General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is Fencing.

Key Points

• C. A. Bhavani Devi is India’s first-ever fencer to qualify for the Olympics.
• She represented India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in the women's individual sabre category.
• Bhavani Devi made history by winning her first match against Tunisia’s Nadia Ben Azizi in the Tokyo Olympics, marking a significant milestone for Indian fencing.
• She has won several medals at international fencing competitions, including the Commonwealth Championship and Asian Championships.
• She was awarded the Arjuna Award in 2022 for her remarkable achievements in fencing.

Additional Information

• Shooting
• Shooting is a precision-based sport involving firearms like rifles, pistols, and shotguns.
• India has produced world-class shooters, including Abhinav Bindra, who won India’s first individual Olympic gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
• The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) governs the sport in India.
• Events like 10m air rifle, 10m air pistol, and trap shooting are popular categories in international shooting championships.
• Badminton
• Badminton is a racquet sport played using a shuttlecock across a net.
• India has excelled in badminton at the international level, with stars like P. V. Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, and Kidambi Srikanth winning medals in Olympics and World Championships.
• The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is the governing body for the sport.
• It is one of the most popular sports in India, with several domestic and international tournaments held annually.
• Gymnastics
• Gymnastics is a sport involving physical exercises that require strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.
• India's Dipa Karmakar made history in gymnastics by becoming the first Indian female gymnast to qualify for the Olympics in 2016.
• Artistic, rhythmic, and trampoline gymnastics are the primary categories in international competitions.
• The sport is governed globally by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG).

The correct answer is Manan Kumar Mishra.

Key Points

• Manan Kumar Mishra is a senior advocate and has served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India (BCI) multiple times, including his tenure as of 31^st May 2025.
• He has played a pivotal role in framing and implementing reforms in the legal education system in India.
• The Bar Council of India, under his leadership, has taken strong measures to regulate and ensure the quality of legal education and the ethical standards of legal practitioners.
• Manan Kumar Mishra has been actively involved in resolving issues related to the legal profession, such as advocating for better welfare measures for lawyers.
• He has also been vocal about strengthening the independence of the judiciary and the legal profession in India.

Additional Information

• Ashok Arora
• Ashok Arora is a senior advocate and former Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).
• He is known for his legal acumen and contributions to discussions on judicial reforms in India.
• However, he has not held the position of Chairman of the Bar Council of India.
• Vikas Singh
• Vikas Singh is a prominent senior advocate and has served as the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).
• He is well-known for his leadership in addressing issues faced by members of the legal profession.
• He has not served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India.
• Dushyant Dave
• Dushyant Dave is a senior advocate and a former President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).
• He is recognized for his expertise in constitutional and commercial law and his strong stance on judicial independence.
• He has not held the position of Chairman of the Bar Council of India.
• The Bar Council of India (BCI)
• The Bar Council of India is a statutory body established under the Advocates Act, 1961.
• It regulates legal education and the profession of law in India.
• The BCI prescribes standards for legal education, organizes All India Bar Examinations (AIBE), and ensures ethical conduct among lawyers.
• The Chairman of the BCI is elected from among its members, who are representatives of State Bar Councils.

The correct answer is New Shop.

Key Points

• The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) launched EmpowHER Biz - Sapno Ki Udaan in partnership with New Shop to enhance entrepreneurial opportunities for women in India.
• This initiative aims to foster women's participation in the entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and training.
• New Shop is a retail and convenience store chain that supports small businesses and promotes women entrepreneurs in the retail and franchising sectors.
• As part of this partnership, WEP and New Shop will focus on building a network of women entrepreneurs through localized business opportunities and franchise models.
• This program aligns with the Government of India’s vision to empower women economically and socially, ensuring their contribution to the nation's progress.

Additional Information

• TATA Trusts
• TATA Trusts is one of India’s oldest philanthropic organizations, working in areas such as education, healthcare, rural livelihoods, and women's empowerment.
• It often supports initiatives targeting social welfare and inclusive growth but is not associated with the EmpowHER Biz program.
• Azad Foundation
• Azad Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on empowering resource-poor women through livelihoods training, such as becoming professional chauffeurs.
• While it works on women’s empowerment, it is not linked with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform or the EmpowHER Biz program.
• JIO World
• JIO World is a part of Reliance Industries Limited and focuses on creating multi-use infrastructure spaces, such as convention centers and cultural hubs.
• It does not contribute directly to entrepreneurship programs like WEP’s EmpowHER Biz initiative.
• About Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)
• Launched by NITI Aayog, WEP serves as a unified access portal for women entrepreneurs in India.
• It brings together stakeholders to provide services such as funding, mentorship, and market linkages to aspiring and existing women entrepreneurs.
• The platform focuses on creating an enabling ecosystem for women to succeed in diverse fields of entrepreneurship.

The correct answer is To create and manage an integrated geospatial infrastructure for governance and development.

Key Points

• The National Geospatial Mission aims to establish an integrated geospatial infrastructure to support governance and development activities across India.
• It focuses on ensuring geospatial data availability, accessibility, and usability for various stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and academia.
• The mission is designed to align with the vision of Digital India, promoting the use of geospatial technologies for decision-making and planning.
• It emphasizes the creation of a unified geospatial ecosystem by utilizing advanced technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and satellite imagery.
• The mission also promotes innovation and entrepreneurship in the geospatial domain, fostering the growth of India’s geospatial industry.

Additional Information

• Option 2: To promote satellite launch services for private companies
• India has been actively promoting its satellite launch capabilities through organizations like ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation).
• The IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center) was established to encourage private sector participation in space activities, including satellite launches.
• However, this is not the primary focus of the National Geospatial Mission, as its objective is related to geospatial data and infrastructure, not satellite launch services.
• Option 3: To provide free GPS services to rural areas
• GPS (Global Positioning System) services are already accessible to the public across India, including rural areas, through smartphones and other devices.
• While geospatial technologies can enhance rural development, providing free GPS services is not the specific aim of the National Geospatial Mission.
• Option 4: To monitor climate change patterns through satellite data
• Satellite data is indeed critical for monitoring climate change patterns, and India has several missions like INSAT, RISAT, and Cartosat dedicated to such objectives.
• However, the National Geospatial Mission focuses broadly on geospatial infrastructure for governance and development, not exclusively on climate change monitoring.

The correct answer is Global Findex 2025.

Key Points

• The Global Findex is a comprehensive database measuring how adults worldwide save, borrow, make payments, and manage risk.
• The 2025 edition of the Global Findex is expected to highlight the increase in account ownership in India to 89% since 2011.
• India’s financial inclusion initiatives, such as PMJDY (Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana), have significantly contributed to this milestone by providing banking access to millions of unbanked citizens.
• The Global Findex is published by the World Bank every three years and provides insights into global trends in financial inclusion and the use of financial services.
• The report is based on surveys covering over 140 economies and serves as a critical resource for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders aiming to enhance financial inclusion.

Additional Information

• Fiscal Health Index 2025
• The Fiscal Health Index is used to measure a government’s financial health, including fiscal deficit, debt sustainability, and revenue generation.
• It is not directly related to financial inclusion or account ownership data.
• This index is more relevant for analyzing macroeconomic stability and fiscal management of economies rather than individual-level financial service usage.
• Gross Financial Index 2025
• The term “Gross Financial Index” does not refer to a globally recognized or widely used financial measurement tool.
• It appears to be a hypothetical or less commonly known term, and no credible sources attribute it to financial inclusion or account ownership tracking.
• National Strategy for Financial Education
• The National Strategy for Financial Education is an initiative by countries like India to promote financial literacy and education among citizens.
• In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched the National Strategy for Financial Education (NSFE) to improve financial awareness and literacy.
• While it plays a critical role in encouraging financial inclusion, it is not an index or report measuring account ownership statistics.
• Main Theme: Financial Inclusion in India
• India has made remarkable progress in financial inclusion, driven by initiatives like the PMJDY, digital payment systems, and Aadhaar-linked banking.
• Global Findex reports have consistently highlighted India’s achievements in expanding access to financial services over the years.
• Such data is instrumental in shaping policies aimed at fostering inclusive growth and reducing poverty through financial empowerment.

The correct answer is Cheetah.

Key Points

• Project Cheetah is the world's first inter-continental large wild carnivore translocation project, initiated in India.
• The project aims to reintroduce African cheetahs into India, where the species became extinct in 1952 due to habitat loss and overhunting.
• In September 2022, eight African cheetahs were brought to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh from Namibia under this ambitious conservation program.
• The project is part of India's broader wildlife restoration efforts and is executed in collaboration with international organizations and governments, including Namibia and South Africa.
• The goal is to establish a viable and secure population of cheetahs in India and restore their ecological role as top predators in the grassland and open forest ecosystems.

Additional Information

• Lion
• Lions are found in India primarily in the Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat, and are classified as Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica).
• India has undertaken significant conservation efforts under the "Project Lion," focusing on habitat development, reducing human-lion conflict, and increasing their population.
• Unlike cheetahs, lions are not part of any inter-continental translocation project.
• Crocodile
• Crocodiles are large aquatic reptiles that inhabit rivers, wetlands, and coastal regions.
• In India, species like the mugger crocodile, saltwater crocodile, and gharial are found.
• India has conservation programs like the Gharial Conservation Project to protect the critically endangered gharial population.
• These efforts focus on breeding and reintroduction within their native ranges rather than inter-continental relocation.
• Panther
• The term "panther" often refers to melanistic leopards or jaguars, which are found in various parts of the world, including India.
• Leopards are widely distributed across India and are not subject to inter-continental translocation projects.
• Conservation efforts for leopards in India focus on mitigating human-wildlife conflict, habitat conservation, and anti-poaching measures.
• Main Theme: Project Cheetah
• This project is a significant step in wildlife conservation and biodiversity restoration.
• It also aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting grassland ecosystems, which are often overlooked in conservation efforts.
• The initiative highlights India's commitment to global biodiversity goals under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

The correct answer is Manu Joseph.

Key Points

• Manu Joseph is the author of the critically acclaimed novel "The Illicit Happiness of Other People", which was published in 2012.
• The book is set in Chennai, India, during the 1990s and is a blend of dark comedy, philosophy, and psychological drama.
• It explores themes of family dynamics, mental health, and existential questions through the life of the protagonist, Ousep Chacko, and his family.
• Manu Joseph is an Indian journalist and novelist, known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary in both fiction and non-fiction.
• His other notable works include "Serious Men" and "Miss Laila, Armed and Dangerous", which have also received critical acclaim.

Additional Information

• Janice Pariat:
• Janice Pariat is an Indian author and poet known for her debut book "Boats on Land", which won the Sahitya Akademi Young Writer Award and the Crossword Book Award for Fiction.
• Her other works include "Seahorse" and "Everything the Light Touches".
• Janice's writing often explores themes of memory, culture, and the natural world, with a poetic and lyrical narrative style.
• Madhuri Vijay:
• Madhuri Vijay is an Indian author known for her debut novel "The Far Field", which won the JCB Prize for Literature in 2019.
• The book is set in Kashmir and deals with complex themes such as personal loss, political turmoil, and the search for identity.
• Madhuri's writing is praised for its vivid descriptions and nuanced exploration of human relationships.
• Neel Mukherjee:
• Neel Mukherjee is an Indian author recognized for his novels such as "The Lives of Others" and "A State of Freedom".
• "The Lives of Others" was shortlisted for the 2014 Man Booker Prize and explores the socio-economic and political changes in Bengal through the lens of a family saga.
• His works often deal with themes of societal inequality, migration, and the human condition.
• Theme of the Question:
• "The Illicit Happiness of Other People" delves into philosophical and existential themes, reflecting on human desires, morality, and the pursuit of happiness.
• The book combines elements of dark humor and tragedy, making it a unique and thought-provoking read.

The correct answer is Maharashtra.

Key Points

• Abhanga Vanis are devotional folk songs sung in praise of Lord Vitthal, a deity worshipped in Maharashtra, especially in Pandharpur.
• The term "Abhanga" translates to "unbroken" and signifies the unbroken devotion expressed through these songs.
• Abhanga Vanis were composed by saints like Sant Tukaram, Sant Namdev, and other Bhakti movement leaders in Maharashtra.
• These songs are a significant part of the Warkari sect, which is a spiritual movement dedicated to Lord Vitthal.
• The Abhanga tradition is deeply rooted in the Marathi language, reflecting the rich cultural and religious heritage of the state.

Additional Information

• Manipur
• Manipur is known for its rich cultural heritage and folk music, including the Raslila, which is associated with Lord Krishna.
• Folk songs in Manipur often depict themes of nature, love, and spirituality and are accompanied by traditional instruments like the Pena.
• West Bengal
• Folk music of West Bengal includes Baul songs, which emphasize mysticism and spirituality.
• Baul singers use simple, heart-touching lyrics and melodies to express their devotion to God and humanity.
• Other popular folk traditions include Bhatiyali, Kirtan, and Chhau dance songs.
• Tamil Nadu
• Tamil Nadu is famous for its traditional Carnatic music and folk genres such as Villupattu, a narrative style of singing.
• Folk songs in Tamil Nadu often reflect themes of heroism, devotion, and everyday rural life.
• The state’s musical heritage is heavily influenced by temple culture and Tamil literature.
• Main Theme
• The question pertains to the cultural heritage of Indian states, with a focus on folk music traditions.
• Folk music across India varies significantly depending on regional languages, traditions, and religious practices.
• These musical forms are often used as a means of storytelling, expressing devotion, and preserving cultural identity.

The correct answer is Uttarakhand.

Key Points

• Joda Dance is a traditional folk dance performed in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
• This dance is predominantly celebrated during the full moon night around Holi, symbolizing cultural and seasonal festivities.
• The dance is an expression of joy and unity among the local communities, emphasizing the cultural richness of Uttarakhand.
• It is performed in groups with synchronized movements and rhythmic patterns, accompanied by folk music.
• Joda Dance is often considered a way of celebrating the arrival of spring and fostering community bonding.

Additional Information

• Option 1: Goa
• Goa is known for its vibrant dance forms such as Dekhni, Fugdi, and Corridinho.
• Dekhni represents a blend of western and Indian cultural influences, often performed at festive occasions.
• Fugdi is a traditional Goan folk dance performed by women in a circular or line formation during religious festivals.
• Corridinho, a Portuguese-inspired dance form, reflects Goa's colonial heritage.
• Option 3: Andhra Pradesh
• Andhra Pradesh has a rich tradition of dance forms like Kuchipudi, one of the eight classical dance forms of India.
• Kuchipudi combines dance, music, and acting, often depicting stories from Hindu mythology.
• Other folk dances of Andhra Pradesh include Veeranatyam, Burra Katha, and Lambadi.
• These dances are performed during religious and social occasions, reflecting the state's cultural diversity.
• Option 4: Karnataka
• Karnataka is famous for its classical dance form Bharatanatyam, which originated in Tamil Nadu but is widely practiced in Karnataka.
• Yakshagana, a traditional theater form combining dance, music, and storytelling, is prominent in coastal Karnataka.
• Other folk dances include Kunitha and Dollu Kunitha, showcasing rhythmic drum performances.
• These dances often narrate mythological tales and celebrate local festivals.
• Main Theme: Indian Folk Dances
• India is home to a variety of folk dances, which are deeply rooted in cultural traditions and local customs.
• These dances are usually performed during festivals, social gatherings, or seasonal celebrations.
• Each region has its unique dance styles, often accompanied by traditional music and colorful costumes.
• Folk dances play a vital role in preserving India's heritage and fostering community spirit.

The correct answer is Geo-stationary.

Key Points

• A geo-stationary orbit is a circular orbit located approximately 35,786 km (22,236 miles) above the equator.
• In this orbit, the satellite moves at the same rotational speed as Earth, making it appear stationary relative to an observer on Earth.
• This type of orbit is ideal for communication satellites, weather observation, and broadcasting purposes.
• Geo-stationary satellites have an inclination of 0 degrees, meaning they orbit in the Earth's equatorial plane.
• Examples of geo-stationary satellites include INSAT series satellites and weather monitoring systems like GOES.

Additional Information

• Polar Orbit:
• In a polar orbit, the satellite passes over the Earth's poles on each revolution.
• These orbits are typically used for Earth observation and remote sensing as they provide global coverage.
• Satellites in polar orbits have an inclination close to 90 degrees.
• An example of a polar orbit satellite is the NOAA series used for weather forecasting.
• Elliptical Orbit:
• Elliptical orbits are non-circular orbits where the satellite's distance from Earth varies throughout its revolution.
• These orbits are used for specific applications such as communication in high-latitude regions (e.g., Molniya orbits).
• The satellite spends more time near the apogee (farthest point from Earth), allowing extended coverage over a particular region.
• Sun-Synchronous Orbit:
• Sun-synchronous orbits are designed so that the satellite passes over the same part of the Earth at the same local solar time.
• This orbit ensures consistent lighting conditions, making it ideal for imaging and mapping purposes.
• These orbits are commonly used by Earth observation satellites like Landsat and Sentinel.

The correct answer is Buoyancy.

Key Points

• Buoyancy refers to the upward force exerted by a fluid on an object submerged in it. It is not a factor affecting the rate of evaporation since evaporation is a surface phenomenon and does not involve the displacement of fluids.
• Evaporation is primarily influenced by factors such as surface area, humidity, wind speed, and temperature, while buoyancy is associated with fluid mechanics and does not play a role in this process.
• In the context of evaporation, the movement or displacement of the liquid due to buoyancy is irrelevant as evaporation occurs at the liquid's surface.
• The rate of evaporation is determined by external environmental conditions, and buoyancy does not alter these factors.

Additional Information

• Surface Area:
• The rate of evaporation increases with an increase in the surface area. More molecules are exposed to the air, allowing a higher number of them to escape into the vapor phase.
• For example, water in a wide, shallow pan evaporates faster than in a narrow, deep container.
• Wind Speed:
• Higher wind speed increases evaporation by removing the saturated layer of air above the liquid's surface, making room for more molecules to escape.
• Wind acts as a dispersing agent, ensuring a lower concentration of water vapor near the surface of the liquid.
• Humidity:
• Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor in the air. High humidity decreases the rate of evaporation as the air is already saturated with water vapor.
• Conversely, low humidity accelerates evaporation since the air can accommodate more vapor molecules.
• General Concept:
• Evaporation is the process by which molecules at the surface of a liquid gain enough energy to transition into the gaseous state.
• Factors such as temperature, surface area, wind speed, and humidity directly influence the rate of evaporation, while buoyancy is unrelated to this phenomenon.

The correct answer is Energy stored in an object due to its position above the ground.

Key Points

• Gravitational potential energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its position in a gravitational field.
• It depends on the height (h) of the object above the reference point, its mass (m), and the gravitational acceleration (g).
• The formula for gravitational potential energy is U = mgh, where:
• U = Gravitational potential energy,
• m = Mass of the object (in kilograms),
• g = Acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s² on Earth),
• h = Height of the object above the ground (in meters).
• Gravitational potential energy is a type of mechanical energy, specifically stored energy, which can be converted into kinetic energy when the object falls.
• This concept is crucial in understanding energy conservation in physics, as it explains how energy is stored and transferred in various systems.

Additional Information

• Option 1: Energy possessed by an object due to its motion
• This refers to kinetic energy, not gravitational potential energy.
• Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its velocity and is given by the formula K.E. = 0.5 × m × v², where v is the velocity of the object.
• Unlike potential energy, kinetic energy depends on motion rather than position.
• Option 3: Energy that is released during a chemical reaction
• This refers to chemical energy, not gravitational potential energy.
• Chemical energy is stored in the bonds of chemical compounds and is released during chemical reactions, such as combustion or photosynthesis.
• It plays a key role in processes like metabolism in living organisms and the operation of batteries.
• Option 4: Energy transferred through heat
• This describes thermal energy or heat energy, which is unrelated to gravitational potential energy.
• Thermal energy results from the movement of particles within a substance and is transferred through processes like conduction, convection, or radiation.
• It is a form of energy associated with temperature changes and not the position of an object in a gravitational field.
• Gravitational potential energy in context:
• It is a fundamental concept in physics and engineering, helping explain phenomena like free fall, energy conservation, and the functioning of systems like pendulums and roller coasters.
• Practical applications include hydroelectric power generation, where water stored at a height possesses gravitational potential energy that is converted into electricity as it falls.

The correct answer is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.

Key Points

• India's first airport-based self-powered indoor air quality monitoring facility, named 'Pavana Chitra', was unveiled at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in October 2024.
• The facility operates using renewable energy sources, reflecting the airport's commitment to environmental sustainability.
• 'Pavana Chitra' monitors indoor air quality parameters such as PM2.5, PM10, carbon dioxide, and other pollutants, ensuring a healthy environment for passengers and staff.
• This innovative project aligns with India's broader environmental goals and efforts to enhance passenger experience at airports.
• Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is among India's prominent airports, known for its advanced technology and eco-friendly initiatives.

Additional Information

• Chennai International Airport:
• Chennai International Airport is one of India's busiest airports, serving as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
• The airport has undertaken several modernization projects, including the installation of advanced baggage handling systems and terminal upgrades.
• It has implemented eco-friendly measures such as solar power usage, water recycling, and energy-efficient lighting systems.
• Bengaluru International Airport:
• Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is India's first airport to use a 100% renewable energy source for its operations.
• The airport is known for its sustainability initiatives, such as rainwater harvesting and waste management systems.
• It has received accolades for its passenger-centric services and innovative technologies, including AI-driven baggage management.
• Jaipur International Airport:
• Jaipur International Airport is a key gateway to Rajasthan, offering connectivity to major cities in India and abroad.
• The airport has implemented energy-efficient lighting and solar power systems to reduce its carbon footprint.
• Although it has sustainable practices, it has not yet introduced indoor air quality monitoring facilities like 'Pavana Chitra.'
• Theme of the Question:
• The question emphasizes the importance of indoor air quality monitoring in public spaces, especially airports, to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
• Airports are increasingly adopting renewable energy-based systems and technologies to meet environmental standards and reduce operational costs.
• Such initiatives contribute to India's commitment to sustainability and reducing the impact of climate change.

The correct answer is Northeast Frontier Railway.

Key Points

• Northeast Frontier Railway became India's first railway zone to switch to compostable bioplastic on trains in August 2025, setting an example in sustainable practices.
• The initiative aimed to reduce single-use plastic waste by introducing eco-friendly alternatives for packaging and disposable items used on trains.
• The bioplastics used are 100% compostable, ensuring they break down naturally and do not harm the environment.
• This move is aligned with the Indian government’s policy on plastic waste management and its push toward sustainable development goals.
• The Northeast Frontier Railway operates in environmentally sensitive areas, including the foothills of the Himalayas, making this initiative vital for regional ecological conservation.

Additional Information

• Northern Railway:
• Northern Railway is one of the largest zones in Indian Railways, headquartered in New Delhi.
• It is known for operating major train routes like Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express.
• It has been actively working on implementing green initiatives like solar energy integration at railway stations.
• Southern Railway:
• Southern Railway is headquartered in Chennai and covers Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
• This zone is recognized for pioneering efforts in electrification and sustainable energy practices.
• It has introduced innovative passenger amenities and environmental campaigns but has not yet switched to bioplastics on trains.
• Western Railway:
• Headquartered in Mumbai, Western Railway is known for operating suburban railways in Mumbai and long-distance trains across western India.
• It has implemented waste segregation and water conservation measures at stations and trains.
• Although active in green initiatives, it has not been the first to adopt compostable bioplastic technology.
• Main Theme:
• The adoption of compostable bioplastics is part of broader efforts by Indian Railways to reduce plastic waste and achieve sustainability.
• Bioplastics are derived from renewable resources like corn starch and are designed to decompose naturally, unlike traditional plastics.
• This initiative aligns with India’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

The correct answer is Option 3 (Both I and II).

Key Points

• Farrukh Siyar: He was assassinated by the Sayyid Brothers (powerful Mughal nobles) in 1719 due to political conflicts and his inability to manage the empire effectively.
• Alamgir II: He was murdered in 1759 by his Vizier, Ghaziuddin Imad-ul-Mulk, who wanted to consolidate his own power in the Mughal court.
• Both Farrukh Siyar and Alamgir II were victims of assassination due to court intrigues and struggles for power among the nobles during the declining phase of the Mughal Empire.
• Such assassinations reflected the weakening central authority of the Mughal emperors and the rise of factionalism within the Mughal court.
• The murders were significant events marking the deterioration of the Mughal Empire and the increasing influence of regional leaders and nobles.

Additional Information

• Decline of Mughal Empire:
• The assassination of emperors like Farrukh Siyar and Alamgir II was a symptom of the broader decline of the Mughal Empire.
• The empire's decline was marked by weak leadership, court factionalism, and financial instability.
• The rise of regional powers like the Marathas, Sikhs, and the British further undermined the authority of the Mughal emperors.
• Farrukh Siyar:
• Reigned from 1713 to 1719.
• He was placed on the throne by the Sayyid Brothers, who later turned against him due to his attempts to curb their power.
• His assassination marked the beginning of the Sayyid Brothers’ dominance in Mughal politics.
• Alamgir II:
• Reigned from 1754 to 1759.
• His reign was heavily influenced by Ghaziuddin Imad-ul-Mulk, who eventually orchestrated his murder.
• His assassination paved the way for further instability and the rise of the British East India Company’s influence.
• Mughal Court Intrigues:
• During the later Mughal period, the court was plagued by constant intrigues among nobles and regional leaders.
• This period saw frequent assassinations, abdications, and puppet rulers controlled by powerful nobles.
• The weakening of imperial authority contributed to the fragmentation of the empire into smaller, semi-independent states.

The correct answer is demand curve.

Key Points

• The demand curve is a graphical representation of the relationship between the price of a good and the quantity of the good demanded by consumers.
• It is typically downward-sloping from left to right, which reflects the law of demand: as the price of a good decreases, the quantity demanded increases, and vice versa.
• The demand curve can shift due to factors such as changes in consumer income, tastes and preferences, prices of related goods, or population size.
• Each point on the demand curve represents a specific quantity demanded at a corresponding price.
• Demand curves are fundamental tools in microeconomics and are used to analyze consumer behavior and market equilibrium.

Additional Information

• Goods Curve:
• The term "goods curve" is not a standard concept in economics. It may be confused with the concept of indifference curves or production possibility curves.
• Indifference curves represent consumer preferences for two goods, showing combinations of goods that provide the same level of satisfaction.
• Production possibility curves represent the trade-off between the production of two different goods, given limited resources.
• Supply Curve:
• The supply curve is a graphical representation of the relationship between the price of a good and the quantity of the good that producers are willing to supply.
• It typically slopes upward from left to right, reflecting the law of supply: as the price of a good increases, the quantity supplied also increases, and vice versa.
• The supply curve can shift due to factors such as changes in production costs, technology, or government policies.
• Seller Curve:
• "Seller curve" is not a standard term in economics and is not used in the context of microeconomic analysis.
• It might be interpreted as referring to the supply curve, which represents the willingness of sellers to provide goods at different price levels.

The correct answer is 2020.

Key Points

• The National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) was launched in December 2019 and became operational in 2020.
• The initiative was unveiled by the Ministry of Finance to enhance infrastructure development and drive economic growth in India.
• NIP aims to invest Rs. 111 lakh crore in infrastructure projects by 2025, covering sectors like energy, roads, railways, irrigation, and digital infrastructure.
• It includes around 7,400 projects across the country that will be implemented over five years.
• The NIP serves as a critical component of India's efforts to achieve the $5 trillion economy goal by 2025.
• It ensures better project planning, financing, execution, and monitoring for sustainable infrastructure development.

Additional Information

• Option 1: 2003
• In 2003, India was focusing on liberalization and privatization under economic reforms initiated in the 1990s.
• While infrastructure development was emphasized, there was no specific initiative like the NIP launched during this year.
• Option 2: 2008
• 2008 was marked by the global financial crisis, which impacted infrastructure investments globally, including in India.
• India launched stimulus packages during this period to counter the economic slowdown, but the NIP was not introduced.
• Option 3: 2013
• In 2013, infrastructure projects gained attention under the Twelfth Five-Year Plan (2012-2017), focusing on energy, transportation, and urban development.
• However, the National Infrastructure Pipeline initiative was not launched during this year.
• National Infrastructure Pipeline (Main Theme)
• The NIP is a visionary project that consolidates infrastructure investments to boost economic efficiency and job creation.
• It focuses on public and private partnerships, enabling collaborative efforts to achieve large-scale development goals.
• This pipeline aligns with India's commitment to sustainable development and economic modernization$.

The correct answer is 2008.

Key Points

• Abhijit Sen was the chairman of the Committee on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), which submitted its report in 2008.
• The Committee was constituted to review the existing structure of the WPI and suggest improvements to make it more representative and reflective of the economic realities of the country.
• This report formed the basis for revisions in the WPI series, ensuring its alignment with modern economic and industrial developments.
• The new WPI series that followed the recommendations of the report used the base year 2004-05, replacing the earlier base year of 1993-94, to reflect updated market realities.
• The revised WPI series included new items and removed obsolete ones to better represent the changing consumption and production patterns in the economy.

Additional Information

• 2004:
• This was the base year for the revised WPI series introduced after the Abhijit Sen Committee's recommendations.
• It is significant because it reflected updated economic patterns and served as a benchmark for subsequent WPI calculations.
• However, the committee itself did not submit its report in 2004 but later in 2008.
• 2006:
• In this year, preliminary discussions and reviews regarding the WPI structure were ongoing.
• However, the formal submission of the Abhijit Sen Committee report did not occur in 2006.
• 2010:
• In 2010, the government introduced a new WPI series with the base year 2004-05, which incorporated the recommendations of the Abhijit Sen Committee submitted earlier in 2008.
• However, the committee itself had completed and submitted its work two years prior, in 2008.
• Wholesale Price Index (WPI):
• The WPI is a measure of the changes in the prices of goods at the wholesale level, reflecting inflation trends in the economy.
• It is widely used by policymakers, economists, and businesses to monitor price stability and evaluate inflationary pressures.
• The WPI includes three main components: primary articles, fuel & power, and manufactured products.
• It plays a key role in decision-making related to monetary policy and economic planning.

The correct answer is Criminal matters.

Key Points

• The Concurrent List in the Indian Constitution consists of subjects where both the Centre and State governments can make laws.
• Criminal matters are explicitly listed under the Concurrent List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• Entry 1 of the Concurrent List specifically includes "Criminal law" except the procedure for criminal trials, which is covered under a separate entry.
• The inclusion of criminal matters in the Concurrent List allows both the Union and State governments to address issues related to criminal laws for maintaining law and order.
• In case of any conflict between Union and State laws on Concurrent List subjects, the Union law prevails, as per Article 254 of the Indian Constitution.

Additional Information

• Police (Option 1):
• The subject of "Police" is included under the State List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution (Entry 2).
• States have exclusive legislative and administrative control over police forces within their jurisdiction.
• The maintenance of public order through policing is the responsibility of the respective state governments.
• Radio and television (Option 3):
• "Radio and television" fall under the Union List as part of Entry 31.
• The Union government has exclusive powers to legislate on matters related to broadcasting and communication technologies.
• The Prasar Bharati Act governs public broadcasting services like Doordarshan and All India Radio.
• Foreign affairs (Option 4):
• Foreign affairs are part of the Union List, specifically mentioned under Entry 10 and Entry 11.
• The Union government holds exclusive legislative and administrative powers over foreign relations, treaties, and agreements.
• This includes matters related to diplomatic missions and international organizations.
• Concurrent List Overview:
• The Concurrent List contains 52 subjects, including criminal law, marriage and divorce, bankruptcy, and education.
• Both the Union and State governments can legislate on these subjects, but Union laws take precedence in case of conflicts.
• This list is designed to allow cooperation and shared responsibility between the Centre and States.

The correct answer is Barani.

Key Points

• Barani is not recognized as a cropping season in India. It refers to rain-fed agriculture practiced in certain regions, but it is not considered a formal cropping season like Kharif, Rabi, or Zaid.
• India has three major cropping seasons: Kharif, Rabi, and Zaid, each defined by the specific climatic conditions and crop cycles.
• The term "Barani" is commonly used in parts of Pakistan and India to describe agricultural practices dependent solely on rainfall, especially in areas lacking irrigation facilities.
• Cropping seasons are classified based on the timing of sowing and harvesting, and "Barani" does not fit into this formal classification system.
• Rain-fed or "Barani" agriculture is practiced in regions where irrigation is not available, but it is not considered a cropping season in agricultural systems.

Additional Information

• Kharif Cropping Season:
• Kharif crops are sown at the beginning of the monsoon season, typically in June or July.
• Common examples include rice, maize, cotton, jowar, bajra, and sugarcane.
• The harvesting period is during September and October.
• Kharif crops rely heavily on monsoon rains for growth.
• Rabi Cropping Season:
• Rabi crops are sown after the monsoon season ends, typically in October or November.
• Popular crops include wheat, barley, mustard, peas, and gram.
• Harvesting occurs during April and May.
• These crops are usually grown in irrigated areas and require less water compared to Kharif crops.
• Zaid Cropping Season:
• Zaid crops are grown between the Rabi and Kharif seasons, primarily during the summer months (March to June).
• Examples include watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon, and fodder crops.
• These crops are short-duration crops cultivated using irrigation.
• Zaid crops play a critical role in meeting the food needs during the transition between the main cropping seasons.
• Rain-fed Agriculture (Barani):
• Barani refers to agriculture that depends solely on rainfall without any irrigation.
• It is commonly practiced in regions with low to moderate rainfall, especially in arid and semi-arid areas.
• Barani farming involves cultivating crops like millet, sorghum, and pulses that are drought-resistant.
• While significant for local agricultural practices, it is not considered a formal cropping season in India.