Indian science & technology – identifying “Apsara” In the context of India’s scientific achievements, “Apsara” is the name of the country’s first what?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Nuclear Reactor

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Post-independence, India rapidly developed capabilities in atomic energy. The name “Apsara” is historically significant because it marks India’s entry into the nuclear era for research and isotopes, making it a common general knowledge and science quiz item.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We must identify the category of the first Indian facility named “Apsara.”
  • The choices span transportation, defense, and science/technology domains.
  • Only one matches the historical record.


Concept / Approach:
“Apsara” was India’s first nuclear research reactor, commissioned at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (then Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay) in 1956. It was a swimming-pool–type reactor used for research, neutron activation, and radioisotope production. It is unrelated to locomotives, helicopters, tanks, or satellites.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall India’s early atomic energy milestones: Apsara (1956) as first reactor.Eliminate transport and defense items: these have different names and eras (for example, Arjun tank, Dhruv helicopter, WDM locomotives).Select the science/technology option “Nuclear Reactor.”


Verification / Alternative check:
Atomic Energy Commission records and historical retrospectives cite Apsara's commissioning and role in establishing nuclear research infrastructure in India.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Railway Locomotive: India's first locomotives long predate 1956 and did not carry the name “Apsara.”
  • Helicopter: Indigenous programs use different names.
  • Main Battle Tank: India's Arjun MBT arrived decades later.
  • Communications Satellite: INSAT series came later; “Apsara” is not a satellite.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up codenames across domains. Many Indian programs have evocative names; focus on the timeline and sector.


Final Answer:
Nuclear Reactor

More Questions from Famous Places

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion