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North Indian temples are referred to as Nagara style of temple architecture They have sanctum sanctorum where the deity is present open on one side from where the devotee obtains darśana There may or may not be many more surrounding corridors halls etc However there will be space for devotees to go around the temple in clockwise fashion circumambulation In North Indian temples the tallest towers are built over the sanctum sanctorum in which the deity is installed The north India Nagara style of temple designs often deploy fractal-theme where smaller parts of the temple are themselves images or geometric re-arrangement of the large temple a concept found in French and Russian architecture such as the matryoshka principle One difference is the scope and cardinality where Hindu temple structures deploy this principle in every dimension with garbhgriya as the primary locus and each pada as well as zones serving as additional centers of loci This makes a Nagara Hindu temple architecture symbolically a perennial expression of movement and time of centrifugal growth fused with the idea of unity in everything TRIBHANGA It is the standing body position or stance used in the traditional Indian sculpture art and Indian classical dance forms like the Odissi Tribhanga literally meaning three parts break consists of three bends in the body at the neck waist and knee hence the body is oppositely curved at waist and neck which gives it a gentle S shape and is considered the most graceful and sensual of the Odissi positions It has been closely associated with the Hindu deity Krishna who is often portrayed in this posture It is characterized by various Bhangas or stance which involves stamping of the foot and striking various postures as seen in Indian sculptures they are four in number namely Bhanga Abanga Atibhanga and Tribhanga being the most common of all Q134 Chinook is :A Warm amp dry wind on the eastern slopes of the rockiesB Violent amp extremely cold wind of the TundrasC Extremely cold wind in central SiberiaD Dry amp dusty wind off the west coast of Africa blowing from the deserts Ans A Chinook means the ‘snow-eater’This is the hot and dry wind blowing along the eastern slope of the Rockies and covers an area from the southern part of Colorado in the south to British Columbia in Canada in the North The Chinook is a föhn wind a rain shadow wind which results from the subsequent adiabatic warming of air which has dropped most of its moisture on windward slopes orographic lift As a consequence of the different adiabatic rates of moist and dry air the air on the leeward slopes becomes warmer than equivalent elevations on the windward slopes As moist winds from the Pacific also called Chinooks are forced to rise over the mountains the moisture in the air is condensed and falls out as precipitation while the air cools at the moist adiabatic rate of 5 °C/1000 m 35 °F/1000 ft Plants can be visibly brought out of dormancy by persistent Chinook winds or have their hardiness reduced even if they appear to be remaining dormant Q133 Consider the following statements :1 Kandariya Mahadeo is the name of a famous temple built during the period of Gupta dominance in Central India2 The Martand temple in Kashmir was built during the reign of Lalitaditya MuktapidaWhich of the statements given above is/are correct A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns B Kandariya Mahadeo is the name of a famous temple built during the period of Chandela rulers The Martand temple was built on top of a plateau from where one can view whole of the Kashmir Valley From the ruins and related archaeological findings it can be said it was an excellent specimen of Kashmiri architecture which had blended the Gandharan Gupta Chinese Roman Syrian-Byzantine and Greek forms of architecture The temple has a colonnaded courtyard with its primary shrine in its center and surrounded by 84 smaller shrines stretching to be 220 feet long and 142 feet broad total and incorporating a smaller temple that was previously built The temple turns out to be the largest example of a peristyle in Kashmir and is complex due to its various chambers that are proportional in size and aligned with the overall perimeter of the temple In accordance with Hindu temple architecture the primary entrance to the temple is situated in the western side of the quadrangle and is the same width as the temple itself creating grandeur The entrance is highly reflective of the temple as a whole due to its elaborate decoration and allusion to the deities worshiped inside The primary shrine is located in a centralized structure the temple proper that is thought to have had a pyramidal top – a common feature of the temples in Kashmir Various wall carvings in the antechamber of the temple proper depict other gods such as Vishnu and river goddesses such as Ganga and Yamuna in addition to the sun-god Surya FRAMED FROM THE HINDU-EDITORIAL Q132 Recently Zealandia has been given the status of a continent Which among the following habitable areas fall under zealandia 1 New Zealand2 New Caledonia3 Norfolk Island4 Lord Howe Island GroupSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 1C 123D All are correctAns DIt is located on the southwest Pacific Ocean mostly surrounding in what is the current land mass of New Zealand and its adjoining islandsZealandia has recently been given the status of a continent by several geologists who say that the long lost continent is submerged under water While there is no formal recognition of the same by the New Zealand government which is the major habitable administration on Zealandia there is however wide interest in the media about the continentQ131 Consider the following statements :1 Borobudur is a world renowned Buddhist monument of Cambodia2 Angkor wat is a well known Buddhist temple complex located in IndonesiaSelect the correct answer using the codes given below:A Only 1B Only 2C Both 1 amp 2D Neither 1 amp 2Ans DBorobodur is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist Temple in Magelang Central Java Indonesia Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple for the Khmer Empire gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple toward the end of the 12th century It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman IIQ130 Subsistence amp commercial freshwater fisheries are well developed in south eastern Asia It is because of1 Low precipitation2 Large perennial streams3 Dense populationSelect the correct answer using the codes given below:A Only 2B 2 amp 3C 1 amp 3D 123Ans BQ129 The total number of members in the legislative council of a state shall not exceed :A One-fourth of the total members in the legislative assemblyB Two-third of the total members in the legislative assemblyC Half of the total members in the legislative assemblyD One third of the total members in the legislative assembly Ans DQ128 The three movements of Gandhi were named as Non-Cooperation movement Civil disobedience movement amp Quit India movement because1 Gandhi wanted to attract the Indian masses to his movements by giving it a different name each time2 When a movement failed he did not want to use the same name for his new movement 3 Each movement was more rigorous than the previous one4 Gandhi prepared the masses slowly from non-cooperating in 1921 to telling the British to quit India in 1942Which of the above statements is/are correct A 1234B 2 amp 3C 124D 3 amp 4Ans DFRAMED FROM publicwmoint World Meteorological OrganisationQ127 Recently WMO has signified which among the following effects of Ei-Nino in its report 1 Ei Nino event has been successful in triggering the CO2 level resulting in warming influence2 El Niño event had triggered droughts in tropical amp temperate regions 3 Capacity of “sinks” to absorb co2 has been reduced Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B 2 amp 3C 1 amp 3D 123Ans CEl Niño event had triggered drought in tropical regionWMO is an intergovernmental organization and specialised agency of the UN for meteorology weather and climate operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences It is a member of the United Nations Development Group“sinks” includes like forests vegetationFRAMED FROM Wikipedia Q126 Living Planet Report is the world’s leading science-based analysis on the health of planet With reference to this report consider the following statements :1 Ecological footprint calculation is the only basis for the publication of this report2 It is published every year by the World Wide Fund for Nature Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns D The Living Planet Report is published every two years by the World Wide Fund for Nature since 1998 It is based on the Living Planet Index and ecological footprint calculations The Living Planet Report is the world’s leading science-based analysis on the health of our only planet and the impact of human activity Humanity’s demands exceed the Earth’s capacity to sustain us The latest edition of the Living Planet Report was released in October 2016 FRAMED FROM Wikepedia Q125 The survey of India works under which of the following ministries of the government of India A Minister of DefenceB Ministry of Home AffairsC Ministry of Science amp TechnologyD Ministry of Tourism amp CultureAnsCFRAMED FROM Laxmikant-Indian polityQ124 Zero Hour in the Indian Parliament starts atA First hour of the sittingB Last hour of the sittingC 1200 noonD No fixed timingsAns CQuestion Hour: The first hour of every sitting of Parliament is generally reserved for the asking and answering of questionsZero Hour: The time immediately following the Question Hour has come to be known as Zero Hour It starts at around 12 noon hence the name and members can with prior notice to the Speaker raise issues of importance during this time Typically discussions on important Bills the Budget and other issues of national importance take place from 2pm onwardsFRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIAQ123 In context with the gravitation waves consider the following statements :1 They generally propagate as waves greater than the speed of light 2 Enigmaic sources are the strongest sources of the gravitational wavesSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns BThey are among enigmatic objects in our universe like black holes supernova neutron stars and Big BangThey travel outward from the source at the speed of lightFRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIAQ122 Who among the following publishes Global Youth Development Index A Commonwealth SecretariatB World Economic ForumC Security CouncilD Global InnovationAns AIndia has been ranked 133rd out of 183 countries in the 2016 Global Youth Development Index YDI compiled by the Commonwealth Secretariat The Global Youth Development Index report measures countries’ prospects for young people in employment education health civic and political spheresFRAMED FROM NCERT HISTORY CLASS 12thQ121 With reference to the Vijayanagar empire which among the following is/are correctly matched 1 Samara – Battle or war2Yavana – Greeks and other peoples who entered the subcontinent from the north west3 Kuddirai Chettis – Local communities of merchants Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B 2 amp 3C 123D Only 2Ans C The amara-nayaka system was a major political innovation of the Vijayanagara Empire It is likely that many features of this system were derived from the iqta system of the Delhi Sultanate The amara-nayakas were military commanders who were given territories to govern by the raya They collected taxes and other dues from peasants craftspersons and traders in the area They retained part of the revenue for personal use and for maintaining a stipulated contingent of horses and elephants These contingents provided the Vijayanagara kings with an effective fighting force with which they brought the entire southern peninsula under their control Some of the revenue was also used for the maintenance of temples and irrigation works FRAMED FROM NCERT HISTORY CLASS 12thQ120 Which among the following were the observations regarding the physical layout of the Vijayanagar empire 1 Embankments were built along these streams to create reservoirs of varying sizes2 Fortifications encircled only the city but not its agricultural hinterland and forests 3 No mortar or cementing agent was employed anywhere in the constructionSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B 2 amp 3C 123D Only 2Ans A Additional points : The stone blocks were wedge shaped which held them in place and the inner portion of the walls was of earth packed with rubble Square or rectangular bastions projected outwards Abdur Razzaq noted that “ between the first second and the third walls there are cultivated fields gardens and houses FRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIA Q119 With reference to the LIDAR Light Detection amp ranging consider the following statements :1 LIDAR uses ultraviolet amp visible light only to detect the objects 2 They can target a wide range of materials except non-metallic objects Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns D Lidar uses ultraviolet visible or near infrared light to image objects It can target a wide range of materials including non-metallic objects rocks rain chemical compounds aerosols clouds and even single moleculesA narrow laser-beam can map physical features with very high resolutions for example an aircraft can map terrain at 30-centimetre 12 in resolution or better Lidar has been used extensively for atmospheric research and meteorology Lidar instruments fitted to aircraft and satellites carry out surveying and mapping – a recent example being the US Geological Survey Experimental Advanced Airborne Research LidarNASA has identified lidar as a key technology for enabling autonomous precision safe landing of future robotic and crewed lunar-landing vehicles Wavelengths vary to suit the target: from about 10 micrometers to the UV approximately 250 nm Typically light is reflected via backscattering Different types of scattering are used for different lidar applications: most commonly Rayleigh scattering Mie scattering Raman scattering and fluorescence Based on different kinds of backscattering the lidar can be accordingly called Rayleigh Lidar Mie Lidar Raman Lidar Na/Fe/K Fluorescence Lidar and so on Suitable combinations of wavelengths can allow for remote mapping of atmospheric contents by identifying wavelength-dependent changes in the intensity of the returned signal In general there are two kinds of lidar detection schemes: incoherent or direct energy detection which is principally an amplitude measurement and coherent detection which is best for Doppler or phase sensitive measurements Coherent systems generally use optical heterodyne detection which being more sensitive than direct detection allows them to operate at a much lower power but at the expense of more complex transceiver requirements Lidar is popularly used to make high-resolution maps with applications in geodesy geomatics archaeology geography geology geomorphology seismology forestry atmospheric physics laser guidance airborne laser swath mapping ALSM and laser altimetry Lidar sometimes is called laser scanning and 3D scanning with terrestrial airborne and mobile applications FRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIA Q118 With reference to the fast neutron reactor consider the following statements:1 In this nuclear fission amp fusion chain reaction is sustained by fast neutrons2 Neutron moderators are employed in these type of reactors Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns D A fast neutron reactor or simply a fast reactor is a category of nuclear reactor in which the fission chain reaction is sustained by fast neutrons Such a reactor needs no neutron moderator but must use fuel that is relatively rich in fissile material when compared to that required for a thermal reactor Natural uranium consists mostly of three isotopes U-238 U-235 and trace quantities of U-234 a decay product of U-238 U-238 accounts for roughly 993 of natural uranium and undergoes fission only by neutrons with energies of 5 MeV or greater the so-called fast neutrons About 07 of natural uranium is U-235 which undergoes fission by neutrons of any energy but particularly by lower energy neutrons When either of these isotopes undergoes fission they release neutrons around 1 to 2 MeV too low to cause fission in U-238 and too high to do so easily in U-235 The common solution to this problem is to slow the neutron from these fast speeds using a neutron moderator any substance which interacts with the neutrons and slows their speed The most common moderator is normal water which slows the neutrons through inelastic scattering until the neutrons reach thermal equilibrium with the water Fast neutron reactors can reduce the total radiotoxicity of nuclear waste and dramatically reduce the waste’s lifetime6 They can also use all or almost all of the fuel in the waste Fast neutrons have an advantage in the transmutation of nuclear waste With fast neutrons the ratio between splitting and the capture of neutrons of plutonium or minor actinide is often larger than when the neutrons are slower at thermal or near-thermal epithermal speeds The transmuted odd-numbered actinides eg from Pu-240 to Pu-241 split more easily Fast reactors technically solve the fuel shortage argument against uranium-fueled reactors without assuming unexplored reserves or extraction from dilute sources such as ordinary granite or the ocean Sodium is often used as a coolant in fast reactors because it does not moderate neutron speeds much and has a high heat capacity However it burns and foams in air It has caused difficulties in reactors Since liquid metals have low moderating power and ratio and no other moderator is present the primary interaction of neutrons with liquid metal coolants is the ngamma reaction which induces radioactivity in the coolant Water the most common coolant in thermal reactors is generally not a feasible coolant for a fast reactor because it acts as a neutron moderator However the Generation IV reactor known as the supercritical water reactor with decreased coolant density may reach a hard enough neutron spectrum to be considered a fast reactor All current fast reactors are liquid metal cooled reactors The early Clementine reactor used mercury coolant and plutonium metal fuel Sodium-potassium alloy NaK coolant is popular in test reactors due to its low melting point In practice sustaining a fission chain reaction with fast neutrons means using relatively highly enriched uranium or plutonium most fast neutron reactors have used either MOX mixed oxide or metal alloy fuel Like thermal reactors fast neutron reactors are controlled by keeping the criticality of the reactor reliant on delayed neutrons with gross control from neutron-absorbing control rods or blades – Doppler broadening in the moderator which affects thermal neutrons does not work nor does a negative void coefficient of the moderator Both techniques are very common in ordinary light water reactors Q117 India is a member of:1 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation APEC2 Asian Development Bank ADB3 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development OECD4World Trade Organization WTOSelect the correct answer using the code given below:A 1 and 3 onlyB 2 and 4C 23 and 4D 123 and 4Ans BQ116 With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana consider the following statements :1 Farmers will pay uniform premium of 2 per cent for all Kharif crops and 15 percent for all Rabi crops2 provision of capping the premium rate has been removed 3 Encouragement of use of technology such as use of smart phones amp remote sensing satellite Which among the above is/are correct A 1 amp 3B 2 amp 3C 1 amp 2D 123Ans DThe new Crop Insurance Scheme has been formulated in line with One Nation–One Scheme theme It replaces existing two schemes viz National Agricultural Insurance Scheme MNAIS and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme MNAIS by removing their inherent drawbacks shortcomingsThere will be no upper limit subsidy given by Government even if balance premium is 90 percentFRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIA Q115 A geographical indication is used for products that have a specific geographical origin GI is governed by which of the following legal authorities :1 WTO2 TRIPS3 Food amp agriculture organizationSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 3B 2 amp 3C Only 1 amp 2D All are correctAns C A geographical indication GI is a name or sign used on certain products which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin eg a town region or country The GI tag is an indication which is definite to a geographical territory It is used for agricultural natural and manufactured goods For a product to get GI tag the goods need to be produced or processed or prepared in that region It is also essential that the product has special quality or reputation FRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIA Q114 With reference to the National Innovation Fund consider the following statements :1 It is an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology2 It provides institutional support for scaling up the grassroots innovations across the country3 NIF is mandated to build a national register of traditional knowledge practices related to agriculture plants animal health and human healthSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 2 amp 3B Only 1C 1 amp 3D 123Ans D National Innovation Foundation NIF – India is an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology DST Government of India It was set up in February 2000 at Ahmedabad Gujarat to provide institutional support for scouting spawning sustaining and scaling up the grassroots innovations across the country NIF is a national initiative to serve the knowledge-rich economically poor people of the country It is committed to making India innovative by documenting adding value protecting the Intellectual Property Rights IPRs of the contemporary unaided technological innovators as well as of outstanding traditional knowledge holders and disseminating them on a commercial as well as non-commercial basis NIF conducts a biennial national competition for grassroots green technologies developed by farmers mechanics artisans and others through their own genius without any recourse to professional help NIF then gets these innovations validated with the help of experts and ascertains the novelty in these innovations by conducting Prior Art Search PAS If the innovation is deemed novel NIF files a patent on behalf of the innovator in his/her name NIF also funds value-addition initiatives in these innovations to upscale them and make them more useful for a larger segment of people Being organised since 2008 IGNITE is an annual competition for student’s ideas and innovations conducted by NIF in partnership with the Central Board of Secondary Education CBSE Some state education boards also partner in the same All students up to Standard 12 from any school and of the same age group but out of school in India are eligible to participate in the competition The IGNITE awards 3 are announced on October 15 the birthday of Bharat Ratna Dr A P J Abdul Kalam the former President of India which is celebrated as the Children’s Creativity and Innovation Day by NIF In 2015 IGNITE competition was renamed as Dr A P J Abdul Kalam IGNITE competition in the memory of Dr Kalam so that the creative children continue to draw inspiration from his spirit NIF is mandated to build a national register of ideas innovations and traditional knowledge TK practices related to agriculture plants animal health and human health With the help of the Honey Bee Network NIF has been able to scout and document over 225000 examples of technological ideas innovations and traditional practices4 Since its inception NIF has also recognised over 816 grassroots innovators young students and outstanding traditional knowledge holders in its various national awards providing them a platform to showcase their creativity5 Through the collaborations with various research and development RampD and academic institutions agricultural and veterinary universities and others NIF has helped in getting thousands of grassroots technologies validated and value-added It has also set up a Fabrication Laboratory Fab Lab with the help of Massachusetts Institute of Technology MIT Boston for product development apart from strengthening in-house research and development facilities for the initial validation of herbal technologies FRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIA Q113 Which among the following is/are the composition of the reconstituted Inter state Council 1 Chief Minister2 All the Union Ministers3 Prime MinisterSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 3B 1 amp 3C 1 amp 2D 123Ans B Only 6 Union Ministers are there The Inter-State Council is a constitutional body to facilitate coordination between states and the centre It is a recommendatory body to investigate and discuss subjects in which some or all of the states or the Central government have a common interest It is set up on the basis of provisions in Article 263 of the Constitution of India by a Presidential Order 1990 based on the recommendation of Sarkaria Commission Q112 In ancient India “ Gutika” meant :A CollegesB HospitalsC MountainsD ViharasAns BFRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIA Q111 Consider the differences between the recently discovered S-waves microseism amp P-waves microseism :1 S-waves microseism are bright as compared to the P-waves2 P wave microseisms can be detected easily during major hurricanesSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns B S-waves microseism are faint as compared to the P-waves It will help experts learn more about the Earth’s inner structure and improve detection of earthquakes and oceanic storms Learning more about S waves microseismic will further aid to understand the deeper crust and upper mantle structure FRAMED FROM ECONOMIC SURVEY amp WIKEPEDIA Q110 Polymetallic nodules contains which among the following constituents :1 Nickel2 Copper3 Calcium4 Oxygen5 HydrogenSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 amp 2 B 1235C 123D All are correctAns D The chemical composition of nodules varies according to the kind of manganese minerals and the size and characteristics of the core Those of greatest economic interest contain manganese 27-30 nickel 125-15 copper 1-14 and cobalt 02-025 Other constituents include iron 6 silicon 5 and aluminium 3 with lesser amounts of calcium sodium magnesium potassium titanium and barium along with hydrogen and oxygen as well as water of crystallization and free water Polymetallic nodules also called manganese nodules are rock concretions on the sea bottom formed of concentric layers of iron and manganese hydroxides around a core The core may be microscopically small and is sometimes completely transformed into manganese minerals by crystallization When visible to the naked eye it can be a small test shell of a microfossil radiolarian or foraminifer a phosphatized shark tooth basalt debris or even fragments of earlier nodules FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIA Q109 Global Gender Report is released by which of the following A World bankB World Trade Organisation C International Monetary Fund D World Economic ForumAns D The Global Gender Gap Report was first published in 2006 by the World Economic Forum The 2016 report covers 144 major and emerging economies The Global Gender Gap Index is an index designed to measure gender equality The highest possible score is 1 equality or better for women except for lifespan 106 or better for women and the lowest possible score is 0 Data for some countries are unavailable FRAMED FROM LIVE MINT amp WIKEPEDIA Q108 With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan consider the following statements :1 This scheme is applicable only to the women during their pregnancy period 2 Tests will take place at the government hospitals onlySelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns D The scheme is applicable only to the women in their pregnancy period of 3 to 6 months Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan or Yojana is a new initiative of the Narendra Modi Government launched on June 9 2016 The scheme has been launched with the objective of boosting the health care facilities for the pregnant women especially the poor Under the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan the pregnant ladies will be given free health check-up and required treatment for free on 9th of every month The scheme will be applicable for pregnant women to avail in all Government hospitals across the country The scheme is applicable only for the pregnant women All kinds of medical checkups under this scheme will be completely free Tests will took place at the medical centers government and private hospitals and private clinics across the country FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q107 Recently which among the following state has adopted fly ash utilization policy A Maharashtra B PunjabC KarnatakaD Tamil NaduAns AFly ash is a fine glass powder by-product recovered from gases of burning coal in thermal power plants during production of electricity They are micron sized earth elements primarily consisting silica alumina and ironFly ash causes air pollution It can also contaminate water and soil systems The wet disposal of Fly ash results in leaching of toxic heavy metals in ground water systemFRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q106 Under IUCN Fishing cat has been classified under which category A EndangeredB VulnerableC ExtinctD Critically endangeredAns BThe fishing cat is broadly but discontinuously distributed in Asia and is primarily found in the Terai region of the Himalayan foothills in India and Nepal in eastern India Bangladesh and Sri Lanka There are no confirmed records from Peninsular Malaysia Vietnam and LaosIn India the presence of fishing cats has been documented in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary outside protected areas in West Bengal in and around Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary and adjoining reserve forests in Andhra PradeshFRAMED FROM ECONOMIC SURVEY 2016-17 Q105 With reference to the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership TTIP consider the following statements :1It is a proposed trade agreement between the India and the United States with the aim of promoting trade and multilateral economic growth2 The reports on the TTIP proposals can be accessed only by authorised persons3 Creation of million of new jobs is one of the pillar of TTIPSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 3B 2 amp 3C Only 1 amp 2D All are correctAns B The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership TTIP is a proposed trade agreement between the European Union and the United States with the aim of promoting trade and multilateral economic growth The American government considers the TTIP a companion agreement to the Trans-Pacific Partnership TPPThe agreement is under ongoing negotiations and its main three broad areas are: market access specific regulation and broader rules and principles and modes of co-operation TTIP aims to liberalise one-third of global trade and could create millions of new jobs FRAMED FROM ECONOMIC SURVEY 2016-17 Q104 With reference to the Unified payment interface consider the following statements :1 It is a payment system regulated by the National Payments Corporation of India2 It facilitates the fund transfer between two bank accounts on the mobile platform instantlySelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns B Unified Payments Interface UPI is a payment system launched by National Payments Corporation of India and regulated by Reserve Bank of India which facilitates the fund transfer between two bank accounts on the mobile platform instantly UPI Unified Payments Interface is an advanced version of Immediate Payment ServiceIMPS platform designed for transferring funds using: Transfer through Virtual Payment Address Unique ID provided by bank or Account Number IFSC or Mobile Number MMID or Aadhaar Number or Collect / Pull money basis Virtual ID An MPIN is given to the banking customer once they register for UPI which is required to be entered while confirming a money transfer FRAMED FROM NCERT CLASS 12th BIOQ103 DNA Index System DIS allows generation of DNA profiles from which of the following samples :1 Saliva2 Blood strains 3 Buccal SwabsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B 1 amp 3C 123D 1 amp 2Ans C DNA profiling also called DNA fingerprinting DNA testing or DNA typing is a forensic technique used to identify individuals by characteristics of their DNA A DNA profile is a small set of DNA variations that is very likely to be different in all unrelated individuals thereby being as unique to individuals as are fingerprints hence the alternate name for the technique DNA profiling should not be confused with full genome sequencing DNA fingerprinting has also been widely used in the study of animal and floral populations and has revolutionized the fields of zoology botany and agriculture A common method of collecting a reference sample is the use of a buccal swab which is easy non-invasive and cheap When this is not available eg because a court order is needed but not obtainable other methods may need to be used to collect a sample of blood saliva semen or other appropriate fluid or tissue from personal items eg a toothbrush razor or from stored samples eg banked sperm or biopsy tissue Samples obtained from blood relatives related by birth not marriage can provide an indication of an individual’s profile as could human remains that had been previously profiled Using PCR technology DNA analysis is widely applied to determine genetic family relationships such as paternity maternity siblingship and other kinships Familial DNA searching sometimes referred to as “Familial DNA” or “Familial DNA Database Searching” is the practice of creating new investigative leads in cases where DNA evidence found at the scene of a crime forensic profile strongly resembles that of an existing DNA profile offender profile in a state DNA database but there is not an exact match FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ102 Recently India has signed Dollar credit line agreement with which of the following country A ChinaB NepalC PakistanD IranAns BFRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIAQ101 Recently Kigali agreement has amended 1987 montreal protocol With reference to this agreement consider the following statements 1 As per this agreement HFCs is the only gas responsible for global warming apart from other gases2 500 million us dollar is the amount of additional funding from developed countries 3 Kigali agreement will be binding on countries from 2019Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 3B 1 amp 2C Only 1D 2 amp 3Ans A Amended Montreal Protocol which was initially conceived only to plug gases that were destroying the ozone layer now includes HFCs responsible for global warming The exact amount of additional funding from developed countries will be agreed at the next Meeting of the Parties in Montreal in 2017 The Paris agreement which will come into force by 2020 is not legally binding on countries to cut their emissions The Kigali Amendment is considered absolutely vital for reaching the Paris Agreement target of keeping global temperature rise to below 2-degree Celsius compared to pre-industrial times FRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIAQ100 HIMANSH often in the news is :A Glaciological research stationB Submarine vesselC Micro satelliteD Nuclear VesselAns A A high altitude glaciological research station in Himalaya called Himansh meaning a slice of ice began functioning above 13500 ft 4000 m in a remote region in Spiti Himachal Pradesh The station houses instruments to quantify glacier melting and its relation to changing climate It will also serve as the base for Terrestrial Laser Scanners TLS and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles UAVs for undertaking surveys FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ99 How recently developed Zika replicon system will be helpful in developing vaccine for Zika virus 1 It will deteriorate the structure of the virus by deleting some of its genes 2 Replicons are the segments of viral genome that are dependent of the cellular chromosome3 They will be used to locate portions of the viral molecule that block or halt viral replicationSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 2B 2 amp 3C Only 1 amp 3D All are correctAns CReplicons are basically segments of viral genome that can replicate on their own independent of the cellular chromosomeIt has also become important to deal with Zika virus which is spreading rapidly and behaves differently than other viruses as it can be transmitted sexually and is associated with microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome GBSFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ98 In context with the news what is Digishala A 24 hour government TV channel for cashless lessonsB TV series to be launched for cashless lessonsC A short film based on cashless lessonsD None of the above Ans AFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ97 Jaguar DARIN III often in the news is :A Twin seat aircraftB Anti tank missileC Rocket launcherD Submarine vesselAns AFRAMED FROM ECONOMIC SURVEY 2016-17Q96 Which among the following commodities are covered under the Baltic Dry index 1 Coal2 Grain3 Iron OreSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 3B 2 amp 3C Only 1 amp 2D All are correctAns D The Baltic Dry Index BDI is an economic indicator issued daily by the London-based Baltic Exchange Not restricted to Baltic Sea countries the index provides an assessment of the price of moving the major raw materials by sea Taking in 23 shipping routes measured on a timecharter basis the index covers Handysize Supramax Panamax and Capesize dry bulk carriers carrying a range of commodities including coal iron ore and grain Most directly the index measures the demand for shipping capacity versus the supply of dry bulk carriers The demand for shipping varies with the amount of cargo that is being traded or moved in various markets supply and demand – Another index the HARPEX focuses on containers freight It provides an insight on the transport of a much wider base of commercial goods than commodities alone HARPEX is regarded as a Current-Activity Indicator because it measures and charts the changes in freight rates for ‘container ships’ Container ships typically carry a wide variety of finished goods from a multitude of sellers These are factory output goods headed for retail markets at the other end of the supply chain FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ95 With reference to the Cocoas bonds sometimes seen in the news consider the following statements :1 These are the hybrid bonds that combine debt and equity elements2 These are considered as the most secured bonds issued by banks Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns AThese are known as Additional Tier-1 bondsThey are the riskiest debt issued by banks and do not have any set maturity dateA contingent convertible bond CoCo also known as an enhanced capital note ECN is a fixed-income instrument that is convertible into equity if a pre-specified trigger event occursThe concept of CoCo has been particularly discussed in the context of crisis management in the banking industry It has been also emerging as an alternative way for keeping solvency in the insurance industryA contingent convertible bond is defined with two elements: the trigger and the conversion rate While the trigger is the pre-specified event causing the conversion process the conversion rate is the actual rate at which debt is swapped for equityThe trigger which can be bank specific systemic or dual has to be defined in a way ensuring automatic and inviolable conversionA possibility of a dynamic sequence exists—conversion occurs at different pre-specified thresholds of the trigger eventSince the trigger can be subject to accounting or market manipulation a commonly used measure has been the market’s measure of bank’s solvencyThe design of the trigger and the conversion rate are critical in the instrument’s effectivenessFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ94 What is Urja Ganga that has been recently in news A It is a mission to clean holy river by 2020B It is a project of Gas pipeline to provide cooking gasC It aims to reduce pollutants from Ganga riverD None of the aboveAns BFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ93 Recently in the news there was a term “Selfie Stick” What is this A A micro satelliteB A printerC A Graphene transistorD A newly launched i-phoneAns A The micro-satellite Banxing-2 is roughly the size of a desktop printer and the media has nicknamed “Selfie Stick” It weighs 47 kilogrammes Micro satellites weigh around 500 to 100 kilograms They are usually cheaper faster and more advanced than traditional satellites The commercial potential has attracted much attention from businesses FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ92 Which among the following organic compound is present in the whitener that has been banned under the montreal protocol A 111-trichloroethaneB TolueneC TrichloroehtyleneD BromopropaneAns AThis question has been framed keeping in mind that Uttarakhand High court has banned the use of WhitenerThinner contains organic solvents volatile organic compounds unused correction fluid thickens over time as volatile solvents escape into the air It can become too thick to use and sometimes completely solidifiesThinner originally contained toluene which was banned due to its toxicity Later it contained 111-trichloroethane a skin irritant now widely banned under the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer and then the slightly safer trichloroethylene Thinners currently used with correction fluid include bromopropaneWhiteners contain hydrocarbons which is deadly solvents that can infuse easily with the blood and can affect the central nervous system of a personFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ91 With reference to the Ponzi schemes that has been recently in news consider the following statements :1 It is an investment fraud that falls under the purview of SEBI2 Union government amp co-operative banks are the enforcement agencies of these schemesSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns DIt is an investment fraud that do not falls under the purview of SEBIState government is the enforcement agencies of these schemesIt is a fraudulent investment operation where the operator an individual or organization pays returns to its investors from new capital paid to the operators by new investors rather than from profit earned through legitimate sources Operators of Ponzi schemes usually entice new investors by offering higher returns than other investments in the form of short-term returns that are either abnormally high or unusually consistentPonzi schemes occasionally begin as legitimate businesses until the business fails to achieve the returns expected The business becomes a Ponzi scheme if it then continues under fraudulent terms Whatever the initial situation the perpetuation of the high returns requires an ever-increasing flow of money from new investors to sustain the schemePonzi schemes sometimes commence operations as legitimate investment vehicles such as hedge funds For example a hedge fund can degenerate into a Ponzi scheme if it unexpectedly loses money or simply fails to legitimately earn the returns promised and/or thought to be expected and if the promoters instead of admitting their failure to meet expectations fabricate false returns and if necessary produce fraudulent audit reportsA pyramid scheme is a form of fraud similar in some ways to a Ponzi scheme relying as it does on a mistaken belief in a nonexistent financial reality including the hope of an extremely high rate of return FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ90 Recently Mitochondrial replacement therapy has been in news consider the following statements :1 It involves invitro amp invivo fertilization technique to replace defective mitochondria2 Through this technique embryo remains free from all the defectsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns DIt involves invitro fertilization technique to replace defective mitochondria2nd statement is fabricated statement as it can’t be free from all the defectsMitochondrial replacement MRT sometimes called mitochondrial donation is a special form of in vitro fertilisation in which the future baby’s mitochondrial DNA comes from a third party This technique is used in cases when mothers carry genes for mitochondrial diseases The two most common techniques in mitochondrial donation are pronuclear transfer and maternal spindle transferIn 2015 MRT was made legal in the United Kingdom and in 2016 the first regulations were issued there clearing the way for procedures to begin In February 2016 the US National Academy of Sciences issued a report describing technologies then current and the surrounding ethical issuesFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ89 Which among the following countries comprises CLMV countries 1 Cambodia2 Laos3 Malaysia 4Vietnam Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 124B Only 1 amp 3C 123D All are correctAns A CambodiaLaosMyanmar Vietnam are the CLMV Countries “India’s trade with the CLMV countries is over 11000 million USD and there is immense potential” The tri-lateral highway connectivity in the North East port connectivity improvement and the Act East policy are moves in that direction The External Affairs study proves that there’s a huge potential of about 100billion USD dollars of additional export The trade investment between India and the ASEAN countries is crucial since the CLMV countries cover 32 of the ASEAN region and has a huge market for Indian products and with a 165 million strong population This will attract considerable amount of FDI from India It has an open investment regime and does not discriminate between foreign and local investors It is investing heavily into its transport infrastructure” The Association of Southeast Asian Nations is a regional organisation comprising ten Southeast Asian states which promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic integration amongst its members Since its formation on August 8 1967 by Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines Singapore and Thailand the organisation’s membership has expanded to include Brunei Cambodia Laos Myanmar Burma and Vietnam Its principal aims include accelerating economic growth social progress and sociocultural evolution among its members alongside the protection of regional stability and the provision of a mechanism for member countries to resolve differences peacefully ASEAN PLUS THREE : The leaders of each country felt the need to further integrate the nations in the region Beginning in 1997 the bloc started creating organisations with the intention of achieving this goal ASEAN Plus Three was the first of these and was created to improve existing ties with the People’s Republic of China Japan and South Korea This was followed by the even larger East Asia Summit EAS which included ASEAN Plus Three countries as well as India Australia New Zealand the United States and Russia ASEAN PLUS SIX : Asean became Asean Plus Six with additional countries: Australia New Zealand and India And nowadays there are a new free trade area and it is called as Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership RCEP based on 16 countries of ASEAN plus six RCEP allows the member to protect local sectors and gives more times to comply the aim for developed country members FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ88 Which among the following are the member countries of SAARC Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 134B Only 1 amp 3C 123D All are correctAns D The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SAARC is the regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union of nations in South Asia Its member states include Afghanistan Bangladesh Bhutan India Nepal the Maldives Pakistan and Sri Lanka SAARC comprises 3 of the world’s area 21 of the world’s population and 38 US 29 trillion of the global economy as of 2015 SAARC was founded in Dhaka on 8th December1985 Its secretariat is based in Kathmandu Nepal The organization promotes development of economic and regional integrationIt launched the South Asian Free Trade Area in 2006 SAARC maintains permanent diplomatic relations at the United Nations as an observer and has developed links with multilateral entities including the European Union SAARC has six Apex Bodies they are- • SAARC Chamber of Commerce amp Industry SCCI • South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SAARCLAW • South Asian Federation of Accountants SAFA • South Asia Foundation SAF • South Asia Initiative to End Violence Against Children SAIEVAC • Foundation of SAARC Writers and Literature FOSWAL Hemant Batra is the current Secretary General of SAARC SAARC also has about 17 recognised bodies The Twelfth Summit approved the SAARC Award to support individuals and organisations within the region The main aims of the SAARC Award are: • To encourage individuals and organisations based in South Asia to undertake programmes and activities that complement the efforts of SAARC • To encourage individuals and organisations in South Asia contributing to bettering the conditions of women and children • To honour outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals and organisations within the region in the fields of peace development poverty alleviation environment protection and regional cooperation • To honour any other contributions and achievement not covered above of individuals and organisations in the region The SAARC Award consists of a gold medal a letter of citation and cash prize of US 25000 ₹15 lakhs Since the institution of the SAARC Award in 2004 it has been awarded only once and the Award was posthumously conferred upon the late President Ziaur Rahman of Bangladesh Member countries : Bangladesh Bhutan India Maldives Nepal Pakistan Sri Lanka and Afghanistan Observer countries: Australia China European Union Japan Iran Mauritius Myanmar South Korea and United States Q87 Consider the following:1 Fringe Benefit Tax2 Interest Tax3 Securities Transaction TaxWhich of the above is/ are Direct Tax/Taxes A1 only B 1 and 3 only C 2 and 3 only D 1 2 and 3 Ans D Fringe Benefit Tax: The fringe benefits tax FBT was the tax applied to most although not all fringe benefits in India A new tax was imposed on employers by India’s Finance Act 2005 was introduced for the financial year commencing April 1 2005 The fringe benefit tax was temporarily suspended in the 2009 Union budget of India by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee The following items were covered: • Employer’s expenses on entertainment travel employee welfare and accommodation The definition of fringe benefits that have become taxable has been significantly extended The law provides an exact list of taxable items • Employer’s provision of employee transportation to work or a cash allowances for this purpose • Employer’s contributions to an approved retirement plan called a superannuation fund • Employee stock option plans ESOPs have also been brought under fringe benefits tax from the fiscal year 2007–08 Minimum Support Price : Minimum Support Price MSP is a form of market intervention by the Government of India to insure agricultural producers against any sharp fall in farm prices The minimum support prices are announced by the Government of India at the beginning of the sowing season for certain crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices CACP MSP is price fixed by Government of India to protect the producer – farmers – against excessive fall in price during bumper production years The minimum support prices are a guarantee price for their produce from the Government The major objectives are to support the farmers from distress sales and to procure food grains for public distribution In case the market price for the commodity falls below the announced minimum price due to bumper production and glut in the market government agencies purchase the entire quantity offered by the farmers at the announced minimum price In formulating the recommendations in respect of the level of minimum support prices and other non-price measures the Commission takes into account apart from a comprehensive view of the entire structure of the economy of a particular commodity or group of commodities the following factors:- • Cost of production • Changes in input prices • Input-output price parity • Trends in market prices • Demand and supply • Inter-crop price parity • Effect on industrial cost structure • Effect on cost of living • Effect on general price level • International price situation • Parity between prices paid and prices received by the farmers • Effect on issue prices and implications for subsidy The Commission makes use of both micro-level data and aggregates at the level of district state and the country The information/data used by the Commission inter-alia include the following :- • Cost of cultivation per hectare and structure of costs in various regions of the country and changes there in • Cost of production per quintal in various regions of the country and changes therein • Prices of various inputs and changes therein • Market prices of products and changes therein • Prices of commodities sold by the farmers and of those purchased by them and changes therein • Supply related information – area yield and production imports exports and domestic availability and stocks with the Government/public agencies or industry • Demand related information – total and per capita consumption trends and capacity of the processing industry • Prices in the international market and changes therein demand and supply situation in the world market • Prices of the derivatives of the farm products such as sugar jaggery jute goods edible/non-edible oils and cotton yarn and changes therein • Cost of processing of agricultural products and changes therein • Cost of marketing – storage transportation processing marketing services taxes/fees and margins retained by market functionaries and • Macro-economic variables such as general level of prices consumer price indices and those reflecting monetary and fiscal factors Q86 The main programme of the Red Shirts organised by Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan in support of the Civil Disobedience Movement was:A To proceed on the lines of terrorist amp revolutionary activitiesB To proopagate the Congress programmeC To resist the military operations of the govt in the north-western fronteir portionD To setup an para-military organizationAns B The Civil Disobedience Movement led by M K Gandhi in the year 1930 was an important milestone in the history of Indian Nationalism The prevalent political and social circumstances played a vital role in the launching of the Civil Disobedience Movement The Simon Commission was formed by the British Government that included solely the members of the British Parliament in November 1927 to draft and formalize a constitution for India The chairmanship of the commission rested with Sir John Simon who was a well known lawyer and an English statesman Accused of being an ‘All-White Commission’ the Simon Commission was rejected by all political and social segments of the country In Bengal the opposition to the Simon Commission assumed a massive scale with a hartal being observed in all corners of the province on February 3rd 1928 On the occasion of Simon’s arrival in the city demonstrations were conducted in Calcutta In the wake of the boycott of the recommendations proposed by Simon Commission an All-Party Conference was organized in Bombay in May of 1928 Dr MA Ansari was the president of the conference Motilal Nehru was given the responsibility to preside over the drafting committee appointed at the conference to prepare a constitution for India MK Gandhi was urged by the Congress to render his much needed leadership to the Civil Disobedience Movement On the historic day of 12th March 1930 Gandhi inaugurated The Civil Disobedience Movement by conducting the historic Dandi Salt March where he broke the Salt Laws imposed by the British Government The two main clauses of the Gandhi-Irwin pact entailed : Congress participation in the Round Table Conference and cessation of The Civil Disobedience Movement FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ85 In which among the following countries Zika virus was prevalent 1 Colombia2 Equador 3 El Salvador 4 JamaicaWhich among the above are correct A 134B 234C 123D 1234AnsDZika virus is not contagious but it is mainly transmitted by daytime-active Aedes aegypti mosquitoes after it bites someone infected with the virus and transmit it by biting another humanFRAMED FROM NCERT HISTORY CLASS 12thQ84 Who considered Sanchi to be a centre of tree and serpent worship A James FergussonB James PrincepC MarshmanD CunninghamAns AFRAMED FROM PEARSON CSAT MANUALQ83 Which among the following are the legislative powers of the President 1 Power to summon two houses of the Parliament 2 President may dissolve the Lok Sabha 3 Bill passed by the parliament becomes an act after the President’s assent 4 Power to send back advice received from the council of ministers Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 134 B 234 C 123 D1234 Ans C Real Executive Power : Power to send back advice received from the council of ministersFRAMED FROM PEARSON CSAT MANUALQ82 Which among the following are the discretionary powers of the Governor 1 Governor is advised amp aided by the council of ministers of state 2 In case of conflict between the council of ministers amp Governor decision of the governor is final 3 Governor can dissolve the assembly if CM advises him 4 Governor can recommend the President about the failure of the constitutional machinery 5 On his/her discretion Governor can reserve a bill passed by the state legislature for President’s assent Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1345B 2345C 1234 D 12345 Ans DFRAMED FROM ccrtindiagovinQ81 With reference to Kathakali consider the following statements : 1 Square and rectangular basic positions are commonly seen in Kathakali 2 Weight of the body is on the outer edges of the feet which are slightly bent and curved 3 It is characterized by facial expressions movement of eye balls amp lower eye lids Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3 B 2 amp 3 C 1 amp 2 D 123Ans D Introduction Kathakali is the most well known dance drama from the south Indian state of Kerala The word Kathakali literally means Story-Play It is known for its large elaborate makeup and costumes The elaborate costumes of Kathakali have become the most recognised icon for Kerala The themes of the Kathakali are religious in nature They typically deal with the Mahabarat the Ramayana and the ancient scriptures known as the Puranas This is performed in a text which is generally Sanskritised Malayalam A Kathakali performance is a major social event They generally start at dusk and go through out the night Kathakali is usually performed only by men Female characters are portrayed by men dressed in women’s costume However in recent years women have started to become Kathakali dancers Kathakali has a long tradition It dates back to the 17th century It was given its present form by Mahakavi Vallathol Narayan Menon who was the founder of the Kerala Kala Mandalam The actors rely very heavily on hand gesture to convey the story These hand gestures known as mudra are common through out much of classical Indian dance Costume The costume is the most distinctive characteristic of Kathakali The makeup is very elaborate and the costumes are very large and heavy There are several kinds of costume There are: Sathwika the hero Kathi the villain Minukku females and Thatti These basic divisions are further subdivided in a way which is very well known to Malayali Keralite audiences Each character is instantly recognisable by their characteristic makeup and costume The makeup is very elaborate It is so elaborate that it is more like a mask than makeup in the usual sense The materials that comprise the makeup is all locally available The white is made from rice flour the red is made from Vermilion a red earth such as cinnabar The black is made from soot The colours are not merely decoration but are also a means of portraying characters For instance red on the feet is used to symbolise evil character and evil intent Music The music of Kathakali has some similarity to the larger body of South Indian classical music Carnatic sangeet however the instrumentation is decidedly different Its local colour is strongly achieved by the use of instruments such as chenda idakka and shuddha madalam FRAMED FROM ccrtindiagovinQ80 In context with the Western Indian School consider the following statements : 1 The motivating force for the artistic activity in Western India was Jainism 2 Exaggeration of certain physical traits are present in Western Indian School 3 Figures are flat with angularity of features in this type of art Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3 B 2 amp 3 C 1 amp 2 D 123 Ans D The Western Indian style of painting prevailed in the region comprising Gujarat Rajasthan and Malwa The motivating force for the artistic activity in Western India was Jainism just as it was Buddhism in case of the Ajanta and the Pala arts Jainism was patronised by the Kings of the Chalukya Dynasty who ruled Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan and Malwa from 961 AD to the end of the 13th century An enormous number of Jain religious manuscripts were commissioned from 12th to 16th centuries by the princes their ministers and the rich Jain merchants for earning religious merit Many such manuscripts are available in the Jain libraries bhandaras which are found at many places in Western India FRAMED FROM NCERT HISTORY CLASS 12thQ79 What was Mahanavami Dibba with reference to the ancient period A Audience hallB Hospital where soldiers were treatedC Residence of the BhikshusD Place where Buddhist monks were assembledAns A The entire complex is surrounded by high double walls with a street running between them The audience hall is a high platform with slots for wooden pillars at close and regular intervals It had a staircase going up to the second floor which rested on these pillars The pillars being closely spaced would have left little free space and thus it is not clear what the hall was used for FRAMED FROM THE HINDU amp WIKEPEDIAQ78 Recently India has hosted Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction AMCDRR consider the following statements :1 It is a biennial conference jointly organized by all Asian countries2 It is a voluntary and non-binding treaty which recognizes that the UN member State has the primary role to reduce disaster risk3 ‘Asian Regional Plan for Implementation of the Sendai Framework’ has been adopted in this conferenceSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only2B 1 amp 3C Only 1D 2 amp 3Ans D India is hosting the 2016 Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction AMCDRR from November 3 to 5 2016 in New Delhi This will be second time India hosting AMCDRR The conference will be hosted by Union Government in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction UNISDR Key Facts It will be first AMCDRR after advent of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction SFDRRR which was adopted at 3rd UN World Conference in Sendai Japan in March 2015 India by hosting AMCDRR re-affirms its commitment to the cause of Disaster Risk Reduction It will also set the direction of Sendai Framework implementation in the region The aim of the conference is to transform the commitments of governments and stakeholders during the Sendai Conference into national and local action AMCDRR 2016 will focus on consultation collaboration and partnership with governments and stakeholders to mainstream Disaster Risk Reduction DRR in the region It will adopt the ‘Asian Regional Plan for Implementation of the Sendai Framework’ endorsed by the Asian countries In this conference senior-level delegations from Asian countries representatives of UN bodies and Disaster Management experts will participate Background AMCDRR is a biennial conference jointly organized by different Asian countries and the UNISDR It was established in 2005 So far 6 AMCDRR conferences have been organised For the first time India had also hosted the second AMCDRR in 2007 in New Delhi About Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-30 It is an international Treaty that was approved by UN member states in March 2015 at the Third World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai Japan It is a voluntary and non-binding treaty which recognizes that the UN member State has the primary role to reduce disaster risk It has framework for 15-year ie 2015 to 2020 It also calls for sharing the responsibility with other stakeholders including local government the private sector and other stakeholders It is successor of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005–2015 which had been the most encompassing international accord on disaster risk reduction It sets of common standards a comprehensive framework with achievable targets and a legally-based instrument for disaster risk reduction It calls for adopting integrated and inclusive institutional measures for preventing vulnerability to disaster increase preparedness for response and recovery and strengthen resilience Four specific priorities of Sendai Framework: i Understanding disaster risk ii Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk iii Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience iv Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and recovery reconstruction and rehabilitation FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIAQ77 Which among the following are the conventions of the recently ratified Paris agreement 1 Holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels2 On the path of Kyoto Protocol it provides a specific division between developed and developing nations3 Making finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient developmentSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3D 123Ans A The Paris Agreement is an agreement within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UNFCCC dealing with greenhouse gases emissions mitigation adaptation and finance starting in the year 2020 It was opened for signature on 22 April 2016 Earth Day at a ceremony in New York As of December 2016 194 UNFCCC members have signed the treaty 120 of which have ratified it After several European Union states ratified the agreement in October 2016 there were enough countries that had ratified the agreement that produce enough of the world’s greenhouse gases for the agreement to enter into force The agreement went into effect on 4 November 2016 The aim of the convention is described in Article 2 enhancing the implementation of the UNFCCC through: a Holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 15 °C above pre-industrial levels recognizing that this would significantly reduce the risks and impacts of climate change b Increasing the ability to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change and foster climate resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions development in a manner that does not threaten food production c Making finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development Difference between Paris agreement amp Kyoto Protocol : Kyoto Protocol differentiated between Annex-1 and non-Annex-1 countries this bifurcation is blurred in the Paris Agreement as all parties will be required to submit emissions reductions plans While the Paris Agreement still emphasizes the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibility—the acknowledgement that different nations have different capacities and duties to climate action—it does not provide a specific division between developed and developing nations The Paris Agreement is open for signature by States and regional economic integration organizations that are Parties to the UNFCCC the Convention from 22 April 2016 to 21 April 2017 at the UN Headquarters in New York FRAMED FROM NCERT HISTORY CLASS 12thQ76 With reference to the architectural styles consider the following statements :1 Neo-Gothic characterised by high-pitched roofs pointed arches and detailed decoration2 Gothic style had its roots in buildings especially churches built in northern Europe during the medieval period3 neo-Gothic style was revived in the mid-nineteenth century in England amp was adapted forBombaySelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B 2 amp 3C 123D Only 2Ans CThe most spectacular example of the neo-Gothic style is the Victoria Terminus the station and headquarters of the Great Indian Peninsular Railway CompanyFRAMED FROM NCERT CLASS 8thQ75 With reference to the ancient period which among the following is/are correctly marched 1 Mobato : Village headman2 Pykars : Travelling traders3 Chapkan : Long button coatSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 2B 1 amp 3C 2 amp 3D 123Ans DQ74 Which one of the following is not identified by Central Pollution Control Board as heavily polluting industryA Pulp and paperB SugarC TeaD FertilizerAns CFRAMED FROM NCERT CLASS 12thQ73 With reference to the Guru Nanak consider the following statements 1 He advocated a form of nirguna bhakti2 Sacrifices ritual baths image worship austerities and the scriptures of both Hindus and Muslims were rejected by Guru NanakSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CFRAMED FROM ccrtindiagovinQ72 With reference to the Odissi dance consider the following statements : 1 Torso movement is an unique feature of the Odissi style 2 Lower half of the body remaining static the torso moves from one side to the other along the axis passing through the centre of the upper half of the body 3 There are certain foot positions with flat toe or heel contact 4 In addition to the leg movement there are a variety of gaits for doing pirouettes Which among the above statements are correctly matched A 134B 234 C 123 D 1234 Ans D Odissi is considered a dance of love joy and intense passion pure divine and human Over a period of time three schools of Odissi dance developed they are- Mahari Nartaki and Gotipau The Mahari system traces its roots in the Devadasi tradition The dance form of Odissi that developed in royal courts is called the Nartaki tradition In the Gotipau tradition of Odissi dance young boys dress up in female attires and enact female roles Before the 17th century Odissi dance was held in great esteem due to patronage and support of local rulers and nobles During this period even the royalty was expected to be accomplished dancers However the scenario changed after the 17th century The dancing girls were thought of as prostitutes and from here the social position of dancers began to decline During the colonial period too the position of Odissi dance suffered due to anti-nautch attitude of the British With India gaining independence there began great efforts to revive the classical Indian dances The government came to realize the role of cultural heritage in creating a national identity A number of people and experts took initiatives for the reconstruction and popularization of Odissi dance Some of the notable are Guru Deba Prasad Das Guru Mayadhar Raut Guru Pankaj Charan Das Guru Mahadev Rout Guru Raghu Dutta and Guru Kelu Charan Mahapatra One of the most distinguishing features of Odissi dance is the Tribhangi The notion of Tribhang divides the body into three parts head bust and torso The postures dealing with these three elements are called Tribhangi This concept has created the very characteristic poses which are more twisted than found in other classical Indian dances Mudra is also an important component of Odissi dance The term Mudra means stamp and is a hand position which suggests things Odissi themes are almost religious in nature and mostly revolve around Krishna Q71 Under which of the following conditions security deposits of a candidate contesting for a Lok Sabha seat is returned to him/her1 The nomination made by the candidate if found to be invalid2 The candidate has withdrawn his/her nomination even though it is found validWhich of the statements given above is/are correct A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns BQ70 Consider the following statements :1 Rajya Sabha is not subject to dissolution2 Vice-President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and holds the office of the Vice-President of India for a period of six yearsWhich of the statements given above is/are correct A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns AVice-President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and holds the office of the Vice-President of India for a period of five yearsFRAMED FROM HISTORY NEW NCERT CLASS 12thQ69 With reference to the ancient period who was/were dubashes 1 Dubashes were Indians who could speak two languages – the local language and English2 They worked as agents and merchants acting as intermediaries between Indian society and the BritishWhich among the above statements is/are correct A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CFRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIA amp THE HINDU Q68 With reference to the Organ transplantation consider the following statements 1 Domino transplant allows all organ recipients to get a transplant even if their living donor is not a match to them2 Organ donation is possible even after brain amp cardiac death 3 In organ transplantation brain cannot be transplantedSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 2B 2 amp 3C Only 1D All are correctAns D Organ transplantation is the moving of an organ from one body to another or from a donor site to another location on the person’s own body to replace the recipient’s damaged or absent organ Organs and/or tissues that are transplanted within the same person’s body are called autografts Transplants that are recently performed between two subjects of the same species are called allografts Allografts can either be from a living or cadaveric source Organs that can be transplanted are the heart kidneys liver lungs pancreas intestine and thymus Some organs like the brain cannot be transplanted Tissues include bones tendons both referred to as musculoskeletal grafts cornea skin heart valves nerves and veins Worldwide the kidneys are the most commonly transplanted organs followed by the liver and then the heart Cornea and musculoskeletal grafts are the most commonly transplanted tissues these outnumber organ transplants by more than tenfold Organ donors may be living brain dead or dead via circulatory death Tissue may be recovered from donors who die of circulatory death as well as of brain death – up to 24 hours past the cessation of heartbeat Unlike organs most tissues with the exception of corneas can be preserved and stored for up to five years meaning they can be banked Transplantation raises a number of bioethical issues including the definition of death when and how consent should be given for an organ to be transplanted and payment for organs for transplantation Other ethical issues include transplantation tourism and more broadly the socio-economic context in which organ procurement or transplantation may occur A particular problem is organ trafficking Transplantation medicine is one of the most challenging and complex areas of modern medicine Some of the key areas for medical management are the problems of transplant rejection during which the body has an immune response to the transplanted organ possibly leading to transplant failure and the need to immediately remove the organ from the recipient When possible transplant rejection can be reduced through serotyping to determine the most appropriate donor-recipient match and through the use of immunosuppressant drugs Autografts are the transplant of tissue to the same person Sometimes this is done with surplus tissue tissue that can regenerate or tissues more desperately needed elsewhere examples include skin grafts vein extraction for CABG etc Sometimes an autograft is done to remove the tissue and then treat it or the person before returning it examples include stem cell autograft and storing blood in advance of surgery In a rotationplasty a distal joint is used to replace a more proximal one typically a foot or ankle joint is used to replace a knee joint The person’s foot is severed and reversed the knee removed and the tibia joined with the femur FRAMED FROM WIKEPEDIA amp THE HINDU Q67 With reference to the Bioprinting consider the following statements :1 Creation of fabricated structures that are identical to the natural structure that are found in the tissues and organs in the human body is one of the main approach of bioprinting2 Bio-ink is a material made from living as well as non-living cells in order to create a desired shape3 Combination of both biomimicry and self-assembly approaches are known as mini tissuesSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3D 1 amp 2Ans A 3D bioprinting is the process of creating cell patterns in a confined space using 3D printing technologies where cell function and viability are preserved within the printed constructGenerally 3D bioprinting utilizes the layer-by-layer method to create tissue-like structures that are later used in medical and tissue engineering fieldsBioprinting covers a broad range of materials Currently bioprinting can be used to print tissues and organs to help research drugs and pills In addition 3D bioprinting has begun to incorporate the printing of scaffolds These scaffolds can be used to regenerate joints and ligaments The first patent related to this technology was filed in the United States in 2003 and granted in 2006 3D bioprinting for fabricating biological constructs typically involves dispensing cells onto a biocompatible scaffold using a successive layer-by-layer approach to generate tissue-like three-dimensional structures Artificial organs such as livers and kidneys made by 3D bioprinting have been shown to lack crucial elements that affect the body such as working blood vessels tubules for collecting urine and the growth of billions of cells required for these organs Without these components the body has no way to get the essential nutrients and oxygen deep within their interiors The first approach of bioprinting is called biomimicry The main goal of this approach is to create fabricated structures that are identical to the natural structure that are found in the tissues and organs in the human body This approach relies on the physical process of embryonic organ development then replicates the tissues by using this process as a model The third approach of bioprinting is a combination of both the biomimicry and self-assembly approaches which is called mini tissues Organs and tissues are built from very small functional components Mini-tissue approach takes these small pieces and manufacture and arrange them into larger frameworkThis approach uses two different strategies The first strategy is when self-assembling cell spheres are arranged into large scaled tissues by using natural designs as a guide The second strategy is when designing precise high quality reproductions of a tissue and allowing them to self-assemble into large scaled functional tissue The mixture of these strategies is required to print a complex three dimensional biological structure Bio-ink is a material made from living cells that behaves much like a liquid allowing people to print it in order to create a desired shape To make bio-ink scientists create a slurry of cells that can be loaded into a cartridge and inserted into a specially designed printer along with another cartridge containing a gel known as bio-paperPotential uses for bio-ink include creating sheets of skin for skin grafts and vascular tissues to replace veins and arteries In bioprinting there are three major types of printers that have been used These are inkjet laser-assisted and extrusion printers Inkjet printers are mainly used in bioprinting for fast and large-scale products One type of inkjet printer called drop-on-demand inkjet printer prints materials in exact amounts minimizing cost and wastePrinters that utilize lasers provide high-resolution printing however these printers are often expensive Extrusion printers print cells layer-by-layer just like 3D printing to create 3D constructs In addition to just cells extrusion printers may also use hydrogels infused with cells In early 2015 3-D printing techniques expanded to include materials such as graphene a material possessing unique properties such as high levels of strength rather than only plastics FRAMED FROM INVESTOPEDIAQ66 Recently Bulldog bonds are in news with reference to these bonds consider the following statements :1 These are purchased from the sterling bonds in order to earn revenue 2 These bonds are similar to the Yankee bonds which can be sold to raise capital3 US investors are restricted to purchase this bond as these are traded in United kingdomSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 2 amp 3 B Only 3C 1 amp 2D Only 1Ans C A type of bond purchased by buyers interested in earning a revenue stream from the British pound or sterling A bulldog bond is traded in the United Kingdom If the revenue is used to reduce debt also in British pounds the exchange rate risk is decreased These bonds are issued by non-British institutions that want to sell the bond in the United Kingdom US investors can also purchase this bond but by doing so they take on the risk of the change in value of the sterling |
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Syria army advances towards IS group-held Deir Ezzor: Monitor |
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After a rocket attack Israel strikes Iranian sites in Syria |
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Successful Syrian Realtor Mo Abboud Knows How to Utilize Any Opportunity for Creating Fortunes |
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President of the Syrian Arab Republic Bashar al-Assad received the delegation of the Republic of Abkhazia led by Alkhas Kvitsinia |
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Dutch announcement to hold Syria accountable is welcome step on long road towards justice |
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Franciscan who stayed in war-torn Syria dies of COVID |
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Scaramucci visits Rutgers: Discusses anti-Semitism on college campuses talks Trump and Syria |
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Al-Qaeda Supporter Urges Taliban Turkestan Islamic Party TIP In Afghanistan To Replace Leadership Of TIP Branch In Syria Because Of Its Affiliation With Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham HTS |
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The feds have charged 2 suspected ISIS militants dubbed the ‘Beatles’ in the deaths of Americans in Syria |
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Norway Canada Niue Colombia Guinea-Bissau France Singapore Mayotte Jamaica San Marino Somalia Iran Honduras Ireland Albania Eritrea Luxembourg Jersey Micronesia Réunion Switzerland Bulgaria Nepal Argentina Lithuania Belize Côte d’Ivoire Samoa Taiwan Bahrain Angola United Kingdom Seychelles Maldives Venezuela Marshall Islands Bosnia and Herzegovina Tanzania Dutch Caribbean Malaysia Greece Lesotho Serbia Cambodia Kazakhstan Vietnam Puerto Rico Bangladesh Barbados Andorra Israel Malta US Virgin Islands Libya South Sudan Saint Barthélemy Turks and Caicos Islands Guam Anguilla Sao Tome and Principe Gabon Syria French Guiana St Vincent Hong Kong Cook Islands Palau Spain Isle of Man Germany Swaziland Lebanon Georgia Sudan Perú Vanuatu Liberia Papua New Guinea Macedonia Norfolk Island Iraq Yemen Saint Kitts and Nevis Myanmar Croatia United Arab Emirates Northern Mariana Islands Solomon Islands Martinique Suriname Nigeria Cocos Keeling Islands Greenland Czechia Haiti Tuvalu Moldova Mali Cyprus Dominican Republic Brazil Bhutan Cayman Islands Algeria Morocco Austria Kyrgyzstan Ghana Poland Ecuador Congo French Polynesia Rwanda Guinea Belgium Tajikistan Mauritius Azerbaijan Guernsey North Korea Oman Montserrat Russian Federation Egypt Guatemala Falkland Islands Qatar Central African Republic Mongolia Montenegro British Virgin Islands Portugal Paraguay Burundi Saint Lucia Australia Saint Helena Uganda Nauru Uzbekistan Malawi New Caledonia Finland Uruguay Chad Antigua and Barbuda Saudi Arabia Zimbabwe Equatorial Guinea Trinidad and Tobago Comoros British Indian Ocean Territory Antarctica Afghanistan Italy Saint Pierre and Miquelon El Salvador Tunisia Bahamas Palestinian Territory Namibia Pakistan Netherlands Djibouti Faroe Islands Cameroon South Africa Sri Lanka Chile Jordan Bolivia Mexico Estonia United States of America Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Latvia Senegal Togo Tonga Christmas Island Romania Denmark Indonesia Madagascar Kuwait Botswana Cuba Iceland Zambia Benin Slovenia Japan South Korea Mauritania Sweden China Slovakia Burkina Faso Armenia Hungary Costa Rica Mozambique Kenya New Zealand Philippines Turkey Ethiopia Western Sahara Sierra Leone American Samoa Niger Dominica Nicaragua Grenada Guadeloupe Bermuda Kosovo Cape Verde Kiribati Belarus Macau Fiji Ukraine Gambia Panama Guyana Celebes Islands Laos Timor-Leste Gibraltar Turkmenistan Liechtenstein Thailand Brunei India |
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Gandhara is noted for the distinctive Gandhāra style of Buddhist art a consequence of merger of Greek Syrian Persian and Indian art traditions The development of this form of art started in Parthian Period50BC – 75AD Gandhāran style flourished and achieved its peak during the Kushan period from 1st Century to 5th Century It declined and suffered destruction after invasion of the White Huns in the 5th century Style of Buddhist visual art that developed in what is now northwestern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan between the 1st century BC and the 7th century AD The style of Greco-Roman origin seems to have flourished largely during the Kushan dynasty and was contemporaneous with an important but dissimilar school of Kushan art at Mathura Uttar Pradesh IndiaThe Gandhara region had long been a crossroads of cultural influences During the reign of the Indian emperor Ashoka around 3rd century BC the region became the scene of intensive Buddhist missionary activity and in the 1st century AD rulers of the Kushan empire which included Gandhara maintained contacts with Rome In its interpretation of Buddhist legends the Gandhara school incorporated many motifs and techniques from classical Roman art including vine scrolls cherubs bearing garlands tritons and centaurs The basic iconography however remained IndianThe materials used for Gandhara sculpture were green phyllite and gray-blue mica schist which in general belong to an earlier phase and stucco which was used increasingly after the 3rd century AD The sculptures were originally painted and gilded Gandhara’s role in the evolution of the Buddha image has been a point of considerable disagreement among scholars It now seems clear that the schools of Gandhara and Mathura each independently evolved its own characteristic depiction of the Buddha about the 1st century AD The Gandhara school drew upon the anthropomorphic traditions of Roman religion and represented the Buddha with a youthful Apollo-like face dressed in garments resembling those seen on Roman imperial statues The Gandhara depiction of the seated Buddha was less successful The schools of Gandhara and Mathura influenced each other and the general trend was away from a naturalistic conception and toward a more idealized abstract image The Gandharan craftsmen made a lasting contribution to Buddhist art in their composition of the events of the Buddha’s life into set scenes The Hellenistic influence was nowhere more dramatic than in Gandhara a term now used to describe the school of semi-classical sculptures of Pakistan and Afghanistan in the early centuries of our era Gandhara is the name of an ancient province and kingdom which in classical times was limited to a small region in ancient India The province Gandhara included roughly northwestern India between the Khyber Pass and the Indus River and the region of the Kabul Valley in Afghanistan However art and architecture from the Gandharean School had been found as far north as the Oxus River found in the Punjab In the sixth to fourth centuries BCE Gandhara was dominated under the Achaemenid Dynasty of Iran The successors of Alexander the Great maintained themselves in Bactria and Gandhara from 322 BCE to about 50 BCE however as early as the second century BCE these Greek Dynasties were already overrun by peoples of both nomadic and Parthian-Iranian origin Rejoined to India under the Maurya Dynasty the Gandhara province became the object of intense missionary activity by the Buddhist emperor Asoka reigned c 273-232 BCE He made Buddhism the state religion enforced the Buddhist doctrine of nonviolence ahimsa and prohibited animal sacrifices In the first century AD the Kushans a tribe of Scythian stock from north China made themselves masters of Gandhara Their rule however was interrupted by the invasion of the Persian King Shapur I in AD 242 and the Buddhist civilization of Gandhara was finally completely destroyed by the White Huns the Hephthalites in the sixth centuryThe disastrous invasion of the White Huns put an end to all further productive activity in the once flourishing Gandhara province Little is known about this time period except from Chinese pilgrims who as early as the fifth century AD undertook the long and arduous journey to the Holy Land of Buddhism Fa Hsien who traveled through the Peshawar Valley shortly after AD 400 described that the Gandhara province flourished and that Emperor Kanishka’s successors were well cared for When his successor Sung Yen visited the region in 520 he reported that the country had been overrun by the Huns A few years later he reported that the Huns had virtually expiated Buddhism had destroyed monasteries and had slashed most of the population in Gandhara A century later when the famous Chinese pilgrim Hsuan-Tsang traveled through north-west India he found Gandhara in a ruined depopulated state He describes in his Records of the Western Countries that ruined monasteries greeted him everywhere in the Peshawar Valley and reports of the terrible desolation of the once flourishing Buddhist centers However the final chapters of the Gandharan school has its setting in Kashmir and in remote centers such as Fondukistan and Afghanistan where artistic activity continued as late as the seventh century Excavations have produced many statues other artifacts and some monasteries Unfortunately there are no architectural monuments left intact in Gandhara only some structural remains and sculptured fragments However there is ample proof of active trade and cultural exchanges between the Mediterranean and the Kushan territories into China Gandhara art is often referred to as the Graeco-or-Roman-Buddhist school The founder of the School has been credited to the Kushan Emperor Kanishka c AD 129-160 because of his patronage to Buddhism and his great artistic development The character of Gandharan art is determined by the commercial relations between the Kushan and the Roman empires The many archaeological discoveries of Alexandrian and Syrian workmanship at Taxila in the Punjab and Begram in the Kabul valley testify to the cultural and diplomatic connections with the Graeco-Roman West Many artifacts in particular sculptures have survived and are now dispersed in major museums throughout the world Evidence of Hellenistic art in the form of architecture had been noted on a number of temples from the city of Sirkap at Taxila and on the tumbled columns of Ay Khanum’s administrative center Although the presence of this material provides a Hellenistic back ground for Gandhara art it was the introduction of foreign workers from the eastern centers of the Roman Empire that led to the creation of the first Buddhist sculptures It is not surprising that the Kushans a nomadic people without a tradition of monumental art requested the service of skilled artisans to meet the architectural and sculptural requirements for the many Buddhist establishments It can be assumed that the practice of importing foreign artisans continued from the days of Kanishka’s reign until the end of Buddhism in northwest India and the Punjab in the sixth to early seventh centuries The majority of Gandharan art was however created by native craftsmen following the successive waves of foreign influences The subject matter of Gandharan art was unquestionably Buddhist while most motifs were of western Asiatic or Hellenistic origin Mesopotamian motifs can be found on Persepolitan capitals or forms such as the Atlantis garland-bearing Eros and the semi-human creatures as the centaur and triton are part of the repertory of Hellenistic art and introduced by Roman Eurasian artists in the service of the Kushan court The fantastic monsters however the sphinxes and griffins had already been assimilated by the ancient Indian schools Sculptures played a very decisive role in the Buddhist monasteries where they had been found in large quantities Tall single statues were placed in chapels to be venerated by the monks and the faithful Other large figures in high relief were placed with their back to the wall and bass relief filled all manners of places and positions The Gandhara schools is probably credited with the first representation of the Buddha in human form the portrayal of Sakyamuni in his human shape rather than shown as a symbol Perhaps the school intended to create a human Bodhisattva a representation of Prince Siddhartha the Buddha Sakyamuni while still as a Bodhisattva All early Bodhisattvas are shown in wearing turbans jewelry and muslin skirts a costume that was an adaptation of the actual dress of Kushan and Indian nobles The jewelry of these royal statues were a duplication of Hellenistic and Samatian gold created by Western artisans A definite borrowing from Roman art was the method of representing the story of the Buddhas legend in a series of separate episodes and panels This was accomplished in much the same way than the pictorial iconography of the Christian legends based on the Roman methods On portraying the careers of the Caesar’s several distinct climactic events where shown on separate panels Another example are the earliest Gandhara Buddha’s where Sakyamuni is portrayed with the head of a Greek Apollo and arrayed in a Roman toga It is the same early representation of Christ which shows Him with the head of the Greek Sun-God but dressed in the garb of the teachers of the ancient Greek world The most frequently used material by Gandharan artists was a soft indigenous schist that varied in color from light to dark gray and often contained sparkling mica particles Many of these statues were covered with gold leaf to give them a luster in dark interiors The most popular media however became an easy-to-work material terracotta and stucco Because of the fragility of the material most statues were supported by attaching them to walls giving them the appearance of a three-dimensional relief Stucco sculptures were given a final coat of gesso which was then painted The most frequent subjects were representations of Buddha Bodhisattwas and attending monks or donors The Buddha images display a variety of ethnic types and expressions The human head usually has appears with a perfect oval face regular features with almond-shaped and slightly protruding eyes with gentle arching eyebrows a straight nose and beautifully cut lips with a subtle smile The Buddha’s influence is evident in the half-closed eyes suggesting meditation The face if often unbearded but sometimes a mustache strikes a foreign note most likely Kushan The usnisa or cranial bump a redestination the Buddha was born with is usually seen in the form of the chignon a knot or a roll of hear wrapped in silk on the dome of Buddha’s head The elongated ears indicate the heavy rich jewelry the Buddha woreThe Kushans were able to establish a strong empire for a period of about three hundred years and produced works of art reflecting both indigenous traditions and external influences The detection of Greek and Roman elements in the Gandharan School testifies to the active exchange of ideals among all the civilizations of the Classical and Central Asian worldsThe Gandhara School reached its peak toward the end of the second century with the production of the most significant large Buddha statues Their style continued to flourish into the third century until after the Sasanian invasion and continued until the seventh century in Afghanistan |
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Syria Closed for Travel |
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COPYRIGHT Q543 TO 545 WILL BE UPLOADED ON 9TH AUGUST 2020 COPYRIGHT Q542 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q With reference to the news what is NIRVIK SCHEME A It is an integrated approach to bring about a robust financial inclusion and ultimately provide banking services to all households in the countryB ‘NIRVIK’ scheme to enhance loan availability for exporters and ease the lending processC To develop improve and update need based rescue and emergency response services to the mining industry D The goal of this scheme is to make girls socially and financially self-reliant through educationAns BWhat is NIRVIK scheme How will it help exportersNIRVIK scheme: The ECGC has introduced ‘NIRVIK’ scheme to enhance loan availability for exporters andease the lending processUnder the ‘NIRVIK’ scheme the gems jewellery and diamondGJD sector borrowers with limit of over Rs 80 crore will have a higher premium rate in comparison to the non-GJD sector borrowers of this category due to the higher loss ratioECGC: AboutThe Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India ECGC is a fully government-owned company that was established in 1957 to promote exports by providing credit insurance services COPYRIGHT Q541 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q With reference to the news what is UMMID Initiative A These are humanitarian initiatives that raise and disburse additional funds for infectious diseases– such as AIDS tuberculosis and malariaB It is an Indian health programme for improving healthcare delivery across rural IndiaC The Health Care InitiativE HCI fosters and promotes faculty research supports the development of a portfolio of high-impact educational programsD It is an initiative to tackle inherited genetic diseases of newborn babiesAns DUMMID initiative to tackle inherited genetic diseases of newborn babiesUMMID initiative aims to create awareness about genetic disorders and establish molecular diagnostics in hospitals COPYRIGHT Q540 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q In context with the UNGA United Nation General Assembly consider the following statements :1 The UN General Assembly has no binding votes or veto powers like the UN Security Council2 All the 193 UN member states have equal representation in the UN General Assembly3 US has always spoken first at the UN General Assembly since the 10th UNGA in 1955 Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 2B Only 3 C 2 amp 3D 123Ans AUNGA 2019: What is UNGAWho gets to vote at UNGAEach sovereign state gets one vote and the votes are not binding on the membership except in budgetary matters The UN General Assembly has no binding votes or veto powers like the UN Security CouncilWhat are the powers of UNGAThe UNGA can express world opinion promote international cooperation in various fields and make recommendations to the UNSC and elect the Security Council’s non-permanent membersWho is the current UNGA PresidentThe current UNGA President is Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria who was elected to the post on June 4 2019 He succeeds María Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador whose term ends in September 2019There are how many countries in the UN General AssemblyAll the 193 UN member states have equal representation in the UN General Assembly Which countries are not a part of UNGAAmong the world’s 196 countries 193 are UN member states and three nations- Palestine the Vatican City and Taiwan are not a part of the international organization as their country status is not recognized globally due to political and religious reasonsIs North Korea a UN member stateThe two Koreas-North and South Korea were admitted as members of the United Nations in 1991Which country always speaks first at the UNGABrazil has always spoken first at the UN General Assembly since the 10th UNGA in 1955 COPYRIGHT Q539 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q With reference to the Khanderi which among the following is/are correct 1 INS Khanderi construction began in April 2009 675 metres long and 123 metres tall2 It is capable of saving oxygen availability and can stay underwater for long periodsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CKey Features of INS Khanderi- The INS Khanderi construction began in April 2009 It was first built into five separate segments which were later welded together- INS Khanderi is 675 metres long and 123 metres tall- Its hull form fin and hydroplanes have been designed to enable minimum underwater resistance- The submarine’s Permanently Magnetised Propulsion Motor is powered by 360 battery cells Each battery cell weighs 750 kg- It is capable of saving oxygen availability and can stay underwater for long periods COPYRIGHT Q538 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q For which conference of Parties “Time for Action” Tagline has been given A COP 23B COP 24C COP 25D COP 26Ans CCOP 25 Tagline: Time for ActionNo decision on long-term climate financeThe parties also failed to decide on long-term climate finance which is the financial support given to the developing countries by the developed countries to fight against climate change This was agreed upon in the Paris climate agreement 2020 Climate talksThe next UN Climate talks will be held in Glasgow Scotland COPYRIGHT Q537 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q Why the launch of RISAT-2BR1 marked major milestones for ISRO 1 This was the 50th flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV2 It was also the 75th Launch Vehicle Mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra PradeshSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CRISAT2-BR1 is the second satellite in the RISAT-2B series and is expected to be followed by two more satellitesRISAT2-BR1• RISAT2-BR1 is the second satellite in the RISAT-2B series and is expected to be followed by two more satellites• The satellite with a mission life of five years follows the successful launch of RISAT-2B in May 2019• RISAT2-BR1 weighs about 628 kg and it would be used in various fields such as forestry agriculture and disaster management support• The current domestic remote sensing satellite is not equipped to capture images of the earth during cloud cover and hence India had to rely on the images provided by Canadian satellites to obtain information regarding the sameISRO’s major milestones:The launch of RISAT-2BR1 marked major milestones for ISRO such as:1 This was the 50th flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV and the second flight of PSLV-QL2 It was also the 75th Launch Vehicle Mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh COPYRIGHT Q536 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDU Q With reference to the Citizenship Amendment Bill-2019 consider the following statements :1 The Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 covers only 6 communities2 As per the bill it is compulsory to reside in India for 6 years to get Indian citizenshipSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns ACitizenship Amendment Bill-2019 :1 The Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 CAB will be granted citizenship of India to Hindu Christian Sikh Parsi Jain and Buddhist people who have fled from Pakistan Afghanistan and Bangladesh due to the religious persecution2 Such illegal migrants who have entered India by 31 December 2014 will be able to apply for Indian citizenship3 Right now it is compulsory to reside in India for 11 years to get Indian citizenship The new bill reduces the residency limit to six years4 The Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 covers 6 communities – Hindu Jain Sikh Parsi Buddhist and Christian migrants5 It has also been arranged that any legal action already taken against such people for s displacement or illegal migration will not affect his eligibility for permanent citizenship6 If the OCI cardholders violate the conditions the center will have the right to cancel their card7 This bill was introduced in Lok Sabha in 2016 It was passed in Lok Sabha this year but stuck in the Rajya Sabha8 The Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed to amend the Citizenship Act 19559 It has been decided to give citizenship to people of other religions except Muslims in the new bill The Opposition is taking up this matter and saying it a biased bill10 The Ministry of Home Affairs has empowered the concerned authorities in Chhattisgarh Gujarat Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Rajasthan Uttar Pradesh and Delhi to provide citizenship and natural certificates to migrants under sections 5 and 6 of the Citizenship Act 1955 COPYRIGHT Q535 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ With reference to the cultural history of India what is Tarangam A It is the sequence of kathak dance exhibiting elegant amp slow movements of eyebrows neck amp wristB Kuchipudi dance is usually concluded with the Tarangam in which the dancer performs on the top of the brass plate C Bharatnatyam dance ends with it in which certain words or syllables are used in a very fast manner D It is a dance form of Mohiniyattam in a beautiful feminine style with surging flow of body movementsAns BKuchipudi dance is usually concluded with the Tarangam in which the dancer performs on the top of thebrass plate COPYRIGHT Q534 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ Nagabandha mudra is associated with which of the following classical dance A Kuchipudi B KathakC ManipuriD KathakaliAns CNagabandha mudra is performed using both the hands COPYRIGHT Q533 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ With reference to the Kathakali consider the following statements :1 It covers every part of the body from facial muscles to fingers eyes hands amp wrists2 Movements of the eyebrows eye balls amp lower eye lids are not used to an extent Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CKathakali :It covers every part of the body from facial muscles to fingers eyes hands amp wristsMovements of the eyebrows eye balls amp lower eye lids are not used to an extent COPYRIGHT Q532 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ With reference to the cultural history of India the terms “Alarippu” “Tillana” “Mangalam” are associated with which of the following classical dance A BharatnatyamB KathakaliC KuchipudiDKathakAns AAlarippu” “Tillana” “Mangalam” are associated with Bharatnatyam COPYRIGHT Q531 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ With reference to the cultural history Aharya Abhinaya is associated with which of the following A It is related to the expression that is carried out through the speechB Ornamentation comes under this category C It is related to the physical movements of the bodyD It is the involuntary movement such as breaking of voice tearetcAnsBAharya Abhinaya : Ornamentation comes under this category Angika Abhinaya : It is related to the physical movements of the bodyVachika Abhinaya : It is related to the expression that is carried out through the speechSatvika Abginaya : It is the involuntary movement such as breaking of voice tearetc COPYRIGHT Q530 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ Which one of the following Persian merchant introduced Administrative units to increase the control of Sultan over the nobles amp provinces A Muhammad GawanB Nicolo de contiC Abdur RazzaqD Domingo PaesAns AMuhammad Gawan : introduced Administrative units called “Tarafs” to increase the control of Sultan over the nobles amp provinces COPYRIGHT Q529 – FRAMED FROM Ram Sharan Sharma-India’s Ancient PastQ What was Kathi during the Maratha administration A These were the taxes collected not only in the Marartha kingdom but in the neighbouring territories of the mughal empireB It was one fourth of the land revenue paid to the Marathas C It was an additional levy of one tenth on those lands over which the Marathas claimed herediatary rights D It was the yard stick for measuring the land Ans DKathi : It was the yard stick for measuring the land introduced by Malik AmbarChauth amp Sardeshmukhi : These were the taxes collected not only in the Marartha kingdom but in the neighbouring territories of the mughal empireChauth : It was one fourth of the land revenue paid to the MarathasSardeshmukhi : It was an additional levy of one tenth on those lands over which the Marathas claimed herediatary rights COPYRIGHT Q528 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Libra cryptocurrency consider the following statements :1 The Libra reserve will include bank deposits and government bonds in several international currencies2 Demand or scarcity are the driving factors of the Libra currencySelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns AWhat is the difference between Bitcoin and Libra cryptocurrencyThough popular Bitcoin cryptocurrency has been known to be volatile especially in recent years Unlike Bitcoin Libra will be backed by a reserve of real assets meaning that the value of the currency will be linked to something with intrinsic value rather than driven by demand or scarcity The Libra reserve will include bank deposits and government bonds in several international currencies The reserve will be administered by a non-profit associated headquartered in Geneva SwitzerlandWhat is Libra CryptocurrencyThe Libra cryptocurrency is a digital currency built on a blockchain designed with security in mind It will be stored in a digital wallet called ‘Calibra’ which will be available as an app as well as within Facebook Messenger and whatsapp as an integrated payments system This will enable users to send and receive money through messagesWill the Libra cryptocurrency work offline as wellFacebook aims for Libra to be used for offline payments as well including for public transport buying groceries or paying bills Facebook also plans to make its cryptocurrency available for exchange from traditional currency through physical ATM machinesWho will be able to access the Libra cryptocurrencyThe Libra cryptocurrency will be accessible to anyone with an entry-level smartphone and data connectivity Who will manage the Libra cryptocurrency project Facebook will not be governing the services of the Libra cryptocurrency The social media giant has created an independent organisation called the Libra Association which will build applications related to the new digital currencyWhere is Bitcoin legal and illegalIntroduced in 2009 Bitcoin cryptocurrency is popularly used for transactions in many nations across the world including the United States European Union Canada and Australia However the cryptocurrency is considered illegal in many nations such as China Russia Vietnam and Bolivia COPYRIGHT Q527 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Consider the following statements :“ New Horizon Mission helps in :1 Understanding the formation of the Plutonian system and the transformation of the early Solar System2 Predicting the onset of monsoons3 Monitoring the pollution of the coastal ecosystemsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3 D Only 1 Ans DAbout New Horizons• The New Horizons spacecraft is now 41 billion miles 66 billion kilometers from Earth operating normally and speeding deeper into the Kuiper Belt at nearly 33000 miles 53000 kilometers per hour• New Horizons launched on January 19 2006 and conducted a six-month-long reconnaissance flyby study of Pluto and its moons in summer 2015• The goal of the mission is to understand the formation of the Plutonian system the Kuiper belt and the transformation of the early Solar System COPYRIGHT Q526 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Rudraksh tree consider the following statements :1 It is a large evergreen tree that has broad-leaves whose seed is traditionally used for prayer beads in Hinduism and Buddhism2 It is mainly found in Western Ghats of Karnataka amp KeralaSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns AMoU for Plantation of Rudraksh Trees CTBTO Offers India Observer Status – Current AffairsProject aims at planting 10000 Rudraksh trees in the Ganga Basin area in Uttarakhand in association with the local community• Project aims at planting 10000 Rudraksh trees in the Ganga Basin area in Uttarakhand in association with the local communityAbout Rudraksh Tree:•Elaeocarpus ganitrus or Rudraksh Tree is a large evergreen treeIt has broad-leaves whose seed is traditionally used for prayer beads in Hinduism and Buddhism•Rudraksh tree develops the fruit in three to four years It is mainly found in Gangetic plain foothills of Himalyas Nepal Indonesia etc COPYRIGHT Q525 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Among the following which was frequently mentioned in the news for the declaration of climate emergency recentlyA IrelandB ScotlandC New WalesD NetherlandsAns AIreland declares climate emergency UN appoints actress Dia Mirza as SDG advocate- Current AffairsThe British Parliament became the world’s first to declare a climate emergency by passing the largely symbolic motion on May 1Climate Emergency: What does it meanThe declaration of the emergency is a call for governments across the world to change their behavior towards the climate and biodiversity in profound ways on a sustained basisIt also involves drastic cut down of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 COPYRIGHT Q524 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which one of the following best describes the term DART sometimes seen in news A It is an electronic warfare that has the objective to disable enemy’s electronic devices amp maintain effective functioning of a nation’s own electronic systemB A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting distance education in IndiaC It is a planned space probe that will demonstrate the kinetic effects of crashing an impact spacecraft into an asteroid moon for planetary defence purposesD None of the aboveAns CDouble Asteroid Redirection Test DART•Double Asteroid Redirection Test DART is a planned space probe that will demonstrate the kinetic effects of crashing an impact spacecraft into an asteroid moon for planetary defence purposes •The mission is intended to test whether a spacecraft impact could successfully deflect an asteroid on a collision course with Earth COPYRIGHT Q523 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Recently our scientists have discovered a huge area that is reported to host microorganisms which are ready to remove all the nitrogen from the water but traces of oxygen stop them from doing so Where it has been discovered A Bay of BengalB Arabian seaC Indian OceanD Andaman amp Nicobar IslandsAns AHuge dead zone discovered in the Bay of BengalResearchers have discovered a huge area covering about 60000 square km that has little or no oxygen in the Bay of Bengal The zone is reported to host microorganisms which are ready to remove all the nitrogen from the water but traces of oxygen stop them from doing soAbout Dead zones• Dead zones are large areas in the ocean that have low oxygen concentration• The marine life in these areas mostly suffocates and dies or if they are mobile like the fish then they leave the area• Though at many times dead zones occur naturally scientists are also of the opinion that they are created due to increased human activity• The main cause of the zones created by humans is nutrient pollution Excess nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus can result in the overgrowth of algae which later decomposes in the water consuming excess oxygen depleting the supply available for the marine lifeDead zones can be found in virtually every oceanic body the largest encompassing almost the whole bottom of the Baltic Sea Another large dead zone is located in the Gulf of Mexico Other dead zones occur off the western coastsof North and South America and off the coast of Namibia and western coast of IndiaGlobal warming triggered by climate change is predicted to lead to an expansion of these dead zones However it is not certain whether the climate change would lead to the removal of the last traces of oxygen from the bay as well COPYRIGHT Q522 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following is not the member state of the MERCOSUR A ArgentinaB BrazilC New ZealandD ParaguayAns CSouth America’s Trade Bloc Mercosur removes Venezuela for failure to follow rulesMercosur’s member states in a letter addressed to Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez stated that the “oil-rich country had been stripped of membership rights immediately and that it will be required to renegotiate its membership”About Mercosur• Mercosur is a sub-regional bloc• Its full members are Argentina Brazil Paraguay and Uruguay• Its associate countries are Bolivia Chile Peru Colombia Ecuador and Suriname while the observer countries are New Zealand and Mexico• The purpose of the bloc is to promote free trade and the fluid movement of goods people and currency• The official languages of the bloc are Spanish Portuguese and Guarani• The motto of the bloc is Our North is the South COPYRIGHT Q521 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ China launches TanSat satellite to monitor global carbon emissions With reference to the Tansat Satellite consider the following statements :1 The satellite was sent into a sun synchronous orbit about 700 kms above the earth2 It has a very good vision and can distinguish as small as 1 percent changes in atmospheric CO2Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrect Ans CChina launches TanSat satellite to monitor global carbon emissionsThe Satellite weighs around 620-kg and it will be located in sun synchronous orbit about 700 kms above the earth while serving three-year mission lifeHighlights of the TanSat satellite• The chief designer of TanSat is Yin Zengshan who works at the Chinese Academy of Sciences CAS• The satellite was sent into a sun synchronous orbit about 700 kms above the earth• It will monitor the concentration distribution and flow of carbon dioxide CO2 in the atmosphere• It has a very good vision and can distinguish as small as 1 percent changes in atmospheric CO2• It will help understanding the climate change and will provide China’s policy makers with independentdata COPYRIGHT Q520 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQWhich of the following statements best describes “carbon Disclosure Project 2019”A An initiative of the Global Reporting aimed at measuring the carbon reduction activities undertaken by different companies and firms operating in various countries across the globeB It has been launched by the government of India to reduce the black carbon through the promotion of solar plants lamps biogas plants amp efficient stovesC It has been launched by the environmentalist group to reduce mega tones of greenhouse gases from the atmosphereD It has been launched by the government of India aimed to increase the plant growth by reducing the most potent greenhouse gasesAns AIndia ranks 5th in Carbon Disclosure Project 2019India is the first developing economy with maximum number of companies committing to the science-based targetsCarbon Disclosure Project an initiative of the Global Reporting Initiative is aimed at measuring the carbon reduction activities undertaken by different companies and firms operating in various countries across the globe The report surveys corporate commitments to science-based targets SBT and evaluates the climate change risk that they are exposed to In the annual report the United States of America secured the top spot followed by Japan United Kindom and France India secured the 5th spot on the project report COPYRIGHT Q519 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Global Democracy Index is released by :A World Social ForumB Economist Intelligence UnitC World Economic ForumD World Justice ReportAns BEIU’s Global Democracy Index: India slips 10 spots to 51st rank Norway tops the listThe Economist Intelligence Unit EIU releases an annual index of 167 independent countries which broadly shows the status of democracy in these countries COPYRIGHT Q518 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Teaser Loans consider the following statements :1 It is an adjustable interest rate mortgage loan in which borrower pays a very low initial interest rate which increases after a few years 2 In India Teaser loans are mostly given to the inexperienced entrepreneurs to set up manufacturing or exports unitSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correct D Both are incorrectAns ATeaser Loans It is an adjustable interest rate mortgage loan in which borrower pays a very low initial interest rate which increases after a few years COPYRIGHT Q517 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Monetary Transmission consider the following statements :1 It refers to the process by which a central bank’s monetary policy decisions are passed on to the financial markets2 Rising Non performing Assets amp higher returns on small saving schemes may hinder effective monetary transmission3 Lowering of CRR amp SLR requirements may help ensure effective monetary transmission Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B 2 amp 3C 1 amp 2D 123Ans DMonetary Transmission :- It refers to the process by which a central bank’s monetary policy decisions are passed on to the financial markets-Rising Non performing Assets amp higher returns on small saving schemes may hinder effective monetary transmission-Lowering of CRR amp SLR requirements may help ensure effective monetary transmission MOCK Q516 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Debt Recovery Tribunals were established under the Recovery of Debts Due to Banks amp Financial Institutions Act1993 With reference to the Debt Recovery Tribunals DRT consider the following statements :1 DRT is presided over by presiding officer who is generally a judge of the rank of district amp session judge 2 DRT is fully empowered to pass comprehensive orders like civil courts 3 Tribunal can hear cross suits counterclaims amp allow set offsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 2B 1 amp 3C 2 amp 3D 123Ans DDebt Recovery Tribunals were established under the Recovery of Debts Due to Banks amp Financial Institutions Act1993-DRT is presided over by presiding officer who is generally a judge of the rank of district amp session judge -DRT is fully empowered to pass comprehensive orders like civil courts -Tribunal can hear cross suits counterclaims amp allow set offs MOCK Q515 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following is not the function of the Asset Rehabilitation Agency that has been recommended by the Economic Survey 2017 A The agency will sell assets of loss making PSUs amp will collect the payments due towards electricity boardsB The agency take over the NPAs from the banks for a fixed cost which is less than NPA amountC The agency will issue security receipts for fixed interest rate amp will raise the money D NPA is transferred to the ARC along with any security pledged while taking loanAns A Asset reconstruction companies or Public Asset Rehabilitation Agencies acquire bad loans from any bank or financial institution for the purpose of realization of such loans HOW ARC WORKS The agency take over the NPAs from the banks for a fixed cost which is less than NPA amountThe agency will issue security receipts for fixed interest rate amp will raise the money NPA is transferred to the ARC along with any security pledged while taking loan MOCK Q514 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Insolvency amp Bankruptcy code 2016 which among the following statement is not correct A The code will apply companies partnerships limited liability partnerships Individuals amp other body specified by the governmentB Insolvency resolution process could be initiated either by the debtor or creditorC As per the code debtor could be jailed for upto 3 years for concealing property or defrauding creditors D Resolution process will have to be completed within 180 days with an extension of upto 90 days if 75 of creditors agreeAns C Insolvency amp Bankruptcy code 2016 :-The code will apply companies partnerships limited liability partnerships Individuals amp other body specified by the government-Insolvency resolution process could be initiated either by the debtor or creditor-As per the code debtor could be jailed for upto 5 years for concealing property or defrauding creditors -Resolution process will have to be completed within 180 days with an extension of upto 90 days if 75 of creditors agree MOCK Q513 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Basel norms consider the following statements :1 These are the broad supervisory substandards to ensure that the financial institutions have enough capital to meet unexpected losses2 At present banks are adhering to Basel III norms 3 Basel III introduced tighter capital requirements in comparison to Basel I amp II Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 1C 2 amp 3D 123Ans ARBI has mandated that Indian banks are required to adopt Basel III norms upto 31 March 2019Earlier this date was 31 March 2018Basel III introduced tighter capital requirements These are the broad supervisory substandards to ensure that the financial institutions have enough capital to meet unexpected losses MOCK Q512 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which of the following statements best describes Anchor BanksA These are the public sector banks that will drive the consolidation process among the state owned banks B It is a body of eminent professionals that have been set up to insulate public sector banks from interference by the government C These are the separate institutes formed by the bank or group of banks or by the government itselfD These are the public sector banks that have been classified as Domestically Systemically Important banks Ans AAnchor Banks : These are the public sector banks that will drive the consolidation process among the state owned banks Bank Board Bureau : It is a body of eminent professionals amp consists of only one government officialCAG has been appointed as head of the BBBIt has been set up to insulate public sector banks from interference by the government MOCK Q511 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which one of the following best describes the term BOOT sometimes seen in news A It is a PPP model in which a private entity is required to design procure material amp construct the projectB It is a form of PPP in which a private entity builds a complete project amp leases it to the government C It is a form of PPP in which a private entity builds the project operates the project to recover its costs amp thereafter handovers the project to the government D It is a form of PPP in which ownership of the project remains with the private companyAns CEPC ENGINEERING –PROCUREMENT CONSTRUCTION :It is a PPP model in which a private entity is required to design procure material amp construct the projectBLT BUILD LEASE TRANSFER : It is a form of PPP in which a private entity builds a complete project amp leases it to the government BOOT BUILD OWN OPERATE TRANFER : It is a form of PPP in which a private entity builds the project operates the project to recover its costs amp thereafter handovers the project to the government BOO BUILD OWN OPERATE : It is a form of PPP in which ownership of the project remains with the private company MOCK Q510 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Consider the following statements :1 Anthracite has high carbon content amp low ash content thus causes less pollution 2 India has sufficient reserves of Lignite amp Anthracite coalSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns AIndia imports Anthracite coal mainly from Australia to meet its requirementsIndian coal reserves are mostly Lignite amp BituminousLignite has high moisture content so it breaks easily Bituminous coal has high calorific value amp used as a coking coal MOCK Q509 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Of the following what is the difference between Greenfield amp Brownfield project A In Greenfield a new facility offers maximum design flexibility amp efficiency to meet the project needs while in Brownfield building is already constructedB A Greenfield project is usually started at a less cost than a brownfield project C A Greenfield project requires fewer approvals than a brownfield projectD In Greenfield building is already constructed while in Brownfield a new facility offers maximum design flexibility amp efficiency to meet the project needsAns AIn Greenfield a new facility offers maximum design flexibility amp efficiency to meet the project needsNew facilities are typically less costly In Brownfield building is already constructed Time devoted to construction can be avoided as well MOCK Q508 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Global Liveability Index report is published by :A Global Infrastructure HubB Economist Intelligence Unit EIUC Joint Research Centre of European Commission D Cornell UniversityAns BEIU releases Global Liveability Index MOCK Q507 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the International Nitrogen Initiative consider the following statements :1 It was set up in 2005 under sponsorship of the Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment SCOPE and from the International Geosphere-Biosphere Program IGBP2 INI holds a conference once in every three years inviting members of the international nitrogen community to meet up and discuss ideas and exchange knowledge on nitrogen issues Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns BThe International Nitrogen Initiative INI is an international program set up in 2003 under sponsorship of the Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment SCOPE and from the International Geosphere-Biosphere Program IGBPRole of new Chairs of INI• The other INI projects under their purview include the “N-print” activity on nitrogen foot-printing and cooperation with the Global Carbon Project on establishment of a global nitrous oxide budget• The INI holds a conference once in every three years inviting members of the international nitrogen community to meet up and discuss ideas and exchange knowledge on nitrogen issues MOCK Q506 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ NITI Aayog released Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in Indian Himalayan Region Which among the following thematic area is not covered in the Thematic reports A Transformative Approach to Shifting CultivationB Purchasing Power Parity of PopulationC Sustainable Tourism in Indian Himalayan RegionD Data/Information for Informed Decision MakingAns BThe NITI Aayog on August 23 2018 released the five Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in e Indian Himalayan Region IHR listing the challenges in all the defined 5 thematic areasThe reports discuss the significance the challenges the ongoing actions and a future roadmapEarlier in June 2017 the NITI Aayog had set up 5 Working Groups to prepare a roadmap for actions in 5 thematic areas that are quite significant for the Himalayas These areas were:• Inventory and Revival of Springs in Himalayas for Water Security• Sustainable Tourism in Indian Himalayan Region• Transformative Approach to Shifting Cultivation• Strengthening Skill amp Entrepreneurship Landscape in Himalayas• Data/Information for Informed Decision Making MOCK Q505 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ European Space Agency launches world’s first wind-sensing satellite Aeolus With reference to the satellite consider the following statements :1 It is part of the Copernicus project a joint initiative of European Union EU and European SpaceAgency ESA to track environmental damage and aid disaster relief operations2 It will be placed at altitude of 320km above the EarthSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CEuropean Space Agency launches world’s first wind-sensing satellite Aeolus• European Space Agency ESA successfully launched wind-sensing satellite named ‘Aeolus’ into orbit on board of Vega rocket from French Guyana • It is world’s first wind-sensing satellite dedicated to map Earth’s wind on global scale • It will be placed at altitude of 320km above the Earth • It is part of the Copernicus project a joint initiative of European Union EU and European Space Agency ESA to track environmental damage and aid disaster relief operations MOCK Q504 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Union Cabinet approves Earth Sciences Ministry’s umbrella scheme ‘O-SMART’ What benefits will be provided by implementation of this scheme A It will help address issues related to Sustainable Development Goal-14 which emphasises on the conservation of the oceans and marine resourcesB It will provide scientific information on the status of species at a global levelCIt will help address issues related to Sustainable Development Goal-11 which emphasises on the conservation of the oceans and marine resourcesD It is a central sponsored scheme focuses on improving the management of water amp land resources enhancing food security amp reducing povertyAns AThe Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved implementation of an umbrella scheme ‘Ocean Services Technology Observations Resources Modelling and Science O-SMART’ The scheme will cover a total of 16 sub-projects which will address ocean development activities such as services technology resources observations and scienceSignificanceThe services provided under the O-SMART scheme will provide a number of economic benefits to the user communities in the coastal areas Benefits• The implementation of the scheme will help address issues related to Sustainable Development Goal-14 which emphasises on the conservation of the oceans and marine resources-India has also signed the Antarctic Treaty System and joined the Commission of Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources CCAMLR for harnessing the resources MOCK Q503 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following products are offered by the Indian Post Payment Banks 1 Direct Benefit Transfers2 Saving amp Current Accounts 3 Utility paymentsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 2B 1 amp 3C 2 amp 3D 123Ans D• The payments bank where the Indian government holds 100 per cent equity • The IPPBs will offer a range of products such as savings and current accounts money transfer direct benefit transfers bill and utility payments and enterprise and merchant paymentsOn August 29 2018 the Union Cabinet had approved 80 per cent increase in spending for IPPB from Rs 800 crore to Rs 1435 crore MOCK Q502 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the news “CLASS” is associated with which of the followingA An instrument on Chandrayaan-2 is designed to detect direct signatures of elements present in the lunar soilB It is a payload imaging sensor built by Santa Barbara Remote Sensing that was launched into Earth orbit by NASA in 1999 on board the Terra satellite and in 2002 on board the Aqua satelliteC It is CIXS instrument also referred to as Chandrayaan-1 X-ray Spectrometer to carry out high quality X-ray spectroscopic mapping of the moonD None of the aboveAns AThe CLASS instrument on Chandrayaan-2 is designed to detect direct signatures of elements present in the lunar soilISRO said in a statement released on its official website that CLASS is able to detect direct signatures of elements present in the lunar soil It was also found by the CLASS that best observation occurred when the Sun provides a rich source of x-rays to illuminate the lunar surface The payload can also detect secondary x-ray emissions resulted from the lunar surface to find out elements like Na Ca Al Si Ti and FeAbout X-ray MonitorX-ray Monitor or XSM detects the X-rays emitted by the Sun and its corona It calculates the strength of solar radiation in these rays and assists CLASS Major objective of XSM is to provide solar X-ray spectrum in the energy range of 1-15 KV This payload will give high-energy resolution and high-cadencemeasurements of solar X-ray spectra as input for analysis of data from CLASS MOCK Q501 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With which among the following part of India Aarey Forest Controversy is associated A Aarey colony of Maharashtra B Western Ghats of KeralaC Aarey forests of Andhra PradeshD Temperate forests found between an altitude of 1000 and 2000 mAns AAarey protest: The Supreme Court hit out at the Maharashtra state government saying that no more treesshould be cut in Aarey colony MOCK Q500 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which of the following statements best describes ICON Mission launched by NASA A It is to study heat and energy move through the sun’s corona and explore what accelerates the solar winds that affect Earth and other planetsB An innovative and sustainable program of exploration with commercial and international partners to enable human expansion across the solar system and to bring back to Earth new knowledge and opportunitiesC Mission is to explore Mars and to provide a continuous flow of scientific information and discovery through a carefully selected series of robotic orbiters landers and mobile laboratories interconnectedby a high-bandwidth Mars/Earth communications networkD It was launched from an aircraft over the Atlantic Ocean near the Florida coast to study the Earth’s Ionosphere which will be able to understand the link between space and the earth’sweather with this studyAns DNASA’s ICON satellite was launched from an aircraft over the Atlantic Ocean near the Florida coastAbout ICON Mission• The ICON satellite will study the Earth’s Ionosphere It includes various layers of the uppermost atmosphere where free electrons flow freely It affects Earth’s magnetic field and radio communications• The scientists will be able to understand the link between space and the earth’s weather with this study• The ICON mission is the 39th successful launch and satellite deployment by Pegasus rocket• This mission is operated by the University of California It was originally planned to launch in late 2017 but delayed due to the problems with the Pegasus XL rocket• Ionosphere Connection Explorer ICON is equipped with 780-watt solar arrays to power the instruments• ICON has designed as a two year’s mission but if all goes well according to the plan it will last for more than a decade MOCK Q499 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan OR SUMAN Scheme consider the following statements :1 It aims to provide institutional delivery at every private amp public health care facilities 2 Under the scheme all pregnant women newborns and mothers up to 6 months of delivery will be able to avail several free health care services such as four antenatal check-ups and six home-based newborn care visits3 The pregnant women will be able to avail a zero expense delivery and C-section facility in case of complications at public health facilitiesSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3D 123Ans CSurakshit Matritva Aashwasan• The Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan initiative or SUMAN scheme aims to provide dignified and quality health care at no cost to every woman and newborn visiting a public health facility• Under the scheme all pregnant women newborns and mothers up to 6 months of delivery will be able to avail several free health care services such as four antenatal check-ups and six home-based newborn care visits• The scheme will enable zero expense access to the identification and management of complications during and after the pregnancy The government will also provide free transport to pregnant women from home to the health facility and drop back after discharge minimum 48 hrs• The pregnant women will be able to avail a zero expense delivery and C-section facility in case of complications at public health facilities• The scheme will ensure that there is zero-tolerance for denial of services to such patients MOCK Q498 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ ‘Ex-Eastern Bridge-V’ joint exercise begins between which among the following nations A India amp USAB USA amp VietnamC India amp OmanD USA amp OmanAns CIAF and Royal Air Force of Oman begins Joint Exercise ‘Ex-Eastern Bridge-V’Indian Air Force and Royal Air Force of Oman will also promote the exchange of experience during Ex-Eastern Bridge-V MOCK Q497 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the India Energy Forum consider the following statements :1 It was established in 2011 with an objective to understand India’s Nuclear Energy Program2 All the public and private nuclear organizations oil and gas organizations Renewable energy organizations are members of India Energy ForumSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns DWhat is India Energy ForumIt was established in 2001 with an objective to understand India’s Nuclear Energy Program Now it has a special status of the spokesman of India’s total energy sector Several public and private nuclear organizations oil and gas organizations Renewable energy organizations are members of India Energy Forum Some of them are – NHPC NTPC Power Grid Corporation ONGC Power Finance Corporation among others MOCK Q496 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Chile cancels hosting COP-25 and APEC due to nationwide unrest With reference to the following What is Chile Unrest A It is a nationwide protest against the increase in carbon dioxide emission from the industrial amp thermal plants affecting the climate B It is a nationwide protest against authorities in maintaining public safety and orderC It is a nationwide protest against 30 per cent increase in Metro faresD It is a nationwide protest caused by a 50–200 increase in fuel prices calling for the overthrow of the government in ChileAns CChile cancels hosting COP-25 and APEC due to nationwide unrestChile announced a 30 per cent increase in Metro fares in October 2019 which triggered the anger of people and they started protesting against the governmentWhat is Chile unrestThe government of Chile announced a 30 per cent increase in Metro fares in October 2019 The county was already going through issues of inflation which triggered the anger of people and they started protesting against the government on October 17 2019What is COP 25 issueUnited Nations Climate Change Conference 2019 COP25 was planned to be held in Santiago Chile It was planned that Chile will host the global Summit between 2 to 13 December 2019 but it was cancelled on 30 October due to Chilean unrestCOP 25 was originally planned to be held in Brazil but newly elected President Jair Bolsonaro announcedthat due to economic reasons Brazil is not able to host the summit and withdrawal of an offer to host the program MOCK Q495 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following statement is/are correct in context with the APEC 1 The group was established in 1989 to boost Asia-Pacific economies and get trade benefits from other parts of the world2 It was the first time decided in 2006 Summit held in Hanoi that Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific FTAAP should be establishedSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CWhat is APECAsia-Pacific Economic Cooperation is also known as APEC It is an inter-governmental platform for 21 Pacific Rim member economies to promote free-trade in the Asia-Pacific region The group was established in 1989 to boost Asia-Pacific economies and get trade benefits from other parts of the world It was the first time decided in 2006 Summit held in Hanoi that Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific FTAAP should be established MOCK Q494 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ In context with the CIRDAP a regional Inter – Governmental and autonomous institution which among the following statements are correct 1 Originally the institution had six members but now the number has gone up to 252 It was jointly established on 6 July 1979 by the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation FAO in coordination with several other UN bodies and donors 3 India is one of the key founding members of this OrganisationSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3D 123Ans C About CIRDAP• It is a regional Inter – Governmental and autonomous institution• It was jointly established on 6 July 1979 by the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation FAO in coordination with several other UN bodies and donors • India is one of the key founding members of this Organisation• The headquarters of the institution is located at Dhaka in Bangladesh• The main objective of the body is to promote regional cooperation and act as a serving institution for its member countries for promotion of integrated rural development through research action training and information dissemination• There are 46 countries in Asia Pacific Region therefore CIRDAP has great potential for expansion for which they would be assisted by CIRDAP Centres• Originally the institution had six members but now the number has gone up to 15 The member countries include India Pakistan Sri Lanka Nepal Malaysia Afghanistan Bangladesh Fiji Indonesia Iran Lao PDR Myanmar Philippines Thailand and Vietnam MOCK Q493 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Who among the following serves as the Secretariat for the SASEC member countries A Asian Development BankB World BankC ASEAN Regional ForumD World Bank GroupAns AAbout South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation• The SASEC brings together seven countries in a project-based partnership to promote regional prosperity by improving cross-border connectivity boosting trade among member countries and strengthening regional economic cooperation• The SASEC countries are Bangladesh Bhutan India Maldives Myanmar Nepal and Sri Lanka• The Program was set up in 2001• The Asian Development Bank ADB serves as the Secretariat for the SASEC member countries MOCK Q492 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Recently our scientists have discovered Tree-living crab species that includes the structure of its hard upper shell its male abdominal structure and reproductive parts and diagnostic elongated walking legs which no other genus has In which part of India has it been discoveredA Anaimalai ForestsB Western Ghats of Kerala C Andaman IslandsD Tropical Rain Forests of North eastAns BTree-living crab species Kani maranjandu found in KeralaThe key traits of the crab include the structure of its hard upper shell its male abdominal structure and reproductive parts and diagnostic elongated walking legs which no other genus hasA group of scientists discovered a new species of long legged tree-dwelling crabs in Western Ghats of KeralaThe species are named after the Kani tribe in Kerala• The survey of the freshwater crab fauna had started in the year 2014 in the Westerns Ghats in KeralaAbout Kani tribe• Kani is a tribe living in the Western Ghats area of Kerala MOCK Q491 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ “Death Penalty Report” is released by which organization A Amnesty InternationalB GreenpeaceC World Social ForumD Doctors Without BordersAns AAmnesty International released Death Penalty Report 2016As per the report at least 60 people who had been sentenced to death were exonerated in 9 countries in 2016 MOCK Q490 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ “Globalization Backlash” is released by which organization A World Bank B World Tourism Organisation C World Bank GroupD International Fund for Agricultural Development Ans AWorld Bank released report Globalization BacklashSouth Asia’s performance will maintain momentum with the gap between its growth rate and that of East Asia slightly widening over timeHighlights of Globalization Backlash• With a strong performance in the eastern part of the South Asia Region – in particular in Bhutan Bangladesh and India – the region defied disappointing world growth in 2016• Inflation slowed down in the second half of 2016 mainly due to lower food prices but appears to be turning up again• Despite recent real exchange rate appreciation current account balances are mostly in order throughout the region MOCK Q489 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ In context with the Agni-III which among the following statements is/are correct 1 This Surface-to-Surface nuclear capable intermediate-range ballistic missile can hit targets in the range of around 2500 km2 It can carry a warhead of 15 tonne which is protected by carbon all composite heat shield3 The missile was inducted into the armed forces in June 2016Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 2 amp 3B 1 amp 3C Only 2D 123Ans CHighlights of the Agni-III ballistic missile• This Surface-to-Surface nuclear capable intermediate-range ballistic missile can hit targets in the range of around 3000 km• The two-stage solid-propelled missile has a length of 17 metres 2 metres diameter and its launch weight is around 50 tonnes• It can carry a warhead of 15 tonne which is protected by carbon all composite heat shield• The missile was inducted into the armed forces in June 2011 MOCK Q488 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which one of the following best describes the term Microlensing sometimes seen in news A It is a technique that aids the discovery of distant objects by using background stars as flashlightsB It is a technique to correct refractive errors of the eye by permanently changing the shape of the corneaC It is a technique of reducing the person’s dependence on glasses by preparing the contact lenses D None of the aboveAns AWhat is Microlensing• It is a technique that aids the discovery of distant objects by using background stars as flashlights• When a star crosses from the front of a bright star the gravity of the star in the front focuses the light of the background star making it appear brighter• So a planet orbiting the foreground star may cause a glitch in its brightness MOCK Q487 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Recently India has become the member of which of the following UN subsidiary bodies for the period of three years 1 Committee for Programme and Coordination CPC2 Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe OSCE3 International Narcotics Control BoardSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3D 123Ans AIndia along with 12 other members was elected for the period of three years to the Committee for Programme and Coordination CPC a subsidiary body of the UN Economic and Social Council ECOSOCThese two organisations are Committee for Programme and Coordination CPC and International Narcotics Control BoardIndia’s Election to Committee for Programme and Coordination CPC• India along with 12 other members was elected for the period of three years to the Committee for Programme and Coordination CPC a subsidiary body of the UN Economic and Social Council ECOSOC• It garnered the most number of votes in the Asian group with 49 out of 50 members of ECOSOC voting in its favour• The other 12 members elected for three-year terms include Burkina Faso Iran Japan Pakistan Belarus Bulgaria Moldova Brazil Chile Cuba the United Kingdom and United States• The CPC is the main subsidiary organ of the Economic and Social Council and the General Assembly for planning programming and coordination MOCK Q486 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ IAEA International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA to transfer Sterile Insect Technique to numerous countries to combat which among the following virus disease A ZikaB Small poxC EbollaD Common cold and different types of fluAns AIAEA International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA to transfer Sterile Insect Technique under 23 Million Euro Project to Combat ZikaSince 1997 SIT has been transferred to numerous countries to combat pests that affect food and crops and insects that transmit diseases including mosquitoesAbout Sterile Insect Technique SITSterile Insect Technique SIT is a form of pest control that uses ionizing radiation to sterilize male insects mass-produced in special rearing facilitiesSince 1997 SIT has been transferred to numerous countries by the Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture MOCK Q485 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following statements is/are correct with respect to the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund 1 It was established as a Category II Alternate Investment Funds AIF as per the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Board of India SEBI2 It has an initial corpus of 20000 crore rupees which can be leveraged by infrastructure companies including Indian Rail Finance Corporation IRFC and National Housing Bank NHBSelect the correct answer using the codes given below A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CAbout National Investment and Infrastructure Fund• The fund was approved by the Union Cabinet in July 2015 to fund new and rejuvenate stressed projects so that stalled investment cycle is revived in the country• It was established as a Category II Alternate Investment Funds AIF as per the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Board of India SEBI• It has an initial corpus of 20000 crore rupees which can be leveraged by infrastructure companies including Indian Rail Finance Corporation IRFC and National Housing Bank NHB• On the basis of the above early warning signals the branch maintaining the account should consider forwarding the stressed accounts with aggregate loan limits above 10 lakh rupees to the Committee for Stressed MSMEs within five working days for a suitable corrective action plan CAP• As regards accounts with aggregate loan limits up to 10 lakh rupees identified as SMA-2 the account should be mandatorily examined for CAP by the branch itself under the authority of the branch manager /designated official as decided by the bank• The option under CAP may include Rectification Restructuring and Recovery among others MOCK Q484 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Apart from the rotavirus vaccine which among the following new vaccine has been introduced as part of UIP Universal Immunization Programme A Inactivated Polio Vaccine IPVB Hepatitis A VaccineC Chicken Pox VaccineD Hepatitis B VaccineAns ASNIPPET FROM THE NEWS :Health Minister JP Nadda launched Rotavirus vaccine as part of Universal Immunization ProgrammeThe vaccine is being introduced initially in four states which are Andhra Pradesh Haryana Himachal Pradesh and Odisha and will be expanded to the entire country in a phased mannerApart from the rotavirus vaccine three new vaccines are also being introduced as part of UIP including Inactivated Polio Vaccine IPV Measles Rubella MR vaccine and Adult Japanese Encephalitis JE vaccineAbout Universal Immunization Programme• Universal Immunization Programme is a vaccination program launched by the Government of India in 1985• It became a part of Child Survival and Safe Motherhood Programme in 1992 and is currently one of the key areas under National Rural Health Mission NRHM since 2005 MOCK Q483 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following Protected Area Network is associated with the Madrid Action Plan A Biosphere ReservesB Conservation ReservesC Biodiversity HotspotsD Community reservesAns AMadrid Action Plan for Biosphere Reserves MOCK Q482 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Worldwide Cost of Living survey is released by which of the following organization A Organisation for Economic Cooperation amp Development B World Economic ForumC Economist Intelligence UnitD UN Human Rights CouncilAns CEconomist Intelligence Unit released Worldwide Cost of Living Report 2016EIU ranked Singapore as the priciest city while were Lusaka the capital of Zambia was named as the cheapest city of the worldEconomist Intelligence Unit EIU released Worldwide Cost of Living Report 2016 on 10 March 2016 According to the report Mumbai and Bangalore are among the cheapest cities in the worldEIU ranked Singapore as the priciest city ahead of Zurich Hong Kong Geneva and ParisThe Economist Intelligence Unit helps business leaders prepare for opportunity empowering them to act with confidence when making strategic decisionsThe Worldwide Cost of Living survey is released twice a year by the EIU It compares more than 400 individual prices across 160 products and services in 131 cities including food drink clothing household supplies and personal care items home rents transport utility bills private schools domestic help and recreational costs MOCK Q481 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following destinations spread across the states under the Krishna Circuit 1 Nathdwar2 Puri3 Bhadrachalam4 SikarSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1 amp 3B 124C 234D 1234Ans BDestinations under Krishna CircuitUnder Krishna circuit 12 destinations spread across 5 states are proposed These are:• Dwarka Gujarat• Nathdwara Jaipur amp Sikar Rajasthan• Kurukshetra Haryana• Mathura Vrindavan Gokul Barsana Nandgaon amp Govardhan Uttar Pradesh• Puri OdishaBesides projects worth more than 300 crores rupees were approved in-principle in Uttar Pradesh under both the circuitsUnder Ramayana Circuit 11 destinations spread across 6 states are proposed These are:• Ayodhya Nandigram Shringhverpur amp Chitrakoot Uttar Pradesh• Sitamarhi Buxar amp Darbhanga Bihar• Jagdalpur Chattisgarh• Bhadrachalam Telangana• Hampi Karnataka• Rameshwaram Tamil NaduExpert committee also suggested including Chitrakoot Madhya Pradesh Nashik amp Nagpur Maharashtra and Mahendragiri Odisha in the proposed circuit MOCK Q480 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following is/are the long term FPIs Foreign Portfolio Investors A Sovereign Wealth Funds OnlyB Pension Funds OnlyC Sovereign Wealth Funds Endowment Funds Insurance Funds Pension FundsD Sovereign Wealth Funds Insurance Funds Pension FundsAns CMarkets regulator the Securities and Exchange Board of India SEBI on 29 March 2016 decided to increase the Foreign Portfolio Investors FPI investment limit in Central Government securities This will boost inflows of foreign funds into Indian capital marketsThe limit for long term FPIs Sovereign Wealth Funds Multilateral Agencies Endowment Funds Insurance Funds Pension Funds and Foreign Central Banks in the Central Government securities will be enhanced to 50000 crore rupees from 4 April 2016 and 56000 crore rupees on 5 July 2016 Currently the existing limit is 44100 crore rupees for long term FPIs MOCK Q479 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which one of the following best describes the term Fertile Crescent sometimes seen in news A It is the Rajasthan’s state fertile soil that provides food amp firewood to support rural economyB It is the confluence of different biogeographical zones that is very rich in species diversityC It is a tree species found in a part of south India that can serve as a safety hedge against coastal calamitiesD It is an ancient area of fertile soil amp vital rivers in the middle eastAns DFertile Crescent : It is an ancient area of fertile soil amp vital rivers in the middle east-Initiative of UN’s Food amp Agriculture Organisation amp University of Birmingham’s school of Biosciences MOCK Q478 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following statements is/are correct with respect to the Angel Fund 1 It has been launched very recently under which the first generation entrepreneurs can get a maximum loan of 5 lakh rupees at 5 interest pa2 The loan will have a moratorium period of maximum 9 months during which no interest rates will be charged Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns DIt has been launched in 2013 by Assam Chief Minister under which the first generation entrepreneurs can get a maximum loan of 5 lakh rupees at 5 interest paThe loan will have a moratorium period of maximum 10 months during which no interest rates will be charged MOCK Q477 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Equity Index consider the following statements :1 It was launched in collaboration with the world bank which will help raise funds for products seeking to mitigate climate change2 It is the first equity Index linked with the Green BondSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CEquity Index :BNP PAIBAS on 18 sep 2014launched this indexIt was launched in collaboration with the world bank which will help raise funds for products seeking to mitigate climate changeIt is the first equity Index linked with the Green Bond MOCK Q476 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Maharaja Bonds to develop the infrastructure for the domestic capital markets has been issued by which of the following organization A World BankB Asian Development BankC World Bank GroupD Asian Infrastructure Investment BankAns AMaharaja Bonds to develop the infrastructure for the domestic capital markets has been issued by World Bank MOCK Q475 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the Minsk agreement consider the following statements :1 This agreement was based on 11 point peace plan that included the release of hostages 2 The agreement was brokered by the WTO World Trade OrganisationSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns DThis agreement was based on 12 point peace plan that included the release of hostages The agreement was brokered by the Organisation for security amp cooperation in Europe OSCEUkraine amp pro-Russian rebels agreed on ceasefire agreement called Minsk agreement MOCK Q474 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ A report titled scientific assessment of Ozone depletion revealed that the ozone layer is well on track to recovery in the next few decades The report has been prepared by which of the following organizations A UNEP amp WMOB Green Climate FundC UNDP amp UNEPD Global environment FacilityAns AA report titled scientific assessment of Ozone depletion revealed that the ozone layer is well on track to recovery in the next few decades The report has been prepared by UNEP United Nation Environment Programme amp WMO World Meteorological Organisation MOCK Q473 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which of the following given Inclusive Development Index ranking to the countries of the world A World Economic ForumB World Health OrganisationC UN Human Rights CouncilD UNDPAns AThe Inclusive Development Index IDI is an annual economic index introduced by the World Economic Forum System Initiative on Shaping the Future of Economic Progress in 2017 The IDI ranks countries’ economic performance in three pillars: growth and development inclusion and intergenerational equity and sustainability The IDI is a project of the World Economic Forum’s System Initiative on the Future of Economic Progress which aims to inform and enable sustained and inclusive economic progress through deepened public-private cooperation through thought leadership and analysis strategic dialogue and concrete cooperation including by accelerating social impact through corporate action MOCK Q472 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ In order to join Euro currency a country must fulfill which of the following conditions 1 Government debt no higher than 70pc of GDP2 Budget deficit below 3pc of GDP3 Low Inflation amp Interest rates Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B 2 amp 3C Only 3D 123Ans BGovernment debt no higher than 60pc of GDPBudget deficit below 3pc of GDPLow Inflation amp Interest rates MOCK Q471 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Who among the following has released a report titled “ Environmental Crime Crisis A Bombay Natural History Society B World Wildlife FundC Birdlife InternationalD UNEP United nation Environment ProgrammeAns D MOCK Q470 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Who among the following has published a report titled “Mysterious Mekong” mentioning the discoveriesof new exotic species in Greater Mekong Region A Bombay Natural History Society B World Wildlife FundC Birdlife InternationalD UNEP United nation Environment ProgrammeAns BWorld Wildlife Fund has published a report titled “Mysterious Mekong” mentioning the discoveriesof new exotic species in Greater Mekong Region MOCK Q469 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to ATOMEXPO an International Forum for nuclear power industry consider the following statements :1 It is an initiative of Russia’s state Nuclear Energy Corporation 2 First ATOMEXPO was held in 2009 to define the place amp role of nuclear generation in 21st century Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrect Ans CAtomexpo is a major communication company providing the whole spectrum of services in field of congress-exhibition management event-industry and business presentations worldwideAtomexpo LLC is in the market of communication services since 2009 The company is arranging the business events conducted by State Corporation Rosatom and the companies of the nuclear sector of the Russian industry as well as by the bodies of the RF executive authorities and international companies The company portfolio contains over 500 successfully led projects both in Russia and abroad MOCK Q468 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ With reference to the GSAT 7 consider the following statements :1 Payload of the GSAT 7 is designed to provide communication capabilities to users in distant coastal regions2 Its solar arrays generate 2100 W of electric powerSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns DGSAT 7:-Payload of the GSAT 7 is designed to provide communication capabilities to users in distant oceanic regions- Its solar arrays generate 2900 W of electric power MOCK Q467 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following factors is/are considered for cataloging the specimens in the bio Banks 1 Blood type2 Cornea of the eyes3 Hair cells of the human beingsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 3C 2 amp 3D Only 1Ans DA biobank is a type of biorepository that stores biological samples usually human for use in research Since the late 1990s biobanks have become an important resource in medical research supporting many types of contemporary research like genomics and personalized medicineBiobanks give researchers access to data representing a large number of people Samples in biobanks and the data derived from those samples can often be used by multiple researchers for cross purpose research studies For example many diseases are associated with single-nucleotide polymorphisms and performing genome-wide association studies using large collections of samples which represent tens or hundreds of thousands of individuals can help to identify disease biomarkers Many researchers struggled to acquire sufficient samples prior to the advent of biobanksBiobanks have provoked questions on privacy research ethics and medical ethics While viewpoints on what constitutes appropriate biobank ethics diverge consensus has been reached that operating biobanks without establishing carefully considered governing principles and policies could be detrimental to communities that participate in biobank programsVirtual biobanks integrate epidemiological cohorts into a common poolVirtual biobanks allow for sample collection to meet national regulationsTissue banks harvest and store human tissues for transplantation and research As biobanks become more established it is expected that tissue banks will merge with biobanksPopulation banks store biomaterial as well as associated characteristics such as lifestyle clinical and environmental data MOCK Q466 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQWhich among the following is/are the applications of the Deep UV Laser device 1 Deep UV light can be used to sterilize bacteria amp Viruses decontaminate drinking water amp in fluorescence sensors to detect chemicals 2 Significant improvement in the ability to inspect microchips with solid state metrology3 Improved detection of airborne chemical amp biological agents Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1 amp 3B Only 2C 2 amp 3D 123Ans DAll of the above are the applications of the Deep UV Laser device MOCK Q465 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which one of the following best describes the term Peace Arc sometimes seen in news A It is an international treaty to change the functioning of the European Union which must be ratified by atleast 3/4th member states of the European Union B It is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase the maritime cooperation amongst navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean regionC It is the Chinese navy hospital ship to provide free medical services to people of BangladeshD It is a multilateral energy security cooperation treaty amongst the members of the East Asia SummitAns CThe ship was launched in 2007 with the stated intention of giving China a platform to provide a better means to providing quicker humanitarian response to disasters around the world but others contend it also allows China to extend the navy’s blue water capabilitiesOn 1 September 2010 the hospital ship embarked on a three-month Harmonious Mission 2010 to the Gulf of Aden with a total of 428 officers including 100 medical workers En route she visited and provided medical treatment to the local people of Djibouti Tanzania Kenya the Seychelles and BangladeshDuring Harmonious Mission 2011 Peace Ark visited Cuba Costa Rica Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago the first Chinese voyage to the Caribbean MOCK Q464 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which one of the following best describes the term SEEDS PROJECT sometimes seen in news A It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment amp Forests to conserve nature through action based research education amp public awarenessB It is a Tree Campaign launched by UNEP of planting 1 billion trees in 2007C It is a non-profit research research organization that focuses on management of water amp land resources enhancing food security amp reducing povertyD It is a project which directly captures the images of extra solar planets amp protoplanetary disks around thousands of nearby stars Ans DThe SEEDS Project• This discovery is the part of Strategic Explorations of Exoplanets and Disks with Subaru SEEDS project It is a project which directly captures the images of extrasolar planets and protoplanetary disks around thousands of nearby stars by making use of Subaru Telescope on Mauna Kea Hawaii• SEEDS is a 5-year project which started off in the year 2009• SEEDS is led by Motohide Tamura at the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan NAOJ• Imaging done under this project provides an insight into the orbit atmosphere temperature and luminosity of the planet However the planets are very faint and extremely close to their host stars which is why it is extremely difficult to capture them• The SEEDS project captures the images at near-infrared wavelengths by making use of the novel adaptive optics system of telescope and two instruments: the High Contrast Instrument for the Subaru Next Generation Adaptive Optics and the InfraRed Camera and Spectrograph The combination of these enables the team to capture the direct images towards fainter planets MOCK Q463 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ H7N9 virus is sometimes mentioned in news with reference to which of the following disease A Bird fluB DengueC Swine FluD AIDSAns AH7N9 virus is referred with Bird flu MOCK Q462 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Which among the following areas have been focused under the Greenpeace campaigns 1 Oceans2 Forests3 Nuclear reactors4 Genetically modified foods5 VegetarianismSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A 1245B Only 12 amp 4C 1234D All are correctAns CVegetarianism has not been focused under the Greenpeace campaignsThe following areas have been focused under the Greenpeace campaigns 1 Oceans2 Forests3 Nuclear reactors4 Genetically modified foods MOCK Q461 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Consider the following statements :1 Amnesty International is a non-governmental organization focused on human rights2 Amnesty International operates in India with headquarters in Bangalore Select the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CAmnesty International is a non-governmental organization focused on human rightsAmnesty International operates in India with headquarters in Bangalore MOCK Q460 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Consider the following statements about International Committee of Red Cross :1 ICRC was established in 19th century in GenevaSwitzerland2 International Committee of the red cross was awarded the nobel prize in 1917 1944 1963 – on the third occasion jointly with the League of Red Cross societies3 Red cross society was found to protect the human life amp health from the war hostilitiesSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 2B 2 amp 3C 1 amp 3D 123Ans DAll are correct Just memorize it MOCK Q459 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Consider the following statements:1 Human Development Index for any nation is calculated as geometric mean of life expectancy Index Education Index amp Income Index2 Life expectancy index in HDI is calculated using a minimum value of 20 years amp a minimum value of 85 yearsSelect the correct answer using the codes given below :A Only 1B Only 2C Both are correctD Both are incorrectAns CHuman Development Index for any nation is calculated as geometric mean of life expectancy Index Education Index amp Income IndexLife expectancy index in HDI is calculated using a minimum value of 20 years amp a minimum value of 85 years MOCK Q458 – FRAMED FROM THE HINDUQ Who among the following releases World Press Freedom Index A Institute for Economics and PeaceB Oxfam InternationalC Reporters Without BordersD World Economic ForumAns CThe 2019 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders RSF shows how hatred of journalists has degenerated into violence contributing to an increase in fear The number of countries regarded as safe where journalists can work in complete security continues to decline while authoritarian regimes continue to tighten their grip on the media MOCK Q457QWhich one of the following plants is popularly grown along the road for absorbing vehicular pollutantsA NeriumB NeemC BourgainvilleaD CallotropisAns CThe vine species grow anywhere from 1 to 12 m 3 to 40 ft tall scrambling over other plants with their spiky thorns They are evergreen where rainfall occurs all year or deciduous if there is a dry season Bougainvillea are popular ornamental plants in most areas with warm climates such as Florida and South Carolina and across The Mediterranean Basin MOCK Q456Q Which of the following statements correctly denotes Bio-fortification A Enrichment of the nutrient quality of the soil using biological agentsB Breeding crops to increase their nutritional valuesC Inrcrease of organo-metallic compounds in the organism through energy flow in an ecosystemD Adoption of genetic variable plants for breeding of high yielding plants Ans BBiofortification is the idea of breeding crops to increase their nutritional value This can be done either through conventional selective breeding or through genetic engineering Biofortification differs from ordinary fortification because it focuses on making plant foods more nutritious as the plants are growing rather than having nutrients added to the foods when they are being processedThis is an important improvement on ordinary fortification when it comes to providing nutrients for the rural poor who rarely have access to commercially fortified foods2 As such biofortification is seen as an upcoming strategy for dealing with deficiencies of micronutrients in low and middle-income countries In the case of iron WHO estimated that biofortification could help curing the 2 billion |
