General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is the crust.

Key Points

• The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, varying in thickness from about 5 km under the oceans to about 70 km under the continents.
• The crust is made up of a variety of rocks, primarily granite and basalt.
• It forms the solid surface of the Earth, where we live, and is divided into several tectonic plates.
• The Earth's crust is distinct from the underlying mantle and core, which are composed of different materials and have different physical properties.

Additional Information

• Volcano
• A volcano is an opening in the Earth's crust through which molten lava, ash, and gases are ejected.
• Volcanic activity is a result of the movement of tectonic plates and the presence of magma beneath the Earth's surface.
• Volcanoes can form on land or underwater, and they can create mountains and islands over time.
• The Core
• The core is the innermost part of the Earth, composed mainly of iron and nickel.
• It is divided into two parts: the solid inner core and the liquid outer core.
• The movement of the liquid outer core generates the Earth's magnetic field.
• The Mantle
• The mantle is the layer of the Earth located between the crust and the core.
• It is composed of silicate rocks that are rich in iron and magnesium.
• The mantle extends to a depth of about 2,900 kilometers (1,800 miles) and is involved in tectonic activity and convection currents.

The correct answer is Vidhan Parishad.

Key Points

• The Vidhan Parishad is the Upper House of the State Legislature in India.
• It is similar to the Rajya Sabha, which is the Upper House of the Parliament of India.
• Not all states in India have a Vidhan Parishad; it exists only in a few states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
• Members of the Vidhan Parishad are not directly elected by the public; they are elected by members of the Legislative Assembly, graduates, teachers, and local authority members.

Additional Information

• Rajya Sabha
• The Rajya Sabha is the Upper House of the Parliament of India.
• It represents the states and union territories of India.
• Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies, and by the members of the Electoral college for Union Territories, using a single transferable vote system.
• The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution, but one-third of its members retire every two years.
• Lok Sabha
• The Lok Sabha is the Lower House of the Parliament of India.
• Members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people of India through general elections held every five years.
• The Lok Sabha is also known as the House of the People.
• It plays a crucial role in the law-making process in India.
• Vidhan Sabha
• The Vidhan Sabha is the Lower House of the State Legislature in India.
• Members of the Vidhan Sabha are directly elected by the people of the respective states through general elections held every five years.
• The Vidhan Sabha is also known as the Legislative Assembly.
• It is responsible for making laws on matters listed in the State List and Concurrent List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

The correct answer is Second.

Key Points

• India has the second-largest road network in the world, as per the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' annual report (2020-2021).
• The total length of the road network in India is over 5.89 million kilometers.
• The Indian road network comprises National Highways, State Highways, and other roads.
• This extensive network facilitates efficient transportation and connectivity throughout the country.

Additional Information

• National Highways:
• National Highways are the primary roadways that connect major cities and regions across India.
• They are managed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
• National Highways constitute about 2% of the total road network but carry about 40% of the road traffic.
• State Highways:
• State Highways are roads that connect important cities within a state and link them with National Highways or highways of neighboring states.
• These highways are managed and maintained by the respective state governments.
• Other Roads:
• Other roads include district roads, rural roads, and urban roads that provide connectivity within districts, rural areas, and cities respectively.
• These roads are crucial for the last-mile connectivity and are maintained by local bodies such as Panchayats and Municipalities.
• Importance of Road Network:
• A well-developed road network is essential for economic growth, as it facilitates the movement of goods and people.
• It improves access to services such as healthcare and education, especially in rural areas.
• It also plays a critical role in national security by enabling the quick movement of defense forces and supplies.

The correct answer is Option 2: To increase the pH of the fresh milk from 6 to slightly alkaline.

Key Points

• Adding baking soda, which is a mild base, to fresh milk increases its pH, making it slightly alkaline.
• This process helps in delaying the souring of milk, which is caused by the production of lactic acid by bacteria.
• By making the milk slightly alkaline, the growth of acid-producing bacteria is slowed down, thereby preserving the milk for a longer duration.
• This practice is particularly useful in warmer climates where milk spoils faster due to higher temperatures.

Additional Information

• pH Scale
• The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14.
• A pH of 7 is considered neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is basic (alkaline).
• Milk typically has a pH of around 6, making it slightly acidic.
• Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
• Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), is a mild alkaline compound.
• It is commonly used in baking to cause dough to rise by producing carbon dioxide gas.
• In addition to its culinary uses, baking soda is also used for cleaning, deodorizing, and as an antacid.
• Lactic Acid and Milk Souring
• Lactic acid is produced by lactic acid bacteria during the fermentation of lactose (milk sugar).
• The accumulation of lactic acid lowers the pH of milk, leading to its souring.
• Souring is a natural process that occurs as milk ages and is influenced by temperature and bacterial activity.

The correct answer is atomic radius.

Key Points

• The atomic radius is measured in picometres (pm), where 1 pm = 10^-12 meters.
• The atomic radius is defined as the distance from the nucleus of an atom to the outer boundary of the electron cloud.
• The atomic radius varies across the periodic table, generally decreasing from left to right across a period and increasing down a group.
• Understanding atomic radius is crucial for explaining the physical and chemical properties of elements, including bonding and reactivity.

Additional Information

• Atomic Radius:
• The atomic radius is a measure of the size of an atom, usually the mean or typical distance from the nucleus to the boundary of the surrounding electron cloud.
• In a group, the atomic radius increases from top to bottom due to the addition of electron shells.
• In a period, the atomic radius decreases from left to right due to the increase in nuclear charge, which pulls electrons closer to the nucleus.
• Molar Mass:
• Molar mass is the mass of a given substance (chemical element or chemical compound) divided by the amount of substance, measured in grams per mole (g/mol).
• It is used to convert between the mass of a substance and the amount in moles.
• Atomic Density:
• Atomic density is the number of atoms per unit volume of a material.
• It is often measured in atoms per cubic centimeter (atoms/cm³).
• Spin Quantum Number:
• The spin quantum number (s) describes the intrinsic angular momentum (spin) of an electron within an atom.
• It can have values of +1/2 or -1/2, indicating the two possible spin states of an electron.

The correct answer is Amit Khare.

Key Points

• Amit Khare is a retired IAS officer of the 1985 batch from the Bihar cadre.
• He has served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) and the Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD), now known as the Ministry of Education.
• He is credited with the drafting of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a significant reform in the Indian education system.
• In October 2021, Amit Khare was appointed as an advisor to the Prime Minister of India.

Additional Information

• Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B)
• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is a branch of the Government of India responsible for formulating and administering the rules, regulations, and laws relating to information, broadcasting, the press, and films in India.
• The ministry is responsible for the administration of Prasar Bharati, the broadcasting corporation of India, and the regulation of content on television and radio.
• It plays a crucial role in disseminating information to the public and promoting cultural and artistic expression through various media platforms.
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
• NEP 2020 is a comprehensive framework to guide the development of education in the country, replacing the previous National Policy on Education, 1986.
• The policy aims to transform the Indian education system by 2040, with a focus on providing high-quality education, fostering critical thinking, and promoting innovation.
• Key highlights of NEP 2020 include the introduction of a new curricular structure (5+3+3+4), emphasis on early childhood care and education, and the integration of vocational education into mainstream education.
• The policy also emphasizes the use of technology in education, multilingualism, and the promotion of Indian culture and values.
• Advisor to the Prime Minister
• An advisor to the Prime Minister is a senior official appointed to provide expert advice and support on various matters of governance, policy formulation, and implementation.
• Advisors play a critical role in assisting the Prime Minister in making informed decisions and ensuring the effective execution of government initiatives.
• They bring specialized knowledge and experience to the administration, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the government.

The correct answer is First.

Key Points

• The Harrod-Domar model was the foundation for the First Five Year Plan of India.
• This plan was implemented between 1951 and 1956.
• The model emphasizes the importance of savings and investments for economic growth.
• It was aimed at addressing the country's immediate need for development in agriculture, irrigation, and energy.

Additional Information

• Harrod-Domar Model:
• This model is an economic growth model that was developed independently by Sir Roy Harrod in 1939 and Evsey Domar in 1946.
• The model suggests that the economy's growth rate depends on the level of savings and the productivity of capital investment.
• The key equation of the Harrod-Domar model is: Growth Rate = Savings Ratio / Capital-Output Ratio.
• The model highlights the need for investment to spur economic growth and the importance of efficient use of capital.
• First Five Year Plan of India:
• Launched in 1951, the First Five Year Plan focused on the primary sector, especially agriculture.
• It aimed to increase food production, improve irrigation facilities, and develop transport and communication infrastructure.
• The plan was successful in achieving its targets and laid the foundation for future economic planning in India.
• It also emphasized the need for industrialization to create job opportunities and improve the standard of living.
• Importance of Savings and Investments:
• Savings provide the funds necessary for investment, which in turn leads to economic growth.
• Higher savings rates can lead to higher investment rates, which can enhance productive capacity and increase GDP.
• Efficient allocation and use of savings are crucial for maximizing the returns on investment.
• Government policies often aim to encourage savings and investments through various incentives and reforms.
• Development Goals of the First Plan:
• To increase agricultural production to ensure food security for the population.
• To develop irrigation facilities to support agriculture and manage water resources effectively.
• To build infrastructure such as roads, railways, and ports to facilitate trade and movement of goods.
• To address the immediate needs of the country in terms of employment and poverty alleviation.

The correct answer is 2008.

Key Points

• The Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) was launched by the Government of India in 2008.
• RSBY aims to provide health insurance coverage for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.
• Under this scheme, beneficiaries are entitled to hospitalization coverage up to Rs. 30,000 for most of the diseases that require hospitalization.
• The scheme was designed to protect poor families from financial liabilities arising out of health shocks that involve hospitalization.

Additional Information

• Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY)
• RSBY was introduced by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India.
• The scheme provides for cashless insurance for hospital services through an empaneled network of healthcare providers.
• Beneficiaries need to pay a registration fee of Rs. 30, and the government pays the premium to the insurer selected by the state government on the basis of a competitive bidding.
• The scheme covers all pre-existing conditions and there is no age limit for the beneficiaries.
• Transport expenses are also provided to the patient, within an overall limit of Rs. 1000.
• Health Insurance in India
• Health insurance in India is a type of insurance that covers medical expenses incurred by the insured due to health conditions.
• Health insurance policies can be purchased by individuals or families to cover a wide range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, and other medical treatments.
• Several government schemes like Ayushman Bharat, PM-JAY, and others aim to provide health insurance coverage to various segments of the population.
• The goal of these schemes is to reduce the financial burden of medical expenses and ensure access to quality healthcare services for all.

The correct answer is stock.

Key Points

• Money supply is considered a stock concept because it represents the total amount of money available in an economy at a specific point in time.
• Unlike a flow concept, which is measured over a period of time, a stock concept is measured at one particular time.
• The money supply includes various components such as currency in circulation, demand deposits, and other liquid assets.
• Central banks and government agencies typically measure the money supply to monitor and manage the economy.

Additional Information

• Stock vs. Flow Concepts
• A stock concept is a quantity measured at a particular point in time. Examples include the money supply, wealth, and the number of goods in inventory.
• A flow concept is a quantity measured over a period of time. Examples include income, expenditure, and production.
• Components of Money Supply
• M1: This is the narrow measure of money supply, which includes currency in circulation and demand deposits (checking accounts).
• M2: This is a broader measure, which includes M1 plus savings accounts, small time deposits, and non-institutional money market funds.
• M3: This includes M2 plus large time deposits, institutional money market funds, and other larger liquid assets.
• Importance of Money Supply
• The money supply is a critical factor in determining inflation levels, interest rates, and overall economic stability.
• Central banks, such as the Federal Reserve or the Reserve Bank of India, use measures of the money supply to implement monetary policy.
• Changes in the money supply can affect the economy's performance, influencing everything from consumer spending to business investment.

The correct answer is Governor.

Key Points

• The Governor is the constitutional head of a state in India, appointed by the President of India.
• On Republic Day, the Governor unfurls the national flag at the state capital as part of the official celebration.
• The Governor's role is to represent the central government in the state and act according to the advice of the state's Council of Ministers.
• The Governor has various powers and functions including legislative, executive, and discretionary powers as outlined in the Constitution of India.

Additional Information

• Republic Day
• Republic Day in India is celebrated on January 26^th every year to honor the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950.
• It marks the transition of India from a British Dominion to a republic.
• The day is celebrated with grand parades in the national capital, New Delhi, and state capitals, showcasing India's defense capability, cultural and social heritage.
• Role of the Governor
• The Governor is the nominal executive head of the state, functioning as a representative of the President of India.
• The Governor's powers and duties include summoning and proroguing the state legislature, granting pardons, and appointing the Chief Minister.
• Governors can also reserve bills passed by the state legislature for the President's consideration.
• Chief Minister
• The Chief Minister is the head of the government in a state and is responsible for running the state administration.
• They are appointed by the Governor and are usually the leader of the majority party in the state legislature.
• The Chief Minister advises the Governor on various matters related to the state's governance.

The correct answer is Keshav Prasad Maurya.

Key Points

• Keshav Prasad Maurya is one of the Deputy Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh as of July 2023.
• He has been serving as the Deputy Chief Minister since 19 March 2017, following the BJP's victory in the state assembly elections.
• Maurya has a significant political career and is known for his work in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
• He represents the Sirka constituency in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly.

Additional Information

• Deputy Chief Minister:
• A Deputy Chief Minister (DCM) is a member of the executive branch of the state government in India who typically acts as the second-in-command to the Chief Minister.
• The position is not a constitutional post but can be created by the ruling party to balance power within the party or coalition.
• DCMs may handle important portfolios and play a crucial role in the administration of the state.
• Uttar Pradesh:
• Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its historical, cultural, and political significance.
• It is the most populous state in India and has a diverse socio-economic structure.
• The capital of Uttar Pradesh is Lucknow, and it has a major legislative and administrative setup.
• Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
• The Bharatiya Janata Party is one of the two major political parties in India, alongside the Indian National Congress.
• Founded in 1980, the BJP follows a right-wing political ideology and promotes policies that reflect Hindu nationalist positions.
• It is currently the ruling party in India and has a significant presence in various states, including Uttar Pradesh.
• Yogi Adityanath:
• Yogi Adityanath is the current Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, having assumed office on 19 March 2017.
• He is known for his strong leadership and focus on law and order, development, and cultural heritage of the state.
• Prior to becoming the Chief Minister, he served as a Member of Parliament from the Gorakhpur constituency for five consecutive terms.

The correct answer is Ravi Shankar.

Key Points

• Ravi Shankar was an Indian sitar virtuoso and a composer of Hindustani classical music.
• He was the best-known proponent of the sitar in the second half of the 20^th century and influenced many musicians worldwide.
• Ravi Shankar collaborated with many international artists, including George Harrison of The Beatles, which helped to popularize Indian classical music in the West.
• He received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including Bharat Ratna in 1999, India's highest civilian award.

Additional Information

• Sitar
• The sitar is a plucked stringed instrument used mainly in Hindustani classical music.
• It derives its name from the Persian word 'sehtar', meaning "three strings," although modern sitars typically have seven strings.
• The sitar has a long neck with twenty metal frets and six or seven main strings.
• It is known for its distinctive sound and is used extensively in Indian classical music, as well as in fusion music and film scores.
• Hindustani Classical Music
• Hindustani classical music is one of the two main forms of Indian classical music, the other being Carnatic music.
• It originated in the Vedic ritual chants and has evolved over centuries to include a rich array of ragas and talas.
• This music form is primarily vocal-centric, but instrumental traditions such as the sitar, sarod, and tabla also play a significant role.
• Notable exponents of Hindustani classical music include Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ustad Zakir Hussain, and Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.
• George Harrison
• George Harrison was an English musician, singer-songwriter, and lead guitarist of the Beatles.
• He was deeply influenced by Indian classical music and incorporated elements of it into the Beatles' music.
• George Harrison was a student of Ravi Shankar and played the sitar on several Beatles tracks, including "Norwegian Wood" and "Within You Without You".
• His association with Ravi Shankar helped introduce Indian classical music to a global audience.
• Bharat Ratna
• Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India.
• It was instituted in 1954 and is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order, without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex.
• The award has been conferred on various distinguished individuals, including scientists, artists, and politicians.
• Ravi Shankar was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1999 for his contributions to Indian classical music.

The correct answer is Kannada Literature.

Key Points

• Pampa, Ponna, and Ranna are renowned as the ‘Three Jewels’ (Ratnatraya) of Kannada literature.
• These poets made significant contributions during the period of Kannada classical literature which is also known as the Old Kannada period.
• Pampa is celebrated for his epic works like ‘Adi Purana’ and ‘Vikramarjuna Vijaya’.
• Ranna is known for his famous work ‘Sahasa Bhima Vijaya’ or ‘Gadayuddha’.

Additional Information

• Pampa
• Pampa, also known as Adikavi, is one of the earliest poets of Kannada literature.
• His significant works include ‘Adi Purana’, which narrates the story of the first Jain Tirthankara Rishabhadeva, and ‘Vikramarjuna Vijaya’, which is a Jain version of the Mahabharata.
• Ponna
• Ponna was another celebrated Kannada poet and a contemporary of Pampa.
• He is known for his work ‘Shanti Purana’ which is a Jain epic that narrates the life of Shantinatha, the 16^th Tirthankara.
• Ranna
• Ranna is considered one of the greatest Kannada poets.
• His notable work ‘Gadayuddha’ (The Battle of Clubs) is a retelling of the Mahabharata focusing on the duel between Bhima and Duryodhana.
• Kannada Literature
• Kannada literature has a rich heritage dating back over a thousand years.
• It includes a wide range of texts in poetry, prose, and drama, and is known for its classical and medieval works.
• The period of the ‘Three Jewels’ is particularly significant in the history of Kannada literature, often regarded as its golden age.

The correct answer is Padma Shri.

Key Points

• Annavarapu Rama Swamy is a renowned Indian classical violinist known for his significant contribution to Indian classical music.
• In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2021.
• The Padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award in India.
• This award is given for distinguished service in any field including the arts, education, industry, literature, science, sports, medicine, social service, and public affairs.

Additional Information

• Padma Awards
• The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honors of India announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
• They are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of a high order), and Padma Shri (for distinguished service in any field).
• The awards were instituted in 1954 and are awarded by the Government of India.
• The Padma Awards recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service is involved.
• Sangeet Natak Akademi
• It is the national academy for music, dance, and drama in India.
• It was created by a resolution of the Ministry of Education, Government of India in 1952 and became functional the following year.
• The Akademi's fellowship and awards are considered the highest national recognition given to practicing artists.
• It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• Padma Bhushan
• The Padma Bhushan is the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, preceded by the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan and followed by the Padma Shri.
• It is awarded for "distinguished service of a high order... without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex."
• The award was established on 2 January 1954 by the President of India.
• Padma Vibhushan
• The Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna.
• It is awarded for "exceptional and distinguished service," without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex.
• The award was instituted by the Government of India on 2 January 1954.

The correct answer is Pitt's India Act of 1784.

Key Points

• The Pitt's India Act of 1784 was introduced to address the shortcomings of the Regulating Act of 1773.
• This act established the Board of Control in England to control and supervise the administration of British India.
• The Board of Control consisted of six members, including two members of the British cabinet and was headed by the British Secretary of State.
• This act also created a dual system of governance, with the East India Company retaining its commercial functions, while the British government assumed control over political affairs.

Additional Information

• Charter Act of 1813
• This act ended the trade monopoly of the East India Company in India, except for trade in tea and trade with China.
• It allowed Christian missionaries to come to India and spread their religion.
• The act also provided for the promotion of education in India and allocated funds for the same.
• Regulating Act of 1773
• This was the first step taken by the British government to control and regulate the affairs of the East India Company in India.
• It established a system of dual governance, where the British government and the East India Company both had a say in the administration of India.
• The act established a Governor-General of Bengal with an executive council of four members to assist him.
• Charter Act of 1793
• This act extended the charter of the East India Company for another 20 years.
• It allowed the company to retain its monopoly over trade in India.
• The act also increased the salaries of the company's officials to reduce corruption.
• Pitt's India Act of 1784
• This act was introduced by the British Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger.
• It established the Board of Control to oversee the affairs of the East India Company in India.
• The act created a dual system of governance, with the company retaining its commercial functions and the British government assuming control over political affairs.
• The Board of Control consisted of six members, including two members of the British cabinet, and was headed by the British Secretary of State.

The correct answer is Odisha.

Key Points

• Odisha emerged as the overall champion in both men and women categories in the first Janjatiya Khel Mahotsav.
• The event saw participation from various states, but Odisha dominated in terms of overall performance.
• Odisha's athletes showcased exceptional talent and skills, leading to their top position.
• The state has been investing in sports infrastructure and athlete development, which is reflected in their performance.

Additional Information

• Janjatiya Khel Mahotsav
• The Janjatiya Khel Mahotsav is a national sports event organized to promote and encourage the participation of tribal communities in sports.
• This event aims to recognize and nurture the sporting talent in tribal areas, providing a platform for athletes to showcase their skills.
• The initiative is part of the government's efforts to promote sports among marginalized communities and ensure their inclusion in the national sports ecosystem.
• The event includes various sports competitions, workshops, and cultural programs to celebrate the heritage and talent of tribal communities.
• Sports Infrastructure in Odisha
• Odisha has been making significant strides in developing sports infrastructure, including the construction of world-class facilities and training centers.
• The state has hosted several national and international sports events, showcasing its capability to support large-scale sports competitions.
• Odisha's government has been proactive in providing financial support and incentives to athletes, ensuring they have the resources needed to excel.
• The focus on sports development has helped Odisha produce top athletes who compete at national and international levels.

The correct answer is Samiti.

Key Points

• The Varna system is a social stratification system found in the Vedic period in ancient India.
• The four main Varnas are Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
• Brahmanas were priests and teachers, Kshatriyas were warriors and rulers, Vaishyas were traders, and Shudras were laborers.
• Samiti, however, was not a Varna; it was an assembly of people in the Vedic period used for administrative and deliberative purposes.

Additional Information

• Varna System
• The Varna system is an ancient social hierarchy found in Vedic India, dividing society into four main classes: Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
• Brahmanas were considered the highest Varna, responsible for religious rituals, teaching, and maintaining sacred knowledge.
• Kshatriyas were the warrior class and rulers, responsible for protecting and governing the land.
• Vaishyas were the merchant and artisan class, responsible for trade, agriculture, and commerce.
• Shudras were the laborers and service providers, meant to serve the other three Varnas.
• Samiti
• Samiti was not a Varna but an important assembly in the Vedic period.
• It was a gathering of people, often involved in decision-making, administrative matters, and the governance of the community.
• The Samiti worked alongside the Sabha, another assembly, to discuss and deliberate on important issues.
• The role of the Samiti was significant in the participatory governance system of Vedic society.

The correct answer is Geeta Phogat.

Key Points

• Geeta Phogat is the first Indian woman wrestler to qualify for the Olympic Games.
• She represented India at the 2012 London Olympics in the women's freestyle 55 kg category.
• Geeta Phogat is also a gold medalist at the Commonwealth Games, winning in 2010.
• She hails from a family of wrestlers, with her sisters Babita and Vinesh Phogat also being notable wrestlers.

Additional Information

• Olympic Games
• The Olympic Games are a major international multi-sport event held every four years.
• They are divided into Summer and Winter Olympic Games, with each occurring every four years but two years apart.
• The modern Olympic Games were inspired by the ancient Olympic Games held in Olympia, Greece, from the 8^th century BC to the 4^th century AD.
• The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is the governing body of the Olympic Movement, with the Olympic Charter defining its structure and authority.
• Commonwealth Games
• The Commonwealth Games is an international multi-sport event involving athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations.
• The event was first held in 1930 and, with the exception of 1942 and 1946 (cancelled due to World War II), has taken place every four years since then.
• The games are overseen by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), which ensures the event is held in a manner consistent with its principles of equality and inclusivity.
• The Commonwealth Games include a range of sports and are known for their spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie among the member countries.
• Freestyle Wrestling
• Freestyle wrestling is a style of amateur wrestling that is practiced worldwide.
• In freestyle wrestling, athletes can use their legs in both offense and defense and are allowed to hold their opponents above or below the waist.
• It is one of the two styles of wrestling contested in the Olympic Games, the other being Greco-Roman wrestling.
• Freestyle wrestling emphasizes both the physical and technical aspects of the sport, making it a dynamic and challenging discipline.
• Phogat Family
• The Phogat family from Haryana, India, is renowned for their achievements in wrestling.
• Mahavir Singh Phogat, the patriarch of the family, is a former wrestler and coach who trained his daughters in the sport.
• Geeta, Babita, Ritu, and Vinesh Phogat have all achieved significant success in wrestling, making the family a symbol of perseverance and excellence.
• Their story was popularized in the 2016 Bollywood film "Dangal," which portrayed Mahavir Phogat's efforts to train his daughters to become world-class wrestlers.

The correct answer is Fucoxanthin.

Key Points

• Fucoxanthin is a marine carotenoid found in brown algae such as wakame and hijiki.
• It is responsible for giving brown seaweed its characteristic color.
• Fucoxanthin has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its effects on metabolism and weight management.
• It also possesses antioxidant properties, which help in protecting cells from damage.

Additional Information

• Carotenoids:
• Carotenoids are pigments found in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. They play a critical role in plant health by absorbing light energy for use in photosynthesis.
• They are divided into two classes: xanthophylls (which contain oxygen) and carotenes (which are purely hydrocarbons and contain no oxygen).
• Carotenoids are important for human health as they have antioxidant properties and can be converted into vitamin A in the body.
• Astaxanthin:
• Astaxanthin is another marine carotenoid, primarily found in microalgae, shrimp, and salmon. It is known for its strong antioxidant properties.
• It is often used as a dietary supplement for its potential health benefits, including eye and skin health, and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Neoxanthin:
• Neoxanthin is a type of xanthophyll found in green leafy vegetables and plays a role in the light-harvesting complex of photosynthesis.
• It has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties.
• β-cryptoxanthin:
• β-cryptoxanthin is a carotenoid found in fruits such as oranges, papayas, and tangerines.
• It is a provitamin A carotenoid, meaning it can be converted into vitamin A in the body.
• It has been associated with various health benefits, including bone health and reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.

The correct answer is To prohibit strikes, lockouts and layoffs in units engaged in essential defence services.

Key Points

• The Essential Defence Services Bill, 2021 was introduced to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential services concerning the nation's defence and security.
• The Bill aims to prohibit strikes, lockouts, and layoffs in units engaged in essential defence services to maintain operational efficiency and readiness.
• This legislation empowers the government to declare any service in the defence sector as an essential defence service if its stoppage would affect the nation’s security, defence preparedness, or the functioning of the armed forces.
• Violations of the provisions of this Bill can lead to penalties, including imprisonment and fines, to ensure strict compliance and maintain discipline within these critical sectors.

Additional Information

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Defence Services:
• The Indian government allows up to 74% FDI in the defence sector through automatic route and beyond 74% through the government route wherever it is likely to result in access to modern technology or for other reasons to be recorded.
• FDI in the defence sector is aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and reducing dependency on imports.
• Women in Defence Services:
• India has been progressively increasing the induction of women in various branches of the defence forces.
• Women are now allowed in combat roles, and the government has also taken steps to ensure permanent commission for women officers.
• One Rank One Pension (OROP):
• OROP is a long-standing demand of the Indian armed forces for uniform pension to be paid to military personnel retiring in the same rank with the same length of service, irrespective of their date of retirement.
• The scheme aims to bridge the gap between the pensions of current and past pensioners at periodic intervals.