Sunday, 7 August 2022

Daily Current Affairs Questions August 2022 Part 7

 

Daily Current Affairs Questions

August 2022 Part 7

Why in News


1.       AI for Agriculture Innovation program

2.       Balance of Payments (BOP)

3.       Bharatmala and Sagarmala

4.       biochar

5.       Bio-medical Waste Rules 2016

6.       Border with Myanmar

7.       Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM)

8.       Central Advisory Board on Archaeology (CABA)

9.       Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)

10.    Cervical cancer

11.    Chief Justice of India

12.    Chile.

13.    Citizenship

14.    Cloud  seeding

15.    CoalBed Methane

16.    Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC)

17.    Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM),

18.    Compact Total Irradiance Monitor (CTIM):

19.    Companies Auditors Report Order

20.    Conservation Agriculture

21.    Copper

22.    Cotton

23.    Crown Representative Police

24.    Currency swap arrangements

25.    Dam Safety Act 2021

26.    Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)

27.    Devaluation

28.    Diclofenac

29.    Digi Yatra

30.    Digital Bank

31.    Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

32.    Dr Rajendra Prasad Memorial Award

33.    Drip Irrigation

34.    Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)

35.    Election Commission

36.    Environmental Impact Assessment

37.    e-Utthaan project

38.    Extended  fund facility

39.    FAME India Scheme

40.    Farm loan waiver schemes

41.    Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB)

42.    Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU):

43.    Focusing Resources on Effective School Health (FRESH)

44.    Forest fire incidents in India

45.    Gene-editing technique

46.    Genome sequencing

47.    Global Gender Gap Index

48.    GOAL Programme

49.    Golden Crescent

50.    Goods and Services Tax (GST)

51.    Government Accounting Standards Advisory Board (GASAB)

52.    Green Open Access Rules 2022

53.    Handcuffing

54.    Health of Refugee and Migrants

55.    Heat Waves

56.    High Court in India

57.    Historical Sites              Location

58.    Human Development Index

59.    I2U2 grouping

60.    iDEX

61.    Incheon Strategy

62.    India and Maldives

63.    India and Vietnam

64.    India- Chile

65.    India Innovation Index

66.    Indian Foreign exchange reserves

67.    Indian Penal Code

68.    Information Technology Act, 2000

69.    INS Sindhudhvaj

70.    Insider trading

71.    Intensified Mission Indradhanush

72.    Intensified Mission Indradhanush

73.    International Labour Organization's Conventions

74.    Jagriti Mascot

75.    Jal Jeevan Mission

76.    Jamdani

77.    Kala Azar

78.    Karakoram Anomaly

79.    Kerguelen Plateau

80.    Kharchi festival

81.    Kill Switch

82.    Kuno-Palpur National park

83.    Kutiyattam

84.    Lake Urmia

85.    Landlord port

86.    Left Wing Extremism

87.    Left Wing Extremism (LWE)

88.    Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities), Rules

89.    Legislative councils

90.    Mangarh massacre

91.    Marburg virus

92.    Maternal Mortality

93.    Meiyu  front

94.    Metaverse

95.    Migration

96.    Minimum Support Price (MSP)

97.    Minority

98.    Minority  status

99.    Minority status

100. Mission Karmayogi


 


1.       Which one of the following organisation launched the AI4AI (AI for Agriculture Innovation) program?
a) The Asian Development Bank
b) The Food and Agriculture Organization
c) The World Economic Forum
d) The World Bank
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The World Economic Forum has launched the AI4AI (AI for Agriculture Innovation) initiative and Food Innovation Hubs in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry and multiple State governments with the intent of enabling and scaling PPPs for driving innovation across the agriculture ecosystem, establishing toolkits and frameworks through evidence based learning from pilots on ground.

2.       Consider the following statements:
1. Current Account measures the flow of goods, services, and investments into and out of the country.
2. It is a component of a country’s
Balance of Payments (BOP).
3. As per the Economic Survey 2021-22, India reported a current account deficit.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

A 1 only
B 3 only
C 2 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Current Account:
Current Account shows export and import of visibles (also called merchandise or goods - represent trade balance) and invisibles (also called non-merchandise). Invisibles include services, transfers and income. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Capital Account gives a summary of the net flow of both private and public investment into an economy.
It represents a country’s foreign transactions and, like the capital account, is a component of a country’s Balance of Payments (BOP). Hence, statement 2 is correct.
According to the Economic Survey 2021-22, India’s net exports have turned negative in the first half of 2021-22, compared to a surplus in the corresponding period of 2020-21 which results in a current account deficit. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

3.       Bharatmala and Sagarmala are related to which of the following area
a) Education
b) Health
c) Infrastructure Creation
d) Skilling
Answer: (C)
Bharatmala is an “umbrella” programme of the ministry to enhance road connectivity across country while Sagarmala is the government’s flagship programme to develop and modernise ports along the coast line.
Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways has formulated a plan under the Sagarmala Programme for carrying out “Holistic Development of Coastal Districts”
The successful completion of 7 years of National Flagship Sagarmala Programme has contributed significantly to the comprehensive development of country’s maritime trade and boost in economic growth. 

4.       What is the use of biochar in farming?
1. Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in vertical farming.
2. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it promotes the growth of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms.
3. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it enables the growing medium to retain water for a longer time.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
The correct answer is 1, 2, and 3.
Key Points
• Biochar, a substance resembling charcoal made by heating biomass without oxygen.
○ The use of biochar in vertical farming can greatly boost productivity. As a result, Statement 1 is true.
• Biochar may enhance the ability of legumes to naturally fix nitrogen in the soil.
○ Biochar can reduce soil nitrogen emissions while sustaining the existence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
○ And also improve soil nitrogen retention and nitrogen usage efficiency. As a result, Statement 2 is true.
• Biochar can help your soil retain more water because it is permeable.
○ As a result, plants will have access to more water for a longer period of time. As a result, Statement 3 is accurate.

5.       Consider the following statements with respect to Bio-medical Waste Rules 2016:
1. These rules are notified under the Environment Protection Act 1986.
2. Bio-medical waste has been classified into 5 categories instead of 10 to improve the segregation of waste at the source;
3. Include emissions limits for Dioxin and furans.
4. No occupier shall establish onsite treatment and disposal facility if the service of a common bio-medical waste treatment facility is available at a distance of a hundred km.
Which of the statement/s above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 2 and 4 only
Answer: (A)
Explanation:
The rules are notified under the Environment Protection Act 1986.
Bio-medical waste has been classified into 4 categories instead of 10 to improve the segregation of waste at source;
Inclusion of emissions limits for Dioxin and furans;
No occupier shall establish onsite treatment and disposal facility if a service of a common bio-medical waste treatment facility is available at a distance of seventy-five kilometers.

6.       Which of the following State of India share border with Myanmar?
1. Arunachal Pradesh
2. Tripura
3. Manipur
4. Assam
Choose the correct option:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2, 3 and 4 only
d) 1, 2 and 3 only
Answer: (B)
Explanation:
Map

Description automatically generated
Myanmar shares a long land border of over 1600 Km with India as well as a maritime boundary in the Bay of Bengal. Four North-Eastern States viz. Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram share international boundary with Myanmar.

7.       Consider the following statements regarding the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM)
1. It is a collective of 31 developing countries in the Caribbean.
2. It is an official United Nations Observer beneficiary.
3. It has 20 full-time members and 10 associate members.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 2 and 3
(d) Both 1 and 3
16.67%
Solution :
Answer: B
Solution
CARICOM is a group of 20 developing countries in the Caribbean.
It has 15 full-time members and 5 associate members.
Enrich Your Learning
About CARICOM
Diagram

Description automatically generated
[ref: TelesureEnglish
The Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) is a grouping of twenty countries - fifteen Member States and five Associate Members.
Members include Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
CARICOM rests on four main pillars -
economic integration
foreign policy coordination
human and social development
security
Why is it in the news?
The 43rd Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) Conference was held at Paramaribo recently.

8.       Recently, the Government of India has re-constituted the Central Advisory Board on Archaeology (CABA). Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the re-constituted CABA?
1. It will include former Director-Generals of ASI.
2. The provision for the Archaeological Survey of India collaborating with related Indian Universities for Archaeological Research has been removed.
3. The board will be meeting only once a year.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Recently, the Government has re-constituted the Central Advisory Board on Archaeology (CABA).
The CABA has been constituted to strengthen contacts between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and those in the field of archaeological research.
The board will include “five persons nominated in their personal capacities by the Government of India” and former Director-Generals of ASI. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
The board will meet once a year and its functions would include advising the Centre on “matters relating to archaeology” referred to by its members. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
It will promote closer contacts of the Archaeological Survey of India with Indian Universities conducting Archaeological Research. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
It will promote the studies related to application of archaeological principles, training future Archaeologists, and closer association of learned societies in India and of the State Governments with the activities of the ASI.

9.       Consider the following statements about the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
1.  It functions under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers as the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of India.
2.  Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, CDSCO is responsible for approval of Drugs and Conduct of Clinical Trials.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
Sol:
  Statement 1 is incorrect: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of India. Its headquarter is located in New Delhi and also has six zonal offices spread across the country.
  The Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and rules 1945 have entrusted various responsibilities to central & state regulators for regulation of drugs & cosmetics. It envisages uniform implementation of the provisions of the Act & Rules made there under for ensuring the safety, rights and well being of the patients by regulating the drugs and cosmetics.
  CDSCO is constantly striving to bring out transparency, accountability and uniformity in its services in order to ensure safety, efficacy and quality of the medical product manufactured, imported and distributed in the country.
  Statement 2 is correct: Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, CDSCO is responsible for approval of Drugs, Conduct of Clinical Trials, laying down the standards for Drugs, control over the quality of imported Drugs in the country and coordination of the activities of State Drug Control Organizations by providing expert advice with a view of bring about the uniformity in the enforcement of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

10.    Consider the following statements regarding cervical cancer:
1.  It affects soft tissues, such as muscle, fat or blood vessels.
2. Pelvic Pain and bleeding in post-menopausal women are the symptoms of Cervical Cancer.
3.  Long-lasting infection with certain types of Human Papillomavirus vaccine (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2 and 3 only  
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution :
Answer: B
Solution:
Sarcoma cancer affects soft or connective tissues, such as muscle, fat, bone, cartilage or blood vessels.
Enrich your Learning
Cervical cancer 
It is a common sexually transmitted infection.
The main cause of cervical cancer is the long-lasting infection with certain types of HPV (Human Papillomavirus vaccine).
It is preventable, but kills one woman every eight minutes in the country.
It is preventable as long as it is detected early and managed effectively.
It is the second most common cancer type and the second most common cause of cancer death in women of reproductive age (15–44).
It is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix i.e., the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
Symptoms
In the early stages of cervical cancer, a person may experience no symptoms at all.
The most common symptoms of cervical cancer are:
bleeding between periods
bleeding after sexual intercourse
bleeding in post-menopausal women
discomfort during sexual intercourse
vaginal discharge with a strong odour
vaginal discharge tinged with blood
pelvic pain
Types of Cervical cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma:
This type of cervical cancer begins in the thin, flat cells (squamous cells) lining the outer part of the cervix, which projects into the vagina. Most cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.
Adenocarcinoma 
This type of cervical cancer begins in the column-shaped glandular cells that line the cervical canal.
Status of India
India accounts for about a fifth of the global burden, with 1.23 lakh cases and around 67,000 deaths per year.
Less than 10% of Indian women get screened.
Why in News?
Recently, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) granted market authorisation to Serum Institute to produce India's first Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus vaccine (qHPV) against cervical cancer.

11.    The provision for the appointment of the Chief Justice of India by the President is provided under which of the following constitutional provisions?
A Article 78
B Article 112
C Article 118
D Article 124
Explanation
The Chief Justice of India and the Judges of the Supreme Court (SC) are appointed by the President under clause (2) of Article 124 of the Constitution.
As far as the CJI is concerned, the outgoing CJI recommends his successor.
The Union Law Minister forwards the recommendation to the Prime Minister who, in turn, advises the President.
It is common to refer to the office of CJI as primus inter pares – first amongst equals.
Besides his adjudicatory role, the CJI also plays the role of the administrative head of the Court.
In his administrative capacity, the Chief Justice exercises the prerogative of allocating cases to particular benches.
The Chief Justice also decides the number of judges that will hear a case. Thus, he can influence the result by simply choosing judges that he thinks may favour a particular outcome.
Hence, option D is correct.

12.    Which of the following countries has recently re-written its constitution?
A Burkina Faso
B Chile
C South Sudan
D Eritrea
Explanation
In 2019, a wave of protests triggered by social inequality, the cost of living, and probity in governance engulfed the country of Chile.
At the heart of the protests was the fact that Chile’s Constitution was no longer fit for purpose.
Drafted in 1980, under the military regime of General Augusto Pinochet, the Chilean Constitution embodied what is popularly known as Chicago School economics.
Consequently, one of the demands of the Chilean protesters was to replace Pinochet’s Constitution with a democratic Constitution, written by the People of Chile, for themselves.
The Chilean government eventually conceded to this demand.
This led to the formation of a directly elected Constituent Assembly, which was strikingly representative: 51% of the Constituent Assembly members were women, and there were 17 reserved seats for indigenous peoples.
Constituent Assembly members also included people from across the socio-economic and geographical spectrum of Chile, sexual minorities too.
Hence, option B is correct.

13.    Consider the following statements
1. The Constitution mentions all the ways for acquiring
citizenship in India.
2. India allows its citizens to remit 1 Mn $ per year per person.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 & 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (D)
Explanation: There is no explicit mention of ways of acquiring citizenship in the Constitution. These ways are mentioned in Citizenship Act 1955. India allows its citizens to remit 250,000$ per year per person.

14.    With reference to cloud seeding, consider the following statements:
1. Hygroscopic cloud seeding slows down the droplet coalescence in the gaseous clouds, leading to production of small droplets that start to condense.
2. Glaciogenic cloud seeding trigger ice production in super cooled clouds, leading to precipitation.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2
d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : b
Cloud seeding
Hygroscopic cloud seeding aims at speeding up droplet coalescence in liquid clouds, leading to production of large droplets that start to precipitate.
Cloud seeding material consists usually of large salt particles dispersed by some means to the cloud base.
The idea of the other technique, glaciogenic cloud seeding, is to trigger ice production in super cooled clouds, leading to precipitation.
Glaciogenic cloud seeding is usually done by dispersing efficient ice nuclei, such as silver iodide particles or dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) into the cloud, causing heterogeneous ice nucleation.
Glaciogenic cloud seeding is usually applied to convective clouds, or winter orographic clouds.
The largest body of scientific research on cloud seeding has been done on AgI seeding on these two cloud types.

15.    Consider the following statements about CoalBed Methane.
1.  It is an unconventional form of natural gas found in coal deposits.
2.  It is called ‘sweet gas’ as it generally does not contain hydrogen sulphide.
3.  CoalBed Methane is considered to be more environmentally friendly than coal and oil energy sources.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- A. 1 and 2 only
- B. 2 and 3 only
- C. 1 and 3 only
- D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Sol:
  Statement 1 is correct: Coalbed methane (CBM) is an unconventional form of natural gas found in coal deposits or coal seams and now considered an alternative source for augmenting India’s energy resource.
  CBM is formed during the process of coalification – the transformation of plant material into coal.
  It is considered a valuable energy resource with reserves and production having grown nearly every year since 1989.
  Coalbed methane is distinct from typical sandstone or other conventional gas reservoirs, as the methane is stored within the coal by a process called adsorption.
  The methane is present as lining the inside of pores within the coal.
  The open fractures in the coal can also contain free gas or can be saturated with water.
  Further, unlike natural gas from conventional reservoirs, coalbed methane contains very little heavier hydrocarbons such as propane or butane, and no natural-gas condensate.
  Statements 2 & 3 are correct: It is called ‘sweet gas’ as it generally does not contain hydrogen sulphide and is considered to be more environmentally friendly than oil, coal or even conventional natural gas. The gas often contains up to a few percent of carbon dioxide.
India's CBM potential:
  India has the fifth-largest coal reserves in the world, and CBM has been looked at as a clean alternative fuel with significant prospects.
  India’s CBM resources are estimated at around 92 trillion cubic feet (TCF), or 2,600 billion cubic metres (BCM).
  The country’s coal and CBM reserves are found in 12 states of India, with the Gondwana sediments of eastern India holding the bulk.
  The Damodar Koel valley and Son valley are prospective areas for CBM development.

16.    Consider the following statements:
1. The word Bail is not defined in the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in India.
2. The CrPC empowers magistrates to grant bail for bailable offences as a matter of right.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
India’s Law on Bail:
The CrPC does not define the word bail but only categories offences under the Indian Penal Code as ‘bailable’ and ‘non-bailable’. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
The CrPC empowers magistrates to grant bail for bailable offences as a matter of right. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Section 436 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, lays down that a person accused of a bailable offence under I.P.C. can be granted bail. On the other hand, Section 437 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 lays down that the accused does not have the right to bail in non-bailable offences. It is the discretion of the court to grant bail in case of non-bailable offences.
This would involve release on furnishing a bail bond, without or without security.
In case of non-bailable offences, a magistrate would determine if the accused is fit to be released on bail.
Non-bailable offences are cognisable, which enables the police officer to arrest without a warrant.

17.    In context of Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), consider the following statements:
1. It was set up for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and adjoining areas.
2.  It is an advisory body established under Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
3. The Commission took the place of organisations state and federal pollution control boards in which it has power to issue orders.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only  
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution :
Answer: C
Solution:
It is a statutory body established under Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Ordinance in October 2020.
Enrich your Learning
Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
It was established under Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Ordinance in October 2020.
It is a statutory authority.
Mandate:
The Commission has been set up for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and adjoining areas for better co-ordination, research, identification and resolution of problems surrounding the air quality index.
Headquarters:
The headquarters of the Commission is at Delhi.
The Act also provides for establishment of offices at other places in National Capital Region or Adjoining Areas. 
Composition:
Chairperson: Government official of the rank of Secretary or Chief Secretary.
It will be a permanent body and will have over 20 members.
Jurisdiction:
The commission will have exclusive jurisdiction over the NCR, including areas in Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, in matters of air pollution.
It will also work along with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), apart from the respective state governments.
Powers
The Commission will supersede bodies such as the central and state pollution control boards of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, UP and Rajasthan.
It will have the powers to issue directions to these state governments on issues pertaining to air pollution.
Functions
Co-ordination of actions with five State/UT Governments, officers and authorities.
Planning and execution of programme for the region.
Laying down parameters for the quality of air.
Laying down parameters for emission and discharge of environmental pollutants.
Restriction of areas in which any Industries, operations or processes or class of industries, operations or processes, that have implications on air quality in the region.
Investigation and Research.
Inspection of any premises, plant, equipment, machinery, manufacturing or other processes materials or substances.
Giving directions to authorities or persons to take steps for the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution.
Collection and dissemination for information in respect of matters relating to air pollution.
Preparation of manuals, codes, guides relating to prevention, control and abatement of air pollution. 
Why in News?
As per the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), all industries in the National Capital Region using polluting fuels like coal and diesel must completely switch to piped natural gas or biofuels.

18.    Consider the following statements with reference to the Compact Total Irradiance Monitor (CTIM):
1. It is a miniature version of the Total Irradiance Monitor (TIM) instrument.
2. It has Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube (VACNT) which reduces its weight significantly.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Only 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution :
Answer: C
Solution
Both the statements are correct.
Enrich Your Learning
About CTIM
It is a CubeSat instrument meant to measure the “total solar irradiance” (TSI) or all the Earth-directed energy coming from the Sun.
CTIM features several improvements to the original TIM design.
The Total Irradiance Monitor (TIM) was launched in 2003 on the NASA Earth Observing System (EOS) SOlar Radiation and Climate Experiment (SORCE).
The TIM, which measures TSI, is used to determine the sensitivity of the Earth’s climate to the natural effects of solar forcing.
CTIM’s novel Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube (VACNT) bolometers mark a significant milestone.
These silicon-based bolometers will dramatically reduce the weight of the CTIM.
They are nearly ideal optical absorbers, exhibiting good thermal conductivity along their length and resistance to robust UV exposure.
Why is TSI Significant?
TSI is a major component of the Earth’s radiation budget, which is the overall balance between incoming and outgoing solar energy.
Increasing amounts of greenhouse gases trap increasing amounts of solar energy within the atmosphere.
That increase is what causes climate change and subsequently rising sea levels and severe weather.
Why is it in the news?
NASA will dispatch the CTIM to measure the total solar irradiance or the solar power per unit area incident on Earth's upper atmosphere.

19.    With reference to the revised Companies Auditors Report Order, consider the following statements:
1. The new order focuses on property, plants, equipment and intangible assets.
Reporting of proceedings under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 is also included in the order.
2. Auditors are required to report on compliance with RBI directives and the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, to deemed deposits. 
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a.  1 and 2 only
b.  2 and 3 only
c.  1 and 3 only
d.  1, 2 and 3
Answer : d
Companies Auditors Report Order (CARO)
Unlike CARO 2016, which required reporting on all fixed assets, the new requirements focus on property, plants, equipment and intangible assets.
Reporting of proceedings under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 was also included.
In addition, the auditor must report on compliance if the company was sanctioned working capital limits above Rs 5 crore or more from banks or financial institutions.
Auditors are also required to report on compliance with RBI directives and the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, to deemed deposits.
There is also a comprehensive reporting requirement for default in the repayment of loans/other borrowings or interest payment.
Auditors also had to report on the treatment of whistle-blower complaints received by the company.

20.    With reference to the circumstances in Indian agriculture, the concept of "Conservation Agriculture" assumes significance. Which of the following fall under the Conservation Agriculture?
1. Avoiding the monoculture practices
2. Adopting minimum tillage
3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops
4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface
5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1, 3 and 4
- 2, 3, 4 and 5
- 2, 4 and 5
- 1, 2, 3 and 5
Explanation
The Correct Answer is 2, 4 and 5.
Key Points
• Conservation agriculture (CA) is described as "a concept for resource-saving agricultural crop production that strives to achieve acceptable profits along with high and sustained production levels while concurrently conserving the environment" by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations.
• Conservation agriculture methods use soils for crop production with the goal of limiting excessive soil mixing and keeping crop leftovers on the soil surface to reduce environmental harm.
• The three CA principles are:
○ minimal soil disturbance and tillage
○ a continuous layer of living mulches and crop wastes covering the soil
○ Intercropping and crop rotation

21.    Consider the following statements:
1. China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of refined copper.
2. In the last four years (2016-17 to 2020-21), India has performed quite well in terms of producing refined copper and has shifted from its net importer to net exporter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Copper, a key industrial metal, is the metal for electrification. Whether it is photovoltaics or electric vehicles, grid and recharging infrastructure, copper is nearly indispensable.
Studies have shown that copper demand is set to nearly double by 2035 and will continue to grow beyond that till maybe 2050.
Even currently, there is a small mismatch between supply and demand. While world production of refined copper is at 23-24 million tonnes (mt), consumption demand is at 24-25 mt as per World Bank data.
China is the world’s largest producer (10 mt) and consumer (13-14 mt) of refined copper. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
As a mover and shaker of the world metals market, developments in China can potentially impact the global copper market. Even a small increase in Chinese demand can send the price soaring higher and vice versa.
But the looming supply gap in this important metal can adversely impact electrification plans through renewables.
Broadly, from the current levels, world copper prices can potentially double to reach say $15,000/t. It can make the cost of non-fossil fuel electrification somewhat unviable.
In India, refined copper production has been gradually declining. From a high of 799,000 tonnes in 2016-17, output has gradually fallen to 364,000 tonnes in 2020-21, as per government data.
Worse, from being the net exporter (333,000 tonnes) in 2017-18, India has slipped to become a net importer of copper (-31,000 tonnes) in 2020-21. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
One critical reason for this serious slippage is that the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Tuticorin (Tamil Nadu) with production capacity of 400,000 tonnes a year has remained closed for the last four years.

22.    “The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is the crop?
(a) Cotton
(b) Jute
(c) Sugarcane
(d) Tea
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Explanation
The correct answer is Cotton.
Key Points
• Around the world, cotton is grown on a range of soil types.
• Cotton is best grown in deep, fertile soil that has a sufficient amount of humus, a high water holding capacity, and good internal drainage.
• Cotton can be cultivated everywhere there are 180 to 200 frost-free days per year.
• Germination is best at temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.
• If the temperature is lower than 18 C, germination will be delayed.
• Therefore, Cotton is the right Answer.

23.    Which of the Central Armed police Force is called “Crown Representative Police”?
A Central Reserve Police Force
B Indo-Tibetan Border Police
C Border Security Force
D Central Industrial Security Force
Explanation
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is the premier central police force of the Union of India for internal security. Originally constituted as the Crown Representative Police on 27th July 1939.
It became the Central Reserve Police Force on enactment of the CRPF Act on 28th December 1949.
The Force has grown into a big organization with 246 battalions (Bns), (including 6 Mahila Bns, 15 RAF Bns, 10 CoBRA Bns, 5 Signal Bns and 1 Special Duty Group, 1 Parliament Duty Group).
The Parliament Duty Group is an elite CRPF unit tasked with providing armed protection to Parliament House.
The Special Duty Group is an elite battalion of the CRPF tasked with providing security for the outer cordon of the Prime Minister's official residence.
Hence option A is correct.

24.    Consider the following statements about currency swap arrangements.
1.  It is a type of credit line from one country to another at a fixed exchange rate.
2.  India has never extended currency swap operations with any country so far.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
Sol:
What are currency swap arrangements?
  Statement 1 is correct: In the swap arrangement, generally a country provides dollars to a foreign central bank, which, at the same time, provides the equivalent funds in its currency to the former, based on the market exchange rate at the time of the transaction.
  The parties agree to swap back these quantities of their two currencies at a specified date in the future, which could be the next day or even two years later, using the same exchange rate as in the first transaction.
Similar arrangements
  The RBI offers similar swap lines to central banks in the SAARC region within a total corpus of $2 billion.
  This facility originally came into operation in 2012 to provide a backstop line of funding for short-term foreign exchange liquidity requirements or balance of payment crises until longer term arrangements were made.
  Under the facility, RBI offers swaps of varying sizes in US Dollars, Euro or Indian Rupee to each SAARC member country depending on their two months import requirement.
  India also has a $75 billion bilateral currency swap line with Japan, which has the second highest dollar reserves after China. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
Advantages of such arrangements
  These swap operations usually carry no exchange rate risk, as transaction terms are set in advance. The absence of an exchange rate risk is one of the major benefits of such a facility. Hence
  This facility provides the country, which is getting the dollars, with the flexibility to use these reserves at any time in order to maintain an appropriate level of balance of payments or short-term liquidity.

25.    Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Dam Safety Act 2021?
1. Under this act, both the Committee on Dam Safety and Dam Safety Authority will be established at both Central and State Levels.
2. The National Committee on Dam Safety to be constituted under this act, will be chaired by the Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
The Rajya Sabha in December 2021 passed the landmark Dam Safety Bill (2019), paving the way for enactment of the Dam Safety Act in the country.
The Dam Safety Act provides for adequate surveillance, inspection, operation and maintenance of all the large dams in the country so as to prevent dam failure related disasters.
It provides for an institutional mechanism at both Central and State levels to address structural and non-structural measures required for ensuring the safe functioning of dams.
Features of the Act:
As per the provision of the Act, a National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS) will be constituted to help evolve uniform dam safety policies, protocols, and procedures.
The committee will be chaired by the chairperson of the Central Water Commission. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
It also provides for the establishment of a National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) as a regulatory body for ensuring the nationwide implementation of dam safety policies and standards.
At the State level, the Bill prescribes for the constitution of State Committees on Dam Safety (SCDS) and the establishment of the State Dam Safety Organizations (SDSO). Hence, statement 1 is correct.
The Dam Safety Act also addresses in a comprehensive manner, critical concerns related to dam safety on account of emerging climate change related challenges.
Through this Act, the Dam owners are required to provide resources for timely repair and maintenance of the dam structure, along with related machinery.
The Act has penal provisions, involving offences and penalties, for ensuring compliance of the provisions.

26.    Which one of the following statements is not correct about the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)?
A.  It was launched by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
B.  NRLM rests on three major pillars – universal social mobilization, financial inclusion and livelihood enhancement.
C.  It works towards bringing at least one member from all poor families into the Self Help Group (SHG) network.
D.  In case of extremely vulnerable persons like Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), elders etc., NRLM mobilizes both men and women.
Which of the above statement is correct?
Sol:
  Statement 1 is incorrect: Aajeevika-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) was launched by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) in 2011.
  Aided in part through investment support by the World Bank, the scheme aimed at helping the rural poor by enabling them to increase household income through sustainable livelihood enhancements and improved access to financial services.
  NRLM has the mandate of reaching out to 100 million rural poor in 6 lakh villages across the country.
  In 2015, the program was renamed Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
  Statement 2 is correct: NRLM rests on three major pillars – universal social mobilization, financial inclusion and livelihood enhancement.
Implementation
  Statement 3 is correct: It works towards bringing at least one member (preferably a woman) from all poor families into the Self Help Group (SHG) network.
  The SHGs and their federations offer their members microfinance services such as – savings, credit, bank linkages, insurance, remittances, equity etc. They also offer collectivization and group activities. The SHGs offer social security and social action in various fronts including health, nutrition, food, gender, convergence etc., directly or through their federations.
  NRLM’s priority is to reach out to the poorest, most vulnerable and marginalized. It begins with targeting women and they are considered as representatives of their households.
  Statement 4 is correct: In case of extremely vulnerable persons like Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), elders etc., NRLM mobilizes both men and women.
  The NRLM Target Households (NTH) are identified through the Participatory Identification of Poor (PIP). The PIP is a community-driven process where the Community Based Organisations (CBOs) themselves identify the poor in the village using participatory tools. The list of poor identified by the CBO is vetted by the Gram Sabha.

27.    What are the likely impacts of the devaluation of a Currency?
1. Improvement in the competitiveness of the domestic exports.
2. Imports become expensive.
3. Improvement in the trade balance
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) All of the above
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The impact of currency devaluation includes:
Exports become cheaper to foreign customers.
Imports become expensive.
A devaluation tends to cause inflation.
The competitiveness of domestic exports improves in the foreign markets.

28.    The drug ‘Diclofenac’, sometimes seen in the news, is related to?
- A. First line drugs to treat visceral leishmaniasis
- B. Artificial preservatives in processed foods
- C. Anti-inflammatory drug administered to livestock
- D. Common chemical used in the soap industry
Answer: C
Sol:
  Diclofenac is a common anti-inflammatory drug administered to livestock and is used to treat the symptoms of inflammation, fevers and/or pain associated with disease or wounds. It was widely used in India beginning in the 1990s.
  But vultures which eat dead cattle are vulnerable to Diclofenac. This drug causes kidney failure in the vultures.
  Though the drug was banned in India in 2006, it is reportedly still available for use.

29.    Consider the following statements with respect to Digi Yatra:
1. It is a project of the Ministry of Civil Aviation for digital processing of passengers at airports.
2. It is built on 4 key pillars - Connected Passengers, Connected Airports, Connected Flying and Connected Systems.
Which of the statements given above is/are
not correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
DIGI YATRA
The 'Digi Yatra' is an initiative coordinated by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Hence statement 1 is correct.
Digi Yatra - Digital processing of passengers at the airports
. Passengers will be automatically processed based on facial recognition system at check points like, Entry point check, Entry in to Security Check, Aircraft Boarding, additionally this will also facilitate self-Bag Drop and Check-in, using facial recognition to identify pax and data recall. Digi Yatra will facilitate paperless travel and avoid identity checks at multiple points.
Digi Yatra platform will be built on 4 key pillars, like Connected Passengers, Connected Airports, Connected Flying and Connected Systems which can make it possible over a period of time for passengers to:
Plan their trips efficiently by identifying price trends and estimate future airfares at the time of ticket booking,
Optionally link their Aadhaar to airlines and other ecosystem players at the time of booking for faster airport entry and automated check-ins without requiring any paper-based interventions,
Walk-through security scanners swiftly owing to advanced biometric security solutions. Hence statement 2 is correct.
It provides a decentralised mobile wallet-based identity management platform which is cost effective and addresses privacy/data protection issues in implementation of Digi Yatra.
Digi Yatra Foundation:
It has been set up as a joint venture (JV) company in 2019 under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.
The Foundation was formed, with the objective of creating the Digi Yatra Central Ecosystem (DYCE).
Digi Yatra Foundation will be a pan-India entity and the custodian of the Passenger ID validation process.
Airports Authority of India (AAI) will identify their airports where Digi Yatra would be implemented in a phased manner.

30.    With reference to the Digital Bank, consider the following statements:
1. It will be defined in the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
2. It shall have its own balance sheet and legal existence.
3. It will not be subject to prudential and liquidity norms on a par with existing commercial banks.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Digital Bank:
It will be defined in the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, and shall have its own balance sheet and legal existence. Hence, statement 1 and 2 are correct.
It will be different from the 75 Digital Banking Units (DBUs) -- announced by Finance Minister in Union Budget 2022-23 -- which are being set up to push digital payments, banking and fintech innovations in underserved areas.
A DBU is a specialised fixed point business unit or hub housing certain minimum digital infrastructure for delivering digital banking products and services as well as servicing existing financial products and services digitally in self-service mode at any time.
Digital banks will be subject to prudential and liquidity norms on a par with existing commercial banks. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

31.    Which of the following schemes launched by the Government of India involve the transfer of funds through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme?
1. PM KISAN
2. Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin
3. National AYUSH Mission
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 and 3 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme:
It has been visioned as an aid for simpler/faster flow of information and funds to the beneficiaries and to reduce fraud in the delivery system.
It is a mission or an initiative by the government of India started on 1st January 2013 as a way to reform the government delivery system.
Components of DBT: Primary components in the implementation of DBT schemes include Beneficiary Account Validation System, a robust payment and reconciliation platform integrated with RBI, NPCI, Public & Private Sector Banks, Regional Rural Banks and Cooperative Banks (core banking solutions of banks, settlement systems of RBI, Aadhaar Payment Bridge of NPCI) etc.
Other Schemes involving DBT:
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, National Food Security Mission, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, PM KISAN, Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin, Atal Pension Yojana, National AYUSH Mission.
Hence, option D is correct.

32.    In which field is the newly set up Dr Rajendra Prasad Memorial Award being awarded?
(a) Outstanding public administration in the field of academic excellence
(b) Outstanding leadership in the field of higher education
(c) Excellence in the field of economics research
(d) Outstanding mentorship in the field of primary education
Solution :
Answer: A
Solution
Dr Rajendra Prasad Memorial Award in public administration in the field of academic excellence was announced in memory of the first President of India.
Enrich Your Learning
About Dr Rajendra Prasad
Dr Rajendra Prasad was the first president of independent India.
He won a scholarship to study at the University of Calcutta and joined the Presidency College in Calcutta, where is did his master's in Economics.
He was an active social activist in his college days and joined the Dawn Society and the Servants of India Society.
He later won his doctorate in law from the University of Patna and started his legal career in the Patna High Court.
He joined the Indian National Congress in 1911 and later quit his law career to join the freedom struggle full-time.
He was chosen to be the Congress president in the 1934 Congress Session in Bombay, and again in 1939.
He became in charge of the Food and Agriculture Department in the 1946 Nehru-led interim government.
In December 1946, he was elected as the Constituent Assembly’s President.
After the ratification of the Constitution, Dr Rajendra Prasad was chosen to be India’s first President.
He remained president till 1962 for a period of 12 years and is the longest-serving president to date.
He passed away in 1963 in Patna.
Why is it in the news?
Recently, the Science and Technology Minister announced the setting up of the Dr Rajendra Prasad Memorial Award in public administration in the field of academic excellence in memory of the first President of India.

33.    Which of the following is/are correct regarding Drip Irrigation?
1. It can be practiced for a large variety of crops; vegetables, orchard crops, flowers and plantation crops.
2. Field leveling is not necessary for drip irrigation.
3. Soil erosion and weed growth is lessened in this type of irrigation.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 and 3 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Drip Irrigation:
In drip irrigation, water is applied near the plant root through emitters or drippers, on or below the soil surface, at a low rate varying from 2-20 liters per hour. The soil moisture is kept at an optimum level with frequent irrigation.
Among all irrigation methods, drip irrigation is the most efficient and can be practiced for a large variety of crops, especially in vegetables, orchard crops, flowers and plantation crops. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Merits:
Fertilizer and nutrient loss is minimized due to localized application and reduced leaching. Field leveling is not necessary. Recycled non-potable water can be used. Water application efficiency increases. Soil erosion and weed growth is lessened. Hence, statement 2 and statement 3 are correct.
Demerits:
Initial cost can be more, can result in clogging, wastage of water, time and harvest, if not installed properly.

34.    In context of Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs), consider the following statements:
1. The word “Eco-Sensitive Zone” is mentioned in the Environment (Protection) Act 1986.
2. ESZs are uniform shock absorber areas all around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Which of the statements given above is/are
not correct?
A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs):
The National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) stipulated that state governments should declare land falling within 10 km of the boundaries of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries as eco fragile zones or Eco Sensitive Zones (ESZs) under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
However, the Environment Protection Act, 1986 does not mention the word “Eco-sensitive Zones". Hence statement 1 is not correct.
Section 3(2)(v) of the Act, says that the Central Government can restrict areas in which any industries, operations or processes shall not be carried out or shall be carried out subject to certain safeguards.
Besides the section 5 (1) of this act says that central government can prohibit or restrict the location of industries and carrying on certain operations or processes on the basis of considerations like the biological diversity of an area, maximum allowable limits of concentration of pollutants for an area, environmentally compatible land use, and proximity to protected areas.
The above two clauses have been effectively used by the government to declare Eco-Sensitive Zones or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFA).
The same criteria have been used by the government to declare No Development Zones also.
While the 10-km rule is implemented as a general principle, the extent of its application can vary.
Areas beyond 10-km can also be notified by the Union government as ESZs, if they hold larger ecologically important “sensitive corridors.”
Eco-sensitive zones may not be uniform
all around and it could be variable width and extent. Hence statement 2 is not correct.

35.    Under which article of Indian Constitution, Election Commission is vested with the Power to supervise and conduct free and fair elections to the Parliament and State Legislatures?
A Article 323
B Article 324
C Article 325
D Article 326
Explanation
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutional body. It was established by the Constitution of India to conduct and regulate elections in the country.
Part XV of the Indian constitution deals with elections and establishes a commission for these matters.
Article 324 of the Constitution provides that the power of superintendence, direction, and control of elections to parliament, state legislatures, the office of the president of India, and the office of vice-president of India shall be vested in the Election commission.

36.    With reference to the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 2006, consider the following statements:
1. It classified the developmental projects into Category A and Category B.
2. Category A projects are appraised by the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC).
3. Environment Impact Assessment in India is statutorily backed by the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 1 and 2 only
C 2 and 3 only
D 1 and 3 only
Explanation
Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 2006
Environment Impact Assessment in India is statutorily backed by the Environment Protection Act, 1986 which contains various provisions on EIA methodology and process. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Decentralization of Project Clearances: It classified the developmental projects in two categories:
Category A (national level appraisal):
projects are appraised by Impact Assessment Agency (IAA) and the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC). Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Category B (state level appraisal):
State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) provide clearance to the Category B projects. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Introduction of Different Stages: The Amendment introduced four stages into EIA Cycle, Screening, Scoping, Public hearing and Appraisal.
Category A projects require mandatory environmental clearance and thus they do not have to undergo the screening process.
Category B projects undergo a screening process and are further classified into B1 (Mandatorily requiring EIA) and B2 (Not requiring EIA).
Projects with Mandatory Clearance: Projects such as mining, thermal power plants, river valley, infrastructure (road, highway, ports, harbours and airports) and industries including very small electroplating or foundry units are mandated to get environment clearance.

37.    The e-Utthaan project, recently seen in news, tells about:
a.  Capturing online data based on funds allocated under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP)
b.  Spending of funds related to Tribal sub plan
c.  Database about the usage of Nirbhaya Fund
d.  Centralized database about usage of funds in Compensatory Afforestation programme
Answer : a
e-Utthaan project
e-UTTHAAN is not a project but is a portal which has been devised by NIC cell of this Department based on a framework provided by NITI Aayog.
As part of the socioeconomic and financial inclusion strategy of the Government to ensure that all segments of the society, particularly the Scheduled castes, are benefited.
The Government allocates funds across Ministries/Departments for different schemes where targeted financial and physical benefits can accrue to the Scheduled Castes.
The allocation under the scheme of welfare of Scheduled Castes deals with this matter across Ministries through earmarking of a certain percentage of funds exclusively for welfare of Scheduled Castes.
It captures online data based on the allocation of funds that has been allocated under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP).

38.    With reference to extended fund facility, consider the following statements:
1. The EFF was established to provide assistance to countries experiencing serious payment imbalances.
2. The EEF can be availed when there is structural impediments or slow growth and an inherently weak balance-of-payments position.
3. EFFs generally are formulated on a precautionary basis in anticipation of a future balance of payments problem.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are incorrect?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  3 only
d.  1, 2 and 3
Answer : c
Extended fund facility
The EFF was established to provide assistance to countries experiencing serious payment imbalances because of structural impediments or slow growth and an inherently weak balance-of-payments position.
An EFF provides support for comprehensive programs including the policies needed to correct structural imbalances over an extended period.
As structural reforms to correct deep-rooted weaknesses often take time to implement and bear fruit, EFF engagement and repayment cover longer periods than most Fund arrangements.
Extended arrangements are typically approved for periods of three years, but may be approved for periods as long as 4 years to implement deep and sustained structural reforms.
Amounts drawn under an EFF are to be repaid over 4½–10 years in 12 equal semiannual installments.
By contrast, credits under a Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) are repaid over 3¼–5 years.
EFFs generally are not formulated on a precautionary basis in anticipation of a future balance of payments problem.

39.    Consider the following statements about the FAME India Scheme.
1.  The main objective of the scheme is to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology.
2.   The scheme was discontinued in 2019.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
Sol:
  Statement 1 is correct: In 2015, the government formulated the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and to ensure sustainable growth of the same.
  It is an initiative of the Department of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises under the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
FAME - Phase I
  The Phase-I of this Scheme was initially launched for a period of 2 years, commencing from 1st April 2015, which was subsequently extended up to 31st March 2019.
  The 1st Phase of FAME India Scheme was implemented through four focus areas namely (i) Demand Creation, (ii) Technology Platform, (iii) Pilot Project and (iv) Charging Infrastructure.
  Market creation through demand incentives was aimed at incentivizing all vehicle segments i.e. 2-Wheelers, 3-Wheelers Auto, Passenger 4-Wheeler vehicles, Light Commercial Vehicles and Buses.
FAME - Phase II
  Statement 2 is incorrect: Phase-II of FAME India Scheme is being implemented w.e.f. 01st April, 2019.
  This phase focuses on supporting electrification of public & shared transportation and aims to support, through subsidies, approximately 7000 e-Buses, 5 lakh e-3 Wheelers, 55000 e- 4 Wheeler Passenger Cars and 10 lakh e-2 Wheelers.
  In addition, creation of charging infrastructure is also supported for electric vehicles.

40.    Which of the following is/are the likely consequences of farm loan waiver schemes:
1. It may increase fiscal deficits for States.
2. Cost of borrowing for States may increase.
3. It may limit the ability to undertake productive capital expenditure in the agriculture sector.
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (D)
Explanation:
It increases the fiscal deficit of the state as the gross expenditure of state government exceeds the gross revenue which in turn causes low credit ranking for the state and so the cost of borrowing increases for the state.
Loan waivers increase the interest burden of the states andlimit their ability to undertake productive capital expenditure in the agriculture sector. It affects the long-term growth in the sector.

41.    With reference to Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB), consider the following statements:
1. It will be independent body with the authority to recommend directors for public sector banks (PSBs), public sector insurers (PSIs), and financial institutions (FIs).
2. It will support the development of business strategies and capital raising plans by state-run banks and insurance companies.
3. The members of FSIB consists of a chairman, a deputy governor of State Bank of India and secretaries of the departments of financial services and public enterprises.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only  
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 3
d) 2 and 3 only
Solution :
Answer: A
Solution:
The members of Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) consist of a chairman, a deputy governor of Reserve Bank of India and secretaries of the departments of financial services and public enterprises.
Enrich your Learning
Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB)
It has been established as a single autonomous professional body for making recommendations for appointments of Directors in public sector banks (PSBs), public sector insurers (PSIs) and financial institutions (FIs).
It would be a 
professional body with autonomy in its affairs and shall have its own secretariat.
Aim- to search and recommend high calibre persons for appointment as whole-time directors (WTDs) and non-executive chairpersons (NEC).
Functions
The FSIB will also advise the government on a suitable performance appraisal system for whole-time directors and non-executive chairmen of the state-run financial services institutions.
It will 
build a data bank relating to the performance of public-sector banks (PSBs), FIs and insurance companies.
It will 
advise the government on formulation and enforcement of a code of conduct and ethics for whole-time directors.
It will 
help the state-run banks, financial institutions and insurers in developing business strategies and capital raising plans.
Composition
The FSIB will consists of-
chairperson nominated by the central government;
The 
secretaries of the departments of financial services and public enterprises;
The 
chairman of the insurance regulatory and development authority of India;
deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Three members with 
knowledge of Bank and other financial institutions, 
Three members with the 
knowledge of insurance.
Why in News?
Recently, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by the Prime Minister has approved the establishment of Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) to replace the Banks Board Bureau (BBB).

42.    Consider the following statements with reference to Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU):
1. It is used for transiting and transferring of Liquefied petroleum gas through oceanic channels.
2. It can be used as floating vessel that can be deployed to a specific location as an offshore installation.
Which of the above statements is/are correct? 
a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution :
Answer: C
Solution:
Both the statements are correct.
Enrich your Learning
Floating storage and regasification units
It is a vital component required while transiting and transferring Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) through the oceanic channels.
It can be termed as a 
special type of ship used for LNG transfer.
It can be equipped in two ways:
either they can be installed 
as a separate unit aboard the LNG carrier itself or,
an old gas carrier can be converted into an independent unit and placed in a particular destination as an offshore installation.
It is 
installed in the ship itself.
The construction of the vessel is 
similar to other LNG ships undergoing LNG trading operation with regular dry docking and complying to all the required international marine safety standards. 
Benefit:
The heating and liquefaction process can be carried out within the vessel itself without having to unload the fuel in its semi-frozen slushy state.
Why in News?
The floating terminal at Jafrabad in Gujarat is likely to begin soon under floating storage and regasification units.

43.    FRESH, an acronym for Focusing Resources on Effective School Health, is a collaborative initiative of which of the following organisations?
1. UNICEF
2. World Health Organisation
3. International Monetary Fund
4. UNESCO
5. World Bank
6. United Nations Development Programme
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1, 2, 4 and 5
B 3, 4, 5 and 6
C 1, 2, 4 and 6
D 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
Explanation
One of the reasons school health services receive inadequate policy attention is because health-care needs are often equated with medical care needs.
Though school age children have a relatively low sickness rate (and thus limited medical care needs), they do have a wide range and age-specific health needs that are linked to unhealthy dietary habits, irregular sleep, lack of physical activity, mental, dental and eye problems, sexual behaviour, and the use of tobacco and other substances, addiction, etc.
One of the reasons for wrongly designed, and often very rudimentary, school health services — not only in India but also in most low- and middle-income countries — is, arguably, limited understanding and clarity on what constitutes well-functioning and effective school health services.
This situation co-exists in spite of much evidence guided by international literature.
UNESCO, UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank have published an inter-agency framework called FRESH — an acronym for Focusing Resources on Effective School Health.
The FRESH framework and tools propose four core areas and three supporting strategies.
The core areas suggest that school health services need to focus on school health policies, i.e., water, sanitation and the environment; skills-based health education and school-based health and nutrition services. The supporting strategies include effective partnerships between the education and health sectors, community partnership and student participation.
Hence, option A is correct.

44.    Consider the following statements with reference to the forest fire incidents in India:
1. There has been a ten-fold increase in forest fires in the past two decades.
2. Mizoram has had the highest number of forest fire incidences in the last two decades.
3. Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Maharashtra are the most prone to high-intensity forest fire events caused by rapid change in climate.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Forest Fire Incidents in India
There has been a ten-fold increase in forest fires in the past two decades, and more than 62% of Indian states are prone to high-intensity forest fires. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Andhra Pradesh, Assam,
Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Maharashtra are the most prone to high-intensity forest fire events caused by rapid change in climate. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Mizoram
has had the highest number of forest fire incidences in the last two decades, with more than 95% of its districts being forest fire hotspots. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Districts that were earlier flood prone have now become drought prone due to a “swapping trend” as a result of climatic changes.
More than 75 % of Indian districts are extreme climate event hotspots, and more than 30 % of districts are extreme forest fire hotspots.
Initiatives Taken:
The National Action Plan for Forest Fires (NAPFF), was started in 2018 with the goal of reducing forest fires by informing, enabling, and empowering forest fringe communities and incentivizing them to collaborate with state forest departments.
The Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FPM) is the only government-sponsored programme dedicated to assisting states in dealing with forest fires.

45.    Which of the following is a gene-editing technique widely used in improving the growth and resilience of crops?
(a) DETECTR
(b) CRISPR
(c) SHERLOCK
(d) CAMERA
Solution :
Answer: B
Solution:
Enrich Your Learning
About CRISPR
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) or CRISPR-Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) is a gene-editing system.
It was pioneered by scientists namely Emmanuelle Charpentier (France) & Jennifer A. Doudna (Germany).
It won them the Nobel prize in Chemistry in 2020.
CRISPR Application
It finds wide use in agriculture to increase plant yield, increase its resistance to pests, etc.
The system can be used for disease research, drug screening, rapid diagnostics, etc.
Techniques such as SHERLOCK and DETECTR, which utilize the CRISPR-Cas9 system, have been modified and adapted to diagnose the infectious disease, most recently COVID-19.
It is seen as a promising way to improve immune systems and fight immunodeficiency diseases such as HIV.
Diagram

Description automatically generated
[ref: TimesofIndia

[ref: Timesofindia
Criticism
There are concerns over CRISPR-Cas9 modified agricultural produce triggering cancer cells.
One of the most widely discussed ethical concerns is genetically designed babies - deliberately and artificially changing genes passed on to children.
Why is it in the news?
June 2022 marked 10 years since CRISPR-Cas9 was repurposed as a gene-editing system.

46.    Consider the following statements:
1. Each genome contains all the information needed to build and maintain that organism.
2. Through
genome sequencing, researchers and clinicians can easily detect diseases related to a genetic disorder.
3. CRISPR/Cas9 has also been seen to create potential
genome editing treatments for diseases such as HIV, cancer etc.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

A 1 only
B 3 only
C 2 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
A genome is all the genetic matter in an organism. It is defined as an organism’s complete set of Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid (DNA), including all its genes.
Every organism’s genetic code is contained in its DNA, the building blocks of life.
Each genome contains all the information needed to build and maintain that organism. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Genome sequencing is figuring out the order of DNA nucleotides, or bases, in a genome—the order of Adenine, Cytosine, Guanines, and Thymine that make up an organism's DNA.
Application:
Genome sequencing can play a crucial role for new advancements in medical science (like predictive diagnosis and precision medicine, genomic information) and in disease management.
Through genome sequencing methodology, researchers and clinicians can easily detect diseases related to genetic disorders. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
CRISPR/Cas9 has also been seen as a promising way to create potential genome editing treatments for diseases such as HIV, cancer or sickle cell disease. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Such therapeutics could inactivate a disease-causing gene, or correct a genetic mutation.

47.    Which of the following dimensions is/are used to benchmark countries under Global Gender Gap Index?
1. Economic participation and opportunity
2. Educational attainment
3. Health and survival
4. Political empowerment
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1, 3 and 4 only
b) 1 ,2 and 3 only
c) 1,2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (D)
Explanation:
Global Gender Gap Index is released by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
The Global Gender Gap index “benchmarks the current state and evolution of gender parity across four key dimensions-
Economic Participation and Opportunity,
Educational Attainment,
Health and Survival, and
Political Empowerment.

48.    Consider the following statements regarding GOAL Programme:
1. GOAL stands for “Going Online as Leaders”.
2. It aims at digital empowerment of tribal youth and women through the concept of mentor and mentee. 
3. The programme is fully funded by Government of India.
4. Phase 2 of this program will be open to all people from tribal communities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1, 2 and 3
B 1, 3 and 4
C 1, 2 and 4
D 2, 3 and 4
Explanation
GOAL (Going Online as Leaders) was launched as a pilot project in May 2020 and it was completed by December 2021. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
It aims at digital empowerment of tribal youth
and women through the concept of mentor and mentee. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
The programme is fully funded by Meta (Facebook India). Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
Goal 2.0 programme has been launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Meta (formerly Facebook).
Goal 2 program will be open to all people from tribal communities. Hence, statement 4 is correct.

49.    The Golden Crescent, the name given to one of Asia's two illegal drug trafficking regions, consists of which of the following countries?
1. Pakistan
2. Afghanistan
3. Iran
4. Laos
5. Thailand
6. Myanmar
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 4, 5 and 6
c) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
d) None of the above
Answer: (A)
Explanation:
The Golden Crescent is located in Southwest Asia and consists of three contiguous countries of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran from East to West.
The Golden Triangle is located in Southeast Asia comprising three contiguous countries of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar from East to West.

50.    Regarding Goods and Services Tax (GST), consider the following statements:
1. It is essentially a consumption tax and is levied at the final consumption point.
2. It is one of the biggest indirect tax reforms in the country.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Goods and Services Tax (GST):
GST was introduced through the 101st Constitution Amendment Act, 2016.
It is one of the biggest indirect tax reforms
in the country. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
It was introduced with the slogan of ‘One Nation One Tax’.
The GST has subsumed indirect taxes like excise duty, Value Added Tax (VAT), service tax, luxury tax etc.
It is essentially a consumption tax and is levied at the final consumption point. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Tax Structure under GST:
Central GST to cover Excise duty, Service tax etc,
State GST to cover VAT, luxury tax etc.
Integrated GST (IGST) to cover inter-state trade.
IGST per se is not a tax but a system to coordinate state and union taxes.
It has a 4-tier tax structure for all goods and services under the slabs- 5%, 12%, 18% and 28%.

51.    Consider the following statements:
1.
Government Accounting Standards Advisory Board was constituted by the NITI Aayog.
2. Natural Resource Accounting is a process of estimating the value of natural resource depletion and environment degradation due to economic activities.
Which of following statements is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither of these
Answer: (B)
Explanation:
Natural resource accounting is an accounting system that deals with stocks and stock changes of natural assets, comprising biota (produced or wild), subsoil assets (proved reserves), water and land with their aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
It is a process of estimating the value of natural resource depletion and environment degradation due to economic activities.
Comptroller and Auditor General of India (C&AG) constituted Government Accounting Standards Advisory Board (GASAB) under Article 150 of the Constitution of India with the support of Government of India through a notification dated 12th August, 2002.

52.    With reference to Green Open Access Rules 2022, consider the following statements:
1. Industrial and corporate customers with a demand of less than 100 kilowatts can set up their own solar plants and wheel power to their establishment.
2. Cross subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge shall not be applicable, if green energy is utilized for production of green hydrogen and green ammonia.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2
d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : b
Green Open Access Rules, 2022
As per the rules, the green open access is allowed to any consumer.
The limit of open access transaction has been reduced from 1 MW (megawatt) to 100 kW for green energy in order to enable small consumers also to purchase renewable power through open access.
Industrial and corporate customers with a demand of over 100 kilowatts can now set up their own solar plants and wheel power to their establishment.
Consumers will be given certificates if they consume green power.
Cross subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge shall not be applicable, if green energy is utilized for production of green hydrogen and green ammonia.

53.    Consider the following statements with reference to legally permissible occasions for handcuffing:
1.  An accused on his arrest and before he is produced before the magistrate
2.  An under-trial prisoner during transit from jail to the court
3. A transportation of convict from jail to court and back
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 1 and 2
(c) Only 3
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Solution :
Answer: D
Solution
A person can be legally handcuff during all of the above 3 mentioned scenarios. 
Enrich Your Learning
Principles of Handcuffing
The law with regard to handcuffing was settled in 1980 when the Supreme Court of India, in Prem Shankar Shukla vs Delhi Administration.
An accused, in normal circumstances, need not be handcuffed upon arrest.
It is only under exceptional circumstances such as
the possibility of escape
the possibility of causing harm to himself or others
that handcuffing an accused can be resorted to.
The arresting officer must record the reasons, which then would have to stand judicial/court scrutiny.
There can be three occasions when a person can be (legally) handcuffed
An accused on his arrest and before he is produced before the magistrate.
An under-trial prisoner during transit from jail to the court and back.
A convict is transported from jail to court and back.
Why is it in the news?
Recently, the Karnataka High Court passed a verdict on handcuffing, while awarding two lakh rupees as compensation for handcuffing an accused, without recording the reasons in the police case diary, it gave liberty to the state to recover the amount from the delinquent police officer.

54.    World Report on Health of Refugee and Migrants is released by which of the following organisation?
A World Economic Forum
B United Nations Human Rights Commission
C World Bank
D World Health Organisation
Explanation
The World Report on the Health of Refugee and Migrants is released by World Health Organisation, according to its global review of health and migration calls for urgent and concerted action to support refugees and migrants across the world to access health care services that are sensitive to their needs.
Key Findings of the Report:
It states that ‘Globally, about one in eight people are migrants.” (Total 1 billion are Migrants)
From 1990 to 2020:
The total number of international migrants increased from 153 million to 281 million.
About 48% of international migrants are women and some 36 million are children.
Further India remains the top receiver of Remittances with USD 83 billions in 2020.
Hence, option D is correct.

55.    Which of the following is not correct regarding Heat Waves?
A It occurs during the summer season in the North-Western and South-Central parts of India.
B An increase of at least 10°C or more from the normal temperature is considered a severe heat wave condition.
C Heatwaves are linked to an increase in diseases like diabetes.
D A heat wave is declared when the actual maximum temperature remains 45°C or more, irrespective of normal maximum temperature.
Explanation
A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western and South-Central parts of India.
Heatwaves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) classifies heatwaves according to regions and their temperature ranges.
Criteria for Heatwaves:
The heatwave is considered when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40°C for Plains and at least 30°C for Hilly regions.
If the normal maximum temperature of a station is less than or equal to 40°C, then an increase of 5°C to 6°C from the normal temperature is considered to be heat wave condition.
Further, an increase of 7°C or more from the normal temperature is considered a severe heat wave condition.
If the normal maximum temperature of a station is more than 40°C, then an increase of 4°C to 5°C from the normal temperature is considered to be heat wave condition.
Further, an increase of 6°C or more is considered a severe heat wave condition.
Additionally, if the actual maximum temperature remains 45°C or more irrespective of normal maximum temperature, a heat wave is declared.
Impact of Heat Waves:
Mortality and Morbidity:
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in the Second Part of AR6 Report flagged that heat extremes are causing human deaths and morbidity.
The increased heat will lead to an increase in diseases like diabetes, circulatory and respiratory conditions, as well as mental health challenges.
Crop Damage: The fallout of these heat waves is far more complex - the concurrence of heat and drought events are causing crop production losses and tree mortality.
Less Food Production and High Prices: The risks to health and food production will be made more severe from the sudden food production losses exacerbated by heat-induced labour productivity losses.
These interacting impacts will increase food prices, reduce household incomes, and lead to malnutrition and climate-related deaths, especially in tropical regions.
Statement 2 is not correct; therefore, option B is the correct answer.

56.    With reference to High Court in India, consider the following statements:
1. The number of judges in a High Court is decided by the Supreme Court of India.
2. The writ jurisdiction of the High Court is wider than that of the Supreme Court.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
In the Indian scheme of judicial system, High Court work below the Supreme Court.
The institution of High Court originated in India in 1862 when the high courts were setup at Bombay, Calcutta and Madras.
According to Article 216 of the Constitution the High Courts shall consist of a Chief Justice and such other Judges as the President may from time to time deem it necessary to appoint.
The number of judges in a High Court is decided by the President of India. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
The Supreme Court can issue writs only in case there is a violation of Fundamental Rights.
The High Court has a wider scope to exercise this power. They can issue writs not only when there is a violation of Fundamental Rights but also in other cases. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

57.    Consider the following pairs:
     Historical Sites         Location
1.  Rock-cut sanctuaries     Barabar, Bihar
2.  Pattadakal’s temples      Andhra Pradesh
3.  Viramgam’s Munsar Talav        Tamil Nadu
4.  Bara Imambara     Lucknow
How many pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A Only one pair
B Only two pairs
C Only three pairs
D All the four pairs
Explanation
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protects around 3,700 archaeological sites and ancient monuments.
Taken together, they mark milestones in India’s history: the emergence of well-planned cities, the rise of empires inspired by egalitarian ideals, the development and dispersion of Buddhism along trade routes, the flourishing of temple cultures, the establishment of Sultanate polities, creative and competitive encounters among and between the Mughals and the Rajputs, the ascendancy of the British Raj, and a largely non-violent movement that overthrew colonial rule.
Historically, each monument is integrally connected to the landscape around it. Here are a few examples.
Rock-cut sanctuaries from Barabar (Bihar) to Ajanta (Maharashtra) and from Masrur (Himachal Pradesh) to Guntupalli (Andhra Pradesh) were physically connected to outcrops and canyons.
Pattadakal’s temples (Karnataka) were symbolically linked to the Malaprabha river that flowed past them.
Viramgam’s Munsar Talav (Gujarat) was the centrepiece of a landscape consisting of interlocking ponds, sluice gates, decanting wells, irrigation canals, and farmlands.
Lucknow’s Bara Imambara is tied to markets, palaces, processional roads, and gardens.
However, in time, some of these connections weakened. After 1857, colonial authorities reorganised cities by widening streets and demolishing dwellings around certain majestic older buildings so that they could properly survey the populace.
Pair 1 and Pair 4 are correctly matched, but Pair 2 and Pair 3 are not correctly matched. Hence, option B is correct.

58.    Which of the following is not the correct basic dimension of the Human Development Index?
A A long and healthy life.
B Access to knowledge.
C A decent standard of living.
D Access to Public Transport
Explanation
The Human Development Index report is published by the Human Development Report Office of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
India ranked 131 among 189 countries in 2020.
It is a single index measure that aims to record the three key dimensions of human development:
A decent standard of living,
Access to knowledge
A long and healthy life.
In other words, the Human Development Index is practised to measure how development has improved human life.
Access to Public Transport is not a basic dimension of the Human Development Index.
Hence, option D is correct.

59.    Which of the following countries is not a member of the I2U2 grouping?
- A. India
- B. Israel
- C. United Kingdom
- D. USA
Answer: C
Sol:
  I2U2 stands for India, Israel, the UAE, and the US, and is also sometimes referred to as the ‘West Asian Quad’.
  Back in October 2021, a meeting of the foreign ministers of the four countries had taken place when External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was visiting Israel. At that time, the grouping was called the ‘International Forum for Economic Cooperation’.
  Its stated aim is to discuss common areas of mutual interest, to strengthen the economic partnership in trade and investment in our respective regions and beyond.
  Six areas of cooperation have been identified by the countries mutually, and the aim is to encourage joint investments in water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food security.
  With the help of private sector capital and expertise, the countries will look to modernise infrastructure, explore low carbon development avenues for industries, improve public health, and promote the development of critical emerging and green technologies.

60.    Which of the following statements is/are correct with respect to iDEX?
1. It aims to achieve self-reliance and foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging industries.
2. Under this initiative, industries are provided with funding support.
Choose the correct answer using the codes given below:

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
iDEX is an initiative taken by the government to contribute towards modernization of the Defence Industry.
It was launched by the Government in April 2018.
iDEX aims to promote innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries (which includes MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes & academia). Hence, statement 1 is correct.
It will provide the engaging industries with funding and other support to carry out Research & Development. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

61.    Incheon Strategy, sometimes seen in the news, is related to:
a) Disaster risk reduction
b) Persons with Disabilities
c) Road Safety
d) Cyber security
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Incheon Strategy to “Make the Right Real” for Persons with Disabilities in Asia and the Pacific provides the Asian and Pacific region, and the world, with the first set of regionally agreed disability-inclusive development goals.

62.    India and Maldives, both are members of which of the following groupings?
1. SAARC
2. SCO
3. Colombo Security Conclave
4. SASEC
Select the correct answer by using the codes given below?

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1, 3 and 4 only
D 3 and 4 only
Explanation
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) comprises of eight member States: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) currently comprises eight Member States: China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), was formed in 2011 as a trilateral maritime security grouping of India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. It welcomed Mauritius as a fourth member.
The South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) Program, set up in 2001, brings together Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka in a project-based partnership to promote regional prosperity by improving cross-border connectivity, boosting trade among member countries, and strengthening regional economic cooperation.
Hence, option C is correct.

63.    Consider the following statements regarding the relations between India and Vietnam:
1. Defence cooperation has been one of the most significant pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership initiated by the two countries in 2016.
2. Trade and economic relations have significantly improved over the years.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
India-Vietnam Relations:
While defence cooperation has been one of the most significant pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership initiated by the two countries in 2016, the relationship between the two countries was established much earlier. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
India had established the Consul General’s office in Hanoi as early as 1956.
Vietnam established its diplomatic mission in 1972.
Areas of Cooperation:
Strategic Partnership:
India and Vietnam agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership “in line with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the ASEAN’s Outlook on Indo-Pacific to achieve shared security, prosperity and growth for all in the region.”
Economic Cooperation:
Trade and economic relations
for mutual benefit, which have significantly improved over the years particularly after the ASEAN- India Free Trade Agreement was signed. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
India realises that Vietnam is a potential regional power in Southeast Asia with great political stability and substantial economic growth.
India is investing in development and capacity assistance for Vietnam through quick impact projects (QIP), proposals in the area of water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and digital connectivity.

64.    Consider the following statements:
1. Chile is India's largest trading partner in the Latin American region.
2. India and Chile have signed a Preferential Trade Agreement.
3. India and Chile are partners in the International Solar Alliance.
Which of the statements given above is/are
not correct?
A 1 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 3 only
D 1 and 3 only
Explanation
India- Chile Relations
Chile is India’s window to Latin America and to the Pacific Alliance.
Chile is the fifth largest trading partner of India in the Latin American region. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
India- Chile signed the Preferential Trade Agreement in 2017 to enhance trade. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
The bilateral trade is growing and stood at USD 2.8 billion in 2017-18.
India and Chile are partners in the International Solar Alliance. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Both countries cooperate extensively in multilateral fora and share similar views on climate change/renewable energy issues and on expansion and reforms of the UNSC (United Nations Security Council).
India- Chile has signed three Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in the fields of -mining, culture, disability.

65.    Which of the following statements regarding India Innovation Index report is/are correct?
1. It was released by the Union Ministry of Finance.
2. Manipur is the leading state among North East and Hilly states.
3. Karnataka topped the index.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 only
C 2 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
It's released by NITI Aayog, not by the Ministry of Finance, hence statement 1 is not correct.
It ranks the states and the union territories on their innovation performance to build healthy competition amongst them.
Among Hill and North East states, Manipur is the leading category state. Hence statement 2 is correct.
Karnataka topped the index
, as its success is attributed to its peak performance in attracting FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) and a large number of venture capital deals. Hence statement 3 is correct.

66.    Which of the following are the components of Indian Foreign exchange reserves?
1. Foreign Currency Assets
2. Gold Reserves
3. Special Drawing Rights
4. Reserve Position in the International Monetary Fund
5. External Commercial Borrowings
Select the correct answer by using the codes given below:

A 1, 2 and 3 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
D 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
Explanation
Foreign exchange reserves are assets held on reserve by a central bank in foreign currencies, which can include bonds, treasury bills and other government securities. Most foreign exchange reserves are held in US dollars.
Components:
Foreign Currency Assets:
FCAs are assets that are valued based on a currency other than the country's own currency. FCA is the largest component of the forex reserve. It is expressed in dollar terms. The FCAs include the effect of appreciation or depreciation of non-US units like the euro, pound and yen held in the foreign exchange reserves.
Gold Reserves: Gold reserve is a fund of gold bullion or coin held by a government or bank.
Special Drawing Rights: The SDR is an international reserve asset, created by the IMF in 1969 to supplement its member countries’ official reserves. The SDR is neither a currency nor a claim on the IMF. Rather, it is a potential claim on the freely usable currencies of IMF members. SDRs can be exchanged for these currencies.
Reserve Position in the International Monetary Fund: A reserve tranche position implies a portion of the required quota of currency each member country must provide to the IMF that can be utilized for its own purposes. The reserve tranche is basically an emergency account that IMF members can access at any time without agreeing to conditions or paying a service fee.
Hence option C is correct.

67.    Consider the following statements:
1. The CrPC does not define the word bail but only categories offenses under the
Indian Penal Code as ‘bailable’ and ‘non-bailable’.
2. The CrPC empowers Magistrates to grant bail for bailable and nonbailable offenses as a matter of right.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (A)
Explanation:
The CrPC does not define the word bail but only categories offenses under the Indian Penal Code as ‘bailable’ and ‘non-bailable’.
The CrPC empowers Magistrates to grant bail for bailable offenses as a matter of right.
Non-bailable offenses are very serious offenses. These are offenses under which bail is not granted usually except in certain exceptional circumstances. In non-bailable offenses, bail is not considered the right of the accused.

68.    Which of the following have been defined as an ‘intermediary’ under Information Technology Act, 2000?
1. Network service providers
2. Telecom service providers
3. Online payment sites
4. Online marketplaces
5. Cybercafes
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, 3, 4 only
c) 1, 2, 5 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
Answer: (D)
Explanation:
The term ‘Intermediary’ is defined in broad terms in the Information Technology Act, 2000. Section 2(1)(w) of the Information Technology Act 2000 defines an intermediary as a person who receives, stores or transmits any electronic record and provides any service relating to such record on the behalf of another person.
Intermediary includes network service providers, telecom service providers, internet service providers, search engines, web-hosting service providers, online auction sites, online payment sites, online marketplaces, and cyber cafes.

69.    INS Sindhudhvaj was recently in news. It is a
a) Aircraft carriers
b) Amphibious warfare ships
c) Destroyers
d) Submarine
Answer: (D)
Explanation: The Navy’s Kilo-class submarine, INS Sindhudhvaj, was decommissioned from service on Saturday at Visakhapatnam after 35 years in service. With this, the Navy now has 15 conventional submarines in service.

70.    Consider the following statements:
1.
Insider trading involves trading in a public company's stock by someone who has non-public, material information about that stock.
2. Material non-public information is any information that could substantially impact an investor's decision to buy or sell the security.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2
d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : c
Insider Trading
Insider trading is the buying or selling of a publicly traded company's stock by someone who has non-public, material information about that stock
Material non-public information is any information that could substantially impact an investor's decision to buy or sell the security that has not been made available to the public.
This form of insider trading is illegal and comes with stern penalties including both potential fines and jail time.
Insider trading can be legal as long as it conforms to the rules set forth by the SEBI.
Insider trading becomes a market crime when company employees or others with privileged access to confidential information about a company, exploit their special knowledge (asymmetric information) to make profits at the expense of public investors who aren’t privy to the information.

71.    Consider the following statements in context of Immunisation programme of India:
1. Mission Indradhanush (MI) is an Immunisation programme started by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
2. MI provides vaccines against like Measles, Rubella and Hepatitis B diseases.
3.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 4.0 started in February 2022 to immunise every pregnant woman and child who had missed their vaccination.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 1 and 2 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation
The Immunisation Programme in India was introduced in 1978 as ‘Expanded Programme of Immunisation’ (EPI) by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. In 1985, the programme was modified as ‘Universal Immunisation Programme’ (UIP).
Through UIP, Government of India is providing vaccination free of cost against vaccine preventable diseases include diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, severe form of childhood tuberculosis, hepatitis B, meningitis and pneumonia (Hemophilus influenzae type B infections), Japanese encephalitis (JE) in JE endemic districts with introduction of newer vaccines such as rotavirus vaccine, IPV, adult JE vaccine, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and measles-rubella (MR) vaccine in UIP/national immunisation programme. Hence statement 2 is correct.
Immunisation program
was launched as “Mission Indradhanush” in December 2014. Hence statement 1 is correct.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI)

To further intensify the immunisation programme, the Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) was launched on October 8, 2017 to reach each and every child up to two years of age and all those pregnant women who have been left uncovered under the routine immunisation programme/UIP.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush 2.0, India has the opportunity to achieve further reductions in deaths among children under five years of age, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of ending preventable child deaths by 2030.
India prevented further backslide by introducing catchup programs like Intensified Mission Indradhanush 3.0, which helped in reducing the number of children who had left the first dose from 3 million to 2.7 million in 2021, as compared to 2019 when 1.4 million children didn't receive the first dose.
India effectively avoided a drop in coverage by the early restoration of routine immunisation services, along with evidence-based catch-up programmes, which enabled it to avoid a drop in routine immunisation coverage.
India also launched the Intensified Mission Indradhanush 4.0 in February 2022 with the aim to immunise every pregnant woman and child who had missed their vaccination. Hence statement 3 is correct.

72.    Which of the following statements about Intensified Mission Indradhanush 4.0 is/are correct?
It was launched by NITI Aayog.
1. It is the largest immunisation programme globally.
2. It provides vaccination against 12 Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPD) including Covid-19 virus.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 2 only
D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
It's an initiative of the Union Ministry of Health and is not launched by NITI Aayog. Hence statement 1 is not correct.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush is the largest immunisation programme globally where it annually covers more than three crore pregnant women and 2.6 crore children through the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). Hence statement 2 is correct.
As a part of Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), it prevents mortality and morbidity in children and pregnant women by providing vaccination against 12 preventable diseases but doesn't include Covid-19 vaccine yet Hence statement 3 is not correct.

73.    International Labour Organization's Conventions 138 and 182 are related to
- A. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
- B. Regulation of food prices and food security
- C. Gender parity at the workplace
- D. Child labour
Answer: D
Sol:
  India ratified International Labour Organization Conventions No. 138 and 182 in 2017.
Convention No. 138
  The aim of ILO Convention No.138 (Minimum Age Convention, 1973) is the effective abolition of child labour by requiring countries to:
o  establish a minimum age for entry into work or employment; and
o  establish national policies for the elimination of child labour.
Convention No. 182
  Convention No. 182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999) calls for the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, including slavery, forced labour and trafficking. It prohibits the use of children in armed conflict, prostitution, pornography and illicit activities such as drug trafficking, and in hazardous work.

74.    Consider the following statements regarding ‘Jagriti Mascot’:
1. The main goal of this program is to raise people's awareness of their health.
2. It is an initiative of the Ministry of health and family welfare.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only                B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2       D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
It would be portrayed as a customer who is aware of their rights as consumers and seeking answers to the issues they are having. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
It would help to generate consumer awareness about the various government initiatives like:
Provisions of Consumer Protection Act 2019
Hallmarking
National Consumer Helpline toll free number 1915
Provisions of weights & measures Act
Decisions of the Central Consumer Protection Authority
Testimonials by consumers on grievance redressal
The Department of Consumer Affairs Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has introduced Jagriti Mascot. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
In numerous media campaigns, it would be displayed with the slogan "Jago Grahak Jago."

75.    Consider the following statements regarding Jal Jeevan Mission:
1. It envisages a supply of 55 litres of water per person per day to every rural household through Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) by 2025.
2. Jal Jeevan mission aims to strengthen the existing water sources to set up various treatment plants and desalination plants in the coastal regions.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (B)
Explanation:
Launched in 2019, the Jal Jeevan Mission envisages the supply of 55 litres of water per person per day to every rural household through Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) by 2024.
India's Jal Jeevan mission aims to strengthen the existing water sources to set up various treatment plants and desalination plants in the coastal regions. The mission also aims that the existing water supply and connections are functional, water quality is maintained, and sustainable agriculture is achieved. It ensures the conjunctive use of conserved water, drinking water source augmentation, drinking water supply system, greywater treatment, and reuse.

76.    Consider the following:
1. Pati
2. Kainchi
3. Charkona
4. Ashrafi
5. Tesra
The above motif styles are associated with which of the following textile?
(a) Baluchari          (b) Jamdani
(c) Begampuri        (d) Dhaniakhali
Solution :
Answer: B
Solution:
Common motifs on jamdani include 
pati (petal), bagher paa (tiger’s paw), sandesh (sweets), ashrafi (gold coin), kainchi (scissors), panna hajar (thousand emeralds), kalaka (paisley), tesra (diagonal patterns), duria (polka dots), charkona (rectangular motifs) and other fruits, flowers and animals.
Enrich Your Learning
About Jamdani
Jamdani is a fine muslin textile (figured with different patterns) produced for centuries in the South Rupshi of Narayanganj district in Bangladesh on the bank of the Shitalakhwa river.
Jamdani is a hand loom woven fabric made of cotton, which was historically referred to as muslin.
The Jamdani weaving tradition is of Bengali origin.
It is one of the most time and labour-intensive forms of handloom weaving and is considered one of the finest varieties of muslin.
In 2013, the traditional art of weaving jamdani was declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
In 2016, Bangladesh received geographical indication (GI) status for Jamdani Sari.
Common motifs on jamdani include pati (petal), bagher paa (tiger’s paw), sandesh (sweets), ashrafi (gold coin), kainchi (scissors), panna hajar (thousand emeralds), kalaka (paisley), tesra (diagonal patterns), duria (polka dots), charkona (rectangular motifs) and other fruits, flowers and animals.
History of the Weave
Jamdani weaving is believed to have emerged from the Dhaka muslin industry.
Jamdani was originally known as Dhakai named after the city of Dhaka.
The plain and decorative motifs both emerged during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1324–51), with the arrival of Persian craftsmen to India.
Under the Mughal Empire, the Persian term Jamdani (jama, meaning robe or garment, and dan, meaning container) came to be in popular use, since it was the court language of the Mughals.
However, the fabric can be dated to the writings of Megasthenes, the Greek ambassador at Chandragupta Maurya’s court, as well as the Arthashastra by Kautilya, in 300 BCE.
After Partition, weavers from Bangladesh, particularly Tangail, migrated to West Bengal and settled in Kalna and Nadia, where they developed the khadi-muslin industry, which recreated super fine thread for a 500-count yarn.
By the twentieth century, Sonargaon, Bangladesh had emerged as an important centre of jamdani weaving.
Evolution of Jamdani
The migration of weavers and craftspeople resulted in the adoption of jamdani weaving techniques in other parts of the subcontinent.
This resulted in varieties such as the Uppada jamdani and Tangail jamdani.

77.    With reference to Kala Azar, consider the following statements:
1. Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoan parasites which are transmitted by the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies.
2. Leishmaniasis is also linked to environmental changes such as deforestation, building of dams, irrigation schemes and urbanization.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
a.  1 only               b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2      d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : c
Kala Azar
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), also known as kala-azar is fatal if left untreated in over 95% of cases.
It is characterized by irregular bouts of fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anemia. Most cases occur in Brazil, East Africa and in India.
Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoan parasites which are transmitted by the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies.
The disease affects some of the poorest people and is associated with malnutrition, population displacement, poor housing, a weak immune system and lack of financial resources.
Leishmaniasis is also linked to environmental changes such as deforestation, building of dams, irrigation schemes and urbanization.
An estimated 700 000 to 1 million new cases occur annually.

78.    The term Karakoram Anomaly often heard in news, refers to:
a.  Growth of Karakoram Ranges
b.  Decline in relative altitude of Himalayan ranges
c.  Resistance to glacial melting in Karakoram ranges
d.  Absence of volcanoes in Karakoram ranges
Answer : c
Karakoram Anomaly
Karakoram Range is resisting glacial melt due to global warming, defying the trend of glaciers losing mass across the globe, with the Himalayas being no exception.
They have attributed this phenomenon called ‘Karakoram Anomaly’ to the recent revival of western disturbances (WDs).  
A recent study conducted under his supervision has postulated a new theory to explain this defiance of the impacts of global warming in certain pockets as opposed to other glaciers of the region.
It is for the first time that a study brought forth the importance that enhanced WD-precipitation input during the accumulation period plays in modulating regional climatic anomalies.  
While previous studies have highlighted the role of temperature in establishing and sustaining the anomaly over the years, it is for the first time that the impact of precipitation in feeding the anomaly has been highlighted.

79.    Consider the following statements:
1.  It is a volcanic hotspot situated in the Southern Indian Ocean.
2. It has been producing basaltic lava for approximately 130 million years.
3. It is made up of the Naturaliste Plateau, Heard Island, the McDonald Islands, the Ninety East Ridge, and Rajmahal Traps.
Which of the following Hotspot is described in above facts?
a) Yellowstone Hotspot
b) Hawaii Hotspot
c) Reunion Hotspot
d) Kerguelen Hotspot
Solution :
Answer: D
Solution
Enrich your Learning:
Kerguelen hotspot
It is a volcanic hotspot at the Kerguelen Plateau in the Southern Indian Ocean.
It has produced 
basaltic lava for about 130 million years.
It consists of the 
Kerguelen Islands, Naturaliste Plateau, Heard Island, the McDonald Islands, the Ninety East Ridge and Rajmahal Traps.
Why in News?
As per a recent study, the basaltic samples of Ninety East Ridge are highly alkaline and had very similar compositions to those released by the Kerguelen hotspot in the Southern Indian Ocean.

80.    Which of the following states celebrates the Kharchi festival or the festival of cleaning sins in honour of 14 Hindu gods?
(a) Assam              (b) Himachal Pradesh
(c) Rajasthan         (d) Tripura
Solution :
Answer: D
Solution
A celebration of 14 deity heads, the Kharchi Festival is a week-long celebration in the state of Tripura.
Enrich You Learning
What is the Kharchi Festival?
‘Khar’ means sin and ‘çhi’ means cleaning. Therefore, together the name translates to – cleaning of sins.
The Chaturdash Devata Mandir which is about 8 km from Agartala is the abode of the 14 gods and goddesses this festival is dedicated to.
The temple of the 14 gods was built during the reign of Maharaja Krishna Manikya of the Manikya Dynasty.
This is an age-old tradition being celebrated from around 1760 AD.
While this festival is integral to the indigenous community, the rituals are influenced by Brahmanical Hindus.
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Why is this in the news?
The Kharchi festival will return after two years, and the Tripura state tourism department is bracing for an influx of tourists and worshippers from across India.

81.    Recently, the Kill Switch was in the news, it is related to which of the following?
A It is a mechanism used to shut down or disable a device or program.
B It is a mechanism suggested to counter Antibiotic resistance.
C It is a battlefield strategy used by the Taliban to capture Kabul.
D It is an anti-collision device used to prevent car accidents.
Explanation
Kill Switch:
The recent ‘Uber Files’ reveal that the company had deployed kill switches, purportedly to destroy sensitive data that could have been legitimately accessed by police and officials.
A kill switch is a mechanism used to shut down or disable a device or program.
In the manufacturing sector, they are deployed to terminate operations to arrest damage in assembly lines or save a worker’s life.
They serve a similar purpose in the digital world but instead of hardware, they are mostly software-based.
The purpose of a kill switch is usually to prevent theft of a machine or data or shut down machinery in an emergency. 
Hence, option A is correct.

82.    What are the major possible conditions that make Kuno-Palpur National park, a suitable site for reintroduction of Cheetahs?
a.  The action plan for cheetah translocations in KNP has been developed in compliance with International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines.
b.  Kuno-Palpur National park has an adequate prey base along with suitable carrying capacity.
c.  It is devoid of human settlements, forms a part of the Sheopur-Shivpuri deciduous open forest landscape and is estimated to have a capacity to sustain 21 cheetahs.
d.  All of the above.
Answer : d
Reintroduction of Cheetahs
Kuno National Park (KNP) is spread over 748 square kilometres and has an adequate prey base.
It is devoid of human settlements, forms a part of the Sheopur-Shivpuri deciduous open forest landscape and is estimated to have a capacity to sustain 21 cheetahs.
Once restored, the larger landscape can hold about 36 cheetahs. The carrying capacity can be further enhanced by including the remaining part of the Kuno Wildlife Division (1,280 sq km) through prey restoration.
The action plan for cheetah translocations in KNP has been developed in compliance with International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines.
It considers site assessment and prey density, current cheetah carrying capacity of the national park.
Financial and administrative support to the cheetah reintroduction programme in India would be provided by the Ministry through the National Tiger Conservation Authority.

83.    The ancient Sanskrit theatrical art form ‘Kutiyattam’ is performed in the state of?
- A. Tamil Nadu     - B. Kerala
- C. Gujarat            - D. Andhra Pradesh
Answer: B
Sol:
  The ancient Sanskrit theatrical art form of the state, Kutiyattam is Kerala’s distinctive stage interpretation of the very early Sanskrit drama as dance drama.
  Kutiyattam (Koodiyattam), which is around 2000 years old, has been accepted as one of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
  It is usually performed only in temple theatres known as Koothambalam by members of the Chakyar and Nambiar castes till the first half of the 20th century, but the plays have progressively opened up to larger audiences. 
  Only through rigorous training lasting many years can one aspire to master the craft of Kutiyattam.
  A typical Koodiyattam performance involves elaborate and lengthy acting sequences using hand gestures and distinctive modes of acting like Ilakiyaattom, Pakarnnaatttom and Irunnaattom.

84.    With reference to the Lake Urmia, consider the following statements:
1. It is located in between Azerbaijan and Armenia and acts as the boundary between the two countries.
2. It is the world’s largest hypersaline lake and is home to the humpback anger fish, an endangered species.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
a.  1 only               b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2      d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : d
Lake Urmia
Lake Urmia is an endorheic Salt Lake in Iran.
The lake is located between the provinces of East Azerbaijan and West Azerbaijan in Iran, and west of the southern portion of the Caspian Sea.
Lake Urmia, in the mountains of northwest Iran, began shrinking in 1995 due to a combination of prolonged drought, and the extraction of water for farming and dams, according to the UN Environment Program.
Urmia, one of the largest “hypersaline” or super salty lakes in the world, is located between the cities of Tabriz and Urmia.
It has suffered chronic dry spells and heat waves for years, which are expected to worsen with the impacts of climate change.
Lake Urmia is an important ecosystem, a key stopping point for migratory birds, and home to an endemic shrimp as well as other underwater species.
Lake Urmia

85.    With reference to the Landlord port, consider the following statements:
1. Deendayal Port has become first 100% Landlord Major Port of India having all berths being operated on Public Private Partnership model.
2. The Landlord port will be handling premier container traffic and also the RO-RO vessels to reduce logistics cost.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2
d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : a
Landlord port
Jawaharlal Nehru port has become the first major port of the country to become 100% Landlord port having all berths being operated on Public Private Partnership model model.
PPP is grounded on the principle of inclusion of the private enterprises as able partners towards progress, this project will improve the utilization in crane and berth productivity of the terminal.
Also, total handling of JNPCT will increase to 1.8 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) from the present handling capacity of 1.5 million TEUs in 2020-21.
This will reinforce JNPA’s position as the ‘Premier container port of India’.
JNP is one of the leading container ports of the country and is ranked 26th among the top 100 global ports (as per Lloyds List Top 100 Ports 2021 Report).
It is worth mentioning that this terminal will also be handling Ro-Ro vessels which will not only lower the logistics cost, reduce transit time but will also contribute in reducing congestion on roads.

86.    Consider the following statements:
1. Left Wing Extremism originated in India as a rebellion against local landlords.
2. The movement of Naxalism is prevalent in eastern India, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Left Wing Extremism in India
Left-wing extremists, popularly known as Maoists worldwide and as Naxalites in India.
The term Naxalism derives its name from the village Naxalbari of West Bengal. It originated as a rebellion against local landlords who bashed a peasant over a land dispute. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
The rebellion was initiated in 1967, with an objective of rightful redistribution of the land to working peasants under the leadership of Kanu Sanyal and Jagan Santhal.
The movement has spread across the Eastern India in less developed areas of states such as Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
It is considered that Naxals support Maoist political sentiments and ideology.
Maoism is a form of communism developed by Mao Tse Tung. It is a doctrine to capture State power through a combination of armed insurgency, mass mobilization and strategic alliances.

87.    Consider the following statements regarding ‘Left Wing Extremism (LWE)’:
1. LWE basically intended to bring change through violent revolution.
2. SAMADHAN doctrine is the one-stop solution for the LWE problem by the Ministry of Defense.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
LWE organizations are against democratic institutions and use violence to subvert the democratic processes at the ground level.
These organizations are the groups that are basically intended to bring change through violent revolution. Hence statement 1 is correct.
SAMADHAN
doctrine is the one-stop solution for the LWE problem.
It encompasses the entire strategy of government from short-term policy to long-term policy formulated at different levels.
SAMADHAN stands for-
S- Smart Leadership,
A- Aggressive Strategy,
M- Motivation and Training,
A- Actionable Intelligence,
D- Dashboard Based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and KRAs (Key Result Areas),
H- Harnessing Technology,
A- Action plan for each Theatre,
N- No access to Financing.
The SAMADHAN doctrine is the Ministry of Home Affairs' one-stop solution for the LWE problem. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

88.    With reference to the amendment made in Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities), Rules 2011, consider the following statements:
1. It allows electronic products to declare certain mandatory declarations through the QR Code for a period of one year.
2. It allows important declarations to be declared on the label in the package and other descriptive information in the QR Code.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2
d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : c
Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011
Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities), Rules 2022 has allowed electronic products to declare certain mandatory declarations through the QR Code for a period of one year, if not declared in the package itself.
This amendment will allow the industry to declare the elaborated information in digital form through the QR Code.
It will allow important declarations to be declared effective on the label in the package while the other descriptive information can be conveyed to the Consumer through the QR Code.
The Department to enable greater use of technology in this digital era to declare the mandatory declaration through the QR Code which can be scanned to view the declarations like the address of the manufacturer or packer or importer, the common or generic name of the commodity, the size, and the dimension of the commodity& customer care details except for the telephone number & e-mail address.
Earlier, all the prepackaged commodities including the electronic products are required to declare all the mandatory declarations as per the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities), Rules 2011 on the package.

89.    Consider the following statements about Legislative councils.
1.  According to the constitution, the total number of Members in the Legislative council of a State shall not exceed one tenth of the total number of Members in the Legislative Assembly.
2.  The Constitution allows Parliament to either create or abolish a Council in a state by a special majority if the Legislative Assembly of the State passes a resolution to that effect.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
Sol:
  Under Article 168 of the constitution, states can have either one or two Houses of legislature.
  Statement 1 is incorrect: As per Article 171, the total number of Members in the Legislative council of a State shall not exceed one third of the total number of Members in the Legislative Assembly, and not less than 40 members.
  Legislative Councils are permanent Houses, and like Rajya Sabha, one-third of their members retire every two years. The tenure of the members of the council is six years.
  The members of the Council are either nominated by the Governor of the state or are indirectly elected.
o  1/3 of Members are elected by local bodies like a municipality or other local authorities,
o  1/12 are elected by electorates consisting of graduates residing in the State,
o  1/12 are elected by electorates consisting of persons engaged in teaching,
o  1/3 are elected by the Members of Legislative Assembly and
o  The remaining 1/6 are nominated by the Governor for distinguished services in various fields namely, literature, science, art, cooperative movement and social service.
Powers of legislative councils
  The constitution gives Councils limited legislative powers.
  Unlike Rajya Sabha which has substantial powers to shape non-financial legislation, Legislative Councils lack the constitutional mandate to do so. Legislative Assemblies have the power to override suggestions/amendments made to a legislation by the Council.
  As for money bills, Article 198 allows the legislative council to make its recommendations for amendments within 14 days of receiving the bill. However, the legislative assembly could accept or reject these recommendations.
  The State Council of Ministers is responsible to the Legislative Assembly alone and not to the Legislative Council. The members of the Legislative Council exercise some control over the State ministry by asking questions and supplementary questions to the ministers.
Why are they important?
  A second House of legislature is considered important for two reasons:
o  To act as a check on hasty actions by the popularly elected House (legislative Assembly) and,
o  It can ensure individuals who might not be cut out for the elections are able to contribute to the legislative process.
Constitution
  Statement 2 is incorrect: Article 169(1) of the Constitution allows Parliament to either create or abolish a Council in a state by a simple majority (majority of the members of each House present and voting) if the Legislative Assembly of the State passes a resolution to that effect.
  The resolution must be passed by a special majority (majority of the total membership of the Assembly and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of the Assembly present and voting).
Criticisms on legislative councils
  The Legislative Councils have been criticised for being unnecessary and unrepresentative of the people.
  They are considered a burden on the state budget and cause delays in passing legislation.

90.    Consider the following statements with reference to the Mangarh massacre:
1. It was led by Guru Govind.
2. It is also known as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of the Vagad region.
3. It occurred before the Wagon massacre or Bellary train tragedy.
Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?
(a)  Only 1             (b) Only 1 and 2
(c) Only 3              (d) None of these
Solution :
Answer: C
Solution
Wagon massacre occurred in 1921 while Mangarh massacre took place in 1923.
The Wagon massacre or Bellary train tragedy was the death of 70 prisoners on 10 November 1921 in the Malabar region of Kerala state of India.
Enrich Your Learning
About the Mangarh Massacre
On November 17, 1913, on the hillock at Mangarh, a religious congregation (which was part of a social reform movement known as the Bhagat movement) was called by Govind Guru, a Bhil social reformer.
However, rumours were spread that they were planning to revolt against the princely states of Banswara and Santramour and establish a Bhil State.
Thus, British forces surrounded the gathering from three sides and fired indiscriminately and killed 1500 Bhil tribal freedom fighters.
This massacre is also known as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of the Vagad region.
Why is it in the news?
National Monuments Authority has submitted a report on declaring Mangarh hillock as a monument of National Importance.

91.    With reference to Marburg virus, consider the following statements:
1. Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, are considered to be natural hosts of Marburg virus.
2. There is treatment to neutralize the virus, but a range of blood products and immune therapies are currently under development.
3. The Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and there is no possibility for human-to-human transmission.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
a.  1 and 2 only
b.  1 and 3 only
c.  2 and 3 only
d.  1, 2 and 3
Answer : a
Marburg virus
Marburg virus disease (MVD), formerly known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans.
The virus causes severe viral hemorrhagic fever in humans.
The average MVD case fatality rate is around 50%. Case fatality rates have varied from 24% to 88% in past outbreaks depending on virus strain and case management.
Early supportive care with rehydration, and symptomatic treatment improves survival.
There is as yet no licensed treatment proven to neutralize the virus, but a range of blood products, immune therapies and drug therapies are currently under development.
Rousettus aegyptiacus, fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, are considered to be natural hosts of Marburg virus.
The Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through human-to-human transmission.
Community engagement is key to successfully controlling outbreaks.

92.    Consider the following statements regarding Maternal Mortality:
1. Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is the number of maternal deaths during a given time per one lakh live births during the same time.
2. As per the Registrar General of India’s latest Sample Registration System (SRS) (2017-19), India has been witnessing a progressive reduction in MMR.
3. Among the state specific findings, Kerala has the lowest MMR and is way ahead of India’s average MMR.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only       B 1 and 3 only
C 3 only                D 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
In March 2022, the Registrar General of India’s Sample Registration System (SRS) released the latest special bulletin on Maternal Mortality in India (2017-19).
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), maternal death is the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management.
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is defined as the number of maternal deaths during a given time per 1,00,000 live births during the same time. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
India’s Status on MMR:
The MMR of India has declined by 10 points. It has declined from 113 in 2016-18 to 103 in 2017-19 (8.8 % decline).
The country had been witnessing a progressive reduction in the MMR from 130 in 2014-2016, 122 in 2015-17, 113 in 2016-18, and to 103 in 2017-19. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
India was on the verge of achieving the National Health Policy (NHP) target of 100/lakh live births by 2020 and certainly on track to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals target of 70/ lakh live births by 2030.
The number of States that have achieved the SDG target has now risen from five to seven -- Kerala (30), Maharashtra (38), Telangana (56), Tamil Nadu (58), Andhra Pradesh (58), Jharkhand (61), and Gujarat (70).
Kerala has recorded the lowest MMR which puts Kerala way ahead of the national MMR of 103. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Kerala’s Maternal MMR has dropped by 12 points. The last SRS bulletin (2015-17) had put the State’s MMR at 42 (later adjusting it to 43).
There are now nine States that have achieved the MMR target set by the NHP, which include the above seven and Karnataka (83) and Haryana (96).
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93.    An active rainfall spell over western Pacific regions (eastern China) often drives away moisture from the Indian region. What is this phenomenon called?
(a) El Niño
(b) Madden-Julian Oscillation
(c) La Niña
(d) Mei-yu Front
Solution :
Answer: D
Solution
The meiyu front is an active rainfall spell over western Pacific regions (eastern China) that often drives away moisture from the Indian region.
Enrich Your Learning
About the Mei-Yu Front
It is a quasi-persistent, nearly stationary, east–west-oriented weak baroclinic zone in the lower troposphere.
It typically stretches from the east China coast, across Taiwan, and eastward into the Pacific, south of Japan.
The mei-yu front generally occurs from mid to late spring through early to mid-summer.
It causes heavy rain in the area.
There is an inverse relation i.e. if there is heavy rainfall over northeast China, then there is less rainfall over India.
About the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)
It is a major fluctuation in tropical weather on weekly to monthly timescales.
It can be characterised as an eastward moving 'pulse' of cloud and rainfall near the equator that typically recurs every 30 to 60 days.
It is linked with enhanced and suppressed rainfall activity in the tropics and is very important for the Indian monsoonal rainfall.
Why is it in the news?
India has an 8% deficit in monsoons in June 2022. The blame lies with the Madden-Julian Oscillation and the Mei-yu Front.

94.    Consider the following statements
1.
Metaverse is touted to establish Internet 1.0.
2. It involves the physical presence of users.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
A) 1 only
B) 2 only
C) Both 1 & 2
D) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (D)
Explanation: Metaverse is touted to establish Internet 2.0, It involves the virtual presence of users and uses AR, VR and Blockchain Technology.

95.    According to the Census of India, migration is enumerated on which of the following basis?
1. place of birth
2. place of residence
3. place of origin
choose the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (A)
Explanation:
In the Census of India migration is enumerated on two bases:
place of birth, if the place of birth is different from the place of enumeration (known as lifetime migrant);
place of residence, if the place of the last residence is different from the place of enumeration (known as migrant by place of last residence).

96.    Which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. C2+50 formula for the calculation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) is given by the Rangarajan Committee.
2. C2 represents the total cost of the crop's economic value which includes efforts of family members working on the farm, rent and other assets.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
M S Swaminathan report had recommended that the MSP should be calculated by including all actual farm costs as C2 along with an additional 50% margin i.e C2+50 percent formula. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
The C2+50 method performs MSP calculations involving a wider range of inputs.
This includes, in addition to the factors used to calculate A2, the economic value of the efforts of family members working on the farm, and the value of other expenses, including rent and other assets (C2). Hence, statement 2 is correct.

97.    Consider the following statements:
1. The term "
Minority" is not defined in the Indian Constitution.
2. The Constitution recognises religious and Linguistic minorities in India through Article 29 and Article 30.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (C)
Explanation:
The term "Minority" is not defined in the Indian Constitution. The Constitution recognises religious minorities in India and Linguistic minorities in India through Article 29 and Article 30.
Article 29 protects the interests of the minorities by making a provision that any citizen/section of citizens having a distinct language, script, or culture have the right to conserve the same.
Article 30(1) says that all minorities, whether based on religion or language, shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

98.    Consider the following statements:
1. A religious or linguistic community that is a minority in a particular State can inherently claim protection and the right to administer and run its own educational institutions. 
2. The
minority status of religious and linguistic communities is dependent upon the provisions of the items in the Union list.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a.  1 only
b.  2 only
c.  Both 1 and 2
d.  Neither 1 nor 2
Answer : a
Minority status
Minority status of religious and linguistic communities is “State-dependent”, the Supreme Court.
The court was hearing a petition filed by a Mathura resident complaining that followers of Judaism, Bahaism, and Hinduism, who are the real minorities in Ladakh, Mizoram, Lakshadweep, Kashmir, and Nagaland, cannot establish and administer educational institutions of their choice because of non-identification of ‘minority’ at State level.
Hindus residing in certain States were unable to exercise their rights under Articles 29 and 30 in the absence of a specific notification declaring them a minority.
The Supreme court indicated that a religious or linguistic community that is a minority in a particular State can claim protection and the right to administer and run its own educational institutions under Articles 29 and 30 of the Constitution. 

99.    Consider the following statements:
1. Only those communities notified under section 2(c) of the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 are regarded as a minority.
2. The
Minority status of religious and linguistic communities is State-dependent.
Article 350-B provides for a Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities appointed by the President of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation
Minority Status in India
The Supreme Court has said that the Minority status of religious and linguistic communities is “State-dependent”. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Supreme Court Ruling
Every person in India can be a minority in one State or the other. A Marathi can be a minority outside his home State e.g., Maharashtra. Similarly, a Kannada-speaking person may be in a minority in States other than Karnataka.
The court indicated that a religious or linguistic community which is a minority in a particular State, can inherently claim protection and the right to administer and run its own educational institutions under Articles 29 and 30 of the Constitution.
Minorities notified by the Government of India
Currently, only those communities notified under section 2(c) of the NCM (National Commission for Minorities) Act, 1992, by the central government are regarded as minority. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
In 1992, with the enactment of the NCM Act, 1992, the MC became a statutory body and was renamed as the NCM.
In 1993, the first Statutory National Commission was set up and five religious communities viz. The Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis) were notified as minority communities. In 2014, Jains were also notified as a minority community.
Constitutional Provisions for Minority
Article 29: It provides that any section of the citizens residing in any part of India having a distinct language, script or culture of its own, shall have the right to conserve the same. It grants protection to both religious minorities as well as linguistic minorities. However, the SC held that the scope of this article is not necessarily restricted to minorities only, as use of the word ‘section of citizens’ in the Article includes minorities as well as the majority.
Article 30: All minorities shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice. The protection under Article 30 is confined only to minorities (religious or linguistic) and does not extend to any section of citizens (as under Article 29).
Article 350-B: The 7th Constitutional (Amendment) Act 1956 inserted this article which provides for a Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities appointed by the President of India. It would be the duty of the Special Officer to investigate all matters relating to the safeguards provided for linguistic minorities under the Constitution. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

100. Mission Karmayogi was launched with the main objective of
A.  To provide mentorship to tribal youth through digital mode.
B.  Assisting Indian MSMEs by solving their grievances, encouraging, supporting, helping and handholding.
C.  Nationwide programme to lay the foundation for capacity building of civil servants.
D.  Implementing Direct Benefit Transfer for procurement of food grains by the Food Corporation of India.
Which of the above statement is correct?
Sol:
  Mission Karmayogi is a nationwide programme to lay the foundation for capacity building of civil servants. It will help the officers to learn about the best practices across the world.
  Officially called the "National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB)", the mission plans to transform human resource management in the country.
  Mission Karmayogi aims to prepare the Indian civil servant for the future by making him more creative, constructive, imaginative, innovative, proactive, professional, progressive, energetic, enabling, transparent and technology-enabled.
  The fundamental focus of the reform is the creation of a ‘citizen centric civil service’ capable of creating and delivering services conducive to economic growth and public welfare. 
  It shifts the focus from “Rule based training to Role based training”. Greater thrust has been laid on behavioural change.


 

Compiler
PrabhuNath Singh (PNS)

                                                             

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