General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

• Option 1 correctly matches the points under Column A with those under Column B.
• Annelida includes segmented worms such as Earthworms.
• Arthropoda includes insects, arachnids, and crustaceans like Ants.
• Echinodermata includes marine animals such as Sea stars.
• Platyhelminthes includes flatworms like Tapeworms.

Additional Information

• Annelida:
• Annelida, also known as segmented worms, are characterized by their segmented body structure.
• Examples include Earthworms, Leeches, and Polychaetes.
• They have a true coelom and a well-developed nervous system.
• Arthropoda:
• Arthropoda is the largest phylum in the animal kingdom, including insects, arachnids, myriapods, and crustaceans.
• They have an exoskeleton, segmented bodies, and jointed appendages.
• Examples include Ants, Spiders, Crabs, and Centipedes.
• Echinodermata:
• Echinodermata are marine animals characterized by their radial symmetry and a water vascular system.
• Examples include Sea stars, Sea urchins, and Sea cucumbers.
• They have a calcareous endoskeleton composed of ossicles.
• Platyhelminthes:
• Platyhelminthes, also known as flatworms, are characterized by their flattened body structure.
• They are acoelomates (lack a true body cavity) and have a simple digestive system with only one opening.
• Examples include Tapeworms, Flukes, and Planarians.

The correct answer is Introducing four dates – 1 January, 1 April, 1 July, 1 October.

Key Points

• The Election Laws Amendment Bill aims to introduce four cut-off dates for voter registration based on age eligibility.
• Previously, only 1 January was considered as the cut-off date for determining age eligibility for voters.
• The Bill proposes to add three more dates: 1 April, 1 July, and 1 October to the existing 1 January.
• This reform will allow individuals who turn 18 by these dates to register as voters, enhancing voter inclusivity.

Additional Information

• Electoral Roll
• The electoral roll, also known as the voter list, is an official list of individuals who are eligible to vote in an election.
• It is maintained by the Election Commission of India and updated periodically to include eligible voters.
• Individuals must register to be included in the electoral roll and be eligible to vote.
• Election Commission of India (ECI)
• The ECI is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India.
• It ensures free and fair elections to the Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President in India.
• The ECI was established on 25 January 1950 under the Constitution of India.
• Voter Registration
• Voter registration is the process by which eligible citizens enroll themselves with the Election Commission to be able to vote.
• It involves providing personal details and proof of eligibility such as age and residence.
• Upon successful registration, individuals are issued a Voter ID card.

The correct answer is Punjab.

Key Points

• The 'Ashirwad Scheme' was launched by the state of Punjab.
• The scheme aims to extend financial support for the marriage of daughters belonging to low-income families.
• Under this scheme, financial assistance is provided to the families to help cover the expenses of their daughter's marriage.
• It reflects the Punjab government's commitment to social welfare and support for financially weaker sections of the society.

Additional Information

• Ashirwad Scheme
• The Ashirwad Scheme is a state government initiative aimed at providing financial aid for the marriage of daughters from economically weaker families.
• This scheme is designed to alleviate the financial burden on families during marriages, ensuring that daughters receive a dignified and respectful wedding.
• The scheme reflects the government's focus on gender equality and support for women's rights.
• By providing financial assistance, the scheme aims to prevent families from falling into debt due to marriage expenses.
• Other Similar Schemes
• Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana (Bihar)
• Launched by the Bihar government to provide financial assistance for the marriage of daughters from economically weaker sections.
• The scheme offers financial aid to ensure that the marriage ceremonies are conducted with respect and dignity.
• Kanya Vivah Yojana (Uttar Pradesh)
• Similar to the schemes in Punjab and Bihar, Uttar Pradesh also has a scheme to support the marriage of daughters from low-income families.
• Financial assistance is provided to help families cover the expenses of marriage ceremonies.
• Balika Samridhi Yojana
• Launched by the Government of India, this scheme aims at the upliftment of girl children from economically weaker sections.
• It provides financial incentives for the education and marriage of girl children to ensure their well-being and development.

The correct answer is Governor.

Key Points

• The Governor is the head of a state in India.
• The Governor's role includes giving assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
• A Money Bill can only be introduced in the legislative assembly of a state with the prior permission of the Governor.
• The Governor has the authority to recommend the introduction of money bills in the state legislature.

Additional Information

• Money Bill
• A Money Bill is defined in Article 110 of the Indian Constitution.
• It deals with issues related to taxation, borrowing of money by the government, expenditure from the state or central consolidated fund, and other financial matters.
• A Money Bill can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha (at the central level) or the Legislative Assembly (at the state level).
• The Rajya Sabha (at the central level) or the Legislative Council (at the state level) can only make recommendations on a Money Bill, which the Lok Sabha or Legislative Assembly may choose to accept or reject.
• Role of the Governor
• The Governor is appointed by the President of India for a term of five years.
• The Governor acts as a representative of the President in the state.
• In addition to legislative duties, the Governor has executive and judicial functions.
• The Governor can grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment or suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offense.
• Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
• The CAG is an authority established by the Constitution of India under Article 148.
• The CAG audits all receipts and expenditure of the Government of India and the state governments, including those of bodies and authorities substantially financed by the government.
• The CAG reports are laid before the Parliament and state legislatures.
• Finance Minister
• The Finance Minister is a key position in the government responsible for managing the financial resources of the country or state.
• The Finance Minister presents the annual budget, oversees revenue collection, and manages public expenditure.
• The Finance Minister plays a crucial role in economic planning and development.

The correct answer is 0.1668.

Key Points

• According to the Census of India 2011, the literacy rate among males was 82.14% and among females was 65.46%.
• The gap between male and female literacy rates is calculated as the difference between these two percentages.
• The literacy rate gap is thus 82.14% - 65.46% = 16.68%.
• This percentage gap is equivalent to 0.1668 when expressed as a decimal, which is the correct answer.

Additional Information

• Census
• A census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members of a given population.
• It is a regularly occurring and official count of a particular population.
• In India, the Census is conducted once every ten years.
• The first complete census in India was conducted in 1881.
• Literacy Rate
• The literacy rate is defined as the percentage of people who can read and write with understanding in a given population.
• It is an important indicator of the educational level of a population.
• High literacy rates are often associated with higher levels of economic development.
• Gender Disparity in Literacy
• Gender disparity in literacy refers to the difference in literacy rates between males and females.
• This disparity is often a result of socio-cultural factors that prioritize male education over female education.
• Reducing this gap is crucial for achieving gender equality and empowering women.

The correct answer is 2015.

Key Points

• The Digital India mission was launched by the Government of India on 1^st July 2015.
• It aims to ensure that Government services are made available to citizens electronically by improving online infrastructure and by increasing Internet connectivity or by making the country digitally empowered in the field of technology.
• The initiative includes plans to connect rural areas with high-speed internet networks.
• Digital India consists of three core components: the development of secure and stable digital infrastructure, delivering government services digitally, and universal digital literacy.

Additional Information

• Digital Infrastructure
• One of the primary objectives of the Digital India initiative is to create a robust digital infrastructure that ensures high-speed internet connectivity across the country.
• It involves laying optical fiber cables, promoting mobile connectivity, and establishing Wi-Fi hotspots in rural and urban areas.
• This initiative also includes the establishment of common service centers (CSCs) that provide digital access points for various government services.
• Governance and Services on Demand
• Digital India aims to transform the way government services are delivered to citizens by making them available online.
• This includes services such as online filing of taxes, applying for government schemes, accessing educational resources, and availing healthcare services.
• The initiative promotes the use of e-governance to enhance transparency and efficiency in the delivery of public services.
• Digital Literacy
• Ensuring digital literacy for all citizens is a key component of the Digital India mission.
• The initiative focuses on providing digital education and training to individuals, especially in rural areas, to empower them with the skills needed to navigate the digital world.
• Various programs and campaigns are conducted to promote digital literacy and bridge the digital divide.

The correct answer is Manika Batra.

Key Points

• Manika Batra is an Indian table tennis player, known for her significant contributions to the sport in India.
• She won a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the women's singles event.
• Manika Batra also led the Indian women's team to a historic gold medal in the team event at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
• She has been honored with the Arjuna Award for her achievements in table tennis.

Additional Information

• Table Tennis:
• Table tennis, also known as ping-pong, is a sport in which two or four players hit a lightweight ball back and forth across a table using small bats.
• The game takes place on a hard table divided by a net. The objective is to score points by striking the ball so that the opponent fails to return it.
• It is governed by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), founded in 1926.
• Table tennis is an Olympic sport and has several categories, including singles, doubles, and team events.
• Other Players Mentioned:
• Manish Narwal is a para-shooter who competes in the SH1 category.
• K Srikanth is an Indian badminton player who has won several international titles.
• Pankaj Advani is an Indian billiards and snooker player, known for his numerous world titles in both sports.

The correct answer is Neon.

Key Points

• Neon gas emits a distinctive red-orange light when electricity is passed through it.
• Neon is widely used in neon signs, which are often used for advertising purposes.
• Neon is a noble gas and is chemically inert, which makes it safe for use in various applications.
• Neon was discovered in 1898 by the British chemists Sir William Ramsay and Morris W. Travers.

Additional Information

• Neon:
• Neon is a chemical element with the symbol Ne and atomic number 10.
• It is a noble gas, which means it is colorless, odorless, and inert under standard conditions.
• Neon has a very low boiling point and is the fifth most abundant element in the universe.
• Neon lights are created by passing an electric current through a tube filled with neon gas, causing the gas to glow brightly.
• Other Gases Mentioned:
• Hydrogen: A colorless, odorless gas that is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe. It is highly flammable and is used in fuel cells and as a rocket propellant.
• Argon: A noble gas with the symbol Ar and atomic number 18. It is used in welding, incandescent light bulbs, and as a protective atmosphere for growing silicon and germanium crystals.
• Helium: A colorless, odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, inert, monatomic gas that heads the noble gas group in the periodic table. It is used in cryogenics, as a coolant for nuclear reactors, and in lighter-than-air balloons.

The correct answer is Prithviraj Raso.

Key Points

• Prithviraj Raso is an epic poem written by the poet Chand Bardai.
• This literary work narrates the life of the legendary Rajput king Prithviraj Chauhan.
• It includes the love story of Prithviraj Chauhan and Sanyogita.
• The poem also describes Prithviraj Chauhan's heroic deeds, battles, and his eventual capture and death.

Additional Information

• Prithviraj Chauhan
• He was a Rajput king of the Chauhan dynasty, who ruled the kingdom of Ajmer and Delhi in northern India during the latter half of the 12^th century.
• Prithviraj Chauhan is known for his valiant battles against the Muslim invader Muhammad Ghori.
• He is celebrated in various folk tales and ballads for his courage and chivalry.
• Chand Bardai
• Chand Bardai was a court poet of Prithviraj Chauhan and a close friend.
• He composed the epic poem Prithviraj Raso, which is considered one of the first works in the Hindi language.
• The poem provides a detailed account of Prithviraj Chauhan's life, from his early years to his death.
• Other Works Mentioned
• Harakeli Nataka: A Sanskrit play written by King Bhoja of Dhar.
• Abhidhana Chintamani: A lexicographical work by Hemachandra.
• Rajamartanda: A commentary on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, attributed to King Bhoja.

The correct answer is Chittaranjan Das.

Key Points

• Chittaranjan Das was a prominent Indian freedom fighter and political leader known as 'Deshbandhu', which means 'Friend of the Nation'.
• He played a significant role in the Non-Cooperation Movement against British rule in India.
• Chittaranjan Das was the founder of the Swaraj Party along with Motilal Nehru, which aimed at attaining self-governance within the British Empire.
• He was also a renowned lawyer and defended Aurobindo Ghosh in the Alipore Bomb Case, further establishing his reputation as a key figure in the Indian independence movement.

Additional Information

• Non-Cooperation Movement
• Launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, it was a significant phase of the Indian independence movement aimed at resisting British rule through nonviolent means.
• The movement saw widespread participation across India with actions like boycotting British goods, institutions, and services.
• Chittaranjan Das played a crucial role in galvanizing support for the movement, especially in Bengal.
• Swaraj Party
• Founded by Chittaranjan Das and Motilal Nehru in 1923, the Swaraj Party aimed to achieve self-governance within the British Empire.
• The party sought to enter legislative councils through elections to obstruct and eventually end British rule from within the system.
• This was a strategic shift from Gandhi's non-cooperation approach and aimed at more direct political engagement.
• Alipore Bomb Case
• In 1908, Aurobindo Ghosh and several others were arrested for their alleged involvement in a conspiracy to bomb a British magistrate's carriage.
• Chittaranjan Das defended Aurobindo Ghosh, and his eloquent defense played a significant role in the acquittal of Ghosh.
• This case was a landmark in the Indian legal history and highlighted the role of Indian lawyers in the freedom movement.
• Indian National Congress
• Established in 1885, the Indian National Congress (INC) was the principal leader of the Indian independence movement.
• Chittaranjan Das was an active member of the INC and held significant positions, including the President of the Gaya session in 1922.
• His contributions to the INC were vital in shaping the strategies and policies of the freedom struggle during the early 20^th century.

The correct answer is Sarod.

Key Points

• Buddhadev Dasgupta was an eminent Indian classical musician known for his remarkable proficiency in playing the Sarod.
• He was born on 1 February 1933 and was a disciple of the famous Sarod player Radhika Mohan Maitra.
• Buddhadev Dasgupta was a key figure in popularizing Sarod music across the globe and was renowned for his unique style and innovative approach.
• He was honored with several prestigious awards, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to Indian classical music.

Additional Information

• Sarod
• The Sarod is a stringed musical instrument, used mainly in Indian classical music.
• It is known for its deep, weighty, introspective sound.
• The Sarod is believed to have descended from the Afghan rubab and is known for its rich and resonant sound.
• It typically has 17 to 25 strings, with 4 to 5 main strings used for playing the melody, and the rest being drone and sympathetic strings.
• Sarangi
• The Sarangi is a bowed, short-necked string instrument from India and Nepal, which is used primarily in Hindustani classical music.
• It is known for its ability to closely imitate the human voice.
• Bansuri
• The Bansuri is a side-blown flute found in many parts of India.
• It is traditionally made of bamboo and has six or seven finger holes.
• Mridangam
• The Mridangam is a percussion instrument from India, especially South India.
• It is the primary rhythmic accompaniment in a Carnatic music ensemble.

The correct answer is Mandatory national service of 5 years.

Key Points

• The Fundamental Duties were incorporated in the Indian Constitution by the 42^nd Amendment Act, 1976.
• These duties are specified in Part IVA (Article 51A) of the Indian Constitution.
• They are a set of 11 duties that are expected to be performed by the citizens of India.
• Mandatory national service of 5 years is not included among these Fundamental Duties.

Additional Information

• Fundamental Duties
• The Fundamental Duties are moral obligations that are intended to promote a sense of discipline and commitment among the citizens of India.
• These duties are modeled on the Soviet Constitution and are aimed at upholding the spirit of patriotism and unity.
• Some of the key Fundamental Duties include respecting the Constitution, promoting harmony, protecting the environment, and safeguarding public property.
• Though not enforceable by law, these duties serve as a constant reminder to the citizens of their responsibilities towards the nation.
• 42^nd Amendment Act, 1976
• This amendment is also known as the "Mini-Constitution" because it brought about wide-ranging changes to the Constitution.
• It introduced the Fundamental Duties and made several other significant changes, including the addition of the words "Socialist" and "Secular" to the Preamble.
• The amendment also extended the term of the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies from five to six years.
• It strengthened the role of the central government by curtailing the powers of the judiciary and state governments.
• Part IVA of the Indian Constitution
• Part IVA was added by the 42^nd Amendment Act, 1976, and contains only one Article - Article 51A.
• Article 51A specifies the Fundamental Duties of every citizen of India.
• It lists 11 duties, including cherishing the noble ideals of freedom struggle, promoting scientific temper, and protecting the natural environment.
• These duties highlight the importance of active citizenship and collective responsibility in the democratic framework of India.

The correct answer is Zinc sulphate.

Key Points

• When zinc reacts with sulphuric acid, it undergoes a chemical reaction to form zinc sulphate and hydrogen gas.
• The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is: Zn + H₂SO₄ → ZnSO₄ + H₂.
• Zinc sulphate is an inorganic compound with the formula ZnSO₄.
• This reaction is a typical example of a metal reacting with an acid to produce a salt and hydrogen gas.

Additional Information

• Zinc (Zn)
• Zinc is a transition metal with the atomic number 30.
• It is commonly used in galvanizing to prevent rusting of steel and iron.
• Zinc is also an essential trace element necessary for human health.
• Sulphuric Acid (H₂SO₄)
• It is a strong mineral acid with highly corrosive properties.
• Sulphuric acid is used in a variety of industrial processes such as fertilizer production, oil refining, and chemical synthesis.
• It is also known as oil of vitriol.
• Chemical Reactions
• A chemical reaction involves the transformation of reactants into products.
• Reactions are often accompanied by the release or absorption of energy.
• They can be categorized into different types such as synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and double replacement reactions.
• Safety Precautions
• When handling sulphuric acid, it is crucial to wear appropriate safety gear including gloves, goggles, and lab coats due to its highly corrosive nature.
• Ensure proper ventilation when conducting chemical reactions to avoid inhaling harmful gases.
• Always add acid to water, not water to acid, to prevent exothermic reactions that can cause splashing.

The correct answer is Madhya Pradesh.

Key Points

• Pandit Venkatesh Kumar is an eminent Hindustani classical singer known for his deep and soulful renditions.
• He is particularly renowned for his expertise in the Khayal form of singing.
• The Kalidas Samman is a prestigious arts award presented annually by the Madhya Pradesh government.
• It is awarded to individuals for their outstanding achievements in the fields of classical music, classical dance, theatre, and visual arts.

Additional Information

• Kalidas Samman
• Named after the celebrated classical Sanskrit writer Kalidasa, the Kalidas Samman is one of the most respected arts awards in India.
• It has been awarded annually since 1980 by the government of Madhya Pradesh.
• The award carries a plaque and a cash prize, which varies from time to time.
• Recipients of the Kalidas Samman have included some of the most distinguished artists, musicians, and performers in India.
• Pandit Venkatesh Kumar
• Pandit Venkatesh Kumar was born in 1953 in the Bellary district of Karnataka.
• He has a unique style of singing which blends the Kirana and Gwalior gharanas.
• He was trained under the tutelage of Puttaraj Gawai of the Veereshwara Punyashrama in Gadag.
• In addition to the Kalidas Samman, he has received numerous other accolades for his contributions to Indian classical music.
• Hindustani Classical Music
• Hindustani classical music is one of the two main forms of Indian classical music, the other being Carnatic music.
• It is known for its improvisational nature and its raga system, which uses a series of five or more musical notes upon which a melody is constructed.
• Hindustani music has its origins in the Vedic ritual chants and has evolved over the centuries to include various regional and cultural influences.
• It is traditionally performed in a solo format with instrumental accompaniment, often including a tabla and a harmonium or sarangi.

The correct answer is Barter exchange.

Key Points

• In a barter exchange, goods or services are exchanged directly for other goods or services without using a medium of exchange such as money.
• Barter exchange is one of the oldest forms of trade and commerce, dating back to times before the invention of money.
• This type of exchange relies on the mutual wants of the participants; each party must have something the other party wants.
• Barter systems can be simple and direct, or they can be facilitated through barter exchanges or networks where multiple parties can trade goods and services.

Additional Information

• Online Exchange
• Online exchange refers to the process of exchanging goods, services, or currency over the internet.
• This type of exchange typically involves digital platforms that facilitate the buying and selling of products or services.
• Credit Exchange
• Credit exchange involves the use of credit as a medium of exchange.
• This can occur in various forms such as credit cards, loans, or other forms of deferred payment.
• Currency Exchange
• Currency exchange involves the conversion of one type of currency into another.
• This process is essential for international trade and travel, allowing individuals and businesses to transact in different currencies.
• Barter Exchange
• Barter exchange is the direct exchange of goods and services without the use of money.
• This system requires that the parties involved have mutually desirable goods or services to trade.
• Barter can be bilateral (two-party) or multilateral (involving multiple parties).
• Modern barter exchanges often use a unit of account to facilitate trades among members.

The correct answer is Rajasthan.

Key Points

• Rajasthan is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage and hosts numerous traditional fairs and festivals.
• The Gangaur Festival is celebrated primarily by women to honor the goddess Gauri, the consort of Lord Shiva, and is marked by elaborate processions and rituals.
• Pushkar Fair, also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair, is one of the largest camel and livestock fairs in the world and attracts thousands of tourists.
• The Urs Fair, held at Ajmer, commemorates the death anniversary of the Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti and is a significant event for followers of Sufism and Islam.

Additional Information

• Gangaur Festival
• This festival is particularly significant in the state of Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
• It is dedicated to Gauri, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, celebrating marital fidelity and conjugal happiness.
• Women dress in their finest clothes and jewelry, sing traditional songs, and take part in processions carrying beautifully decorated idols of Gauri.
• Pushkar Fair
• The Pushkar Fair is an annual multi-day livestock fair held in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan.
• It is one of India's largest camel, horse, and cattle fairs, combined with various other events and competitions, such as the "matka phod," "longest mustache," and "bridal competition."
• The fair also includes cultural performances, folk dances, and music, making it a major tourist attraction.
• Nagaur Fair
• The Nagaur Fair, also known as the Ramdeoji Cattle Fair, is held annually in the town of Nagaur, Rajasthan.
• It is the second-largest cattle fair in India, where animals like camels, cows, bullocks, and horses are traded.
• The fair is also famous for its traditional folk music, dance performances, and various local sports and activities.
• Urs Fair
• The Urs Fair is held annually at the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer, Rajasthan.
• This event marks the death anniversary of the saint, which is celebrated with great fervor by his followers.
• Devotees from across the globe visit the shrine to seek blessings and participate in the Sufi music and devotional ceremonies.

The correct answer is Tendu.

Key Points

• Tendu leaves are primarily used to make bidis, which are a traditional type of hand-rolled cigarette in India.
• The leaves are known for their strength and elasticity, making them ideal for rolling bidis.
• Tendu, also known as Diospyros melanoxylon, is a tree found widely in central India.
• The collection and sale of tendu leaves are a significant source of income for forest-dwelling communities in India.

Additional Information

• Bidis
• Bidis are traditional Indian cigarettes made by rolling dried tobacco flakes in a tendu leaf and securing the roll with a thread.
• They are often cheaper and smaller than regular cigarettes, making them accessible to a larger population.
• Despite their small size, bidis deliver a higher amount of nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide compared to conventional cigarettes.
• The bidi industry is labor-intensive, providing employment to millions of people, especially women and children in rural areas.
• Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon)
• Tendu is a species of flowering tree in the family Ebenaceae, native to India and Sri Lanka.
• The tree produces small, sweet fruits that are edible, but its leaves are more commercially valuable.
• Tendu leaves are collected during the summer months and are dried and processed for use in bidi production.
• The economic importance of tendu leaves has led to government regulation and control over their collection and trade in various states of India.

The correct answer is Shevaroy hills.

Key Points

• The Shevaroy hills are a prominent range of hills located in the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India.
• These hills are situated near the town of Yercaud, which is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate.
• The Shevaroy hills are part of the Eastern Ghats, which is a discontinuous range of mountains along India's eastern coast.
• The highest peak in the Shevaroy hills is Solaikaradu, which stands at an elevation of 1,620 meters (5,315 feet).

Additional Information

• Naga hills
• The Naga hills are located in the northeastern part of India, primarily in the state of Nagaland and partially in Myanmar.
• They form part of the larger Patkai mountain range and are known for their rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
• The highest peak in the Naga hills is Mount Saramati, which stands at an elevation of 3,826 meters (12,552 feet).
• Khasi hills
• The Khasi hills are located in the state of Meghalaya in northeastern India.
• They are part of the larger Garo-Khasi-Jaintia range and are known for their unique matrilineal culture and living root bridges.
• The highest peak in the Khasi hills is Shillong Peak, which stands at an elevation of 1,965 meters (6,447 feet).
• Anamudi hills
• Anamudi is the highest peak in the Western Ghats and South India, located in the state of Kerala.
• It stands at an elevation of 2,695 meters (8,842 feet) and is situated in the Eravikulam National Park.
• Being part of the Western Ghats, it is not associated with the Eastern Ghats.

The correct answer is Ravindranath Tagore, 1901.

Key Points

• Rabindranath Tagore established Shantiniketan as an experimental school aimed at blending the best of Western and Indian educational systems.
• Shantiniketan was founded in 1901 in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India.
• The school was later expanded and developed into Visva-Bharati University in 1921.
• Shantiniketan became a center for cultural, artistic, and educational activities, attracting students and scholars from all over the world.

Additional Information

• Rabindranath Tagore
• Rabindranath Tagore was a renowned poet, writer, composer, and philosopher from India.
• He was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his work "Gitanjali".
• Tagore's contributions to literature, music, and art have had a profound impact on Indian culture and beyond.
• He is often referred to as the "Bard of Bengal" and is best known for his poetry and songs, including the national anthems of India and Bangladesh.
• Visva-Bharati University
• Visva-Bharati University was founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921 as a center for higher learning and research.
• The university is located in Shantiniketan, West Bengal, and is known for its unique approach to education, emphasizing the harmony between man and nature.
• It offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, science, music, fine arts, and performing arts.
• Visva-Bharati continues to attract students and scholars from around the world, maintaining its legacy as a place of cultural and intellectual exchange.
• Shantiniketan
• Shantiniketan, meaning "Abode of Peace", was originally an ashram built by Rabindranath Tagore's father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore.
• Rabindranath Tagore expanded Shantiniketan into an experimental school with an emphasis on natural surroundings, creativity, and learning through exploration.
• Shantiniketan later evolved into Visva-Bharati University, becoming a prominent center for education and cultural activities.
• The place remains a symbol of Tagore's vision of a holistic and inclusive education system.

The correct answer is Darpana Academy of Performing Arts.

Key Points

• Darpana Academy of Performing Arts was founded by the renowned Bharatanatyam and Kathakali dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai.
• The institute was established in 1949 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
• Darpana Academy is dedicated to preserving and promoting various Indian classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam and Kathakali.
• The academy has grown into a multidisciplinary arts center, offering training in dance, music, theatre, and puppetry.

Additional Information

• Mrinalini Sarabhai
• Mrinalini Sarabhai (1918-2016) was a celebrated Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and instructor who was known for her contributions to Bharatanatyam and Kathakali.
• She received numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, for her significant contributions to Indian classical dance.
• Mrinalini Sarabhai was also an author and wrote several books on classical dance and Indian culture.
• Bharatanatyam
• Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, originating from Tamil Nadu.
• It is known for its fixed upper torso, bent legs, intricate footwork, and expressive hand gestures and facial expressions.
• Bharatanatyam is traditionally performed by solo dancers, often telling stories through dance.
• Kathakali
• Kathakali is a classical Indian dance-drama form that originated in Kerala.
• It is characterized by elaborate costumes, detailed makeup, and well-defined body movements, all of which are used to tell stories from Indian epics and mythology.
• Kathakali performances are traditionally performed by male dancers, although women now also perform.