Current Affairs and General Awareness

369 questions

Question 161Question

Match the recently launched landmark space missions (List-I) with their primary scientific payload or key technological demonstration instrument (List-II).

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Aditya-L1 (ISRO)
Psyche Mission (NASA)
SLIM (JAXA)
Euclid Space Telescope (ESA)

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Aditya-L1 pairs with Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC); Psyche Mission pairs with Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC); SLIM pairs with Lunar Excursion Vehicle (LEV-1); Euclid Space Telescope pairs with Near-Infrared Spectrometer and Photometer (NISP).
Aditya-L1 correctly pairs with VELC for studying the solar corona. Psyche Mission correctly pairs with the DSOC technology demonstration. SLIM correctly pairs with LEV-1 which employs a hopping locomotion mechanism. Euclid Space Telescope correctly pairs with NISP for cosmological spectroscopy.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze India's solar mission Aditya-L1's primary payload instrument.
Aditya-L1's primary payload is VELC (Visible Emission Line Coronagraph), positioned at Sun-Earth L1 to study coronal dynamics.
Matches solar observation goals with coronagraph payload instrumentation.
2
Identify the optical communication technology payload aboard NASA's Psyche spacecraft.
Psyche carried the DSOC (Deep Space Optical Communications) system, successfully transmitting near-infrared laser signals back to Earth.
Distinguishes deep-space tech demonstrations from main asteroid science goals.
3
Determine the surface deployment rovers carried by JAXA's SLIM lander.
SLIM deployed the LEV-1 rover, which moves via a hopping mechanism, alongside the spherical LEV-2 rover.
Links pinpoint landing missions to their deployed robotic sub-systems.
4
Identify the primary cosmological detectors onboard ESA's Euclid mission.
Euclid utilizes the NISP (Near-Infrared Spectrometer and Photometer) instrument to measure cosmic redshift and dark energy effects.
Connects dark universe survey objectives with infrared photometric payload design.

Key Concept

Specific instrument payloads and technological demonstrations of contemporary national and international space probes
Question 162Question

National Panchayati Raj Day is commemorated across India on April 24 every year. Which of the following constitutional events directly marks the significance of selecting this date for the annual observance?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The enforcement of the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 in the year 1993

Answer

The enforcement of the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 in the year 1993
National Panchayati Raj Day is celebrated on April 24 because the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 officially came into force on April 24, 1993. This amendment conferred constitutional status on Panchayati Raj Institutions, adding Part IX and the Eleventh Schedule to the Indian Constitution.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the designated date of National Panchayati Raj Day
National Panchayati Raj Day is observed annually on April 24 in India.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj instituted this annual observance to commemorate rural local self-governance.
2
Relate the date to its underlying constitutional milestone
The Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 received presidential assent in December 1992 and came into force on April 24, 1993.
This amendment granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) under Part IX and the 11th Schedule of the Constitution.
3
Differentiate from adjacent historical events in local governance history
The inauguration at Nagaur occurred on October 2, 1959, and the 74th Amendment came into force on June 1, 1993.
Hence, April 24 specifically marks the commencement of the 73rd Amendment Act.

Key Concept

National Panchayati Raj Day and the Constitutionalization of PRIs
Question 163Question

Consider the following statements regarding accounting classifications and deficit indicators in the Union Budget of India:

1. 'Effective Revenue Deficit' is derived by deducting grants-in-aid given to States for the creation of capital assets from the Revenue Deficit.
2. Interest receipts on loans extended by the Central Government and dividends from Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are classified under Capital Receipts.
3. Fiscal Deficit reflects the total gross borrowing requirements of the Government of India during a financial year.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: 1 and 3 only

Answer

Statements 1 and 3 are correct (1 and 3 only).
Effective Revenue Deficit was introduced to adjust Revenue Deficit by removing grants-in-aid meant for capital asset creation in states. Fiscal Deficit equals the total borrowing requirement of the government. Statement 2 is false because interest receipts and dividends are categorized as non-tax Revenue Receipts rather than Capital Receipts.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze Statement 1 regarding Effective Revenue Deficit.
Effective Revenue Deficit = Revenue Deficit - Grants-in-aid for creation of capital assets. The statement is correct.
Grants given to states for capital formation do not directly create assets for the Central Government, but they do build capital assets for the nation, hence they are excluded to calculate Effective Revenue Deficit.
2
Analyze Statement 2 regarding Budget Receipt classification.
Interest receipts and dividends from PSUs are non-tax Revenue Receipts, not Capital Receipts. The statement is incorrect.
Capital Receipts either create a liability (borrowings) or reduce financial assets (disinvestment, loan recovery). Interest and dividends do neither.
3
Analyze Statement 3 regarding Fiscal Deficit definition.
Fiscal Deficit = Total Expenditure - Total Receipts excluding borrowings. The statement is correct.
Fiscal Deficit measures the gap financed entirely through borrowings, reflecting the gross borrowing needs of the government.

Key Concept

Union Budget Receipt Classification and Deficit Metrics
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 164Question

Which of the following statements regarding the Ramon Magsaysay Award are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: It is widely regarded as Asia's premier prize and highest honor, often referred to as the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in Asia.; It was established in 1957 to perpetuate the memory and leadership example of the former President of the Philippines.

Answer

The correct statements are that the Ramon Magsaysay Award is regarded as Asia's equivalent to the Nobel Prize and that it was established in 1957 in honor of the former President of the Philippines.
The Ramon Magsaysay Award is Asia's highest honor, established in 1957 to commemorate President Ramon Magsaysay of the Philippines and recognize selfless service to Asian societies.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the stature and reputation of the Ramon Magsaysay Award.
Confirm that it is Asia's highest honor and commonly designated as the Asian Nobel Prize.
This establishes the global recognition of the award.
2
Examine the establishment history of the award.
Verify that it was instituted in 1957 to honor Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay.
This confirms the foundational history and namesake.
3
Evaluate eligibility rules and presentation venue.
Recognize that organizations and non-Asian born individuals are eligible, and ceremonies occur in Manila rather than New York.
This identifies false claims regarding geographical birth restrictions and award venue.

Key Concept

Ramon Magsaysay Award Features and History
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 165Question

Regarding the Thermal InfraRed Imaging Satellite for High-resolution Natural Resource Assessment (TRISHNA) space mission, which of the following statements are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: It is a collaborative joint Earth-observation satellite mission between ISRO (India) and CNES (France).; Its primary objective is high-resolution thermal infrared monitoring of Earth's surface temperature and water resources.

Answer

The TRISHNA mission is a joint Earth-observation initiative by ISRO (India) and CNES (France) focused on high-resolution thermal infrared imaging of land surface temperature and water resources from Sun-Synchronous Low Earth Orbit.
The statements highlighting TRISHNA as a joint ISRO-CNES Earth-observation mission and its primary objective of high-resolution thermal infrared monitoring of land surface temperature and water management are correct.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the agency collaboration for the TRISHNA mission.
TRISHNA is a joint project developed by ISRO (India) and CNES (France).
Establishing the participating international space agencies validates mission facts.
2
Analyze the core payload capability and scientific objective.
TRISHNA monitors Earth surface thermal dynamics, evapotranspiration, and water cycles.
Confirming the payload thermal infrared bands verifies its Earth-observation role.
3
Verify the orbital trajectory and domain target.
TRISHNA operates in Low Earth Orbit (Sun-Synchronous Orbit), not Geostationary Orbit or deep space.
Earth-observation thermal mapping requires consistent polar sun-synchronous revisit orbits at low altitudes.

Key Concept

TRISHNA Mission Objectives, Agency Partnerships, and Satellite Orbit Parameters
Question 166Question

Consider the following statements regarding the 'Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA)' launched by the Government of Assam to foster micro-entrepreneurship among rural women:

1. The initiative aims to support rural Self-Help Group (SHG) women members to help them achieve the status of 'Lakhpati Baideos'.
2. As per the eligibility criteria, beneficiaries from General and OBC categories must have a maximum of three children, whereas beneficiaries from SC and ST communities are permitted up to four children.
3. The scheme is a 100% centrally sponsored flagship initiative executed directly by the Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: 1 and 2 only

Answer

The option stating '1 and 2 only' is the correct answer.
The correct response recognizes that Statements 1 and 2 accurately describe the primary goal of creating 'Lakhpati Baideos' and the category-wise child eligibility threshold under Assam's Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA). Statement 3 is false because the scheme is entirely driven and funded by the State Government of Assam via the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ASRLM).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate Statement 1 regarding scheme objective and target group.
Statement 1 is CORRECT. The Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA) was launched by Assam to transform rural SHG members into 'Lakhpati Baideos' with annual incomes exceeding ₹1 lakh.
It targets financial empowerment of rural women through micro-business enterprise grants.
2
Evaluate Statement 2 regarding demographic eligibility guidelines.
Statement 2 is CORRECT. The scheme mandates a population control norm: General/OBC beneficiaries must not have more than 3 children, while SC/ST/Moran/Matak/Tea Garden community beneficiaries are granted relaxation up to 4 children.
State welfare schemes frequently tie socio-economic grants with specific demographic policy conditions.
3
Evaluate Statement 3 regarding funding pattern and nodal implementing agency.
Statement 3 is INCORRECT. MMUA is a state government scheme implemented through the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ASRLM) under the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, Government of Assam, rather than a Union MSME Ministry scheme.
Nodal oversight rests with the state government's rural development department.

Key Concept

Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA) Eligibility Norms and Implementing Agency
Estimated Time:2m 0s
Question 167Question

Consider the following statements regarding the recipients and organization of the 66th Ramon Magsaysay Awards (2024). Which of the following statements are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Karma Phuntsho of Bhutan was awarded for his dedication to preserving Bhutan's rich cultural heritage while enhancing educational opportunities.; Hayao Miyazaki of Japan, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, was recognized for using animated films to explore complex human conditions and environmental themes.

Answer

The correct statements are the recognition of Karma Phuntsho of Bhutan for cultural preservation and social education, and Hayao Miyazaki of Japan for his impactful contributions to world animation.
Karma Phuntsho was honored for combining scholarly preservation of Bhutanese traditions with grassroots educational empowerment. Hayao Miyazaki was honored for his decades of cinematic achievements illuminating environmental and human themes.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the statement concerning Karma Phuntsho of Bhutan.
Karma Phuntsho is a former monk and scholar who established the Loden Foundation to preserve Bhutanese heritage and foster education, making this statement accurate.
Verify the awardee's background and recognized contribution.
2
Evaluate the statement concerning Hayao Miyazaki of Japan.
Hayao Miyazaki was officially named one of the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award laureates for his mastery of animation and moral storytelling, making this statement accurate.
Confirm the international cultural figure recognized in 2024.
3
Evaluate the statement regarding the administering body of the award.
The Ramon Magsaysay Award was established in 1957 in memory of the 7th Philippine President and is governed by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation in Manila, not UNESCO.
Identify the institutional origin and headquarters of Asia's premier award.
4
Evaluate the statement concerning Farwiza Farhan's domain of work.
Farwiza Farhan is an environmental activist working to safeguard the Leuser Ecosystem (forest habitat for orangutans and tigers) in Sumatra, not deep-sea oceanography.
Verify the domain of contribution for the recipient.

Key Concept

66th Ramon Magsaysay Awards 2024 Laureates and Foundation History
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 168Question

With reference to the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine and the underlying scientific discoveries, which of the following statements are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The award was conferred for the discovery of microRNA and its fundamental role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.; The landmark experiment that revealed the mechanism of microRNA was initially conducted using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans.

Answer

The statements confirming the discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation, as well as the use of the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, are correct.
The statements highlighting microRNA's discovery in post-transcriptional gene regulation and its identification within the roundworm model organism Caenorhabditis elegans accurately reflect the official scientific citation of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the recipient names and official topic for the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded jointly to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for the discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
Establishing the core event details confirms the core subject of the award.
2
Examine the biological characteristics of microRNA and the experimental model used.
MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNA sequences. The seminal discoveries were made using the transparent nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.
Distinguishes correct biological mechanisms and experimental models from false assertions regarding mRNA vaccines or protein-coding sequences.

Key Concept

2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: microRNA discovery and post-transcriptional gene regulation in Caenorhabditis elegans
Question 169Question

With reference to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) adopted under international biodiversity governance, consider the following statements:

1. It was officially adopted during the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) under the presidency of China.
2. Target 3 of the framework aims to ensure that at least 30% of global terrestrial, inland water, and coastal and marine areas are effectively conserved by 2030.
3. The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF), established to support the implementation of the framework, is directly managed and operated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as a standalone agency mechanism.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: 1 and 2 only

Answer

Statements 1 and 2 are correct, while Statement 3 is incorrect.
The option stating '1 and 2 only' is correct because the KMGBF was indeed adopted under China's presidency at CBD COP15, and Target 3 sets the global landmark goal of protecting 30% of land and ocean ecosystems by 2030. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) is managed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), not directly by UNEP.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate Statement 1 regarding the adoption and presidency of COP15 to the CBD.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) was adopted at CBD COP15 in December 2022 under the presidency of China (held in Montreal, Canada). Thus, Statement 1 is correct.
Verifying the summit title, host presidency, and international convention.
2
Evaluate Statement 2 regarding Target 3 of the KMGBF.
Target 3 explicitly calls for conserving at least 30% of terrestrial, inland water, and coastal/marine areas by 2030 (the '30x30' target). Thus, Statement 2 is correct.
Verifying specific numerical baselines and global conservation targets.
3
Evaluate Statement 3 regarding the institutional management of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF).
The GBFF was established under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) trustee structure (ratified at the GEF Assembly in 2023), not directly managed as a standalone mechanism by UNEP. Thus, Statement 3 is incorrect.
Distinguishing between multilateral funding trustees (GEF) and environmental policy programs (UNEP).

Key Concept

Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) targets and institutional financial mechanisms
Question 170Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission:

1. It is a joint robotic lunar exploration mission undertaken by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the European Space Agency (ESA).
2. The primary objective of the mission is to explore the permanently shadowed regions of the lunar south pole to investigate the quantity and quality of water ice.
3. Under the mission agreement, ISRO is responsible for developing the lunar lander, while JAXA provides the H3 launch vehicle and the lunar rover.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: 2 and 3 only

Answer

Statements 2 and 3 are correct. LUPEX is a joint robotic mission between ISRO (India) and JAXA (Japan), not ESA.
The correct answer identifies that statements 2 and 3 are accurate. LUPEX is designed to analyze water ice in shadowed lunar south pole regions. Under the partnership, ISRO builds the lander, while JAXA supplies the rover and handles the launch using its H3 rocket.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate Statement 1 regarding international partners of the LUPEX mission.
Statement 1 is incorrect because LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration) is a joint collaborative endeavor between ISRO and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), not ESA.
Identifying accurate bilateral agency partnerships in contemporary space missions.
2
Evaluate Statement 2 regarding mission location and scientific goals.
Statement 2 is correct. The mission targets the moon's south pole region to assess water ice abundance and test in-situ resource utilization technologies.
Verifying target celestial coordinates and scientific payloads of lunar probes.
3
Evaluate Statement 3 regarding agency division of responsibilities.
Statement 3 is correct. As per the framework agreement, ISRO leads the development of the lunar lander system, whereas JAXA builds the rover and provides the H3 heavy-lift launch rocket.
Matching specific technological contributions to their respective national space organizations.

Key Concept

Bilateral Space Missions, Rover/Lander Dynamics, and Planetary Exploration in Recent News
Estimated Time:2m 0s
Question 171Question

Regarding the annual observance of National Voters' Day in India, which of the following statements are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: It is celebrated across India on January 25 every year.; The Election Commission of India serves as the primary nodal authority for organizing the national events and activities.

Answer

The statements confirming that National Voters' Day is celebrated on January 25 every year and that the Election Commission of India serves as the primary organizing authority are correct.
National Voters' Day is observed every year on January 25 across India. The Election Commission of India (ECI), established on January 25, 1950, acts as the primary organizing body for the national event aimed at encouraging and enrolling young voters.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Verify the official calendar date for National Voters' Day in India.
National Voters' Day is observed annually on January 25.
It was officially designated by the Union Cabinet to be celebrated every year on January 25 starting from 2011.
2
Determine the historical event associated with the choice of January 25.
January 25 marks the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI), founded on January 25, 1950.
The date commemorates the establishment of the constitutional election body, not the enactment of the Representation of the People Act.
3
Identify the nodal organizing agency and the inception year.
The Election Commission of India organizes the event, and the day was instituted in 2011 (on the 61st foundation day of the ECI).
The ECI utilizes this day to launch voter awareness drives, enroll new young voters, and present national awards.

Key Concept

Commemoration and institutional details of National Voters' Day in India
Question 172Question

Regarding the Sovereign Green Bonds (SGBs) framework and their budgeting treatment in India as presented in recent Union Budgets and Economic Surveys, which of the following statements are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Proceeds raised through Sovereign Green Bonds are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India and subsequently deployed for eligible public sector green projects.; The framework explicitly excludes nuclear power generation and large hydropower projects with capacity exceeding 25 MW from eligible green project expenditure.

Answer

The statements confirming that Sovereign Green Bond proceeds are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India and that nuclear energy along with large hydropower (>25 MW) are excluded from eligible green expenditures are correct.
The framework established for Sovereign Green Bonds ensures that proceeds pass directly through the Consolidated Fund of India for transparent budgetary tracking, while strict environmental criteria exclude nuclear power generation and large hydropower projects above 25 MW from green project eligibility.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the financial accounting mechanism of Sovereign Green Bonds
Green bond issuances form part of the government's gross market borrowing plan under budget receipts and are deposited into the Consolidated Fund of India.
Union Budget guidelines require all sovereign market borrowing to be accounted for under the Consolidated Fund of India.
2
Verify sector eligibility criteria under India's Sovereign Green Bond Framework
Projects eligible for funding focus on renewable energy, clean transportation, energy efficiency, and climate adaptation, while explicitly excluding fossil fuels, nuclear power, and large hydro schemes exceeding 25 MW.
Exclusions ensure compliance with international ESG reporting standards and green taxonomy frameworks.
3
Evaluate the budgetary expenditure classification of interest servicing
Coupon interest servicing is categorized under Revenue Expenditure as part of overall debt servicing costs.
Debt servicing costs do not create physical or financial capital assets directly and are obligatory revenue outlays.

Key Concept

Sovereign Green Bonds Framework and Public Finance Accounting
Question 173Question

Exercise 'SAMPRITI' is a flagship bilateral joint military training exercise conducted annually between the armies of India and which neighboring nation?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Bangladesh

Answer

Bangladesh
Bangladesh is correct because Exercise SAMPRITI is the established bilateral joint army training exercise conducted between India and Bangladesh to enhance tactical military skills and counter-insurgency operations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the partner nation for the bilateral defense exercise named 'SAMPRITI'.
Exercise SAMPRITI is an annual army-to-army joint exercise conducted between India and Bangladesh.
It forms a crucial component of defense cooperation between India and Bangladesh, hosted alternately by both countries.

Key Concept

Bilateral Joint Military Exercises of India
Question 174Question

The Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission, aimed at investigating the lunar south pole region for water ice and lunar resources, is a joint space exploration project between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and which international space agency?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

Answer

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
The correct agency is the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). LUPEX is a planned joint robotic lunar mission by ISRO and JAXA designed to analyze the polar regions of the Moon for water ice presence and suitability for future surface operations. Under the partnership agreement, JAXA supplies the launch system and lunar rover, whereas ISRO provides the lunar lander.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the space mission specified in the question.
The target mission is the Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission.
The question asks for the international partner agency collaborating with ISRO on LUPEX.
2
Recall the primary international partner agency for LUPEX.
LUPEX is a joint mission developed by ISRO (India) and JAXA (Japan).
JAXA is contributing the H3 launch vehicle and lunar rover, while ISRO is designing the lunar lander.

Key Concept

ISRO International Collaborations for Space Missions
Question 175Question

Arrange the following major international climate summits, declarations, and environmental governance milestones in chronological order of their occurrence or formal adoption, from earliest to latest:

Drag items to arrange them in the correct order

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct chronological sequence from earliest to latest is: Adoption of the Paris Agreement (December 2015) → Launch of the Powering Past Coal Alliance (November 2017) → Adoption of the Glasgow Climate Pact (November 2021) → Adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (December 2022) → Operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund at COP28 (November 2023).
The correct sequence begins with the landmark Paris Agreement adopted in December 2015 (COP21). This was followed by the creation of the Powering Past Coal Alliance at COP23 in November 2017. Subsequently, the Glasgow Climate Pact was finalized at COP26 in November 2021. Next, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted at CBD COP15 in December 2022. Finally, the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund occurred on the first day of COP28 in November 2023.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the year and month of adoption for the Paris Agreement
The Paris Agreement was adopted under UNFCCC COP21 in December 2015.
Establishes the base milestone in modern international climate governance.
2
Identify the timeline of the Powering Past Coal Alliance
The PPCA was launched at UNFCCC COP23 in Bonn in November 2017.
Focuses on accelerating the phase-out of traditional coal power generation.
3
Determine the date of the Glasgow Climate Pact
The Glasgow Climate Pact was agreed upon at UNFCCC COP26 in November 2021.
First UNFCCC decision explicitly addressing coal power phase-down.
4
Pinpoint the date for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
The KMGBF was adopted at CBD COP15 in Montreal in December 2022.
Replaced the Aichi Biodiversity Targets for post-2020 global biodiversity action.
5
Determine the timeline for the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund
The Loss and Damage Fund was officially operationalized on the opening day of UNFCCC COP28 in Dubai in November 2023.
Marks the implementation stage following initial agreements at COP27.

Key Concept

Chronological progression of major international environmental conventions, COP declarations, and global climate agreements.
Question 176Question

Consider the following statements regarding the indigenous Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO):

1. It is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS) powered by a dual-thrust solid reaction motor.
2. It is designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges using an unguided radio-frequency command guidance system.
3. The missile system incorporates a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) to ensure high maneuverability during flight.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: 1 and 3 only

Answer

The correct answer is the option containing statements 1 and 3 only.
Statements 1 and 3 accurately describe the defense technology parameters of VSHORADS: it is a dual-thrust solid motor MANPADS that incorporates a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) for high maneuverability. Statement 2 is false because the weapon system employs an advanced integrated Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker for target acquisition and homing.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate Statement 1 regarding system propulsion and classification.
Statement 1 is correct. VSHORADS is an indigenously developed MANPADS equipped with a dual-thrust solid propellant rocket motor.
DRDO designed the system for rapid deployment against low-altitude threats using solid propulsion.
2
Evaluate Statement 2 regarding guidance technology.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The missile utilizes an integrated Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker, not an unguided radio-frequency guidance mechanism.
IIR seekers enable high precision against low RCS aerial targets under electronic warfare environments.
3
Evaluate Statement 3 regarding flight maneuvering control.
Statement 3 is correct. The system integrates a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) alongside integrated avionics.
RCS is essential to provide mid-flight stability and sharp terminal maneuverability at close engagement ranges.

Key Concept

DRDO VSHORADS Missile System Parameters & Guidance Architecture
Question 177Question

Arrange the following historic achievements in Indian sports history in correct chronological order, from the earliest to the most recent event. Which of the sequences correctly represents this timeline?

Drag items to arrange them in the correct order

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct chronological order of the landmark achievements in Indian sports history from earliest to most recent is: 1) K. D. Jadhav winning India's first individual Olympic medal (1952), 2) Prakash Padukone winning the All England Open Badminton title (1980), 3) Karnam Malleswari winning India's first woman Olympic medal (2000), 4) Abhinav Bindra winning India's first individual Olympic Gold medal (2008), and 5) Neeraj Chopra winning India's first track and field Olympic Gold medal (2021).
The correct sequence follows the exact years of each historic achievement: 1952 (K. D. Jadhav's Olympic medal), 1980 (Prakash Padukone's All England victory), 2000 (Karnam Malleswari's Olympic medal), 2008 (Abhinav Bindra's Olympic Gold), and 2021 (Neeraj Chopra's Olympic Gold in athletics).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the year of K. D. Jadhav's Olympic medal win.
K. D. Jadhav won India's first individual Olympic bronze medal in wrestling at the Helsinki Olympic Games in 1952.
This establishes the starting milestone in post-independence individual Olympic success.
2
Determine the year of Prakash Padukone's All England Badminton Championship victory.
Prakash Padukone secured the All England Open Badminton title in 1980.
This was a historic first for Indian badminton on the global stage.
3
Determine the year of Karnam Malleswari's Olympic medal.
Karnam Malleswari secured the bronze medal in weightlifting at the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000.
This was the first time an Indian woman athlete won an Olympic medal.
4
Determine the year of Abhinav Bindra's Olympic Gold medal.
Abhinav Bindra won gold in 10m Air Rifle shooting at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008.
This marked India's first individual gold medal in Olympic history.
5
Determine the year of Neeraj Chopra's Olympic Gold medal in athletics.
Neeraj Chopra won gold in Men's Javelin Throw at the Tokyo Olympic Games (held in 2021).
This marked India's first-ever track and field gold medal at the Olympic Games.

Key Concept

Chronological Milestones in Indian Olympic and International Sports History
Question 178Question

In July 2024, the 'Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty' was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi. Which of the following statements regarding this site is correct?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: It is the first cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site from North-East India.

Answer

The correct statement is that it is the first cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site from North-East India.
The Moidams of Charaideo, Assam, represent the 600-year-old mound-burial tradition of the Ahom kings and royalty. In July 2024, it became India's 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds the distinction of being the first cultural World Heritage Site from North-East India.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the event and designation
In July 2024, during the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, 'Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty' (located in Charaideo, Assam) was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Establishing the precise background context of the news item.
2
Evaluate the category and milestone significance
This site became India's 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site. While Kaziranga and Manas were already recognized under the 'Natural' category, Moidams is the very first site from North-East India recognized under the 'Cultural' category.
Verifying the unique category distinction essential for State PSC current affairs.

Key Concept

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (Places in News 2024)
Question 179Question

Regarding the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) being developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for demonstrating autonomous spacecraft rendezvous and docking technologies, which of the following statements are correct?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The mission utilizes twin experimental satellites—designated as Target and Chaser—co-manifested and launched together aboard a single Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).; The primary objective is to validate key technologies required for the proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) and future lunar sample return missions.

Answer

The statements confirming that the mission launches twin satellites (Target and Chaser) on a single PSLV and that it validates core technologies for the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and lunar sample return are correct.
The correct statements correctly identify the core architecture of SpaDeX: launching twin satellites (Target and Chaser) together on a single launch vehicle, and validating autonomous docking technologies essential for long-term Indian space programs like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and sample return missions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze mission configuration and launch strategy
SpaDeX involves launching two small spacecraft (Chaser and Target) simultaneously using a single PSLV vehicle into Low Earth Orbit.
Co-manifesting two satellites on a single launcher minimizes cost and enables precise initial relative positioning.
2
Evaluate operational orbit and control mechanism
Rendezvous and docking operations occur in low Earth orbit (around 700 km altitude) using onboard autonomous navigation (LiDAR, optical cameras, thrusters) rather than ground-manual control or high-altitude GTO placement.
Ground signal latency prevents manual real-time control during delicate final docking approaches in space.
3
Assess strategic significance for Indian space roadmap
Autonomous space docking technology is a critical building block for modular space station construction (Bharatiya Antariksh Station), human spaceflight operations, and lunar sample return operations.
Joining two structures in orbit is essential when single launch vehicles cannot lift massive single-piece payloads.

Key Concept

ISRO Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) and Autonomous Spacecraft Rendezvous
Question 180Question

Match the joint military exercises of the Indian Armed Forces in List-I with their corresponding partner nations in List-II. Which is the correct pairing of exercises to their partner nations?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Exercise Surya Kiran
Exercise Ekuverin
Exercise Mitra Shakti
Exercise Nomad Elephant

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Exercise Surya Kiran matches with Nepal, Exercise Ekuverin matches with Maldives, Exercise Mitra Shakti matches with Sri Lanka, and Exercise Nomad Elephant matches with Mongolia.
Each military exercise uniquely pairs with its partner nation: Exercise Surya Kiran is conducted with Nepal, Exercise Ekuverin with the Maldives, Exercise Mitra Shakti with Sri Lanka, and Exercise Nomad Elephant with Mongolia.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Pair Exercise Surya Kiran with its participating partner nation.
Surya Kiran matches with Nepal.
Surya Kiran is a long-standing bilateral Army exercise conducted between India and Nepal.
2
Pair Exercise Ekuverin with its participating partner nation.
Ekuverin matches with Maldives.
Ekuverin is alternatingly hosted in India and the Maldives for land-based counter-terrorism training.
3
Pair Exercise Mitra Shakti with its participating partner nation.
Mitra Shakti matches with Sri Lanka.
Mitra Shakti is designed to bolster defense cooperation and sub-unit level counter-insurgency operations between India and Sri Lanka.
4
Pair Exercise Nomad Elephant with its participating partner nation.
Nomad Elephant matches with Mongolia.
Nomad Elephant focuses on tactical operations under UN mandates between the armies of India and Mongolia.

Key Concept

Bilateral Joint Military Exercises of India and Partner Nations
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