation.
• Topography and vegetation also modify local heating but are secondary factors in insolation variation.

The correct answer is Increasing spending and cutting taxes.

Key Points

• Keynesian economics emphasizes the role of government intervention during economic downturns to stimulate demand and achieve full employment.
• In a recession, the government should increase public spending on infrastructure, education, and other sectors to create jobs and boost economic activity.
• Cutting taxes increases disposable income, encouraging consumers to spend more, which in turn drives demand.
• By combining increased government spending and tax cuts, the Keynesian approach aims to close the output gap and restore economic stability.
• This counter-cyclical fiscal policy helps to counteract the effects of reduced private sector spending during a recession.

Additional Information

• Keynesian Economics:
• Developed by John Maynard Keynes, it argues that aggregate demand is the primary driver of economic growth and employment.
• Keynes advocated for active government intervention in the economy, particularly during periods of economic downturns.
• It opposes the idea of self-regulating markets, emphasizing that markets may fail to recover quickly without external support.
• Fiscal Policy:
• Fiscal policy refers to government spending and taxation policies used to influence economic conditions.
• Expansionary fiscal policy involves increased government spending and tax reductions, often employed during recessions.
• Multiplier Effect:
• In Keynesian theory, the multiplier effect highlights how an initial increase in spending leads to a greater overall increase in economic output.
• For example, government spending on infrastructure creates jobs, which increases consumer spending, further stimulating demand.
• Automatic Stabilizers:
• These are economic policies and programs, such as unemployment benefits and progressive taxation, that automatically adjust to stabilize the economy during fluctuations.
• They help reduce the severity of recessions without requiring direct government intervention.
• Criticism of Keynesian Economics:
• Critics argue that excessive government spending can lead to high public debt and inflation.
• Others believe that reliance on fiscal policy may crowd out private sector investment.

The correct answer is Space Docking.

Key Points

• SpaDex, short for Space Docking Experiment, is a mission focused on demonstrating technologies for autonomous space docking.
• Space docking refers to the process of joining two spacecraft in orbit, which is crucial for missions like space station resupply or crewed exploration.
• The SpaDex mission aims to test advanced guidance, navigation, and control systems necessary for precise docking maneuvers in space.
• Successful space docking is critical for assembling large spacecraft, transferring cargo, and enabling long-duration missions in deep space.
• SpaDex contributes to advancing space exploration capabilities, making future missions more efficient and reliable.

Additional Information

• Space Docking:
• Space docking is a critical operation where two spacecraft connect while in orbit, enabling crew transfers and resource sharing.
• It has been used in missions involving the International Space Station (ISS), Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, and SpaceX Crew Dragon.
• Docking requires precise alignment and synchronization of speed and trajectory between the docking spacecraft.
• Autonomous Docking Systems:
• Autonomous docking systems rely on advanced sensors, cameras, and algorithms for precise navigation and maneuvering.
• These systems reduce human intervention, making docking safer and more efficient for future space missions.
• Applications of Docking Technology:
• Key applications include refueling satellites, assembling modular spacecraft, and enabling interplanetary missions.
• Docking is essential for the logistics of space stations and the development of deep space exploration initiatives.
• Notable Docking Missions:
• Historical missions like Apollo-Soyuz (1975) marked the first international docking in space.
• Modern examples include SpaceX's Crew Dragon successfully docking with the ISS.

The correct answer is 1,2,3, and 4 all of these.

Key Points

• GPS signal accuracy: Solar storms can disrupt satellite signals by affecting the ionosphere, leading to inaccuracies in GPS systems.
• Power transmission systems: Geomagnetic storms induced by solar activity can cause fluctuations in Earth's magnetic field, affecting power grids and leading to outages.
• Submarine communication cables: Solar storms can interfere with undersea communication systems by inducing geomagnetic currents, impacting data transmission.
• Pipeline infrastructure: Variations in Earth's magnetic field caused by solar storms can induce currents in pipelines, leading to corrosion and operational challenges.

Additional Information

• Solar storms: These are disturbances on the sun’s surface that release large amounts of charged particles, electromagnetic radiation, and magnetic fields into space.
• Geomagnetic storms: When solar storms interact with Earth's magnetic field, they can lead to geomagnetic storms, impacting satellites, power grids, and communication systems.
• Ionosphere effects: Solar activity alters the ionosphere, a layer of Earth's atmosphere that plays a key role in radio communication and GPS signal propagation.
• Corrosion in pipelines: Geomagnetically induced currents during solar storms accelerate corrosion in pipelines, affecting their longevity and efficiency.
• Space weather monitoring: Agencies like NASA and NOAA continuously monitor solar activity and issue alerts to mitigate risks associated with solar storms.