General Awareness PYQs

The correct answer is Odissi dance and music.

Key Points

• Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra was a legendary exponent of the Odissi dance form.
• He is credited with reviving and popularizing Odissi dance on the global stage.
• The Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Yuva Prativa Sunman is an award given to young talents in the field of Odissi dance and music.
• This award aims to recognize and encourage the contributions of young artists in preserving the legacy of Odissi dance.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Sandstone, limestone, and shale.

Key Points

• Sandstone, limestone, and shale are all common types of sedimentary rocks.
• Sandstone is composed mainly of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments.
• Limestone is primarily made of calcium carbonate, often from marine organisms.
• Shale is a fine-grained sedimentary rock that forms from the compaction of silt and clay particles.
• These rocks are typically formed through the deposition and subsequent cementation of material at the Earth's surface and within bodies of water.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Molds.

Key Points

• Molds are a type of fungi that can grow on food and are invisible to the naked eye until they form colonies.
• They produce spores that can contaminate food and potentially cause health issues if ingested.
• Molds can produce mycotoxins, which are toxic substances that can lead to foodborne illnesses.
• Unlike visible biological hazards like worms or weevils, molds are often not detected until they have significantly grown.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Rudradaman I.

Key Points

• The Junagadh inscription is one of the most important inscriptions of the Western Kshatrapas.
• It was created during the reign of Rudradaman I, who ruled around 150 CE.
• This inscription is in Sanskrit and provides details about the repair of Sudarshana Lake.
• Rudradaman I was a significant ruler known for his military conquests and patronage of art and culture.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Bhupendra Patel.

Key Points

• Bhupendra Patel was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Gujarat on 13^th September 2021.
• He succeeded Vijay Rupani, who resigned from the position.
• Bhupendra Patel is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
• Before becoming the Chief Minister, he was a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Ghatlodia constituency.

Additional Information

The Chief Minister of Gujarat is the head of the government in the Indian state of Gujarat. The role involves overseeing the executive branch of the state government, implementing state policies, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the state administration.

The correct answer is Kangra Fort.

Key Points

• Kangra Fort is considered the oldest dated fort in India, with references dating back to the Mahabharata period.
• The fort is located in the Kangra Valley, in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
• It was built by the Katoch dynasty, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world.
• The fort has witnessed numerous invasions, including those by Mahmud of Ghazni and the Mughal emperor Jahangir.
• Kangra Fort is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

Additional Information

The correct answer is 25% of the total assets.

Key Points

• The maximum limit on microfinance loans for NBFCs other than NBFC-MFIs is 25% of the total assets.
• This regulation ensures that NBFCs diversify their loan portfolios and do not overly expose themselves to microfinance loans.
• NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) are financial institutions that offer various banking services but do not have a banking license.
• **Microfinance loans are small loans provided to individuals or small businesses who do not have access to traditional banking services.
• NBFC-MFIs are a specific category of NBFCs that primarily deal with microfinance activities and have different regulatory requirements.

Additional Information

Microfinance is a type of financial service aimed at providing small loans, savings, and other financial services to low-income individuals or those who do not have access to traditional banking services. It plays a crucial role in financial inclusion and economic development by empowering individuals to start or expand small businesses, improve their living standards, and achieve financial stability.

The correct answer is Dr. Balamuralikrishna.

Key Points

• Dr. Balamuralikrishna was a renowned exponent of classical Carnatic music.
• He was known for his versatile singing and mastery over multiple musical instruments.
• He contributed significantly to the field of Carnatic music with numerous compositions.
• He received several prestigious awards including the Padma Vibhushan and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.

Additional Information

The correct answer is New Delhi.

Key Points

• Jan Aushadhi Train was flagged off in March 2023.
• The event was attended by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw.
• The flag-off ceremony took place at New Delhi.
• The initiative is part of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).

Additional Information

The correct answer is At infinity, highly enlarged, real and inverted.

Key Points

• Concave Mirror: The given mirror is a concave spherical mirror.
• Radius of Curvature: The radius of curvature is 30 cm, so the focal length (f) = R/2 = 15 cm.
• Object Position: The object is placed 15 cm from the pole, which means it is at the focal point of the mirror.
• Image Nature: When an object is at the focal point of a concave mirror, the image formed is at infinity, highly enlarged, real, and inverted.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Government allowing private companies to produce goods. 

Key Points

• Permit License Raj:-
• The Permit License Raj was a system of extensive government regulation and control over the Indian economy from the 1950s to the early 1990s.
• It was characterized by a web of regulations, permits, and licenses that businesses had to obtain in order to operate.
• The system was intended to protect Indian industry, promote self-reliance, and ensure regional equality.
• However, it also led to widespread corruption, inefficiency, and a stifling of economic growth.
• The major purpose of the ‘permit license raj’ from the 1960s to 1980s in India was that the Government allowing private companies to produce goods.
• Key features of the Permit License Raj:
• Businesses had to obtain licenses from the government for everything from starting a new company to expanding an existing one.
• The government also controlled the prices of many goods and services.
• Imports were heavily restricted, and businesses were often required to use Indian-made products, even if they were of inferior quality.
• The Permit License Raj was a major obstacle to economic development in India. It led to widespread corruption, inefficiency, and a stifling of innovation.

The correct answer is Cretinism.

Key Points

• Cretinism:-
• It is a severe form of iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) that can cause irreversible physical and mental retardation.
• Cretinism is most commonly caused by iodine deficiency during pregnancy and early infancy.
• Iodine is a trace element that is essential for the production of thyroid hormones.
• Thyroid hormones are important for the normal development of the brain and nervous system.
• If a pregnant woman or a young child does not get enough iodine, it can lead to a deficiency of thyroid hormones, which can cause cretinism.
• Symptoms of cretinism can include:-
• Severe mental retardation
• Stunted growth
• Deafness
• Mutism
• Spasticity
• Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)

Additional Information

• Preeclampsia:-
• It is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
• It can lead to serious health problems for both mother and baby, including seizures, liver and kidney damage, and premature birth.
• Toxoplasmosis:-
• It is an infection caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii.
• It can be spread through contact with infected cats or their feces, contaminated meat, or unwashed fruits and vegetables.
• While most people who are infected with Toxoplasma gondii never experience any symptoms, it can cause serious birth defects if a woman is infected during pregnancy.
• Syphilis:-
• It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
• It can be spread through contact with open sores on the skin or mucous membranes.
• While syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, it can cause serious birth defects if a woman is infected during pregnancy.

The correct answer is Amjad Ali Khan.

Key Points

• Abba: God's Greatest Gift to Us:-
• It is a heartfelt tribute by two sons, Amaan Ali Khan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, to their father and guru, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, a legendary sarod maestro.
• The book delves into the life of this extraordinary musician, tracing his journey from a young prodigy to a global icon.
• Through personal anecdotes, insightful observations, and a deep understanding of their father's artistry, the brothers paint a vivid portrait of a man who has dedicated his life to music.
• The book is divided into seven sections, each exploring a different facet of Ustad Amjad Ali Khan's life and legacy.
• From his early years in Gwalior, where he grew up surrounded by music, to his international fame and collaborations with renowned artists, the book chronicles his remarkable achievements.
• The brothers also share their own experiences as their father's disciples, offering a glimpse into the rigorous training and deep connection they share with him.

Additional Information

• Bismillah Khan:-
• He was known for his soulful renditions of ragas on the Shehnai, a traditional Indian wind instrument.
• He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2001.
• Ali Akbar Khan:-
• He was a virtuoso of the Sarod, a stringed instrument. He was known for his innovative playing style and his ability to create a wide range of sounds.
• He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian award, in 1972.
• Amir Khan:-
• He was a master of the Sarangi, a bowed stringed instrument.
• He was known for his expressive singing and his ability to convey deep emotions through his music.
• He was awarded the Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian award, in 1971.

The correct answer is France, 1900.

Key Points

• Second Olympic Games:- 
• The second Olympic Games, officially known as the Games of the II Olympiad, were held in Paris, France, from May 20 to October 28, 1900.
• The Games were held as part of the 1900 World's Fair, and were initially overshadowed by the Fair's attractions.
• However, they were eventually a success, with over 1,000 athletes from 24 nations competing in 20 sports.
• Some of the highlights of the 1900 Olympic Games:-
• The first women were allowed to compete in the Olympics, though only in a limited number of sports.
• The first time a marathon was run over the now-standard distance of 26.2 miles (42.2 kilometers).
• The first time that boxing was included in the Olympics.
• The first time that the United States won the most medals

The correct answer is Indus.

Key Points

• Indus River:-
• The Indus River is the longest river in Pakistan and one of the most important rivers in the region.
• It originates in the Tibetan Plateau and flows through India and Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
• The Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum are all major tributaries of the Indus River, and they contribute significantly to its flow.

Additional Information

• Kaveri River:-
• The Kaveri River, also known as the Cauvery River, is a sacred river in South India.
• It originates in the Brahmagiri Hills of the Western Ghats and flows for about 765 kilometers (475 miles) through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
• Tungabhadra River:-
• The Tungabhadra River is a tributary of the Krishna River.
• It is formed by the confluence of the Tunga and Bhadra rivers near Shimoga in Karnataka.
• The Tungabhadra River flows for about 531 kilometers (330 miles) before joining the Krishna River at Sangameswaram in Andhra Pradesh.
• Krishna River:-
• The Krishna River is the second-longest river in peninsular India.
• It originates in the Western Ghats near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra and flows for about 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

The correct answer is Alauddin Khilji.

 Key Points

• Alauddin Khilji:-
• Alauddin Khilji was a remarkable ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, renowned for his military prowess and administrative reforms.
• He ascended to power through a coup, deposing his father-in-law Jalaluddin Khilji and establishing himself as the Sultan of Delhi.
• Alauddin Khilji introduced a series of reforms to weaken the power of nobles and strengthen the central government.
• He implemented a strict land revenue system, limited the size of noble armies, and created a new class of elite soldiers directly under his control.

Additional Information

• Muhammad bin Tughluq:-
• He was a controversial figure known for his bold and often eccentric policies.
• He implemented a series of ambitious reforms, including currency reforms, taxation changes, and the relocation of the capital to Daulatabad.
• However, these measures faced significant opposition and led to rebellions and economic instability.
• Despite his challenges, Muhammad bin Tughluq was a patron of learning and established several educational institutions.
• Balban:-
• He was a military leader and a stern administrator who restored order and stability to the Delhi Sultanate after a period of internal strife.
• He established a strong central government, strengthened the military, and implemented strict social and administrative policies.
• Balban's reign marked a period of relative peace and prosperity for the Delhi Sultanate, but his authoritarian style and emphasis on discipline made him unpopular among some sections of society.
• Iltutmish:-
• He was a capable ruler who consolidated the Delhi Sultanate's power and expanded its territory.
• He established a strong central administration, defeated several Hindu kingdoms in northern India, and repelled Mongol invasions.
• Iltutmish also initiated the construction of several iconic monuments, including the Qutb Minar in Delhi.
• His reign marked a turning point in the history of the Delhi Sultanate, laying the foundation for its future prominence in Indian history.

The correct answer is Nitrogen.

Key Points

• Nitrogen:-
• The element with atomic number 7 is nitrogen (N).
• It is a non-metallic element that is essential for life and makes up about 78% of Earth's atmosphere. Nitrogen is a colorless and odorless gas at room temperature and pressure.
• It is a very important element in many biological processes, including protein synthesis and DNA replication.
• Nitrogen is also used in many industrial applications, such as the production of ammonia and fertilizers.

Additional Information

• Calcium:-
• Ca is an alkaline earth metal that is the fifth most abundant element in the Earth's crust.
• It is a crucial component of bone and teeth, and it is also involved in muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and blood clotting. Calcium is also essential for plant growth.
• Oxygen:-
• O is a highly reactive nonmetallic element, it is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust and the second most abundant element in the Earth's atmosphere.
• Oxygen is essential for respiration, the process by which organisms convert food into energy.
• It is also involved in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Oxygen is also used in many industrial applications, such as the production of steel and glass.
• Chlorine:-
• Cl is a halogen that is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust.
• It is a pale yellow-green gas that is highly reactive and corrosive. Chlorine is used in a variety of applications, including water purification, bleaching, and the production of plastics.

The correct answer is Kathak.

Key Points

• Anindita Neogy Anaam;-
• She is a renowned Indian classical dance Kathak artist, instructor, performer, and choreographer.
• She is currently based in Wisconsin, United States, and is widely recognized for her exceptional talent and contributions to the field of Kathak dance.
• Anindita Neogy Anaam's dedication and passion for Kathak have garnered her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Shri Jayadev Rashtriya Yuva Puraskar, Bidagdha Nartaki Samman, and National Nritya Shiromani awards.
• She is also a coveted Indian Raga Fellow, recognizing her profound understanding and mastery of Indian classical music.
• National Nritya Shiromani Award:-
• It is an annual award bestowed upon exceptional classical dancers and musicians of India for their contribution to art and culture.
• The award is conferred by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Additional Information

• Manipuri:-
• It is a classical Indian dance form originating from the state of Manipur in northeastern India.
• It is characterized by its graceful and fluid movements, which are often accompanied by narrative chanting and choral singing.
• The dance is traditionally performed by women, who wear colorful costumes and adorn themselves with intricate jewelry.
• Bharatanatyam:-
• It is one of the oldest and most well-known classical Indian dance forms.
• It originated in the temples of Tamil Nadu, in southern India, and is considered to be a sacred dance form.
• Bharatanatyam is characterized by its expressive hand gestures, intricate footwork, and rhythmic patterns.
• Kuchipudi:-
• It is another well-known classical Indian dance form, originating in the state of Andhra Pradesh, in southeastern India.
• It is characterized by its expressive facial expressions, intricate footwork, and dynamic movements.
• Kuchipudi is often performed in groups, and it is known for its storytelling and theatrical elements.

The correct answer is 17.5%.

Key Points

• Census 2011:-
• India's population accounted for around 17.5 percent of the world's total population.
• The census conducted in 2011 revealed that India's population was 1,210,854,977, making it the second most populated country in the world after China.
• India's population has grown steadily over the years, and it is projected to continue growing in the coming decades.

Additional Information

• Urbanization:
• The census revealed that India's urbanization rate had increased from 27.7% in 2001 to 31.2% in 2011.
• This indicates a growing trend of people moving from rural to urban areas in search of better opportunities.
• Literacy Rate:
• The overall literacy rate of India improved from 62.3% in 2001 to 74.04% in 2011.
• This progress was particularly evident among women, whose literacy rate rose from 54.16% to 65.46%.
• Child Sex Ratio:
• As per the Census, 2011 the child sex ratio (0-6 years) has shown a decline from 927 females per thousand males in 2001 to 919 females per thousand males in 2011.
• Religious Composition:
• Hindus continued to form the majority of the population, accounting for 79.8% of the total.
• Muslims constituted the second largest religious group, representing 14.23%.

The correct answer is Indu Sundaresan.

Key Points

• Mountain of Light:-
• It is a historical novel by Indu Sundaresan that tells the story of the Kohinoor diamond, one of the largest cut diamonds in the world.
• The novel spans over four decades, from 1817 to 1850, and follows the diamond's journey from India to Afghanistan to England.
• The novel is told from the perspective of multiple characters, including the diamond itself. The diamond's voice is a powerful one, and it provides a unique perspective on the events of the novel.
• The diamond is witness to love, loss, war, and peace, and it comes to understand that it is not just a jewel, but a symbol of power and destruction.

Additional Information

• Indu Sundaresan:-
• She is an Indian-American historical fiction author known for her captivating tales set in India's rich past.
• Her novels, such as "The Twentieth Wife" and "The Splendor of Silence," have garnered international acclaim, earning her the Washington State Book Award and the Light of India award for Excellence in Literature.
• Born into a family of storytellers, Sundaresan's passion for weaving historical narratives stems from her childhood experiences growing up on Air Force bases across India.
• Her works are translated into over 23 languages, captivating readers worldwide with their vivid portrayals of Indian history and culture.