General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is Photosynthesis.

Key Points

• Carbon is the fundamental structural element of all known life, forming the essential backbone of complex molecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids.
• The incorporation of carbon into the biological world occurs primarily through Photosynthesis, a physiological process where inorganic carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere is 'fixed' into organic molecules.
• This biological transformation is driven by photoautotrophs, including terrestrial plants, algae, and cyanobacteria, which represent the base of the trophic pyramid.
• Within the chloroplasts of these organisms, the enzyme RuBisCO facilitates the binding of CO₂ to an organic sugar during the Calvin Cycle (light-independent reactions).
• The chemical energy required for this fixation is derived from ATP and NADPH, which are synthesized during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
• The chemical summary for this conversion is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + solar energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
• Once carbon is incorporated into glucose, it is used to build plant tissues, which are then consumed by heterotrophs, thereby moving carbon through the entire food chain.

 Additional Information

• Respiration:
• This is a catabolic process occurring in the mitochondria where organic molecules are oxidized to release energy.
• It results in the release of carbon dioxide as a byproduct, making it an output phase of the carbon cycle rather than an incorporation phase.
• Decomposition:
• Carried out by decomposers or saprotrophs like fungi and bacteria.
• This process breaks down the complex carbon compounds of dead matter, recycling nutrients and returning CO₂ to the atmosphere or soil.
• Fermentation:
• An anaerobic pathway used by organisms like yeast to extract energy from carbohydrates in the absence of oxygen.
• It involves the breakdown of sugar into ethanol or lactic acid and carbon dioxide, rather than the initial entry of carbon into life-forms.

The correct answer is Snake.

Key Points

• The Kalbelia dance is a world-renowned folk dance originating from the state of Rajasthan, India, specifically associated with the Kalbelia tribe.
• The dance is a creative celebration of the tribe's traditional occupation as snake charmers, where every movement is designed to mimic the graceful, slithering, and sinuous motions of a snake or cobra.
• The performers, primarily women, wear heavy black skirts (Lehenga) decorated with silver embroidery and mirrors that swirl rhythmically, resembling the shimmering scales of a serpent.
• The choreography involves flexible body movements, acrobatic bends, and swirling spins that intensify as the music's tempo increases, mirroring the agile nature of a reptile.
• In 2010, the Kalbelia folk songs and dances were inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural significance.

 Additional Information

• Musical Instruments:
• The most critical instrument is the Pungi (or Been), a wind instrument traditionally used to charm snakes, which provides the soul of the performance.
• Other accompanying instruments played by the men include the Dafli, Khanjari, Dholak, and Khuralio.
• Historical Background:
• The Kalbelia community is also known as Saperas or Jogis; they were traditionally nomadic and known for catching venomous snakes and trading their venom.
• Due to the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the tribe moved away from snake handling towards professional dance and music to preserve their cultural identity.
• Prominent Personalities:
• Gulabo Sapera is a legendary dancer who is credited with bringing the Kalbelia dance to the international stage and earning it global acclaim.

The correct answer is Ganga.

Key Points

• Mauni Amavasya is observed on the Amavasya (new moon day) of the Hindu month of Magha, which typically falls in January or February.
• It is considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, believed to be the day when the universe was created and the first day of the Krita Yuga.
• Taking a holy dip in the Ganga on this day is believed to cleanse a person of all sins and lead them toward Moksha (salvation).
• The primary ritual involves Mauna Vrata, a vow of silence, which devotees maintain throughout the day to focus on inner peace and spiritual discipline.
• The Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where the Ganga joins the Yamuna and the invisible Saraswati, is the most significant site for this ritual, especially during the Kumbh Mela or Magh Mela.
• Ancient scriptures suggest that on the day of Mauni Amavasya, the water of the Ganga turns into Amrit (divine nectar).

 Additional Information

• Significance of Other Options:
• Yamuna: While the Yamuna is a sacred river and part of the Triveni Sangam, the specific merit of the Magha ritual is traditionally centered around the Ganga.
• Godavari: Known as the Dakshin Ganga, it is the most sacred river of South India. It is central to the Pushkaram festivals but is not the primary focus of Mauni Amavasya traditions.
• Saraswati: A mythical river mentioned in the Rigveda, it is believed to flow underground and meet the other two rivers at Prayagraj, adding to the spiritual potency of the Sangam bath.
• Key Rituals:
• Devotees often perform Tarpan (offerings to ancestors) on the banks of the Ganga after the holy dip.
• Donating items like clothes, food, and Til (sesame seeds) to the needy is considered highly virtuous on this day.

The correct answer is Nagaland.

Key Points

• Nagaland, situated in the far northeastern part of India, is widely recognized as the Land of Festivals, where music and dance are central to the cultural identity of its 16 major tribes.
• The Zeliang folk songs belong to the Zeliang tribe, which is a combined entity of the Zeme and Liangmai Naga communities primarily residing in the Peren district of Nagaland. These songs often accompany the vibrant Zeliang dance, characterized by rhythmic movements mimicking birds and animals.
• Li is a specific category of traditional folk songs practiced by the Chakhesang Naga tribe. These songs are vital to their oral tradition, serving as a medium to pass down historical narratives, agricultural cycles, and romantic folklore across generations.
• The folk music of Nagaland is predominantly vocal-centric and is frequently performed during major agricultural festivals like the Hornbill Festival (celebrated in December) and the Sekrenyi festival.
• Musical instruments such as the Bamhum, Maku-Li, and various types of log drums are used to provide rhythmic accompaniment to these traditional melodies, reflecting the state's deep connection with indigenous craftsmanship and nature.

 Additional Information

• Sikkim:
• This state is famous for folk songs like Tamang Selo, which is performed to the beats of a circular drum called the Damphu.
• Another significant form is the Ghantu, which is a traditional dance-drama performed by the Gurung community.
• Arunachal Pradesh:
• Home to diverse tribes like the Nyishi and Adi, the state features folk songs such as Ja-Jin-Ja, which is usually performed during weddings and social gatherings.
• The Bari folk song is another traditional form used to narrate the history of the creation of the world.
• Assam:
• The most iconic musical form is Bihu Geet, sung during the three Bihu festivals (Rongali, Kongali, and Bhogali) to celebrate the harvest and seasons.
• Assam is also known for Borgeet, a collection of devotional songs composed by the 15^th-16^th century saint-scholar Srimanta Sankardev and his disciple Madhavdev.

The correct answer is Distance light travels in one year.

Key Points

• A light-year is a unit of astronomical distance used to express the vast spans between celestial objects in space.
• It is defined as the total distance that light travels in a vacuum in one Julian year, which consists of 365.25 days.
• Since light travels at a constant speed of approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (roughly 3 × 10⁸ m/s), a light-year equals about 9.46 trillion kilometers (9.46 × 10¹² km).
• In the field of astronomy, this unit is preferred over terrestrial units like kilometers because distances to stars and galaxies are so immense that using smaller units would result in unwieldy numbers.

 Additional Information

• Related Astronomical Units:
• Astronomical Unit (AU): This represents the average distance between the Earth and the Sun, approximately 150 million kilometers.
• Parsec (pc): Short for parallax second, it is equal to approximately 3.26 light-years and is used by astronomers to measure even larger distances based on trigonometric parallax.
• Light-second/Light-minute: These are smaller subdivisions; for instance, the Sun is about 8.3 light-minutes away from Earth.
• Common Misconceptions:
• Despite containing the word year, a light-year is strictly a measure of distance and not time.
• The time taken for light to reach us from distant stars means we are seeing those objects as they appeared in the past.

The correct answer is Radio telescope.

Key Points

• A radio telescope is a specialized astronomical instrument designed to detect and collect radio waves from space, which have much longer wavelengths than visible light.
• The core component is typically a large parabolic antenna (dish) that acts as a collector, reflecting incoming radio signals to a central receiver or feed horn.
• These telescopes are essential for observing celestial objects that emit little to no visible light, such as pulsars, quasars, and cold interstellar gas clouds.
• Because radio waves can penetrate thick clouds of cosmic dust and the Earth's atmosphere with ease, these telescopes can operate effectively during the day and in overcast conditions.
• The development of radio astronomy allowed for the discovery of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) radiation, providing crucial evidence for the Big Bang theory.
• Due to the long wavelength of radio signals, these telescopes must be physically much larger than optical telescopes to achieve high angular resolution.

 Additional Information

• Optical Telescope:
• Designed to gather and focus electromagnetic radiation specifically from the visible light portion of the spectrum (approx. 400 to 700 nanometers).
• It includes two main sub-types: refracting and reflecting telescopes, used primarily for observing stars, planets, and nebulae.
• Refracting Telescope:
• Uses a converging objective lens to bend (refract) and focus light.
• Often suffers from chromatic aberration, where different wavelengths of light focus at slightly different spots, creating a color blur.
• Reflecting Telescope:
• Uses a curved primary mirror to reflect light to a focal point.
• Invented by Sir Isaac Newton, this design is the standard for modern professional astronomy because mirrors can be supported from the back, allowing for much larger apertures than lenses.

The correct answer is Two innings, each lasting 50 overs.

Key Points

• A standard One Day International (ODI) is a form of limited-overs cricket played between two teams, where each team is allotted a single innings to bat and bowl.
• The duration of a full match consists of two innings in total, with each innings strictly limited to a maximum of 50 overs (unless a team is bowled out earlier).
• Each over consists of 6 legal deliveries, meaning each side faces up to 300 balls to set or chase a target score.
• The match is designed to be completed within a single day, typically requiring a total playing time of approximately 7 to 8 hours, excluding weather interruptions.
• A mandatory innings break is provided between the two innings, which usually lasts for 45 minutes, allowing players to rest and the pitch to be maintained.
• The team scoring the most runs at the end of their respective 50 overs (or upon bowling out the opposition) is declared the winner.

 Additional Information

• Historical Evolution:
• The first-ever ODI was played on January 5, 1971, between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
• Initially, World Cup matches (1975, 1979, and 1983) were played as 60 overs per side. The format was reduced to 50 overs starting from the 1987 World Cup held in the Indian subcontinent.
• Format Comparison:
• T20 Internationals: This format consists of two innings of 20 overs each, lasting roughly 3 hours in total.
• Test Cricket: The longest format, involving up to four innings (two per team) played over a maximum of five days without a fixed over limit per innings.
• Fielding Restrictions:
• ODIs utilize Powerplays to regulate field placements. Powerplay 1 (Overs 1-10) allows only 2 fielders outside the 30-yard circle, while Powerplay 2 (Overs 11-40) allows 4, and Powerplay 3 (Overs 41-50) allows 5 fielders outside the circle.

The correct answer is India.

Key Points

• The 4^th BRICS Summit was hosted by India on March 29, 2012, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.
• This summit was historically significant as it was the first time India hosted the group of five major emerging national economies, including Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa.
• The official theme for the 2012 summit was 'BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Security and Prosperity', reflecting the group’s commitment to collective economic development.
• A major outcome of the summit was the proposal to establish the New Development Bank (NDB), which was intended to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging markets.
• The summit concluded with the Delhi Declaration, which urged for a more representative international financial system and called for the urgent implementation of the 2010 International Monetary Fund (IMF) quota and governance reforms.
• The meeting was attended by prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (India), President Dilma Rousseff (Brazil), President Dmitry Medvedev (Russia), President Hu Jintao (China), and President Jacob Zuma (South Africa).

 Additional Information

• Brazil:
• Brazil hosted the 2^nd BRICS Summit in April 2010 in Brasília and later hosted the 6^th Summit in Fortaleza in 2014, where the agreement for the New Development Bank was signed.
• China:
• China hosted the 3^rd BRICS Summit in April 2011 in Sanya, which marked the inaugural summit for South Africa as a full member of the group.
• South Africa:
• After joining the group in December 2010, the nation hosted its first summit, the 5^th BRICS Summit, in March 2013 in Durban under the theme of 'BRICS and Africa'.
• BRICS Evolution:
• The term BRIC was originally coined by Jim O'Neill of Goldman Sachs in 2001; the first formal summit was held in June 2009 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

The correct answer is Groundwater recharge.

Key Points

• Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable technique for the collection and storage of rainwater from surfaces such as roofs and ground for later use, preventing it from being lost as surface runoff.
• The primary objective is groundwater recharge, a process where collected rainwater is directed into the ground to replenish subsurface aquifers and raise the water table.
• The process employs structures like recharge pits, percolation tanks, dug wells, and recharge shafts to facilitate the downward movement of water into the geological layers.
• It is particularly critical in urbanized areas where the construction of roads and buildings creates impermeable surfaces, blocking natural percolation and leading to the depletion of underground water reserves.
• Effective harvesting reduces the extraction-to-recharge ratio, helping to stabilize ecosystems and ensure water security in regions prone to over-exploitation of borewells.

 Additional Information

• Environmental Benefits:
• Soil Conservation: By capturing runoff at the source, harvesting reduces the velocity and volume of water flowing over land, which effectively prevents soil erosion and the washing away of topsoil nutrients.
• Water Quality Improvement: As rainwater filters through the soil, it acts as a natural purification method and helps in diluting the concentration of fluoride, nitrates, and salinity in existing groundwater.
• Clarification of Incorrect Concepts:
• Reducing Air Pollution: While the supported greenery may filter some air, the technique itself is a hydrological management tool and does not directly mitigate atmospheric pollutants.
• Global Warming: Rainwater harvesting is an adaptation strategy for climate change; it does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions or the global warming effect.
• Global and National Context:
• Harvesting aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and is supported by initiatives like the Atal Bhujal Yojana and the Jal Shakti Abhiyan in India to promote water conservation.

The correct answer is Bhim Singh Bhavesh.

Key Points

• Bhim Singh Bhavesh, a prominent social activist from Bihar, has been conferred with the Padma Shri award in 2025 for his distinguished service in the field of Social Work.
• He is widely recognized for his tireless efforts spanning over three decades toward the empowerment and holistic development of the Musahar community, which is one of the most socio-economically marginalized groups in eastern India.
• His work primarily centers on improving educational access for Musahar children, eradicating social stigmas, and ensuring the delivery of government welfare schemes to the grassroots level.
• Through his advocacy, he has played a pivotal role in promoting land rights and vocational training, helping thousands of families transition from extreme poverty toward sustainable livelihoods.
• The recognition highlights the Government of India's focus on honoring unsung heroes who work for the upliftment of the Mahadalit and underprivileged sections of society.

 Additional Information

• Musahar Community:
• The term Musahar is derived from 'mus' (rat) and 'ahar' (seeker/eater), reflecting their traditional occupation.
• They are predominantly found in Bihar, Jharkhand, and the Terai regions of Nepal, and are classified under the Scheduled Castes category.
• Historically, they have faced severe social exclusion, with literacy rates significantly lower than the national average.
• Padma Awards 2025:
• The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian honor in India, announced annually on the eve of Republic Day (January 26).
• The 2025 list featured a diverse group of individuals recognized for their contributions in Science and Engineering, Medicine, Literature, and Public Affairs.
• The selection process is managed by the Padma Awards Committee, which is constituted by the Prime Minister every year.

The correct answer is Harikrishnan A Ra.

Key Points

• Harikrishnan A Ra, a talented chess prodigy from Tamil Nadu, officially became India's 87^th Grandmaster in January 2025.
• The title was conferred by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) after he secured his third and final Grandmaster norm during the Monte-Carlo Open held in Monaco.
• To achieve this elite status, Harikrishnan crossed the required live Elo rating of 2500, a mandatory technical benchmark for all aspiring Grandmasters worldwide.
• His journey to the title involved consistent performances against high-rated international opponents, meeting the FIDE criteria of playing at least 27 games across specific norm-granting tournaments.
• With this achievement, he continues the legacy of Tamil Nadu as a powerhouse of Indian chess, a state that has produced more than half of the country's Grandmasters, including the first one, Viswanathan Anand.

 Additional Information

• Grandmaster (GM) Title Requirements:
• Norms: A player must achieve three GM norms in tournaments that meet FIDE standards regarding the number of participants, their titles, and their diverse nationalities.
• Rating: A minimum FIDE rating of 2500 must be reached at some point during the player's career to finalize the title application.
• Comparison with Options:
• D. Gukesh (Dommaraju Gukesh) became India's 59^th Grandmaster in 2019 at the age of 12, making him one of the youngest in history. He is widely recognized for winning the Candidates Tournament 2024.
• The name Parag Jain does not correspond to a recognized Indian Grandmaster in the current top-tier rankings as of the 2024-2025 period.
• Indian Chess Milestones:
• India's chess revolution began in 1988 with Viswanathan Anand. The pace of title acquisition has increased significantly, with the jump from 50 to 87 GMs occurring in less than a decade due to better coaching and AI-driven training tools.
• The All India Chess Federation (AICF) plays a pivotal role in organizing the National Championships and facilitating international exposures for rising stars like Harikrishnan.

The correct answer is One-horned Rhinoceros.

Key Points

• Kaziranga National Park is located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, situated on the edge of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.
• The park is globally famous for hosting the world's largest population of the Great Indian One-horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), which accounts for approximately two-thirds of their global numbers.
• It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 due to its unique natural environment and the presence of rare wildlife species that thrive in its grasslands and wetlands.
• According to the 2022 census, the population of rhinoceroses in the park was estimated at 2,613 individuals, reflecting successful conservation efforts over the decades.
• The park comprises vast expanses of tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests, providing the ideal habitat for these megaherbivores.

 Additional Information

• Asiatic Lion:
• This species is found exclusively in the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, India.
• It is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and is distinct from African lions by the skin fold along its belly.
• Bengal Tiger:
• Kaziranga was designated as a Tiger Reserve in 2006 due to its high density of tigers.
• While present in Kaziranga, they are primarily the flagship species of reserves like the Sundarbans and Jim Corbett National Park.
• Elephant:
• The Asian Elephant is one of the 'Big Five' of Kaziranga, and the park is a key part of the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Elephant Reserve.
• They are frequently sighted in the riverine floodplains of the Brahmaputra River.

The correct answer is Bhakra Dam.

Key Points

• The Bhakra Dam is a concrete gravity dam located on the Sutlej River in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh.
• It is the primary component of the Bhakra-Nangal Project, which is a joint venture of the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan designed for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.
• The dam creates a massive reservoir called the Gobind Sagar Lake, named after the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, which has a storage capacity of about 9.34 billion cubic meters.
• Standing at a height of approximately 226 meters (741 feet), it is one of the highest gravity dams in the world and was the highest in Asia at the time of its completion.
• The project was officially dedicated to the nation in 1963 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who famously described such large-scale engineering works as the Temples of Modern India.

 Additional Information

• Nagarjuna Sagar Dam:
• Located on the Krishna River, it straddles the border between the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh and the Nalgonda district of Telangana.
• It is recognized as the world’s largest masonry dam, featuring 26 crest gates.
• Hirakud Dam:
• Built across the Mahanadi River in Sambalpur, Odisha.
• It holds the distinction of being the longest earthen dam in the world, with a total length of 25.8 kilometers.
• Tehri Dam:
• Constructed on the Bhagirathi River in the state of Uttarakhand.
• It is the highest dam in India and one of the highest in the world, reaching a height of 260.5 meters.

Therefore, the correct option is 1.

The correct answer is They attract each other.

Key Points

• According to Ampere's Circuital Law, a current-carrying conductor generates a magnetic field around it. For a long straight wire, the magnetic field lines form concentric circles centered on the wire, as determined by the Right-Hand Thumb Rule.
• When two long parallel wires carry currents I1 and I2 in the same direction, the magnetic field produced by the first wire at the position of the second wire is perpendicular to the length of the second wire.
• The second wire, being a current-carrying conductor in an external magnetic field, experiences a Lorentz force. By applying Fleming's Left-Hand Rule, the direction of the force on the second wire is found to be directed toward the first wire.
• Similarly, the first wire experiences a force due to the magnetic field of the second wire, which is directed toward the second wire. Because both wires experience forces pulling them together, they attract each other.

 Additional Information

• Force Magnitude and Formula:
• The magnitude of the magnetic force per unit length (f) between two parallel wires separated by a distance d in a vacuum is given by the expression: f = (μ₀ × I₁ × I₂) / (2 × π × d).
• Here, μ₀ represents the permeability of free space, which has a constant value of approximately 4π × 10⁻⁷ T·m/A.
• Opposite Currents (Anti-parallel):
• If the currents in the two parallel wires flow in opposite directions, the magnetic forces acting on them will be directed away from each other, causing the wires to repel.
• This phenomenon is the fundamental principle used to define the SI unit of current, the Ampere. One Ampere is defined as the constant current which, if maintained in two straight parallel conductors of infinite length and negligible circular cross-section placed 1 meter apart in vacuum, would produce a force equal to 2 × 10⁻⁷ Newtons per meter of length.

The correct answer is 6.

Key Points

• The PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana is a specialized agricultural intervention scheduled for launch in July 2025, aimed at boosting the productivity of the primary sector.
• The scheme specifically targets 100 low-performing agri-districts across the nation, identifying regions where the current crop yield is significantly below the national average.
• A robust financial framework has been established for this initiative, featuring an annual outlay of Rs. 24,000 crore to support modern irrigation, seed quality improvement, and mechanization.
• The total duration of the program is fixed at 6 years, ensuring that the long-term structural reforms required in these districts have sufficient time to manifest as measurable economic growth.
• By maintaining this annual outlay over a period of 6 years, the total projected expenditure for the mission is estimated at Rs. 1,44,000 crore.

 Additional Information

• Selection Criteria for Districts:
• Districts are selected based on parameters such as low cropping intensity, high dependency on monsoon, and limited access to credit.
• The scheme aims to integrate these districts into the national agricultural value chain through better market linkages.
• Key Objectives:
• Enhancing Soil Health through the systematic distribution of micronutrients and organic fertilizers.
• Deployment of Agri-Tech solutions, including drones for pesticide spraying and IoT devices for moisture monitoring.
• Strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to improve the bargaining power of small and marginal landholders.

The correct answer is Maintaining a specified number of cavalrymen.

Key Points

• The Mansabdari system was the administrative and military framework of the Mughal Empire, introduced by Emperor Akbar in 1571 to organize the nobility and the army.
• The term Mansab denotes a rank or position, and every officer in the Mughal service was assigned a dual rank: Zat and Sawar.
• The Sawar rank specifically determined the military responsibility of the Mansabdar, requiring him to maintain a fixed number of cavalrymen (soldiers on horseback) and horses for the imperial service.
• Mansabdars were required to bring their troops for regular inspection, where the Dagh system (branding of horses) and Chehra (descriptive rolls of soldiers) were used to prevent duplication and ensure military readiness.
• The number of cavalrymen maintained was crucial for the expansion and defense of the empire, as these troops formed the bulk of the Mughal fighting force during military campaigns.

 Additional Information

• Rank Structure:
• Zat: Indicated the personal status of the officer and determined his personal salary in the hierarchy.
• Salary (Jagir): Most Mansabdars were paid through Jagirs (land revenue assignments), though some were paid in cash, known as Naqdi.
• Incorrect Functions:
• Collecting Taxes: While Mansabdars collected revenue from their assigned Jagirs to pay their troops, the primary responsibility for revenue administration lay with the Amils and Zamidars under the Diwan.
• Administering Justice: This was the specialized duty of the Qazi and Mir Adl, who interpreted Sharia and imperial decrees.
• Land Distribution: The Diwan-i-Ala was the head of the revenue department responsible for overall land records and the distribution of revenue assignments.

The correct answer is Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi.

Key Points

• The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, introduced the Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi initiative in December 2024 to enhance the tourist experience by transforming local citizens into tourism ambassadors.
• The program was piloted across several culturally significant locations including Orchha, Gandikota, Bodh Gaya, Aizawl, Jodhpur, and Sri Nagar to test community-based hospitality models.
• The initiative is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava, focusing on training frontline service providers like cab drivers, hotel staff, and local vendors in soft skills, safety, and cleanliness.
• A primary objective is women empowerment through the Paryatan Didi component, which encourages women to lead tourism activities such as homestay management and cultural storytelling, fostering inclusive growth.
• The scheme aims to promote Responsible Tourism by educating participants on sustainability and heritage preservation, aligning with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
• By integrating digital literacy into the training modules, the initiative ensures that local stakeholders can leverage technology to improve service delivery and reach a global audience.

 Additional Information

• Dekho Apna Desh:
• This initiative was launched to promote domestic tourism by encouraging citizens to travel within India and witness the country's rich cultural diversity.
• It includes a pledge where travelers commit to visiting at least 15 tourist destinations across the country by a certain timeframe.
• Incredible India 2.0:
• This is an upgraded global marketing campaign aimed at promoting India as a holistic destination for international travelers.
• It focuses on niche tourism products such as Wellness, Spiritual, Medical, and Adventure tourism to increase foreign exchange earnings and tourist footfall.
• Responsible Tourism:
• A concept focused on minimizing negative economic, environmental, and social impacts while generating greater economic benefits for local people and enhancing the well-being of host communities.

The correct answer is Automated Air Defence Control.

Key Points

• Project Akashteer is a significant technological initiative developed for the Indian Army to automate its Air Defence Control and Reporting processes.
• Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the project aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, aiming to modernize and digitize the military's operational capabilities through indigenous technology.
• The primary function of this project is to integrate various radars and sensors across the battlefield into a single, unified digital network, providing a comprehensive Situational Awareness picture.
• It streamlines the sensor-to-shooter loop, allowing for the rapid detection, identification, and engagement of hostile aerial targets while ensuring seamless coordination between different units.
• The system is designed to operate in a Network-Centric Warfare environment, enabling commanders to make informed decisions in real-time by consolidating data from diverse geographical locations.

 Additional Information

• Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL):
• A Navratna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) headquartered in Bengaluru, functioning under the Ministry of Defence.
• It plays a pivotal role in manufacturing advanced electronic systems for the Indian Armed Forces, including sonar, radar, and communication equipment.
• Significance in Air Defence:
• Automation through Akashteer minimizes the risk of fratricide (accidental engagement of friendly aircraft) by maintaining an accurate Air Space Management record.
• The system enhances the mobility and flexibility of Air Defence units, allowing them to maintain connectivity even while deployed in remote or high-altitude border regions.
• It serves as a force multiplier by optimizing the utilization of expensive assets like Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs) and Anti-Aircraft Guns.

The correct answer is Raman Research Institute.

Key Points

• Researchers at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), developed a point-of-care, low-cost electro-fluidic device for the preliminary screening of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).
• The device utilizes the resistive pulse sensing technique, which measures variations in ionic current as individual red blood cells (RBCs) pass through a micro-aperture.
• It identifies sickled cells by analyzing their mechanical stiffness and morphological changes, as sickle cells are significantly less deformable than healthy, disc-shaped RBCs.
• This affordable screening tool is designed to provide rapid results, making it highly effective for use in resource-limited settings and rural areas where expensive diagnostic infrastructure is unavailable.
• The development supports India's National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission, which aims to eliminate the disease as a public health problem by the year 2047.

 Additional Information

• Sickle Cell Disease (SCD):
• It is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin S, which causes RBCs to become rigid and crescent-shaped.
• These distorted cells can block blood flow, leading to severe pain, organ damage, and anemia.
• India has the second-highest burden of SCD globally, particularly prevalent among tribal populations in Central and South India.
• Raman Research Institute (RRI):
• Founded in 1948 by the Nobel Laureate Sir C.V. Raman in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• The institute specializes in fundamental research in Physics, including Astronomy, Astrophysics, Light and Matter Physics, and Soft Condensed Matter.
• Other Research Entities:
• Tata Memorial Centre (TMC): A premier national institute for cancer research and treatment located in Mumbai.
• Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR): India's largest research and development organization operating a network of 37 laboratories.
• AIIMS: A group of autonomous public medical universities known for clinical excellence and medical education.

The correct answer is Both I and II.

Key Points

• The Forehand is a primary groundstroke in Tennis where the player swings the racket across their body with the palm of the dominant hand facing the direction of the stroke. It is widely considered the most powerful and versatile offensive weapon for most players, often utilizing grips like the Eastern, Western, or Semi-Western to generate significant topspin and pace. Hence, statement I is correct.
• The Backhand is a fundamental stroke played on the opposite side of the body from the forehand, with the back of the hand preceding the palm during the swing. Players may employ a one-handed backhand for greater reach and variety or a two-handed backhand for increased stability, power, and better handling of high-bouncing balls. Hence, statement II is correct.

 Additional Information

• Other essential shots and technical aspects of a Tennis match include:
• Serve: The overhead shot that begins every point, which must land within the opponent’s cross-court service box to be considered valid.
• Volley: A shot typically played near the net where the player strikes the ball before it bounces on the ground, used to finish points quickly.
• Smash: A powerful overhead stroke, similar in motion to a serve, usually executed in response to a high Lob sent by the opponent.
• Lob: A high, arching shot intended to pass over an opponent standing at the net or to provide the player time to recover their defensive position.
• Drop Shot: A delicate touch shot designed to land just over the net with minimal bounce, catching the opponent far back at the baseline.
• Court Surfaces: Matches are played on various surfaces including Grass (Wimbledon), Clay (French Open), and Hard Courts (Australian and US Open), each affecting the ball’s speed and bounce height differently.