General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is Steel spikes on doors.

Key Points

• Steel spikes were strategically installed on the gates of Golconda Fort to prevent war elephants from ramming and breaking the gates during attacks.
• The spikes were pointed and sharp, making it impossible for elephants to use their strength to push or damage the gates.
• This feature was a common defensive mechanism in medieval Indian forts to counter the use of war elephants by invading armies.
• The gates of Golconda Fort were also designed with robust wooden structures, reinforced with steel to withstand heavy impacts.
• The strategic use of these spikes showcases the advanced engineering and defensive architecture of the era, ensuring the fort's safety during sieges.

Additional Information

• Deep moat with water channels:
• Moats were commonly used as a defensive feature in forts to prevent enemy forces from approaching the fort walls easily.
• Filled with water, moats acted as a barrier against infantry and cavalry attacks.
• However, Golconda Fort did not primarily rely on moats for defense against war elephants; the steel spikes were the preferred solution.
• Electrified spikes:
• This option is incorrect as the technology for electrified spikes was not available during the time of Golconda Fort's construction.
• Electricity was discovered centuries after the fort was built, making this an anachronistic suggestion.
• Stone cannon towers:
• Stone cannon towers were used for defensive purposes to place cannons for firing at approaching enemies.
• While the fort did have cannon towers, they were not specifically used to defend against war elephants.
• Cannons were primarily aimed at infantry, siege equipment, and other large-scale attackers.

The correct answer is Punha involves symbolic ploughing indoors using willow sticks, reflecting farming hopes during snow..

Key Points

• The Fagli festival, celebrated in the Pattan Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a traditional winter event celebrated to mark the end of the harsh winter season.
• Punha, one of the rituals, involves symbolic indoor ploughing using willow sticks, symbolizing hope and prosperity for agriculture in the upcoming season.
• This symbolic ritual is significant as it reflects the dependence of the local community on farming and their connection with nature, even during snow-covered winters.
• The festival emphasizes agricultural prosperity, community bonding, and the preparation for the upcoming farming season.
• The use of willow sticks indoors signifies adaptability and reverence toward nature, as agricultural activities halt during heavy snow.

Additional Information

• Some of the key festivals and fairs of Himachal Pradesh:
• Kullu Dussehra (Kullu): A huge, unique Dussehra celebrated with traditional deities brought from villages, unlike other parts of India.
• Mandi Shivratri (Mandi): Features processions of local deities (Devtas) to the main temple, showcasing rich culture.
• Lavi Fair (Rampur Bushahr): An ancient trade fair, famous for trading wool, pashmina, and dry fruits, with significant cultural events.
• Shimla Summer Festival (Shimla): A multi-day cultural extravaganza held in summer, boosting tourism.
• Nalwari Fair (Bilaspur): A prominent cattle fair with wrestling and other activities.

The correct answer is Vaishthika - forced or corvée labour.

Key Points

• In the Gupta administrative and fiscal system, Vaishthika referred to forced labour or corvée labour imposed by the state. Hence, option 4 is correctly matched.
• Corvée labour means compulsory unpaid labour provided by subjects for public works or state purposes.
• Hiranya referred to taxes paid in the form of cash or precious metals, not compulsory labour. Hence, option 1 is incorrect.
• Dhanya referred to taxes paid in the form of grain or agricultural produce, not gold tax. Hence, option 2 is incorrect.
• Bhoga denoted the periodic supply of fruits, flowers, fuel, and other provisions to the king or officials, rather than the king’s share of produce. Hence, option 3 is incorrect.
• Statement-wise Analysis:
• Hiranya - compulsory labour service – Incorrect.
• Dhanya - gold tax – Incorrect.
• Bhoga - king's share of produce – Incorrect.
• Vaishthika - forced or corvée labour – Correct.
• Hence, the correct answer is Vaishthika - forced or corvée labour.

Additional Information

• Gupta Empire: The Gupta period lasted approximately from 320 CE to 550 CE and is often called the “Golden Age of Ancient India”.
• Main Sources: Information about Gupta administration comes from inscriptions, coins, land grants, and accounts of Chinese traveler Faxian.
• Land Revenue: The major source of state income during the Gupta period was land tax, generally collected as a share of agricultural produce.
• Bhaga: The term Bhaga referred to the king’s share of produce, usually around one-sixth of the agricultural yield.
• Economic System: Both cash payments and payments in kind were common during the Gupta age.

Important Points

• Important Gupta Fiscal Terms:
• Hiranya – Cash tax
• Dhanya – Tax in grain
• Bhaga – King’s share of produce
• Vaishthika – Forced labour
• Bhoga – Supplies or provisions to officials
• Questions related to Gupta administration, taxation, and economic terms are frequently asked in history and competitive examinations.

The correct answer is Simikla Koom (Binayo).

Key Points

• Simikla Koom (Binayo) is a traditional musical instrument of Sikkim and is associated with the folklore and culture of the region.
• It is believed to have been crafted for the deity Tetlara Lahadongna, highlighting its mythological and spiritual significance.
• This instrument is made from natural materials, primarily bamboo, which reflects the eco-friendly practices and resourcefulness of the local communities.
• Simikla Koom (Binayo) is classified as a wind instrument, which produces sound through the vibration of air columns.
• The use of this instrument is deeply embedded in Sikkimese culture, often played during festivals, rituals, and traditional ceremonies.

Additional Information

• Niyara Hongsing Ke
• This is not a recognized traditional instrument from Sikkim, but the name may reflect a fictional or lesser-known term.
• In the context of traditional instruments, Sikkim primarily features bamboo-based and folk instruments associated with the Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali communities.
• Yema Dhol
• The Yema Dhol is a type of drum and is commonly found in many Indian traditions, but it is not specifically linked to Sikkimese culture.
• Drums like the Dhol are often associated with other regions in India, including Bengal, Assam, and Punjab, and are used in traditional and folk music.
• Nagara of Yeba
• The Nagara is a traditional drum instrument, but it is not particularly associated with Sikkim or the deity Tetlara Lahadongna.
• It is a common percussion instrument used in various parts of India and is often played during religious ceremonies and processions.

The correct answer is Weightlifting.

Key Points

• Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal by securing a bronze in Weightlifting at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
• She competed in the 69 kg Women’s Weightlifting category, lifting a total of 240 kg (110 kg in snatch and 130 kg in clean and jerk).
• Her achievement marked a historic moment for India, as she was the first Indian female athlete to win a medal at the Olympic Games.
• Karnam Malleswari is also a recipient of the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor.
• She has won several accolades in her career, including multiple medals at the World Weightlifting Championships, solidifying her status as one of India’s greatest athletes.

Additional Information

• Boxing:
• Boxing is a combat sport where two individuals fight using their fists while adhering to a set of rules.
• Indian boxer Mary Kom is one of the most prominent figures in Indian boxing, winning multiple medals at international events, including the Olympics.
• The sport requires exceptional physical fitness, technique, and mental resilience.
• Athletics:
• Athletics encompasses a wide range of sports, including track and field events, road running, and race walking.
• India’s Neeraj Chopra won a historic gold medal in Javelin Throw at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first Indian athlete to win a gold in track and field.
• Athletics is considered one of the most competitive sports globally, requiring high levels of skill and training.
• Long Jump:
• Long Jump is a track and field event where athletes sprint down a runway and jump as far as possible into a sandpit.
• India has produced successful long jumpers, such as Anju Bobby George, who won a bronze medal at the World Athletics Championships in 2003.
• The sport demands explosive strength, speed, and precise technique.
• Weightlifting Overview:
• Weightlifting is a strength-based sport where athletes attempt two lifts: snatch and clean and jerk.
• It is divided into different weight categories for men and women.
• India has a strong presence in weightlifting, with athletes like Mirabai Chanu winning medals at the Olympics and other international competitions.

The correct answer is Option 3: A → 2, B → 1, C → 3, D → 4.

Key Points

• Qutbuddin Aybak (1206–1210): Qutbuddin Aybak was the founder of the Delhi Sultanate and the first ruler of the Slave Dynasty. He ruled from 1206 to 1210 and was known for constructing the Qutub Minar in Delhi.
• Prithviraj Chauhan (1175–1192): Prithviraj Chauhan was a Rajput king of the Chahamana dynasty who ruled during 1175–1192 CE. He is remembered for his valiant battles against Muhammad Ghori.
• Alauddin Khalji (1296–1316): Alauddin Khalji was the second ruler of the Khalji dynasty in India. His reign, from 1296 to 1316, is marked by military expansion and administrative reforms.
• Muhammad bin Tughluq (1324–1351): Muhammad bin Tughluq, the Sultan of Delhi, ruled from 1324 to 1351. He was known for his ambitious and often controversial reforms, such as the attempted introduction of token currency.

Additional Information

• Slave Dynasty (1206–1290): The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, was the first dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. It was established by Qutbuddin Aybak, who was originally a slave of Muhammad Ghori. The dynasty laid the foundation of Muslim rule in India.
• Chahamana Dynasty: The Chahamanas (Chauhans) were a prominent Rajput dynasty that ruled over parts of northwestern India, including Delhi and Ajmer. Prithviraj Chauhan is the most celebrated ruler of this dynasty.
• Khalji Dynasty (1290–1320): This dynasty is known for its expansionist policies and economic reforms. Alauddin Khalji implemented price control measures and established a strong central administration.
• Tughluq Dynasty (1320–1414): The Tughluq dynasty was known for its ambitious rulers like Muhammad bin Tughluq, who attempted various reforms, including shifting the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad and the introduction of token currency. These reforms, however, were largely unsuccessful and led to administrative challenges.

The correct answer is One-hundredth.

Key Points

• P. T. Usha, popularly known as the "Payyoli Express," is one of India’s greatest athletes and a legend in track and field.
• At the 1984 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, she competed in the women’s 400m hurdles event.
• She narrowly missed the bronze medal, finishing fourth in the final with a timing of 55.42 seconds.
• The difference between P. T. Usha and the bronze medalist was just one-hundredth (0.01) of a second, making it a historic and heartbreaking moment in Indian sports history.
• Despite not winning a medal, her achievement remains significant as she became the first Indian woman to reach the finals of an Olympic event.

Additional Information

• 1984 Summer Olympics:
• The 1984 Summer Olympics were held in Los Angeles, USA, from July 28 to August 12.
• India’s participation in athletics was highlighted by P. T. Usha’s remarkable performance in the 400m hurdles.
• Her near-podium finish brought attention to Indian athletics on the global stage and inspired future generations of athletes.

The correct answer is BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism.

Key Points

• During India’s BRICS Chairship in 2021, one of the major initiatives was the launch of the BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism, focusing on sustainable tourism practices among member nations.
• This initiative aimed to promote collaborative efforts among BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to adopt eco-friendly tourism strategies and reduce the carbon footprint of the tourism sector.
• The alliance emphasized the importance of preserving biodiversity, reducing the environmental impact of tourism, and promoting resource-efficient practices in the sector.
• It provided a platform for sharing best practices, innovations, and policies to strengthen sustainable tourism, benefiting local communities and preserving cultural heritage.
• The BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism also aligned with global sustainability goals, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on climate action and responsible consumption and production.

Additional Information

• BRICS Water Security Pact
• This option refers to a hypothetical agreement among BRICS nations to address water security challenges. However, no such pact was launched during India’s BRICS Chairship in 2021.
• Water security is a critical issue for BRICS nations, but it was not a specific focus of the 2021 initiatives.
• BRICS Climate Finance Agreement
• This refers to a potential agreement for financial mechanisms to combat climate change. However, no such specific agreement was introduced during the 2021 BRICS Chairship.
• While climate finance remains a crucial topic for BRICS discussions, it was not a formalized initiative in 2021.
• BRICS Sustainable Energy Forum
• The BRICS Sustainable Energy Forum focuses on energy efficiency and renewable energy cooperation among member nations.
• Although energy sustainability is a significant area of focus for BRICS, it was not one of the key initiatives launched during India’s 2021 Chairship.

The correct answer is Pranay Lal.

Key Points

• Pranay Lal is the author of the critically acclaimed book 'Indica: A Deep Natural History of the Indian Subcontinent'.
• The book presents an in-depth exploration of the geological, biological, and ecological history of the Indian subcontinent.
• 'Indica' is the first comprehensive account of the natural history of India, covering over 4.5 billion years of Earth's evolution.
• The book combines storytelling, scientific research, and illustrations to make complex topics accessible to a broad audience.
• It has been praised for its interdisciplinary approach, blending geology, paleontology, and biodiversity to paint a vivid picture of India's natural history.

Additional Information

• Sanjeev Sanyal
• Sanjeev Sanyal is an Indian economist and author known for works like 'The Ocean of Churn' and 'The Indian Renaissance'.
• His books primarily focus on history, economics, and the cultural heritage of India.
• Rohan Murty
• Rohan Murty is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and founder of the Murty Classical Library of India.
• The Murty Classical Library of India publishes English translations of classical Indian texts to promote India's literary heritage.
• Tony Joseph
• Tony Joseph is the author of the popular book 'Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From'.
• The book delves into the genetic and archaeological history of the Indian subcontinent, focusing on human migration and settlement patterns.

The correct answer is Option 1: Both 1 and 2 are correct.

Key Points

• The men's hockey event at the 38^th National Games 2025 witnessed intense competition among several states, with Karnataka emerging as the winner by defeating Uttar Pradesh 3-2 in the final.
• Karnataka and Maharashtra had a closely contested semifinal match, which ended in a 2-2 draw and was ultimately decided by a shootout.
• These results highlight Karnataka's dominance in the tournament and their ability to perform under pressure, especially during the shootout in the semifinals.
• The National Games are a multi-sport event held in India every few years, and hockey remains one of the most competitive sports in the event.
• Option 1 is correct as both statements 1 and 2 about the men's hockey event align with the verified outcomes reported during the 38^th National Games.

Additional Information

• National Games
• The National Games are organized by the Indian Olympic Association and are held in different states to promote sports culture in India.
• The event features competitions in various sports, including hockey, athletics, swimming, and more.
• It serves as a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and prepare for international tournaments like the Asian Games and Olympics.

The correct answer is e-Civil List 2025 e-book.

Key Points

• The e-Civil List 2025 e-book was launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh in May 2025 in his capacity as Minister of State (MoS) PMO and MoS Personnel.
• This initiative is part of the government’s effort to digitize official records and make them accessible to stakeholders in a user-friendly manner.
• The e-Civil List provides comprehensive information about IAS officers across India, including their postings, cadre, and career details.
• It aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and ease of access to the details of civil servants for administrative and public use.
• The platform leverages technology to ensure up-to-date record maintenance and helps in better governance and human resource management of IAS officers.

Additional Information

• National Grievance Redress Portal
• This is an online platform designed to address public grievances efficiently and transparently.
• It allows citizens to register complaints related to government services and schemes, ensuring timely resolution.
• The portal is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve governance and citizen-centric service delivery.
• While significant, this initiative was not launched in May 2025.
• Central Police Commemoration Day
• Observed annually on October 21, this day is dedicated to honoring police personnel who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
• It was first commemorated in 1959 following the tragic loss of police forces during a skirmish with Chinese forces at Hot Springs, Ladakh.
• While it is an important event, it is not related to the initiative launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh in May 2025.
• Digital Land Records Survey
• This initiative focuses on digitizing land records to streamline land ownership documentation and minimize disputes.
• It aims to create a transparent and accessible database of land records for citizens and government authorities.
• It is a separate program from the e-Civil List 2025 e-book and was not launched in May 2025.

The correct answer is 16%.

Key Points

• As per the 2011 Census of India, Uttar Pradesh accounted for approximately 16% (or 0.16) of the total population of India.
• The total population of India in 2011 was around 1.21 billion, and Uttar Pradesh contributed approximately 199.81 million to this figure.
• Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in India, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar.
• The state’s high population is attributed to factors such as a high fertility rate, large geographical area, and significant rural population.
• Uttar Pradesh alone has a population larger than many countries, ranking as the fifth most populous administrative unit globally, after China, India, the United States, and Indonesia.

Additional Information

• Population Dynamics of India 
• The Census of India, conducted every 10 years, is the most reliable source of demographic data for the country.
• India has a highly uneven distribution of population, with Uttar Pradesh being the most populous state, while states like Sikkim and Mizoram have much smaller populations.
• Population distribution in India is influenced by factors like fertility rates, migration, urbanization, and socioeconomic conditions.

The correct answer is Human LVM3.

Key Points

• The designation HLVM3 stands for Human LVM3, which refers to the modified version of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the Gaganyaan mission.
• LVM3, also known as GSLV Mk-III, is India’s heaviest and most advanced rocket, capable of launching payloads up to 8 tons into low Earth orbit.
• For the Gaganyaan mission, LVM3 has been customized to carry humans safely into space, integrating advanced safety features such as an abort system and life-support mechanisms.
• The HLVM3 is equipped with a crew module and service module designed to house astronauts and ensure their safety during the mission.
• The Gaganyaan program aims to send a crew of three astronauts into low Earth orbit for a duration of up to seven days using the HLVM3 rocket.

Additional Information

• Gaganyaan Mission:
• The Gaganyaan mission is India’s first human spaceflight program, aimed at demonstrating the capability of sending astronauts into space and bringing them back safely.
• It involves critical technologies such as crew safety systems, life-support systems, space medicine, and crew training.
• The program is a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey and aims to position India as a key player in human spaceflight capabilities.

The correct answer is Iron ore.

Key Points

• Iron ore is one of the most abundant and economically significant minerals in India, making the country the fourth-largest producer in the world as of 2022.
• The majority of iron ore production in India comes from states like Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, and Jharkhand, with Odisha being the largest producer.
• India's iron ore is predominantly used in the production of steel, which is critical to the construction, automobile, and infrastructure sectors.
• The two main types of iron ore found in India are hematite and magnetite, with hematite being the more dominant type.
• India exports significant quantities of iron ore to countries like China and Japan, contributing to its foreign exchange reserves and economic growth.

Additional Information

• Copper
• Copper is an important metal used in electrical equipment, construction, and industrial machinery due to its excellent conductivity and malleability.
• India has limited copper reserves, with key mining areas located in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand.
• India imports a significant amount of its copper requirements to meet domestic demand.
• Petroleum
• Petroleum is a crucial energy resource and raw material for industries like petrochemicals, plastics, and fertilizers.
• India is the third-largest consumer of crude oil globally but relies heavily on imports to meet around 85% of its demand.
• Major petroleum-producing regions in India include Assam, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and offshore fields in the Mumbai High basin.
• Tin
• Tin is primarily used in soldering, tin plating, and the production of alloys like bronze.
• India has very limited tin reserves, with some deposits found in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, making it dependent on imports to meet domestic demand.

The correct answer is Only 1.

Key Points

• Statement 1: Both the Prime Minister (PM) and the Chief Minister (CM) can advise the dissolution of their respective Lower Houses. Correct.
• The Prime Minister, along with the Council of Ministers, can advise the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha under Article 85 of the Constitution.
• Similarly, the Chief Minister, along with the Council of Ministers, can advise the Governor to dissolve the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) of the state.
• The President and Governor generally act on the aid and advice of their respective Councils of Ministers.

Hence, Statement 1 is correct.

• Statement 2: Only the PM can recommend President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution. Incorrect.
• President's Rule is imposed by the President of India under Article 356 when a state's constitutional machinery fails.
• The recommendation is generally made by the Union Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister, and is often based on a report from the Governor of the concerned state.
• The Constitution does not provide that the Prime Minister alone can recommend President's Rule.

Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.

• Therefore, only Statement 1 is correct.

Additional Information

• Article 74 provides that the President shall act in accordance with the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
• Article 163 provides that the Governor acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister, except in matters where the Constitution grants discretionary powers.
• Article 356 deals with the imposition of President's Rule in a state if the constitutional machinery fails.
• During President's Rule, the powers of the state government are assumed by the President, and the state legislature may be suspended or dissolved.
• The proclamation of President's Rule must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within two months from the date of its issuance.

Important Points

• The landmark S.R. Bommai vs Union of India (1994) judgment placed significant restrictions on the arbitrary use of Article 356.
• The Lok Sabha is the Lower House at the Union level, while the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) is the Lower House at the state level.
• The power to dissolve the Lower House is exercised formally by the President or Governor, but usually on the advice of the elected executive.

The correct answer is Micronutrient - Boron.

Key Points

• Boron is classified as a micronutrient because plants require it in very small amounts for proper growth and development.
• It plays a critical role in cell wall formation, membrane stability, and pollen tube growth in plants.
• Deficiency of boron leads to symptoms like stunted root growth, hollow stems, or flower abortion in plants.
• Boron is absorbed by plants from the soil in the form of borate ions (BO3^3-).
• Common sources of boron in agriculture include fertilizers like borax and boric acid.

Additional Information

• Micronutrient - Calcium (Option 1):
• Calcium is actually a macronutrient, not a micronutrient, as it is required by plants in relatively large amounts.
• It is essential for cell wall integrity and acts as a secondary messenger in various cellular processes.
• Calcium deficiency can lead to problems like blossom end rot in tomatoes and weak cell walls in plants.
• Macronutrient - Zinc (Option 2):
• Zinc is a micronutrient, not a macronutrient, as it is needed in small quantities by plants.
• It is essential for enzyme activation, protein synthesis, and hormone production in plants.
• Zinc deficiency often manifests as chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) and stunted growth.
• Macronutrient - Iron (Option 4):
• Iron is also a micronutrient, not a macronutrient.
• It plays a key role in chlorophyll synthesis and acts as a cofactor for various enzymatic reactions.
• Iron deficiency is characterized by interveinal chlorosis in young leaves.
• Macronutrients vs Micronutrients:
• Macronutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) are required in large amounts by plants, while micronutrients (e.g., zinc, boron, iron) are needed in trace amounts.
• Both types of nutrients are vital for plant health, growth, and productivity.

The correct answer is Electric Bell: Uses the magnetic effect of electric current.

Key Points

• An electric bell operates on the principle of the magnetic effect of electric current, where an electromagnet is created by passing an electric current through a coil of wire.
• The magnetic field generated attracts a metal armature, causing it to strike the bell and produce sound.
• The electric bell consists of components like an electromagnet, armature, contact screw, and hammer, all working in synchronization to create the ringing sound.
• When the circuit is complete, the current flows through the coil, magnetizing the core, and pulling the armature, which simultaneously breaks the circuit and causes the hammer to strike the bell.
• This cycle repeats rapidly as long as the switch is pressed, producing a continuous ringing sound.

Additional Information

• Electric Generator: Converts electrical energy to mechanical energy
• This statement is incorrect. An electric generator actually converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
• It operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, as discovered by Michael Faraday, where a conductor moving through a magnetic field induces an electric current.
• Generators are widely used in power plants to produce electricity for homes, industries, and businesses.
• Transformer: Operates on DC current to change voltage
• This statement is incorrect because transformers only work with alternating current (AC), not direct current (DC).
• Transformers are used to step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage levels in an AC circuit.
• They function based on the principle of mutual induction between two coils of wire.
• Electromagnet: A permanent magnet
• This statement is incorrect because an electromagnet is a temporary magnet that only exhibits magnetic properties when an electric current flows through its coil.
• Once the current is stopped, the magnetic field disappears, unlike a permanent magnet that retains its magnetism.
• Electromagnets are widely used in devices like motors, relays, and magnetic cranes.

The correct answer is Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

Key Points

• Mission Amrit Sarovar is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, launched to promote water conservation and sustainable water resource management.
• The objective of Mission Amrit Sarovar is to develop and rejuvenate 75 water bodies in every district across the country by August 15, 2023, as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.
• The project aims to strengthen water security and ensure environmental sustainability by constructing ponds and water reservoirs to increase water storage and recharge groundwater levels.
• The Reason (R) correctly explains the Assertion (A) since the construction of 75 ponds in each district directly contributes to promoting water conservation efforts.
• Mission Amrit Sarovar seeks to involve multiple stakeholders, including rural communities, local bodies, and government agencies, to revive traditional water conservation practices.

Additional Information

• Water Conservation
• Water conservation refers to the strategies, policies, and activities aimed at managing the use of fresh water to meet current and future demands sustainably.
• It includes measures such as rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and the construction of water bodies like ponds and reservoirs.
• Programs like Mission Amrit Sarovar align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
• Importance of Groundwater Recharge
• Groundwater recharge is essential for maintaining aquifer levels, which are a critical source of drinking water and irrigation in India.
• Constructing ponds and water reservoirs helps in reducing surface runoff and ensures that water infiltrates into the ground, replenishing groundwater levels.
• Community Participation in Water Conservation
• Mission Amrit Sarovar emphasizes the active involvement of local communities in creating and maintaining water bodies.
• Such participation fosters awareness about water conservation and ensures the sustainability of the initiative in the long term.

The correct answer is Option 3: Both 1 & 2 correct.

Key Points

• Rauf is a traditional dance form of Kashmir, primarily performed by women during festive occasions such as Eid.
• The dance is performed in groups, with women aligning themselves into two facing rows.
• Rauf is characterized by intricate toe-heel footwork, which is locally referred to as ras.
• The dance reflects the vibrant culture and traditions of Kashmir and is a significant representation of its rich heritage.
• It is a popular folk dance that also serves as a medium of social interaction and communal harmony among women in the region.

Additional Information

• Key Kashmiri Dances:
• Rouf (or Rauf):
• Who: Performed by women in colorful dresses.
• When: Celebrates spring and festivals like Eid and Ramzan.
• How: Simple, rhythmic footwork, with dancers facing each other, mimicking bees.
• Dumhal:
• Who: Exclusively performed by men of the Wattal tribe.
• When: Performed on special, auspicious occasions.
• How: Dancers wear vibrant robes and conical caps, plant a banner, and dance around it, singing folk songs in chorus.
• Hikat:
• A simple dance by two girls holding hands, moving clockwise and anti-clockwise, often involving weeding/harvesting themes.
• Bhand Pather:
• A traditional folk theatre form that combines dance, music, and satire, performed by wandering minstrels (Bhand).

The correct answer is 3) A is true, but R is false..

Key Points

• India's rank in the Global Happiness Index has been consistently low, with neighboring South Asian countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh often ranking higher.
• As per the 2023 World Happiness Report, India ranked 126^th out of 137 countries, while countries like Bhutan ranked significantly higher.
• The Global Happiness Index considers factors such as social support, life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, and perceptions of corruption—not just economic indicators like GDP per capita.
• India's GDP per capita is not the lowest in South Asia. For example, countries like Afghanistan have a lower GDP per capita than India.
• Hence, while the assertion (A) is correct that India's rank is lower than most South Asian neighbors, the reason (R) is incorrect since the ranking is based on several factors beyond GDP per capita.

Additional Information

• Factors influencing the Global Happiness Index:
• The ranking is based on six key metrics: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
• While GDP per capita is an important factor, other social and psychological well-being aspects weigh heavily in the index.
• Countries like Bhutan rank higher because of their focus on Gross National Happiness, despite having lower GDP per capita.
• India's performance in the Global Happiness Index:
• India's lower ranking is attributed to factors such as weak social support, perceived corruption, and lower levels of individual freedom.
• Efforts to improve quality of life through government initiatives like Digital India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Ayushman Bharat are aimed at addressing these issues.
• GDP per capita in South Asia:
• India's GDP per capita is higher than several South Asian nations, including Afghanistan and Nepal.
• However, countries like Bhutan and Maldives have higher GDP per capita due to their smaller populations and focused economic strategies.