General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is Assam.

Key Points

• Bihu is the most celebrated folk music and dance form of Assam, symbolizing the cultural identity of the Assamese people.
• It is performed during the Rongali Bihu festival, which marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring.
• The dance is characterized by brisk steps, rapid hand movements, and vibrant costumes.
• Musical instruments such as the dhol (drum), pepa (buffalo horn pipe), and gagana (a reed instrument) are commonly used in Bihu performances.
• Bihu is not just a dance but a celebration of Assam’s agrarian roots, as it is closely linked to the harvest season.

Additional Information

• Types of Bihu: There are three major types of Bihu celebrated in Assam – Rongali (Bohag) Bihu, Kongali (Kati) Bihu, and Bhogali (Magh) Bihu, each corresponding to different agricultural cycles.
• Rongali Bihu: This is the most popular form of Bihu, celebrated in April, marking the Assamese New Year and the sowing season.
• Traditional Attire: During Bihu performances, women wear traditional Assamese attire called Mekhela Chador, while men wear Dhoti and Gamosa.
• UNESCO Recognition: Bihu dance has gained international recognition and is often performed at global cultural festivals to represent India’s rich heritage.
• Folk Significance: Beyond entertainment, Bihu dance serves as a platform to express joy, unity, and gratitude towards nature and the harvest.

The correct answer is Life expectancy at birth.

Key Points

• Life expectancy at birth is the primary indicator used to measure the health dimension in the Human Development Index (HDI).
• It reflects the average number of years a newborn is expected to live if current mortality rates continue.
• This indicator is crucial for understanding the overall health and quality of life in a country or region.
• The data for life expectancy is typically sourced from institutions like the United Nations or the World Health Organization (WHO).
• It is a composite measure that incorporates the impact of healthcare systems, nutrition, and living conditions.

Additional Information

• Human Development Index (HDI):
• HDI is a composite index used to rank countries based on human development levels.
• It includes three dimensions: health (measured by life expectancy), education, and standard of living.
• Other Dimensions of HDI:
• Education is measured by mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling.
• Standard of living is measured using Gross National Income (GNI) per capita.
• Importance of Life Expectancy:
• Life expectancy indicates the effectiveness of healthcare, sanitation, and social policies in a country.
• It serves as a predictor for the quality of life and overall development of a population.
• Global Patterns:
• Countries with higher HDI scores tend to have higher life expectancy due to better healthcare and living standards.
• Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia historically report lower life expectancy due to poverty, disease, and limited healthcare access.

The correct answer is The new harvest.

Key Points

• Bihu is the most prominent cultural festival of Assam, celebrated with enthusiasm by all communities.
• The festival marks the harvest season and is celebrated to express gratitude to nature and honor the hard work of farmers.
• There are three main types of Bihu – Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu), Magh Bihu (Bhogali Bihu), and Kati Bihu (Kongali Bihu).
• Bohag Bihu, celebrated in April, marks the Assamese New Year and the beginning of the sowing season.
• Magh Bihu, celebrated in January, marks the end of the harvesting season and is accompanied by feasting and bonfires.

Additional Information

• Rongali Bihu: Celebrated in April, this is the most vibrant and widely celebrated Bihu. It marks the Assamese New Year and the start of the agricultural cycle.
• Bhogali Bihu: Also known as Magh Bihu, it is celebrated in January after the harvest, signifying a time of abundance and community feasting.
• Kongali Bihu: Celebrated in October, this marks the end of the sowing season and is a quieter festival with prayers for a good harvest.
• The word "Bihu" originates from the Sanskrit word "Vishuv", signifying the solar equinox. It is closely tied to the agrarian lifestyle of Assam.
• During Bihu, traditional folk dances and songs like the Bihu dance and Bihu geet are performed to celebrate joy and prosperity.

The correct answer is Maharashtra.

Key Points

• The National Cadets Judo Championships 2024-25 were held in Maharashtra, which is known for hosting numerous national and international sports events.
• Maharashtra is a prominent state in India with well-developed sports infrastructure, including facilities for judo and other martial arts.
• The event brought together young judo talents from across the country to compete and showcase their skills.
• Such events are aimed at identifying and nurturing talent for international competitions like the Olympics and Asian Games.
• Judo, as a sport, is being actively promoted in India with initiatives by the Judo Federation of India and support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Additional Information

• Judo:
• Judo is a modern martial art, combat, and Olympic sport that originated in Japan in 1882, founded by Jigoro Kano.
• It emphasizes techniques of throwing, pinning, and submission rather than striking or kicking.
• Judo is recognized globally and is part of the Summer Olympics since 1964.
• Judo Federation of India (JFI):
• JFI is the apex body for managing and promoting judo in India.
• It organizes national-level championships and selects athletes for international competitions.
• Sports Infrastructure in Maharashtra:
• Maharashtra has several state-of-the-art sports facilities, including the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune and the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
• It has hosted multiple national and international tournaments across various sports.
• Government Initiatives:
• The Government of India and states like Maharashtra have launched programs to promote sports and physical fitness, such as Khelo India and Fit India Movement.
• These initiatives aim to improve sports facilities and encourage youth participation in sports.
• Importance of National Championships:
• National championships serve as a platform for young athletes to gain experience and exposure.
• They play a critical role in talent identification and preparation for international events.

The correct answer is Option 1 (Only II and III are correct).

Key Points

• Statement II: Food cooks faster in a pressure cooker because the higher pressure increases the boiling point of water above 100°C, enabling faster heat transfer to the food.
• Statement III: Superheated steam generated within the pressure cooker accelerates cooking due to enhanced heat transfer efficiency.
• Statement I: Incorrect, as a pressure cooker operates by increasing pressure inside, not decreasing it, which raises the boiling point of water.
• Pressure cooking is widely used to save time and energy while preparing food due to its efficient heat utilization.

Additional Information

• Boiling Point Elevation: At higher pressure, water boils at temperatures above 100°C, allowing food to cook faster.
• Superheated Steam: Steam produced at elevated pressure carries more heat energy, leading to efficient cooking processes.
• Working Principle: Pressure cookers use sealed lids to trap steam, increasing internal pressure and temperature for faster cooking.
• Thermodynamics: The higher pressure and temperature improve thermal conductivity and heat absorption by the food inside.
• Pressure cooking reduces cooking times significantly compared to conventional methods, making it energy-efficient.

The correct answer is GSAT-9.

Key Points

• GSAT-9, also known as the South Asia Satellite, was launched by ISRO on May 5, 2017 using the GSLV-F09 rocket.
• The satellite is a communication satellite specifically designed as a gift to the SAARC nations, excluding Pakistan.
• It provides various services like telecommunication, television broadcasting, and disaster management support to participating countries.
• GSAT-9 weighs around 2,230 kg and was developed at an estimated cost of Rs. 235 crore.
• The participating countries include India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Additional Information

• SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation):
• SAARC was established in 1985 and includes eight member nations: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
• The organization aims to promote economic and regional integration among South Asian countries.
• GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle):
• It is a launch vehicle developed by ISRO to deploy satellites into geostationary orbits.
• GSLV-F09 marks the ninth flight of the GSLV series and uses an indigenously developed cryogenic upper stage.
• Communication Satellites:
• Communication satellites enable the transmission of data, voice, and video across vast distances.
• They play a crucial role in applications such as television broadcasting, internet services, and disaster management.
• Regional Collaboration via GSAT-9:
• The satellite fosters regional cooperation by enabling shared technological benefits among SAARC countries.
• It helps strengthen India's diplomatic ties with its neighbors through technological assistance.

The correct answer is Tribhuvandas Patel was awarded Padma Vibhushan for his social service..

Key Points

• Tribhuvandas Patel was the founder of the Kaira Milk Union, which later became known as Amul, a globally recognized cooperative brand.
• The Lok Sabha passed a bill to set up the Tribhuvan Sahkari University in Gujarat to honor his contributions to cooperative movements.
• Tribhuvandas Patel was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1963 for community leadership and his work in empowering rural farmers.
• Contrary to the statement, he was not awarded the Padma Vibhushan. This is an incorrect attribution.
• He played a significant role in establishing the cooperative model in India, which transformed the dairy industry.

Additional Information

• Amul Cooperative: Founded in 1946 under Tribhuvandas Patel's leadership, it became a model for cooperative success in India and globally.
• White Revolution: Amul played a crucial role in India's White Revolution, making the country self-sufficient in milk production.
• Ramon Magsaysay Award: This prestigious award is given annually to individuals or groups who have achieved excellence in community leadership and public service.
• Cooperative Model: Tribhuvandas Patel’s efforts in organizing farmers into cooperatives helped alleviate poverty and brought economic empowerment to rural India.
• Padma Awards: India's highest civilian awards recognize contributions in various fields, but there is no record of Tribhuvandas Patel receiving the Padma Vibhushan.

The correct answer is Rajas governed broader regions and held a higher status, while zamindars primarily managed land revenue collection.

Key Points

• The administrative roles of rajas and zamindars were distinct under the Mughal system, with rajas holding broader territorial and administrative responsibilities.
• Zamindars were primarily responsible for collecting land revenue on behalf of the Mughal emperor and acted as intermediaries between the peasants and the state.
• Rajas often governed larger regions and were seen as local rulers or chieftains with higher status and power compared to zamindars.
• Zamindars did not exercise complete political control but were vital for the revenue system, while rajas had both administrative and ceremonial roles.
• This hierarchical structure ensured a decentralized but efficient administration under the Mughal empire.

Additional Information

• Zamindars:
• Zamindars were landowners or revenue collectors who were granted the right to collect taxes from peasants.
• They retained a portion of the revenue as their income and remitted the rest to the state treasury.
• They did not have sovereignty but played a crucial role in the agrarian economy.
• Rajas:
• Rajas were local or regional rulers who often held hereditary titles.
• They enjoyed a higher status compared to zamindars and had a broader administrative role, including managing military and governance affairs.
• Many rajas retained their autonomy under the Mughal system by acknowledging Mughal supremacy and paying tribute.
• Mughal Revenue System:
• The Mughal administration used a hierarchical system of governance to ensure efficient tax collection and local control.
• Zamindars were an integral part of this system, ensuring the flow of revenue from the grassroots to the empire.
• Decentralized Governance:
• The Mughal empire relied on a decentralized system, allowing local rulers like rajas and zamindars to handle regional administration while maintaining allegiance to the emperor.
• This model helped manage the vast and diverse territories of the Mughal empire efficiently.

The correct answer is Both Statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Key Points

• Karnataka has the highest elephant population among Southern states, as per the latest elephant census conducted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• According to reports, Karnataka is home to over 6,000 elephants, the largest population in Southern India.
• Juvenile elephant deaths in Karnataka have been linked to Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV), a fatal viral disease affecting young elephants.
• EEHV primarily impacts elephants aged between 1 and 8 years, causing severe internal hemorrhaging and often death within days of infection.
• Efforts are being made to improve monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of EEHV, including collaborations between veterinarians, conservationists, and wildlife organizations.

Additional Information

• Asian Elephants: India is home to the largest population of Asian elephants, and they are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV): A highly fatal virus that affects young elephants, with symptoms including lethargy, reduced appetite, and hemorrhagic symptoms.
• Conservation Efforts: The government has initiated projects like Project Elephant, which aims to ensure the long-term survival of elephants in their natural habitats.
• Elephant Corridors: Karnataka has several elephant corridors that are crucial for the free movement and migration of elephants, reducing human-elephant conflict.
• Wildlife Health Monitoring: Advanced veterinary facilities and research are being deployed to tackle diseases like EEHV and improve elephant health care.

The correct answer is It functions as an inducer, binding to the repressor protein and inactivating it..

Key Points

• Allolactose acts as an inducer in the lac operon, which is a genetic regulatory system in bacteria.
• It binds to the repressor protein, causing a conformational change that inactivates the repressor.
• When the repressor is inactivated, it can no longer bind to the operator region, allowing transcription of genes responsible for lactose metabolism.
• This process ensures that the enzymes needed for lactose metabolism are produced only when lactose is present in the environment.

Additional Information

• Lac operon: It is a cluster of genes in Escherichia coli that are involved in lactose metabolism. It includes structural genes like lacZ, lacY, and lacA.
• Repressor protein (lacI): A regulatory protein that binds to the operator region of the lac operon to block transcription when lactose is absent.
• Operator region: A segment of DNA in the lac operon where the repressor protein binds to prevent transcription.
• Allolactose: A derivative of lactose formed by the action of β-galactosidase. It serves as the signaling molecule (inducer) for the lac operon.
• Inducible operon: The lac operon is an example of an inducible operon, which is activated in the presence of an inducer molecule like allolactose.

The correct answer is Option 1 (A - 2, B - 3, C - 1, D - 4).

Key Points

• Weathering is primarily driven by gravitational, molecular stresses, and chemical actions, which operate at a micro-level to disintegrate rocks (A - 2).
• Mass Movement is caused by the gravitational force acting on weathered materials, leading to downhill movement (B - 3).
• Erosion and Transportation involve the action of kinetic energy, typically from water, wind, or ice, to remove and relocate surface materials (C - 1).
• Denudation is the overall process driven by external forces, including weathering, erosion, and mass movement, acting on Earth's surface (D - 4).

Additional Information

• Weathering:
• A natural process where rocks disintegrate without any major movement.
• Can be mechanical (physical), chemical, or biological in nature.
• Examples include frost action, oxidation, and root growth.
• Mass Movement:
• Involves the downward movement of soil, rock, and debris due to gravity.
• Examples include landslides, rockfalls, and soil creep.
• Factors like water saturation and slope steepness influence the rate of movement.
• Erosion and Transportation:
• Refers to the detachment and movement of surface materials by agents like water, wind, glaciers, and waves.
• Transportation distributes the eroded material to different locations.
• River systems, coastal waves, and windstorms are common examples.
• Denudation:
• It is the collective term for processes like weathering, mass movement, erosion, and transportation.
• Denudation contributes to the reduction of Earth's surface by leveling highlands and filling basins.
• It is a key factor in shaping landforms over geological time.

The correct answer is Section 8 companies, trusts, and societies.

Key Points

• The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) allows Section 8 companies, trusts, and societies to register for receiving foreign contributions.
• Section 8 companies are non-profit entities established under the Companies Act, 2013, with the objective of promoting charitable, educational, or social welfare activities.
• Trusts and societies are also eligible under FCRA, provided they are registered and fulfill the prescribed norms.
• The primary purpose of FCRA registration is to ensure that foreign contributions are used for legal, transparent, and socially beneficial purposes.
• Entities like political parties, government departments, and private companies are not eligible for FCRA registration.

Additional Information

• Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010:
• FCRA regulates the acceptance and utilization of foreign funds by individuals, associations, or companies in India.
• The primary objective is to prevent the misuse of foreign contributions and ensure that they are not used for activities detrimental to national interest.
• Section 8 Companies:
• These are non-profit organizations incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013.
• Their main goal is to promote commerce, art, science, education, research, social welfare, religion, or environmental protection.
• Registration under FCRA:
• Entities must apply to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for FCRA registration.
• Once registered, these entities are allowed to receive foreign contributions for approved projects.
• Prohibited Entities:
• Political parties, electoral candidates, media organizations, and government employees are prohibited from accepting foreign funds under FCRA.
• Recent Updates:
• The FCRA rules were amended in 2020 to tighten regulations, including restrictions on administrative expenses and mandatory use of an SBI account for foreign fund transactions.

The correct answer is Redshift of galaxies.

Key Points

• The redshift of galaxies indicates that the universe is expanding, which supports the Big Bang theory.
• The phenomenon of redshift was first observed by Edwin Hubble, who discovered a direct relationship between a galaxy's distance and its velocity of recession (Hubble's Law).
• This redshift occurs due to the Doppler effect, where light waves stretch as objects (galaxies) move away from the observer.
• The discovery of the cosmic microwave background radiation also aligns with the redshift observations, further corroborating the theory.
• Redshift is measured by observing the displacement of spectral lines toward the red end of the spectrum in light emitted from distant galaxies.

Additional Information

• Big Bang Theory: The theory states that the universe originated approximately 13.8 billion years ago from an extremely hot and dense singularity, followed by rapid expansion.
• Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation (CMB): Discovered in 1965 by Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson, CMB is the faint radiation left over from the Big Bang, providing strong evidence for the theory.
• Hubble's Law: This law states that the recessional velocity of a galaxy is directly proportional to its distance from the observer, confirming the expanding nature of the universe.
• Doppler Effect: A change in the frequency or wavelength of light or sound waves caused by the relative movement of the source and the observer. In astronomy, it explains the redshift of galaxies moving away.
• Redshift (z): A dimensionless measure used in astronomy to quantify the extent to which light from a celestial object has been stretched due to its motion away from the observer.

The correct answer is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Key Points

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights, Minorities, and Tribal and Excluded Areas in the Constituent Assembly.
• The Advisory Committee was formed to address the critical issues of minorities and fundamental rights during the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
• Under his leadership, the committee played a key role in shaping the provisions related to equality, justice, and protection of minority rights.
• The committee's recommendations significantly influenced the drafting of Part III (Fundamental Rights) and Part IV (Directive Principles of State Policy) of the Indian Constitution.
• Sardar Patel’s leadership ensured a balanced approach to addressing the concerns of various communities while maintaining national unity.

Additional Information

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
• Known as the Iron Man of India, Patel played a pivotal role in the integration of princely states into the Indian Union.
• He was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India.
• Patel's efforts in unifying the country earned him the title of Bismarck of India.
• Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights
• This committee was one of the most important committees in the Constituent Assembly.
• It was tasked with addressing sensitive issues such as minority rights, tribal welfare, and excluded areas.
• Fundamental Rights
• These rights are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution.
• They guarantee civil liberties and ensure equality, justice, and freedom for Indian citizens.
• Examples include the Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, and Right against Exploitation.
• Directive Principles of State Policy
• These principles are included in Part IV of the Indian Constitution.
• They aim to establish a framework for creating a just society in India.
• Although not enforceable by law, they serve as guidelines for the government in policymaking.

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

• The First Schedule of the Indian Constitution lists the names of States and Union Territories along with their territorial jurisdiction.
• The Third Schedule contains the Forms of Oaths or Affirmations for various constitutional posts.
• The Fifth Schedule provides details regarding the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Tribes (excluding the North-Eastern states).
• The Seventh Schedule lays down the allocation of powers and responsibilities between the Union and States through three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.

Additional Information

• Schedules in the Indian Constitution: There are 12 schedules in the Indian Constitution, each addressing specific aspects of governance and administration.
• First Schedule: It originally listed 29 States and 7 Union Territories, but the numbers have changed with subsequent amendments.
• Seventh Schedule: The three lists (Union, State, and Concurrent) define legislative competencies to ensure a clear demarcation of powers.
• Fifth Schedule: It focuses on safeguarding the rights and interests of Scheduled Tribes living in Scheduled Areas by providing special provisions for their governance.
• Third Schedule: This schedule emphasizes the importance of oaths or affirmations in upholding constitutional integrity and ensuring accountability in public offices.

The correct answer is Neither 1 nor 2.

Key Points

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The Simon Commission (1927) was boycotted by Indian political parties primarily because it lacked any Indian representation, not because of its "all-Indian composition." The commission consisted solely of British members, leading to widespread protests.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The Nehru Report (1928), authored by Motilal Nehru, advocated for "Dominion Status" for India within the British Empire, not complete independence. The demand for complete independence was officially adopted later in 1929 during the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress.
• The Simon Commission was tasked with reviewing the Government of India Act, 1919, and recommending constitutional reforms, but it was met with hostility due to its exclusion of Indians from the process.
• The Nehru Report marked a significant effort by Indian leaders to draft a constitution for self-governance, but it fell short of the aspirations of younger leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose, who sought complete independence.

Additional Information

• Simon Commission (1927):
• Officially known as the Indian Statutory Commission, it was led by Sir John Simon and consisted entirely of British members, which was a major point of contention.
• Its arrival in India was met with protests and slogans like "Simon Go Back." Leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai played a key role in opposing it.
• The commission's recommendations eventually led to the Government of India Act, 1935.
• Nehru Report (1928):
• This was the first attempt by Indians to draft a constitutional framework for India.
• It proposed a parliamentary system of governance, protection of minority rights, and fundamental rights but fell short of demanding complete independence.
• Its rejection by the British and the failure to meet the aspirations of younger leaders led to a shift in Congress's stance toward the demand for complete independence.
• Lahore Session (1929):
• In this session, presided over by Jawaharlal Nehru, the Indian National Congress officially adopted "Purna Swaraj" (Complete Independence) as its goal.
• 26^th January 1930 was declared as Independence Day, which is now celebrated as Republic Day in remembrance of this declaration.
• Government of India Act, 1935:
• This act was influenced by the Simon Commission's recommendations and introduced provincial autonomy and the federal structure in India.
• It served as a precursor to India's constitutional development leading up to independence.

The correct answer is Odisha.

Key Points

• Bhitarkanika Mangroves are located in Kendrapara district of Odisha, India.
• It is the second-largest mangrove ecosystem in India after the Sundarbans in West Bengal.
• The area is home to the Bhitarkanika National Park, a biodiversity hotspot known for its rich flora and fauna.
• Bhitarkanika Mangroves are famous for hosting saltwater crocodiles, including one of the largest crocodiles ever recorded.
• This region is protected under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.

Additional Information

• Mangroves: These are coastal vegetation found in tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by their ability to thrive in saline and brackish waters.
• Ramsar Convention: An international treaty signed in 1971 for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
• Bhitarkanika National Park: It spans over 672 square kilometers and is known for its estuarine ecosystem, mudflats, and tidal rivers.
• The region is also recognized for its diverse avian population, including migratory birds from Europe and Central Asia.
• Bhitarkanika is home to rare species like the Indian Python, King Cobra, and Olive Ridley Turtles, which nest on nearby beaches.

The correct answer is Swadesh Darshan 2.0 - Theme-based tourism circuits.

Key Points

• Swadesh Darshan 2.0 is an upgraded version of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, focusing on sustainable and theme-based tourism circuits.
• Launched by the Ministry of Tourism, it aims to enhance tourism infrastructure and create employment opportunities in tourism-focused areas.
• The scheme prioritizes the development of circuits based on themes such as cultural heritage, ecotourism, adventure, and wellness tourism.
• It aligns with the vision of promoting responsible tourism, ensuring environmental sustainability and socio-economic benefits to local communities.
• Funding is provided for infrastructure development, capacity building, and marketing under this initiative to bolster India's tourism sector.

Additional Information

• Swadesh Darshan Scheme (Original Version)
• Launched in 2014-15, the original scheme aimed at developing theme-based tourist circuits across India.
• Some of the circuits include Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, and Tribal Circuit.
• It focused on integrated development of tourism infrastructure in specific destinations.
• Incredible India Campaign
• A flagship campaign by the Ministry of Tourism to promote India's rich cultural heritage globally.
• It emphasizes India's diversity, historical landmarks, and unique experiences for international tourists.
• National Tourism Policy 2022
• Aims to position India as a global tourism hub and strengthen domestic tourism.
• Focuses on sustainable tourism, digitalization, and supporting local businesses in the tourism sector.
• Eco-Tourism in India
• Promotes responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment and improving the well-being of locals.
• Popular destinations include Kaziranga National Park, Sundarbans, and Silent Valley National Park.

The correct answer is Only Statement 1 is correct.

Key Points

• The North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is a multi-modal transportation network connecting India, Iran, and Russia to Europe through Central Asia.
• India actively supports the INSTC as part of its strategy to enhance trade and connectivity with Eurasian countries.
• The corridor is designed to reduce transit time and transportation costs for goods moving between India and Europe.
• Statement 1 is correct as India has been a key proponent of the INSTC to improve trade connectivity with Eurasian and European countries.
• Statement 2 is incorrect because the INSTC does not strengthen trade with the Pacific Islands; it focuses on connectivity with regions like Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe.

Additional Information

• International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC): A 7,200 km long multi-modal transport network established to promote economic integration between India, Iran, Russia, and Europe.
• Connectivity Goals: The INSTC aims to reduce shipment times by up to 40% and transportation costs by 30% compared to the traditional Suez Canal route.
• Pacific Islands Trade: India's trade with the Pacific Islands is supported through other bilateral initiatives and forums, such as the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), rather than the INSTC.
• Key Participants: The INSTC involves over 13 countries, including India, Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and others, contributing to enhanced trade and economic cooperation.
• Strategic Importance: The INSTC strengthens India's geopolitical influence in Central Asia and aligns with India's "Connect Central Asia" policy.

The correct answer is JM Sengupta.

Key Points

• The Anushilan Samiti was a prominent revolutionary organization in Bengal during the early 20^th century, known for its nationalist and anti-colonial activities.
• Following the death of CR Das in 1925, the Bengal Congress split into two factions: one led by Subhash Chandra Bose and the other by JM Sengupta.
• The Anushilan group aligned with the faction led by JM Sengupta, who was regarded as a moderate nationalist leader.
• JM Sengupta’s faction was more focused on constructive political strategies and less inclined towards radical measures compared to Bose’s faction.
• This collaboration between the Anushilan group and JM Sengupta’s faction aimed to strengthen nationalist efforts in Bengal during the critical phase of India's freedom struggle.

Additional Information

• Anushilan Samiti: Founded in 1902, the Anushilan Samiti played a crucial role in revolutionary activities against British rule, focusing on militant nationalism.
• CR Das: Chittaranjan Das was a prominent nationalist leader, lawyer, and the founder of the Swaraj Party, advocating for self-rule and constitutional reforms.
• Subhash Chandra Bose: Known as Netaji, he was a radical leader of the Indian National Congress and later formed the Indian National Army to fight British colonial rule.
• Moderates vs. Extremists: The early 20^th-century Congress was divided into moderates, who sought gradual reforms, and extremists, who advocated for immediate independence through direct action.
• Political Context: The post-1925 period marked a significant shift in Bengal’s nationalist movement, with emerging factions influencing strategies and alliances in the fight against colonial rule.