Question 1

Mission Indradhanush, a programme introduced by the Government of India, is related to which key public health initiative?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Mission Indradhanush is a flagship public health programme launched by the Government of India to strengthen immunization coverage. Exams frequently ask about government schemes, their objectives, and the sector they target. This question focuses on recognising that Mission Indradhanush is directly linked to vaccination, particularly of children and pregnant women, rather than to insurance, agriculture, or fisheries. Given Data / Assumptions: The scheme mentioned is Mission Indradhanush, introduced by the Government led by the National Democratic Alliance. The options describe various types of welfare and development programmes. The task is to identify the sector and specific purpose associated with this mission. Concept / Approach: The key idea is to connect the name of the mission with its policy focus. Mission Indradhanush uses the idea of a seven colour rainbow to symbolise immunization against multiple vaccine preventable diseases. The programme aims to increase the proportion of fully immunized children and to reach those who have been missed in routine immunization rounds. Therefore, out of the four options, the one that talks about systematic immunization of children is the correct match. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the exact wording of the question, which refers to a government programme and asks what sector or purpose it relates to.Step 2: Recall that Mission Indradhanush is linked to the health sector, not crop insurance, fisheries, or cropping patterns.Step 3: Remember that the mission targets children and pregnant women who are either partially immunized or have never received vaccines, with the goal of increasing full immunization coverage.Step 4: Match this description with the options and see that systematic immunization of children against disease fits accurately. Verification / Alternative check: Information about Mission Indradhanush in official documents and health ministry releases clearly states that it focuses on improving immunization coverage by conducting special vaccination drives in high risk areas. It does not mention crop insurance, fisheries development, or multiple cropping in hilly regions as its main objective. This confirms that the correct interpretation relates to child immunization. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Providing insurance cover to farmers against crop failure: This describes agricultural risk management schemes, not a health mission like Indradhanush. Development of fisheries in rural areas: This would fall under schemes related to fisheries and animal husbandry, which are unrelated to the name and purpose of Mission Indradhanush. Development of multiple cropping in hilly region: This option refers to agricultural practices and land use, which again do not match the medical and vaccination focus of the mission. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes confuse Mission Indradhanush with other colourful names in policy, such as agricultural or financial programmes. Overreliance on guesswork based solely on the name can mislead if one assumes that the word Indradhanush must relate to agriculture or environment. To avoid this, it is important to associate each scheme with its sector and main objective through regular revision of government initiatives and their brief descriptions. Final Answer: Mission Indradhanush is related to the systematic immunization of children against disease.

Question 2

Who was the first woman to become Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Questions on first women in various political offices are very popular in competitive exams. They highlight milestones in the political and social history of India. This question asks about the first woman who became Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, one of the most politically significant states in the country. Given Data / Assumptions: The state concerned is Uttar Pradesh. The question is specifically about the first woman Chief Minister, not the first Chief Minister overall. The options include several prominent women leaders and one social reformer associated with India. Concept / Approach: The approach is to recall the chronology of female leadership in Indian states. Sucheta Kriplani, a freedom fighter and close associate of national leaders, became Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in the 1960s, making her the first woman to hold that position in the state. Other women leaders listed in the options either never served as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or held different roles, so careful recall of their political careers is required. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on Uttar Pradesh and identify women who have served as Chief Minister there.Step 2: Recall that Sucheta Kriplani served as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh during the mid twentieth century and is widely cited as the first woman Chief Minister of any state in India.Step 3: Review the other options: Annie Besant was a theosophist and political activist but not a Chief Minister, Mayawati served as Chief Minister later, and Vijayalakshmi Pandit held diplomatic and legislative positions rather than this particular office.Step 4: Conclude that Sucheta Kriplani is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Historical records on Indian state governments confirm that Sucheta Kriplani was appointed Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in the 1960s, becoming the first woman to lead a state government in India. Subsequent female Chief Ministers in the state, such as Mayawati, came later, which supports the correctness of this choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Annie Besant: She was a prominent theosophist and freedom movement leader but never served as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Mayawati: She has served multiple terms as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh but came much later, so she is not the first woman to hold that office. Vijayalakshmi Pandit: She was a distinguished diplomat and the first woman President of the United Nations General Assembly, but she did not become Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to select Mayawati because she is a very well known recent Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, and candidates may overlook earlier history. Another error is to be influenced by general fame rather than specific facts about offices held. To avoid such confusion, aspirants should link each leader with the exact role and time period for which they are known. Remember that the word first in the question is crucial and must guide the choice. Final Answer: The first woman Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh was Sucheta Kriplani.

Question 3

In the Indian National Flag, what does the wheel (Ashoka Chakra) in the centre primarily represent?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Indian National Flag is rich with symbolism. Each colour and symbol carries a deeper meaning. The navy blue wheel in the centre of the flag, known as the Ashoka Chakra, often appears in exam questions that test knowledge of national symbols and their associated values. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the wheel in the middle of the Indian flag, called the Ashoka Chakra. We must identify its primary symbolic meaning among the given options. The options suggest concepts such as speed, truth, growth, and future. Concept / Approach: The Ashoka Chakra is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka and represents the Dharma Chakra, or the wheel of law and righteousness. It conveys ideas of truth, justice, and continuous progress. While movement and progress are associated with a wheel, the core value represented in the context of the national flag is adherence to dharma and truth. Therefore, truth is the closest and most accurate concept among the listed options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Indian National Flag consists of saffron, white, and green horizontal bands with a navy blue wheel at the centre of the white band.Step 2: Identify this wheel as the Ashoka Chakra, which has 24 spokes and is associated with Emperor Ashoka and the idea of Dharma.Step 3: Understand that Dharma in this context refers to moral law, righteousness, and truth in life and governance.Step 4: Match this understanding with the options and see that truth best reflects the symbolic meaning of the wheel. Verification / Alternative check: Descriptions in official and historical sources about the Indian flag clarify that the Ashoka Chakra stands for the eternal wheel of law and the path of righteousness. Truth and justice are central to this idea. While continuous motion and progress are also implied, they are guided by truth and ethical principles, which makes truth the preferred interpretation in simplified exam options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Speed: Although a wheel suggests motion, speed alone does not capture the deeper moral and spiritual significance of the Ashoka Chakra. Growth: National growth is important, but the wheel specifically symbolises the moral law of Dharma, not growth in economic or physical terms. Future: The flag as a whole may represent hopes for the future, but the wheel is tied more closely to timeless principles of truth and justice than to a general notion of future. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may focus too literally on the physical nature of a wheel and choose speed or growth, missing the historical and philosophical context of the symbol. Others might think in very broad terms and pick future. The correct approach is to connect the Ashoka Chakra with Dharma Chakra and then with truth and righteousness. Knowing the origin of the symbol in Buddhist and Mauryan history helps remove ambiguity and avoid guesswork. Final Answer: The wheel in the centre of the Indian National Flag primarily represents truth and the wheel of Dharma.

Question 4

Which institution is recognised as India's oldest credit information bureau?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Credit information bureaus play a key role in modern financial systems. They collect and maintain records of individuals credit histories and help banks and financial institutions assess creditworthiness. In India, one particular bureau is widely recognised as the first and oldest such organisation. This question tests awareness of that institution. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks for India's oldest credit information bureau. The options include RBI, CIBIL, NABARD, and UTI. Only one of these is actually a credit information bureau, while the others serve different financial roles. Concept / Approach: The approach is to identify which option is a credit information bureau and then recall which one is considered the earliest established in India. CIBIL, which stands for Credit Information Bureau India Limited, was set up to collect and share information on credit behaviour. RBI is the central bank, NABARD focuses on agriculture and rural development, and UTI was an investment institution. Thus, CIBIL is the correct choice as the oldest credit information bureau in the country. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that a credit information bureau records and provides credit history data to lenders.Step 2: From the options, identify CIBIL as the organisation whose full name, Credit Information Bureau India Limited, directly indicates this function.Step 3: Note that RBI is the central bank responsible for monetary policy and regulation, not a credit bureau.Step 4: Understand that NABARD deals with agriculture and rural development finance, and UTI was a mutual fund and investment institution, so neither matches the bureau function.Step 5: Conclude that CIBIL is India's oldest credit information bureau. Verification / Alternative check: Financial sector references clearly state that CIBIL was the first credit information company to start operations in India. Later, other credit bureaus entered the market, but CIBIL retains the distinction of being the oldest and one of the most widely used by banks and financial institutions. This supports the correctness of the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: RBI: The Reserve Bank of India is the central bank, not a credit information bureau, although it regulates banking and financial systems. NABARD: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development focuses on development finance in rural areas and does not function as a consumer credit bureau. UTI: The Unit Trust of India was an investment and mutual fund institution, and it does not perform the role of maintaining and sharing credit histories for individuals and firms. Common Pitfalls: A common error is to select RBI or NABARD simply because these names are familiar and associated with finance or banking. Candidates may overlook the specific term credit information bureau and fail to match it correctly with CIBIL. It is important to pay attention to the core function described in the question rather than relying on general familiarity with an institution's name. Final Answer: India's oldest credit information bureau is CIBIL, the Credit Information Bureau India Limited.

Question 5

Santhara is a religious ritual associated with which community in India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Santhara, also known as Sallekhana, is a religious practice that has been discussed in ethics, law, and religion debates in India. Understanding which religious community observes this ritual is important for questions on religion, culture, and legal issues in competitive examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the religious ritual Santhara. We must identify the community with which this ritual is associated. The options list Sikhs, Jews, Jains, and Buddhists. Concept / Approach: Santhara or Sallekhana refers to a voluntary vow to gradually renounce food and liquids at the end of life, undertaken in a spirit of detachment and spiritual discipline. This practice is described in the religious and philosophical texts of Jainism. Therefore, to answer correctly, one must associate this term with the Jain community rather than with other major world religions that have different rituals and end of life practices. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Jainism places strong emphasis on non violence, renunciation, and control over desires.Step 2: Remember that Santhara or Sallekhana is discussed in Jain teachings as a ritual fast unto death under specific conditions, usually in old age or terminal illness, carried out calmly and with spiritual preparation.Step 3: Compare each option and note that there is no equivalent ritual commonly called Santhara among Sikhs, Jews, or Buddhists.Step 4: Conclude that the community associated with Santhara is the Jain community. Verification / Alternative check: Discussions in legal and religious studies clearly identify Santhara as a Jain practice that has been the subject of court cases and public debate in India. It is consistently connected with Jain scriptures and Jain monastic and lay traditions. This confirms that linking Santhara with the Jain community is accurate. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Sikhs: Sikhism has its own distinct practices and beliefs, but Santhara is not part of Sikh religious ritual. Jews: Judaism has ancient traditions and laws, yet there is no religious ritual called Santhara within Jewish practice. Buddhists: Buddhism emphasizes non attachment and meditation, but the term Santhara specifically belongs to Jain religious vocabulary, not standard Buddhist ritual terminology. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may confuse Jainism and Buddhism because both originated in ancient India and promote non violence and renunciation. Without careful study, this can lead to guessing Buddhists as the answer. Another mistake is choosing Sikhs due to general familiarity with Sikh identity. To avoid such errors, it is important to remember that Santhara or Sallekhana is specifically linked to Jain religious practice and legal debates involving the Jain community. Final Answer: Santhara is a religious ritual associated with the Jain community.

Question 6

Which mountain range is regarded as the oldest mountains in India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Physical geography questions often ask about the age, location, and significance of major landforms. This question focuses on the oldest mountain range in India, a key fact for understanding the geological history of the Indian subcontinent. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks which range is regarded as the oldest mountains in India. The options are Western Ghats, Satpura Range, Aravallis, and Eastern Ghats. We assume the standard geological classification taught in school and college geography. Concept / Approach: The Aravalli Range is widely regarded as one of the oldest fold mountain systems in India, with origins dating back to very early geological eras. In contrast, the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and Satpura Range are comparatively younger in geological terms. Therefore, recognising the Aravallis as an ancient, highly eroded range that runs roughly from the Delhi region to Gujarat leads us to the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: List the mountain ranges mentioned in the options and recall basic facts about each.Step 2: Remember that the Aravalli Range is an old fold mountain system that has undergone long periods of weathering and erosion, giving it rounded peaks and low heights compared with young mountains.Step 3: Note that the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats are major highlands along the coasts, but they are not considered as old as the Aravallis in geological time.Step 4: Recognise that the Satpura Range is a central Indian range formed more recently than the ancient Aravalli system.Step 5: Conclude that Aravallis is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Standard geography textbooks and competitive exam guides consistently state that the Aravalli Range is among the oldest mountain ranges in India and indeed among the oldest fold mountain systems in the world. Its worn down relief and geological studies support this classification, confirming that it is older than the other ranges mentioned in the options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Western Ghats: These are a long and important mountain chain along the western coast, but they are not cited as the oldest Indian mountains. Satpura Range: Located in central India, this range is geologically younger compared with the Aravallis. Eastern Ghats: These discontinuous hills along the eastern coast are also not considered as ancient as the Aravalli system. Common Pitfalls: Confusion may arise because many candidates associate age with how worn down a range looks, and several Indian ranges appear old and eroded. Without specific study, learners might guess Western Ghats or Eastern Ghats. To avoid this, it is important to memorise that the Aravalli Range is cited in exam oriented geography as the oldest mountain range in India, due to its very ancient geological origin. Final Answer: The oldest mountains in India are the Aravallis.

Question 7

Ghumura is a traditional folk dance belonging to which Indian state?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: India has a rich tradition of folk dances, each associated with specific states and cultural regions. Knowing the correct pairing of folk dance and state is a common requirement in general knowledge examinations. This question asks about the folk dance Ghumura and the state it belongs to. Given Data / Assumptions: The folk dance in question is Ghumura. The options list Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Maharashtra. We assume standard cultural classifications used in Indian arts and culture references. Concept / Approach: Ghumura is a traditional dance form from parts of Odisha and is often performed with a distinctive drum called Ghumura. It has martial and folk elements and is associated with festivals and cultural programmes in that region. To answer this question, one must correctly associate Ghumura with Odisha rather than confusing it with dances from other states. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall common pairings of folk dances and states, such as Bihu with Assam, Garba with Gujarat, and Ghumura with Odisha.Step 2: Identify that Ghumura uses a special drum and energetic movements, and that it is traditionally performed in parts of western Odisha.Step 3: Compare the options and recognise that Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Maharashtra have their own well known folk dances, but none of them is called Ghumura.Step 4: Conclude that the correct state for Ghumura is Odisha. Verification / Alternative check: Sources on Indian dance and culture attribute Ghumura to Odisha, particularly to regions like Kalahandi and neighbouring districts. It is featured in state level cultural events and official descriptions of Odishan folk traditions. This consistent association verifies that Odisha is the correct answer for the state linked to Ghumura. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Andhra Pradesh: While it has many folk dances such as Kuchipudi and Burrakatha, Ghumura is not one of them. Jammu and Kashmir: Its folk forms include Rouf and other regional dances, but Ghumura is not associated with this northern region. Maharashtra: Famous folk forms here include Lavani and Tamasha, whereas Ghumura belongs to Odisha. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes attempt to guess based on the sound of the name without prior knowledge of the pairing, which may lead them to choose any state randomly. Another mistake is confusing Ghumura with other folk dances that also use drums or vigorous movements. Regular revision of state dance lists and making simple mental associations between dance names and state names can help avoid such errors. Final Answer: Ghumura is a folk dance of the Indian state of Odisha.

Question 8

On which material is the famous painting Mona Lisa created?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Mona Lisa is one of the most famous paintings in the world and is often used as an example in art history and general knowledge questions. While many people recognise the painting and its artist, fewer are aware of the exact material on which it was painted. This question tests that specific piece of knowledge. Given Data / Assumptions: The painting concerned is the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. The options list stone, wood, paper, and metal sheet as possible supports. We assume the standard art historical description of the work held in the Louvre Museum. Concept / Approach: The Mona Lisa is a panel painting created using oil paint on a wooden panel, specifically a poplar wood panel. It is not a canvas, paper, stone, or metal sheet painting. Recognising that many Renaissance paintings were done on wooden panels helps narrow down the correct choice among the different materials mentioned. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Leonardo da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa during the Renaissance period.Step 2: Remember that panel paintings from this era were typically executed on wood rather than on stone, paper, or metal.Step 3: Identify that art references describe the Mona Lisa as an oil painting on a poplar wood panel.Step 4: Compare this information with the options and select wood as the correct material. Verification / Alternative check: Art catalogues and museum descriptions of the Mona Lisa clearly state that it is an oil on wood panel painting. The Louvre Museum, where the painting is displayed, also describes it as painted on a poplar wood panel. There is no mention of stone, paper, or metal sheet as the support, so this evidence verifies that wood is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Stone: Paintings on stone exist, but Mona Lisa is not one of them and there is no evidence of it being executed on stone. Paper: Paper is commonly used for sketches and prints, but the Mona Lisa is a finished panel painting, not a work on paper. Metal sheet: Some later artworks use metal supports, but Leonardo's famous portrait is not on a metal sheet. Common Pitfalls: Many people assume that all famous paintings are on canvas and may not pay attention to the specific medium used in earlier periods. Since canvas is not listed here, some candidates may guess paper or stone without recalling the art historical details. To avoid confusion, it is helpful to remember that Mona Lisa is a Renaissance oil painting on a wooden panel, which is a common support for works from that era. Final Answer: The Mona Lisa is painted in oil on a wooden panel, so the correct material is wood.

Question 9

In biology, Gregor Mendel is popularly known as the father of which field?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Gregor Mendel conducted pioneering experiments on pea plants that laid the foundation for our understanding of inheritance. Questions in biology and general science often ask which scientific field he is associated with as a founding figure. This question uses that classic recognition test. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks how Mendel is popularly titled in relation to a scientific field. The options pair him with physiology, geology, genetics, or biology in general. We assume basic knowledge of school level biology and inheritance. Concept / Approach: Mendel systematically studied how traits such as flower colour and seed shape were passed from one generation of pea plants to the next. From his observations, he formulated the laws of inheritance, such as the law of segregation and the law of independent assortment. These principles are central to the field of genetics. For this reason, he is widely called the Father of Genetics, not the father of physiology, geology, or biology as a whole. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the experiments Mendel did with pea plants, focusing on traits and their inheritance patterns.Step 2: Note that his work directly concerns how traits are passed from parents to offspring, which is the domain of genetics.Step 3: Recognise that physiology deals with functions of organisms, geology with Earth and rocks, and biology broadly covers all life sciences, while genetics is the specific field shaped by Mendel's laws.Step 4: Match this understanding with the options and select Father of Genetics as the correct title. Verification / Alternative check: Biology textbooks and reference works consistently refer to Mendel as the Father of Genetics. They emphasise that his laws of inheritance formed the basis for later molecular and population genetics. There is no parallel tradition calling him the founding figure of physiology, geology, or the entire field of biology, which confirms the accepted title. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Father of Physiology: This title is not associated with Mendel; his work did not primarily address physiological processes such as organ function. Father of Geology: Geology concerns rocks and Earth structure, and Mendel did not work in that field. Father of Biology: Biology is a broad discipline, and while Mendel is very important, the title Father of Genetics is specific and widely used, rather than a general father of all biology. Common Pitfalls: A few candidates may be misled by the more general sounding Father of Biology option, especially if they only loosely remember that Mendel did something important in life sciences. Others might confuse Mendel with other key figures like Darwin. Careful reading and recall that Mendel's key contribution is about heredity and genes will guide you to genetics as the correct field. Final Answer: Gregor Mendel is popularly known as the Father of Genetics.

Question 10

Which country was the largest overseas investment destination for India during the financial year 2015–2016?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Foreign direct investment and overseas investment patterns are important in economic and business studies. India invests capital in various countries, and some destinations have historically attracted a large share of Indian overseas investment. This question asks which country held that position in the financial year 2015 to 2016. Given Data / Assumptions: The time frame is clearly specified as the financial year 2015 to 2016. We must choose the largest overseas investment destination for India from the options. The options are Mauritius, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, and Australia. Concept / Approach: Historically, Mauritius has been a major route for investments between India and the rest of the world due to tax treaties and its role as a financial centre. It has often been reported as a top source and destination in investment statistics involving India. In the year mentioned, data indicated that Mauritius attracted the largest share of India's overseas investment among the listed countries. Recognising this pattern leads us to select Mauritius. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the question is about outward investment from India, not inward foreign direct investment.Step 2: Recall that Mauritius has a long history as a preferred jurisdiction for Indian businesses due to its financial and tax framework.Step 3: Consider that Switzerland is known for banking, Saudi Arabia for energy, and Australia for natural resources and education links, but in the specific year 2015 to 2016, Mauritius stood out in many reports as a leading investment destination.Step 4: Based on these patterns and reports, select Mauritius as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Economic surveys and finance ministry data from that period indicate that a significant portion of Indian overseas investments was routed to Mauritius. Other destinations such as Singapore and the United States are also important in broader statistics, but among the options listed here, Mauritius clearly appears as the top investment destination at that time. This supports the validity of the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Switzerland: While it is a major global financial centre, it was not identified as the largest overseas investment destination for India in that specific financial year. Saudi Arabia: Relations involve trade in oil and energy, but it has not typically been the top destination for India's overseas investments. Australia: There are strong links in mining, education, and services, yet the volume of Indian outbound investment in the year mentioned did not exceed that directed to Mauritius. Common Pitfalls: Candidates might focus only on famous financial hubs such as Switzerland or on countries with strong trade ties and ignore the specific patterns of investment flows. Another pitfall is mixing up inward and outward investment data. To answer correctly, it is essential to remember that Mauritius has historically been a central route for Indian investment and has often topped lists of investment destinations during that period. Final Answer: In the financial year 2015–2016, Mauritius was the largest overseas investment destination for India among the given options.

Question 11

As a river enters the plain, it twists and turns forming large bends. What are these bends called?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Fluvial geomorphology deals with how rivers shape the land. One common landform feature created by rivers flowing through plains is a series of large bends. This question tests recognition of the correct term used in geography to describe those bends. Given Data / Assumptions: The situation is a river entering a plain where its gradient decreases. As the slope reduces, the river starts twisting and turning. We must identify the technical term for the large bends that result. Concept / Approach: When a river flows in a low gradient plain, its velocity changes from one side of the channel to the other, causing erosion on the outer bank and deposition on the inner bank. Over time, this process leads to pronounced sinuous curves called meanders. Terms like crooks, flections, or rounds are not the standard geographical term for these features. Hence, meanders is the correct concept. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Visualise a river leaving a steep slope and moving onto a flat plain, where its speed and energy distribution change.Step 2: Recall that in plains, rivers often swing from side to side, cutting into the outer banks and depositing on the inner banks.Step 3: Note that over time this process creates looping curves in the river course.Step 4: Remember the standard term used in geography for these curves, which is meanders.Step 5: Match this understanding with the options and select meanders. Verification / Alternative check: School and college geography textbooks describe meandering as a characteristic feature of mature stage rivers in plains. Diagrams illustrating river courses frequently label these large bends as meanders. None of the other option words are used in formal geomorphology to describe such features, which confirms that meanders is the correct term. Why Other Options Are Wrong: crooks: This is not a technical geomorphological term for river bends in standard textbooks. flections: The term inflection exists in mathematics and other contexts, but flections is not used as the name of river bends. rounds: Rivers may look rounded in places, but rounds is not the proper geographical name for these large bends. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may be unfamiliar with the standard term and try to guess by choosing whichever word sounds closest to a curve. Without prior exposure, they might think crooks or rounds could fit. To avoid this, it is important to memorise that the correct technical term for large river bends in plains is meanders and to associate it with diagrams of looping river courses seen in textbooks. Final Answer: The large bends formed when a river twists and turns in a plain are called meanders.

Question 12

Who designed the famous monument Gol Gumbaz?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Gol Gumbaz is one of the most prominent historical monuments in India, famous for its massive dome and whispering gallery. Exam questions on art and architecture frequently ask about the designers or architects of such monuments. This question focuses on identifying who designed Gol Gumbaz. Given Data / Assumptions: The monument in question is Gol Gumbaz. We must choose its designer from four historically known architects. The options include Ustad Ahmad of Lahouri, George Wittet, Henry Irwin, and Yaqut of Dabul. Concept / Approach: Gol Gumbaz, located in Bijapur in Karnataka, is the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Historical records credit its design to the architect Yaqut of Dabul. The other architects mentioned in the options are associated with different famous buildings, so recognising which monument each name belongs to is the key to answering correctly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Gol Gumbaz is known for having one of the largest unsupported domes in the world and is a major Deccan era structure.Step 2: Remember that Yaqut of Dabul served as the architect responsible for designing this grand mausoleum.Step 3: Note that Ustad Ahmad of Lahouri is commonly linked with the design of the Taj Mahal and some other Mughal structures.Step 4: Recognise that George Wittet designed the Gateway of India and Henry Irwin was associated with certain colonial buildings in India.Step 5: Conclude that the designer of Gol Gumbaz is Yaqut of Dabul. Verification / Alternative check: Architecture references and historical descriptions of Gol Gumbaz consistently attribute its design to Yaqut of Dabul. In contrast, Ustad Ahmad is listed as architect of the Taj Mahal, George Wittet for the Gateway of India, and Henry Irwin for several Indo Saracenic style buildings. This clear matching of names and monuments confirms Yaqut of Dabul as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Ustad Ahmad of Lahouri: Known primarily for the Taj Mahal and not associated with Gol Gumbaz. George Wittet: Designed the Gateway of India in Mumbai, not Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur. Henry Irwin: Associated with colonial era buildings such as the Mysore Palace and does not appear in historical records as designer of Gol Gumbaz. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes confuse famous architects and their works, especially in a long list of monuments and names. Because Ustad Ahmad of Lahouri and George Wittet are also well known, they may be chosen incorrectly. To avoid mistakes, it is helpful to build a small mental map linking each key architect with their most famous structure and to revise these pairings regularly for art and culture sections of competitive exams. Final Answer: The famous monument Gol Gumbaz was designed by Yaqut of Dabul.

Question 13

In April 2017, which country abolished the 457 Visa Programme that had been used by many temporary foreign workers, including Indians?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Visa policy changes in popular destination countries have a direct impact on migration, employment, and education plans for people around the world, including Indians. The 457 Visa Programme was a well known temporary work visa category that allowed employers to sponsor skilled workers. This question asks which country abolished that programme in April 2017. Given Data / Assumptions: The programme is called the 457 Visa Programme. It was abolished in April 2017. The options are USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Concept / Approach: The 457 visa was specific to Australia and was designed for temporary skilled workers sponsored by Australian employers. In 2017, the Australian government announced that it would abolish this visa category and replace it with new visa classes with stricter conditions. Recognising that this visa is Australian and not American, Canadian, or British is the key to finding the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the term 457 visa is most often associated with Australian immigration policy.Step 2: Remember that in April 2017 the Australian government announced reforms that included ending the 457 visa and introducing new skilled visa categories.Step 3: Compare this with the options and note that USA, Canada, and the UK have different visa naming systems, such as H 1B in the United States or Tier categories in the UK.Step 4: Conclude that the country that abolished the 457 Visa Programme was Australia. Verification / Alternative check: News reports and official immigration updates from 2017 describe how Australia decided to phase out the 457 visa and replace it with visas focused on Australian workers and specific skill shortages. No similar 457 visa exists in the USA, Canada, or the UK, which have their own distinct visa codes. This evidence confirms that Australia is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: USA: Known for visas like H 1B and L 1, not for a 457 visa programme. Canada: Uses work permit and express entry systems with different names and numbers, not 457. UK: Uses Tier based visa categories, so 457 is not part of its system. Common Pitfalls: Confusion can arise if candidates do not pay attention to specific visa names and simply associate any visa change with the United States or other popular destinations. Some may guess based on media coverage about US visa reforms, but the 457 code is uniquely linked with Australia. Remembering at least a few key visa codes by country can prevent such mistakes and improve accuracy in exam questions on international migration policies. Final Answer: The 457 Visa Programme was abolished by Australia in April 2017.

Question 14

Where was Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of the Sikh religion, born?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Guru Nanak Dev is the founder of the Sikh religion and a central figure in Indian religious history. Questions about his life, especially his birthplace, are frequently asked in exams that cover religion, culture, and history. This question asks you to recall the specific place where he was born. Given Data / Assumptions: The person in question is Guru Nanak Dev. The options include Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi, and Patna Sahib. We assume knowledge of Sikh history and important associated places. Concept / Approach: Guru Nanak Dev was born in a place historically known as Talwandi, which is now called Nankana Sahib and lies in present day Pakistan. Amritsar and Anandpur Sahib are important Sikh religious centres, and Patna Sahib is associated mainly with Guru Gobind Singh. Recognising the correct pairing of Guru Nanak Dev with Talwandi is essential to answering this question correctly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Guru Nanak Dev is the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism.Step 2: Remember that historical accounts state his birthplace as Talwandi, which later came to be known as Nankana Sahib.Step 3: Note that Amritsar became an important Sikh centre later, particularly due to the Golden Temple, and is not Guru Nanak Dev's birthplace.Step 4: Understand that Anandpur Sahib and Patna Sahib are linked with other events and Gurus, especially Guru Gobind Singh for Patna Sahib.Step 5: Conclude that Talwandi is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Biographical sources on Guru Nanak Dev consistently mention Talwandi as his birthplace, later renamed Nankana Sahib. This town is now located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. None of the other places listed in the options is described as his birthplace, though they are important Sikh centres for other reasons. This confirms Talwandi as the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Amritsar: This city is the location of the Harmandir Sahib or Golden Temple, but it is not Guru Nanak Dev's birthplace. Anandpur Sahib: This place is historically important for later Sikh Gurus and events, not for the birth of Guru Nanak Dev. Patna Sahib: Associated mainly with Guru Gobind Singh, who was born there, not with Guru Nanak Dev. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may pick Amritsar simply because it is strongly associated with Sikhism and is very famous. Others may confuse the birthplaces of different Gurus. To avoid these mistakes, it is helpful to remember that Guru Nanak Dev was born at Talwandi or Nankana Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh at Patna Sahib, and that Amritsar and Anandpur Sahib became major centres at later points in Sikh history. Final Answer: Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of the Sikh religion, was born at Talwandi.

Question 15

The 48th World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting was held in which country?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The World Economic Forum holds its well known annual meeting in Davos, attracting global leaders from business, politics, and civil society. Exams often ask about the location of specific editions of this meeting. This question focuses on the country where the 48th annual meeting took place. Given Data / Assumptions: The event is the 48th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. The options list Australia, China, Switzerland, and France. Davos is the usual host city for WEF annual meetings. Concept / Approach: The key idea is to recall that Davos, the long standing venue for WEF annual meetings, is a town in Switzerland. Therefore, even if one does not remember the exact year, knowing the standard location of WEF annual gatherings allows you to identify the correct country as Switzerland. The other options do host many global events but are not the usual site for this particular annual meeting. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the WEF annual meeting known as Davos takes place in a town called Davos in Europe.Step 2: Identify that Davos is in Switzerland, not in Australia, China, or France.Step 3: Note that the 48th annual meeting continued the tradition of being held in Davos.Step 4: Therefore, select Switzerland as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Official WEF announcements and news reports describe the 48th annual meeting as taking place in Davos, Switzerland. While the WEF may host regional meetings in other countries, the main annual Davos meeting is closely associated with Switzerland. This confirms that among the given options, Switzerland is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Australia: Hosts conferences and summits, but it is not the regular location for WEF annual Davos meetings. China: Has hosted WEF regional and summer meetings, but the main 48th annual Davos meeting did not occur in China. France: Hosts international organisations and summits, but Davos is not in France; it is in Switzerland. Common Pitfalls: Aspirants may confuse WEF annual meetings with other economic or political summits that move between countries, leading them to guess any option. Some may also think of WEF regional events in Asian countries like China. To avoid confusion, it is helpful to fix in memory that the main WEF annual meeting known as Davos is held in Switzerland, making it the correct answer whenever the standard annual venue is being referred to. Final Answer: The 48th World Economic Forum annual meeting was held in Switzerland.

Question 16

SARAS PT1N, designed and developed by CSIR NAL, is a passenger aircraft with how many seats?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: SARAS PT1N is an indigenous transport aircraft project that represents India's efforts to develop its own small passenger planes. Questions in science and technology or current affairs often focus on basic technical details, such as seating capacity, to test awareness of important national projects. Given Data / Assumptions: The aircraft is SARAS PT1N, developed by CSIR NAL. The question asks for its passenger seating capacity. The options are 10, 14, 20, and 25 seats. Concept / Approach: SARAS PT1N is described in official and news sources as a 14 seater passenger aircraft. The production version is planned to have higher capacity, but the PT1N prototype is specifically a 14 seat configuration. Therefore, the correct choice among the given options is 14 seats. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that SARAS PT1N refers to an upgraded prototype of the SARAS aircraft programme.Step 2: Recall that this prototype has been highlighted as a 14 seat passenger aircraft in reports.Step 3: Note that while future production variants may increase capacity, the PT1N version itself retains the 14 seat specification.Step 4: From the options given, select 14 as the correct seating capacity. Verification / Alternative check: Descriptions of SARAS PT1N in technology and defence related sources identify it as a 14 seater passenger aircraft designed and developed by CSIR NAL. Some references mention that the production version could have around 19 seats, but that is distinct from the PT1N prototype. This confirms that the correct answer for SARAS PT1N is 14 seats and not 10, 20, or 25. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 10: This number is lower than the documented seating capacity and does not match official descriptions. 20: A 20 seat configuration is not cited for SARAS PT1N, although a later production version may have different capacity. 25: This figure is larger than any planned seating configuration mentioned for SARAS PT1N in standard references. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may confuse SARAS PT1N with possible future variants and guess a larger number such as 19 or 20, especially if they recall that production versions could carry more passengers. Others might guess randomly among the options. To avoid such errors, remember that PT1N itself is specifically described as a 14 seat passenger aircraft, and that the question refers to this prototype, not to future variants. Final Answer: SARAS PT1N is a 14 seater passenger aircraft.

Question 17

In India, the 'Mission Indradhanush' campaign is associated with which key social objective?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Mission Indradhanush is a major public health initiative launched by the Government of India to improve immunization coverage. This question tests whether the candidate can correctly link the campaign with its primary social objective, among other health related goals that may sound similar but are separate schemes. Given Data / Assumptions: The campaign is called Mission Indradhanush. The options list different social and health objectives, such as nutrition, diabetes awareness, blindness eradication, and child vaccination. We assume knowledge of key government schemes and their core purposes. Concept / Approach: Mission Indradhanush is specifically aimed at increasing immunization coverage by ensuring that children and pregnant women receive all recommended vaccines. It does not directly provide nutrition, focus on diabetes awareness, or target blindness as its main goal. Therefore, associating Mission Indradhanush with vaccination of children is the correct approach. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Mission Indradhanush uses the imagery of a rainbow to represent full coverage of vaccines against various diseases.Step 2: Remember that the campaign targets children who are partially vaccinated or not vaccinated at all, with special drives in high risk areas.Step 3: Compare this with the options and note that vaccination of children fits perfectly with the known objective of the mission.Step 4: Confirm that the other options correspond to different health initiatives or general goals rather than to this specific mission. Verification / Alternative check: Health ministry documents and public information campaigns describe Mission Indradhanush as focused on achieving higher levels of full immunization coverage. The scheme outlines specific vaccines and target groups, especially children under a certain age and pregnant women. There is no reference to it being a nutrition campaign, a diabetes awareness programme, or a blindness eradication mission. This confirms that vaccination of children is the correct association. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Nutrition to pregnant women: Important but covered under other schemes, not the central purpose of Mission Indradhanush. Awareness of diabetes: Diabetes awareness programmes exist, but they are not titled Mission Indradhanush. Eradication of blindness: Programmes for eye health and blindness control have their own names and frameworks and are separate from this immunization mission. Common Pitfalls: Since several health schemes focus on mothers and children, candidates may mix them up if they only remember that a scheme is about public health. Some may wrongly assume that Indradhanush relates to nutrition or general child welfare. To avoid this, it is useful to connect the word Indradhanush with multiple vaccines, like the colours of a rainbow, and memorise that its main focus is immunization and vaccination drives. Final Answer: Mission Indradhanush in India is associated with the vaccination of children.

Question 18

Who was the founder of the Theosophical Society in India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Theosophical movement played an important role in India's social and intellectual life during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Questions in history and culture often refer to key personalities connected with the Theosophical Society, especially its prominent leaders and organisers in India. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks for the founder of the Theosophical Society in India. The options list Annie Besant, Womesh Chandra Bannerjee, Ram Prasad Bismil, and Subhash Chandra Bose. We focus on the person most associated with establishing and leading the Theosophical movement in the Indian context. Concept / Approach: While the original Theosophical Society was founded in the United States, the movement found a major base in India, with its headquarters at Adyar in Chennai. Annie Besant, a leading theosophist, social reformer, and supporter of Indian self rule, is widely associated with the Theosophical Society in India and is often credited in exam oriented material as the key founder figure in the Indian context. Therefore, she is the correct choice among the given options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Annie Besant was a prominent leader of the Theosophical Society and later became its president, playing a central role in India.Step 2: Note that she helped establish and expand the Society's activities in India and used it as a platform for education and political awakening.Step 3: Recognise that Womesh Chandra Bannerjee was the first president of the Indian National Congress, Ram Prasad Bismil was a revolutionary, and Subhash Chandra Bose was a nationalist leader, none of whom were founders of the Theosophical movement in India.Step 4: Based on common exam convention and historical association, select Annie Besant as the answer. Verification / Alternative check: Historical accounts describe how the Theosophical Society shifted its headquarters to Adyar, near Madras, and how Annie Besant later became a major figure in its Indian chapter. She founded educational institutions and used the organisation to promote spiritual and national awakening. Exam oriented history books routinely link her name with the founding and leadership of the Theosophical Society in India, which supports choosing her as the correct answer here. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Womesh Chandra Bannerjee: Known for presiding over the first session of the Indian National Congress, but not as a theosophist or founder of the Society in India. Ram Prasad Bismil: A revolutionary freedom fighter associated with organisations like the Hindustan Republican Association, not with the Theosophical Society. Subhash Chandra Bose: A prominent nationalist leader and head of the Indian National Army, but not linked with founding the Theosophical Society in India. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may be unsure and choose a famous nationalist like Subhash Chandra Bose or Womesh Chandra Bannerjee simply because these names are familiar from freedom movement history. Others may confuse different reform organisations. To avoid such errors, it is helpful to remember a few clear pairings, such as Annie Besant with the Theosophical Society and Womesh Chandra Bannerjee with the early Indian National Congress. Final Answer: Annie Besant is regarded as the founder and leading figure of the Theosophical Society in India.

Question 19

In the context of the Chipko movement in India, who coined the famous environmental slogan "Ecology is permanent economy", which highlighted the link between environmental protection and sustainable economic development?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of the Chipko movement and the environmental thinkers who shaped its philosophy. It focuses on the origin of the slogan "Ecology is permanent economy", a phrase that clearly connects conservation of nature with long term livelihood security. Knowing the author of this slogan helps you link personalities with key ideas in modern Indian environmental history. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers to the Chipko movement in the Himalayan region of India. The slogan mentioned is "Ecology is permanent economy". All options are names of people associated with social and environmental movements in Uttarakhand or nearby regions. Only one of these activists actually coined this specific slogan. Concept / Approach: To answer this, you need basic factual knowledge of the Chipko movement and its leaders. Chipko is famous for villagers hugging trees to prevent commercial felling, and two names are especially central: Chandi Prasad Bhatt and Sunderlal Bahuguna. The slogan "Ecology is permanent economy" became a concise summary of Bahuguna's argument that protecting forests provides sustainable economic security to mountain communities over generations. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Chipko movement began in the early 1970s in the Himalayan region, especially in present day Uttarakhand. Step 2: Associate major leaders with Chipko. Chandi Prasad Bhatt is known as an organiser and institution builder, while Sunderlal Bahuguna became the most visible spokesperson. Step 3: Remember that Bahuguna travelled widely with his message that environmental protection is not against development, but is in fact the soundest economic policy. Step 4: The phrase "Ecology is permanent economy" is directly linked with Sunderlal Bahuguna and appears in discussions of his speeches and writings. Step 5: Therefore, the correct answer must be Sunderlal Bahuguna. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by recalling newspaper articles, NCERT environment chapters, or standard general studies books that discuss Chipko. They usually present Bahuguna as the person who popularised the idea that ecological security is the basis of sustainable livelihoods, and explicitly credit him with this slogan. Chandi Prasad Bhatt is praised for organisational work, but is not associated with this specific phrase. This cross check supports the choice of Sunderlal Bahuguna as the correct option. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Chandi Prasad Bhatt was a key architect of Chipko and a major social activist, but he is not credited with coining the slogan "Ecology is permanent economy". Shyam Prasad Bahuguna is not recognised in standard references as a central Chipko leader or the author of this slogan. Bachni Devi and Gaura Devi were brave village women who led specific Chipko actions, but the famous slogan is not attributed to them. Thus these options are plausible names from the movement but factually incorrect for this particular slogan. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to confuse Chandi Prasad Bhatt and Sunderlal Bahuguna, because both are associated with Chipko and Himalayan environmentalism. Another error is to assume that any leading woman activist such as Gaura Devi must have created the slogan because of her central role in tree hugging incidents. The key is to separate the roles: some leaders organised protests on the ground, while others articulated the ideological message in memorable phrases. Learning to connect specific slogans with specific individuals is important in environment related general knowledge questions. Final Answer: The slogan "Ecology is permanent economy" associated with the Chipko movement was coined and popularised by Sunderlal Bahuguna.

Question 20

The Golden Quadrilateral is the national highway network that connects four major metropolitan cities in India. Which one of the following cities is not located on this Golden Quadrilateral road network?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your awareness of important national highway projects in India, specifically the Golden Quadrilateral. The Golden Quadrilateral connects four major metropolitan cities and has played a key role in improving connectivity and economic integration. Knowing which cities lie on this network helps in both geography and infrastructure related general knowledge. Given Data / Assumptions: The project named Golden Quadrilateral links four major cities through high quality highways. The cities clearly identified with the project are New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. The options include those four metropolitan cities plus another prominent city, Chandigarh. Only one of the options is not on the main Golden Quadrilateral route. Concept / Approach: The basic concept is simple recall of the cities that form the vertices of the Golden Quadrilateral. The highway network forms a quadrilateral on the map of India, joining New Delhi in the north, Kolkata in the east, Chennai in the south and Mumbai in the west. Any city that is not one of these four, or not directly located on the main connecting highways between them, will be the correct answer. Chandigarh is an important planned city and capital of two states, but it is not one of the four nodal points of this network. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Golden Quadrilateral connects New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. Step 2: Compare each option with this list. Kolkata appears in the list, so it is on the Golden Quadrilateral. Step 3: Mumbai is also one of the four main cities of the project, so it lies on the Golden Quadrilateral. Step 4: New Delhi is the national capital and is definitely one of the four vertices of the network. Step 5: Chandigarh is not part of the original Golden Quadrilateral plan, even though it is well connected by other highways. Therefore it is the city that is not located on the Golden Quadrilateral. Verification / Alternative check: You can visualise a map of India with a large quadrilateral connecting north, east, south and west. If you place New Delhi at the north, Kolkata at the east, Chennai at the south and Mumbai at the west, you will notice that Chandigarh lies to the north of Delhi and is not one of the vertices. Standard geography and general studies books confirm that only these four metropolitan cities define the Golden Quadrilateral, which reinforces that Chandigarh is not on the main quadrilateral route. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Kolkata is one of the four principal nodes of the Golden Quadrilateral, forming the eastern vertex of the network. Mumbai forms the western vertex of the Golden Quadrilateral and is directly on the route. New Delhi is the northern vertex and a key starting point of the highway network. Chennai forms the southern vertex of the quadrilateral and is included in the original design, so it cannot be the correct answer to a question asking for a city that is not located on the Golden Quadrilateral. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to confuse the Golden Quadrilateral with other highway projects like the North South and East West corridors, leading students to misplace cities like Chandigarh. Another pitfall is to assume that any major city must be on the Golden Quadrilateral because the project is very extensive. The best approach is to memorise the four main nodal cities and then quickly eliminate any option that appears among them. This avoids overthinking and reduces the chance of silly errors in the examination hall. Final Answer: The only city among the options that is not located on the Golden Quadrilateral road network is Chandigarh.

Basic General Knowledge Questions