General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2021.

Key Points

• The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2021, was introduced to modify the list of Scheduled Castes in Tamil Nadu.
• This amendment bill aims to include certain communities in the list of Scheduled Castes in Tamil Nadu, thereby enabling them to avail benefits and protections guaranteed under the Constitution.
• The bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on February 8, 2021, by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Such amendments are periodically made to address the demands and needs of various communities to ensure equitable development and social justice.

Additional Information

• Scheduled Castes
• Scheduled Castes (SCs) are specific groups of people who are historically disadvantaged and have been subjected to untouchability and social exclusion.
• The Constitution of India provides various safeguards to protect and promote the socio-economic interests of SCs, including reservation in education and employment.
• The President of India, in consultation with the Governor of a state, issues orders specifying the SCs in that state.
• From time to time, amendments are made to the list of SCs to include or exclude communities based on social, educational, and economic criteria.
• Constitution Amendment Bills
• Constitution Amendment Bills are proposed changes to the Constitution of India.
• Such bills can be introduced in either house of Parliament and require a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting for passage.
• Amendments to the Constitution address various issues, including the rights of marginalized communities, electoral reforms, and changes in the structure of government.
• The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill is one such amendment aimed at updating the list of SCs.
• Rajya Sabha
• Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house of India's Parliament.
• Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies, and by the members of the Electoral college for Union Territories, using a single transferable vote system.
• The Rajya Sabha has a maximum membership of 250 members, of which 12 are nominated by the President of India.
• The Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in the legislative process, including the passage of amendment bills.

The correct answer is Tax and duty concessions.

Key Points

• Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are designated areas in countries that possess special economic regulations that differ from other areas in the same country.
• One of the primary benefits offered to businesses in SEZs is tax and duty concessions, which include exemptions or reductions in various taxes and duties such as income tax, sales tax, and customs duties.
• These concessions are designed to attract both foreign and domestic investments, foster job creation, and enhance the economic development of the region.
• Businesses operating in SEZs often enjoy simplified customs procedures, which reduce the time and cost of importing and exporting goods.

Additional Information

• Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
• SEZs are geographically designated areas within a country that are subject to unique economic regulations that are more liberal than the country's typical economic laws.
• These zones are created to encourage rapid economic growth by leveraging tax incentives, reduced regulations, and other measures to attract foreign investment and boost exports.
• SEZs often focus on specific industries, such as technology, manufacturing, or finance, to develop expertise and competitiveness in those areas.
• The goal of SEZs is to generate employment, increase trade balance, and facilitate the transfer of technology and knowledge.
• Tax and Duty Concessions
• These are financial incentives provided to businesses in the form of reduced tax rates, tax holidays, or exemptions from certain duties or tariffs.
• Such concessions can significantly lower the operating costs for businesses, making it more financially viable to set up operations in SEZs.
• Tax concessions often include exemptions from income tax, sales tax, property tax, and customs duties on imported raw materials and machinery.
• Duty concessions can help businesses by reducing or eliminating import and export duties, making it cheaper to bring in necessary materials and export finished products.
• Foreign Investment
• SEZs are designed to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) by offering a more favorable business environment compared to the rest of the country.
• FDI brings in capital, technology, and management know-how, which can contribute to the economic development of the region.
• SEZs often have more relaxed regulations on foreign ownership, allowing foreign investors to own a larger percentage of local businesses.
• Encouraging foreign investment in SEZs can also lead to the creation of joint ventures and partnerships between local and foreign companies.

The correct answer is India, Bangladesh.

Key Points

• India and Bangladesh will co-host the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2031.
• This will be the first time Bangladesh will co-host the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.
• India has previously hosted the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 1987, 1996, and 2011.
• The tournament is expected to bring significant economic and cultural benefits to both countries.

Additional Information

• ICC Men's Cricket World Cup
• The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup is the international championship of One Day International (ODI) cricket.
• The event is organized by the sport's governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC), every four years.
• The first tournament was held in England in 1975.
• The format involves a qualification phase, which determines the teams that will participate in the tournament phase.
• The World Cup is one of the world's most viewed sporting events and is considered the "flagship event of the international cricket calendar" by the ICC.
• Co-hosting a Major Sporting Event
• Co-hosting involves two or more countries sharing the responsibilities and benefits of hosting a major sporting event.
• This can help to reduce costs, increase participation and viewership, and promote cultural exchange between the host countries.
• Co-hosting can also enhance infrastructure and tourism in the host countries.
• Economic and Cultural Benefits
• Hosting major sporting events can boost the economy by attracting tourists, creating jobs, and increasing spending on infrastructure.
• It can also promote cultural exchange and national pride, and provide a global platform to showcase the host countries.
• Successful hosting can enhance the international reputation of the host countries.

The correct answer is Magh Bihu.

Key Points

• Magh Bihu is one of the major festivals celebrated in Assam, marking the end of the harvest season in the region.
• It is celebrated in the Assamese month of Magh (January-February), hence the name Magh Bihu.
• During Magh Bihu, people build traditional huts called Meji and Bhelaghar with bamboo, leaves, and thatch, which are later set on fire.
• The festival is also known for its feasts called Uruka, where families and communities come together to prepare and enjoy various traditional dishes.

Additional Information

• Pedda Padunga
• This festival is celebrated in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, coinciding with the harvest festival of Makar Sankranti.
• It involves traditional rituals, feasting, and kite flying.
• Thai Pongal
• Thai Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to the Sun God.
• The festival spans four days, with each day having its own significance and rituals.
• Pongal
• Pongal is another name for Thai Pongal, celebrated in Tamil Nadu.
• The festival is marked by boiling the first rice of the season, which is offered to the Sun God.
• Makar Sankranti
• Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India under different names such as Magh Bihu in Assam, Pedda Padunga in Andhra Pradesh, and Thai Pongal in Tamil Nadu.
• The festival marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) and is associated with harvest and new beginnings.

The correct answer is Bicycle Kick.

Key Points

• The bicycle kick, also known as an overhead kick, is a popular move in football where a player kicks the ball in mid-air while making a backward somersault motion.
• This move is often used to shoot on goal or clear the ball from the defensive area.
• It requires exceptional athleticism, timing, and coordination to execute successfully.
• The bicycle kick is a spectacular move that is often celebrated by fans and players alike due to its difficulty and potential for dramatic goals.

Additional Information

• Third Man
• The term "Third Man" is associated with cricket and refers to a fielding position located near the boundary, behind the wicket-keeper on the off-side.
• Overs
• "Overs" is another term related to cricket, which refers to a set of six consecutive legal deliveries bowled by a single bowler.
• LBW
• "LBW" stands for "Leg Before Wicket," a rule in cricket used to determine if a batsman is out when the ball strikes any part of the body before hitting the bat, and it would have hit the stumps.

The correct answer is Fundamental rights are derived from the Britain Constitution..

Key Points

• Fundamental Rights are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution, from Article 12 to 35.
• These rights are essential for the overall development of individuals and the preservation of human dignity.
• Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the Right to Life and Personal Liberty.
• Fundamental Rights are justiciable, meaning they can be enforced through the courts of law in India.

Additional Information

• Fundamental Rights
• Fundamental Rights are the basic human rights guaranteed to all individuals by the Constitution of India. These rights are crucial for the protection and development of individuals.
• They are meant to promote the ideal of political democracy and prevent the arbitrary use of power by the state.
• Some of the key Fundamental Rights include the Right to Equality (Articles 14-18), Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22), Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24), Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28), Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30), and the Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32).
• These rights are enforceable by the courts, and individuals can approach the judiciary to seek protection and enforcement of their Fundamental Rights.
• Enforcement of Fundamental Rights
• Fundamental Rights are justiciable, meaning individuals can approach the courts to enforce these rights if they are violated.
• The Supreme Court and High Courts have the power to issue writs for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights.
• Writs such as habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari are used to enforce these rights.
• Right to Life (Article 21)
• Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the Right to Life and Personal Liberty.
• This article ensures that no person shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty except according to the procedure established by law.
• The Right to Life under Article 21 has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to include various rights such as the right to live with human dignity, right to livelihood, right to health, right to education, and more.

The correct answer is Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana.

Key Points

• Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) is a scheme launched by the government of India to provide loans up to ₹10 Lakh to non-corporate, non-farm small/micro enterprises.
• These loans are classified as MUDRA loans under PMMY and are given by commercial banks, RRBs, small finance banks, MFIs, and NBFCs.
• The scheme was launched on 8 April 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• MUDRA stands for Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Limited, which provides funding support to the micro-enterprise sector.

Additional Information

• National Strategy for Financial Inclusion
• It is a strategy prepared by the Reserve Bank of India to provide access to formal financial services in an affordable manner.
• The strategy aims at promoting financial education, financial literacy, and consumer protection.
• It includes various stakeholders like banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), micro-finance institutions (MFIs), and insurance companies.
• It emphasizes the need for a robust digital financial ecosystem to achieve universal financial access.
• Stand Up India scheme
• It was launched on 5 April 2016 by the Government of India.
• The scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes and women by providing loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore.
• It ensures that each bank branch provides at least one loan to SC/ST and one to women borrowers.
• Stand Up India scheme provides handholding support and guidance to borrowers during the loan tenure.
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
• Launched on 28 August 2014, it aims to provide universal access to banking facilities with at least one basic banking account for every household.
• The scheme promotes financial inclusion by ensuring access to financial services such as bank savings and deposit accounts, remittance, credit, insurance, and pension.
• It allows direct benefit transfer (DBT) to accounts opened under PMJDY, ensuring transparency and reducing leakages.
• The scheme also provides an overdraft facility of up to ₹10,000 to account holders.

The correct answer is Doljatra.

Key Points

• Doljatra, also known as Dol Purnima or Dol Yatra, is a major festival celebrated by the Vaishnavites of Assam.
• It is observed on the full moon day in the month of Phalguna (February-March).
• Doljatra marks the arrival of spring and is a festival of colors, similar to Holi.
• During this festival, people worship Lord Krishna and celebrate his divine play (Leela) with Radha and the Gopis.

Additional Information

• Bihu
• Bihu is the most important festival of Assam, celebrated thrice a year as Rongali Bihu, Kongali Bihu, and Bhogali Bihu.
• It is primarily an agricultural festival associated with the changing seasons.
• Rongali Bihu is celebrated in April to mark the Assamese New Year and the onset of spring.
• Kongali Bihu is observed in October and is a solemn occasion with less merrymaking.
• Bhogali Bihu, celebrated in January, marks the end of the harvest season and is characterized by feasts and bonfires.
• Ambuchi Mela
• Ambuchi Mela is a significant festival held at the Kamakhya Temple in Assam.
• It is celebrated during the monsoon season in June and marks the annual menstruation of the goddess Kamakhya.
• Devotees from all over the country visit the temple to seek blessings during this time.
• The temple remains closed for three days, and on the fourth day, the doors are opened with great festivities.
• Rongker
• Rongker is a traditional festival of the Karbi tribe in Assam.
• It is celebrated to appease local deities and ensure a bountiful harvest.
• The festival involves elaborate rituals, prayers, and sacrifices to seek the blessings of the gods.
• Rongker is usually observed in the month of April or May.

The correct answer is December and January.

Key Points

• December and January are the peak winter months in North India.
• During these months, temperatures can drop significantly, often reaching sub-zero levels in hilly areas.
• These months typically experience the lowest average temperatures compared to other months.
• Cold waves and frost are common during December and January, making it the coldest period in the region.

Additional Information

• Winter Season in North India
• The winter season in North India typically starts in late November and lasts until February.
• December and January are considered the coldest months due to the high pressure areas that develop over the region, leading to cold waves.
• Temperature variations are significant, with some plains experiencing night temperatures close to freezing, while day temperatures remain relatively moderate.
• Snowfall is common in the Himalayan regions, attracting tourists to hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Gulmarg.
• Climate Influences
• The climate of North India is influenced by the Himalayas and the Thar Desert. The Himalayas act as a barrier to the cold winds from Central Asia, while the Thar Desert brings dry and cold air.
• Western disturbances, which are weather phenomena originating from the Mediterranean region, also bring cold air and precipitation to North India during the winter months.
• Impact on Daily Life
• The cold weather affects daily life, especially for those who do not have adequate heating facilities. It can lead to health issues such as hypothermia and respiratory problems.
• Agricultural activities are also impacted as frost can damage crops, leading to economic losses for farmers.

The correct answer is M. Balamuralikrishna.

Key Points

• M. Balamuralikrishna was an Indian Carnatic vocalist, musician, multi-instrumentalist, playback singer, composer, and character actor.
• He was known for his deep knowledge of both the theoretical and practical aspects of Carnatic music.
• He invented new ragas as well as talas, including the ones mentioned: Trimukhi, Panchamukhi, Saptamukhi, and Navamukhi.
• His contributions to Carnatic music earned him several prestigious awards, including the Padma Vibhushan and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.

Additional Information

• Carnatic Music
• Carnatic music is a system of music commonly associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, with its foundations in ancient Hindu traditions.
• It is one of the two main subgenres of Indian classical music that evolved from ancient Hindu traditions, the other subgenre being Hindustani music.
• The main emphasis in Carnatic music is on vocal music; most compositions are written to be sung, and even when played on instruments, they are meant to be performed in a singing style (known as gayaki).
• Tala
• Tala, literally meaning "clap," is the term used in Indian classical music to refer to musical meter, that is, any rhythmic beat or strike that measures musical time.
• It is a series of beats that are cyclically repeated.
• Talas can have different numbers of beats, and the cycle of beats is divided into sections called "angas," which can be of varying lengths.
• Instruments Played by M. Balamuralikrishna
• Besides being a renowned vocalist, M. Balamuralikrishna was proficient in playing the violin, viola, mridangam, and kanjira.
• His multifaceted talent in playing various instruments added to his versatility and depth as a musician.

The correct answer is 1927.

Key Points

• The temple entry movement was started by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar in the year 1927.
• This movement was aimed at allowing untouchables or Dalits to enter Hindu temples.
• Dr. Ambedkar led several Dalits to enter the Kalaram Temple in Nashik, Maharashtra, which was significant for its religious importance.
• The movement was part of a broader effort by Dr. Ambedkar to fight against the caste system and for the rights of Dalits.

Additional Information

• Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, politician, and social reformer who inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement and campaigned against social discrimination towards the untouchables (Dalits).
• He was the principal architect of the Constitution of India and served as the first Law and Justice Minister of independent India.
• Ambedkar’s efforts to eradicate social evils like untouchability and caste restrictions were profound and were recognized by the nation, which posthumously awarded him the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.
• Temple Entry Movement
• The Temple Entry Movement was part of the broader Dalit movement in India aimed at securing equal rights for untouchables.
• It was a social movement aimed at ensuring that Dalits had the right to enter temples and participate in religious activities, which were traditionally denied to them due to caste-based discrimination.
• The movement was significant in highlighting the issues faced by Dalits and in pushing for social reforms.
• Kalaram Temple Satyagraha
• The Kalaram Temple Satyagraha was a landmark protest led by Dr. Ambedkar in 1930, where he and his followers attempted to enter the Kalaram Temple in Nashik.
• The protest was aimed at challenging the traditional prohibitions that barred Dalits from entering temples.
• Though the attempt faced significant resistance, it marked a crucial step in the fight against caste-based discrimination and temple entry restrictions.
• Impact of the Movement
• The Temple Entry Movement significantly contributed to the social reforms in India, paving the way for the eventual abolition of untouchability.
• It also helped in raising awareness about the plight of Dalits and inspired future generations to continue the fight for equality and justice.
• The movement laid the groundwork for legal and social changes, including the enactment of laws that prohibited untouchability and discrimination.

The correct answer is Kelucharan Mohapatra.

Key Points

• Kelucharan Mohapatra was an iconic Indian classical dancer, known for his contributions to the Odissi dance form.
• He was the first dancer from Odisha to be conferred with the Padma Vibhushan Award in 2000, which is the second-highest civilian award in India.
• Kelucharan Mohapatra played a pivotal role in popularizing Odissi dance both in India and internationally.
• His dedication and contributions to the field of dance have earned him numerous accolades and recognition, making him a revered figure in Indian classical dance.

Additional Information

• Padma Awards
• The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honors in India, instituted in 1954. They are awarded in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
• Padma Vibhushan: It is the second-highest civilian award in India, given for exceptional and distinguished service.
• Padma Bhushan: It is the third-highest civilian award in India, given for distinguished service of a high order.
• Padma Shri: It is the fourth-highest civilian award in India, given for distinguished service in any field.
• Odissi Dance
• Odissi is one of the eight classical dance forms of India, originating from the state of Odisha.
• It is known for its fluid movements, intricate gestures, and expressive facial expressions, often depicting mythological stories and devotional themes.
• Odissi dance has a rich history, dating back to ancient times and is closely associated with the temples of Odisha.
• Kelucharan Mohapatra is renowned for reviving and popularizing this ancient dance form, making significant contributions to its development and preservation.

The correct answer is Chess.

Key Points

• Sankalp Gupta is a renowned chess player from India.
• He achieved the title of International Master (IM) in chess.
• Gupta has participated in several national and international chess tournaments, showcasing his strategic skills.
• He is known for his analytical prowess and has contributed to the growth of chess in India.

Additional Information

• Chess Terminologies and Titles:
• International Master (IM): This is a high-level title awarded by the World Chess Federation (FIDE). It is one step below the Grandmaster (GM) title.
• Grandmaster (GM): The highest title awarded in chess, signifying a player of exceptional skill and achievement.
• FIDE: Fédération Internationale des Échecs or International Chess Federation, the governing body of international chess competition.
• Chess Rating: A system used by FIDE to estimate the strength of players, based on their performance in tournaments.
• History of Chess in India:
• Chess, known as "Chaturanga" in ancient India, has deep roots in Indian history.
• India has produced several notable chess players including Viswanathan Anand, the former World Chess Champion.
• The All India Chess Federation (AICF) governs the sport in India, promoting and organizing chess activities across the nation.
• Chess Strategies:
• Opening: The initial phase of the game where players develop their pieces and control the center of the board.
• Middle Game: The phase where players engage in tactical maneuvers and strategic planning.
• Endgame: The final phase where the number of pieces is reduced, and players aim to checkmate the opponent’s king.
• Importance of Chess:
• Chess improves cognitive skills such as memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• It enhances concentration and patience among players.
• Playing chess promotes strategic and analytical thinking, beneficial for various aspects of life.

The correct answer is Bankipore.

Key Points

• The 1912 session of the Indian National Congress was held in Bankipore, Bihar.
• Bankipore is a locality in the city of Patna, the capital of Bihar.
• This session was significant as it continued the momentum set by the Swadeshi Movement.
• It witnessed participation from various prominent leaders of the time, continuing the fight for Indian self-governance.

Additional Information

• Indian National Congress (INC)
• The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885 and became the principal leader of the Indian independence movement.
• The INC played a pivotal role in the shaping of Indian politics and the fight against British colonial rule.
• Many prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, and others were associated with the INC.
• Swadeshi Movement
• The Swadeshi Movement was part of the Indian independence movement and aimed at removing British rule.
• It involved the promotion of local goods and the boycott of British products.
• The movement started in 1905, during the partition of Bengal, and continued to influence Indian politics.
• Patna
• Patna is the capital and largest city of the state of Bihar in India.
• It has a rich historical heritage and has been a center for learning and politics for many centuries.
• Patna was known as Pataliputra in ancient times, the capital of the Magadh Empire.

The correct answer is Padma Shri.

Key Points

• Tulsidas Borkar was a renowned harmonium player known for his contributions to Indian classical music.
• He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2016 for his exceptional contribution to the field of arts.
• The Padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award in India, given for distinguished service in various disciplines.
• His mastery and innovative techniques in harmonium playing earned him this prestigious recognition.

Additional Information

• Padma Awards
• The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honors of India announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
• Instituted in 1954, the awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
• The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of high order; and the Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field.
• The awards seek to recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service is involved.
• Harmonium
• The harmonium is a free-reed organ that generates sound as air flows past a vibrating piece of thin metal in a frame.
• It is widely used in Indian classical music and is a significant instrument in the genres of Khayal, Thumri, and Bhajan.
• The instrument has keys like a piano and is played by hand, with air being pumped through bellows operated by hand or foot.
• Harmonium players like Tulsidas Borkar have greatly contributed to its popularity and development in Indian music.
• Indian Classical Music
• Indian classical music is a genre of South Asian music, rooted in ancient traditions and scriptures.
• It has two major traditions: the North Indian Hindustani classical music and the South Indian Carnatic music.
• Classical music in India is characterized by its complex rhythms, intricate melodies, and a wide range of instruments including the sitar, tabla, and harmonium.
• It is known for its improvisational nature and its deep spiritual and cultural significance.

The correct answer is Southern Ocean.

Key Points

• The Southern Ocean, also known as the Antarctic Ocean, comprises the southernmost waters of the World Ocean, generally taken to be south of 60° S latitude and encircling Antarctica.
• It is the fourth largest ocean and is recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) as the fifth ocean in 2000.
• This ocean is unique because it is defined by a current, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which flows from west to east around Antarctica.
• The Southern Ocean plays a critical role in Earth's climate and ocean systems, influencing global weather patterns and serving as a major sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Additional Information

• Atlantic Ocean:
• The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's oceans, covering approximately 20% of Earth's surface.
• It separates the Americas from Europe and Africa.
• It is known for its role in trade, exploration, and the exchange of cultures and goods between continents.
• Indian Ocean:
• The Indian Ocean is the third-largest of the world's oceanic divisions, covering 19.8% of Earth's water surface.
• It is bounded by Asia to the north, Africa to the west, and Australia to the east.
• This ocean is key to the monsoon weather patterns in the region and is rich in marine life and resources.
• Pacific Ocean:
• The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest of the world's oceans, covering more than 63 million square miles.
• It extends from the Arctic Ocean in the north to the Southern Ocean in the south and is bounded by Asia and Australia in the west and the Americas in the east.
• The Pacific is known for its Ring of Fire, a large area where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur.
• Southern Ocean:
• The Southern Ocean is the newest named ocean and is recognized for its unique boundary defined by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.
• It is crucial in regulating Earth's climate due to its role in oceanic circulation and its capacity to absorb carbon dioxide.
• The Southern Ocean is home to a diverse range of marine life, including species adapted to its cold waters, such as the Antarctic krill, which is a fundamental food source for many larger animals.

The correct answer is Article 148.

Key Points

• Article 148 of the Indian Constitution deals with the appointment, duties, and powers of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).
• The CAG is responsible for auditing the accounts of the Union and State governments and public sector organizations, ensuring accountability and transparency.
• The CAG is appointed by the President of India and can only be removed from office in a manner similar to the removal of a Supreme Court judge.
• The CAG submits audit reports to the President or the Governor, who then places them before the Parliament or the State Legislature.

Additional Information

• Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG)
• The CAG is the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts Department and acts as the guardian of the public purse.
• The office of the CAG is a constitutional body established under Article 148 of the Constitution of India.
• 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 ensures that the financial administration of the country is carried out in accordance with the Constitution and the laws made by the Parliament and State Legislatures.
• Article 154
• Article 154 of the Indian Constitution vests the executive power of the State in the Governor.
• It states that the executive power shall be exercised by the Governor either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with the Constitution.
• Article 156
• Article 156 of the Indian Constitution deals with the term of office of the Governor.
• It states that the Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President and for a term of five years.
• Article 136
• Article 136 of the Indian Constitution grants special leave to appeal by the Supreme Court.
• It gives the Supreme Court the discretionary power to grant special leave to appeal against any judgment, decree, determination, sentence, or order passed by any court or tribunal in the territory of India.

The correct answer is Harshada Sharad Garud.

Key Points

• Harshada Sharad Garud became the first Indian to win a gold medal at the Junior World Weightlifting Championship in May 2022.
• She achieved this historic feat in the women's 45 kg category.
• Harshada lifted a total of 153 kg (70 kg in snatch and 83 kg in clean and jerk).
• This accomplishment has made her a significant figure in Indian weightlifting, inspiring many young athletes.

Additional Information

• Weightlifting is a sport in which athletes attempt to lift heavy weights mounted on steel bars called barbells. The two main events in weightlifting are the snatch and the clean and jerk.
• Snatch: The lift in which the weight is lifted from the ground to overhead in one continuous motion.
• Clean and Jerk: The lift in which the weight is first lifted to the shoulders (clean) and then from the shoulders to overhead (jerk).
• Junior World Weightlifting Championship: An annual event organized by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) where junior athletes (under 20 years of age) from around the world compete.
• India has a growing history in weightlifting, with several athletes achieving international success, bringing recognition and honor to the country.

The correct answer is Zahiruddin Muhammad.

Key Points

• Zahiruddin Muhammad Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India.
• He was born on 14 February 1483 in Andijan, in present-day Uzbekistan.
• Babur was a descendant of Timur on his father's side and Genghis Khan on his mother's side, giving him a prestigious lineage.
• He established the Mughal Empire in 1526 after his victory in the First Battle of Panipat.

Additional Information

• Babur
• Babur was a conqueror from Central Asia who, following a series of setbacks, finally succeeded in laying the basis for the Mughal dynasty in the Indian subcontinent and became the first Mughal emperor.
• He was known for his military ability, leadership, and cultural contributions.
• His memoirs, known as the Baburnama, provide a detailed account of his life and the political conditions of his time.
• Mughal Dynasty
• The Mughal Empire was an early-modern empire in South Asia. For some two centuries, the empire stretched from the outer fringes of the Indus basin, northern Afghanistan, and Kashmir in the northwest to the highlands of present-day Assam and Bangladesh in the east, and to the uplands of the Deccan plateau in south India.
• The Mughal Empire brought about a significant change in the culture, economy, and architecture of the Indian subcontinent.
• It is particularly noted for its contributions to art and architecture, such as the Taj Mahal.
• First Battle of Panipat
• The First Battle of Panipat was fought on 21 April 1526, between the invading forces of Babur and the Lodi Empire.
• This battle marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India.
• Babur's use of artillery and innovative tactics were pivotal in his victory.

The correct answer is 0.87.

Key Points

• In India, roads are the most preferred mode of transportation for passengers, carrying a significant portion of passenger traffic.
• Approximately 87% of passenger traffic in India is carried by roads, highlighting the dominance of road transport in the country.
• Roads provide door-to-door service, which is a major advantage over other modes of transport.
• The extensive network of roads in India, including national highways, state highways, and rural roads, facilitates connectivity and accessibility across various regions.

Additional Information

• Passenger Traffic
• Passenger traffic refers to the movement of people from one place to another, typically measured in terms of the number of passengers or passenger-kilometers.
• It is a crucial indicator of the demand for transportation services in a country.
• Modes of Transport
• There are various modes of transport, including road, rail, air, and water transport.
• Each mode has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, speed, accessibility, and convenience.
• Road Transport
• Road transport involves the movement of passengers and goods using vehicles such as cars, buses, trucks, and motorcycles.
• It is the most flexible mode of transport, providing last-mile connectivity and door-to-door service.
• India has an extensive network of roads, including national highways, state highways, district roads, and rural roads.
• Road transport plays a vital role in the economic development of a country by facilitating trade, commerce, and tourism.
• National Highways
• National highways are the primary roadways in India, connecting major cities, ports, and industrial hubs.
• They are managed and maintained by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).