Consider the following statements regarding AstroSat
1.It is India’s first dedicated multi wavelength space observatory
2.The scientific objectives of this mission are to understand high energy processes in binary star systems containing neutron stars and black holes
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
In NEWS: IUCAA-led team spots galaxy’s extreme-UV light
- A team of international astronomers led by the scientists from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (Iucaa) in Pune has laid claim to the discovery of UV light emanating from a galaxy called AUDFs01, which, according to Iucaa, is 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth.
- AstroSat was launched on September 28, 2015, by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and has onboard the UltraViolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT).
- AstroSat or UVIT was able to achieve this unique feat because the background noise in the UVIT detector is much less than the ones on HST
- About ASTROSAT
- ASTROSAT is India’s first dedicated multi wavelength space observatory. This scientific satellite mission endeavours for a more detailed understanding of our universe. Hence statement 1 is correct
- One of the unique features of ASTROSAT mission is that enables the simultaneous multi-wavelength observations of various astronomical objects with a single satellite.
- ASTROSAT with a lift-off mass of about 1513 kg was launched into a 650 km orbit inclined at an angle of 6 deg to the equator by PSLV-C30.
- The scientific objectives of ASTROSAT mission are:
- To understand high energy processes in binary star systems containing neutron stars and black holes. Hence statement 2 is correct
- Estimate magnetic fields of neutron stars
- Study star birth regions and high energy processes in star systems lying beyond our galaxy
- Detect new briefly bright X-ray sources in the sky
- Perform a limited deep field survey of the Universe in the Ultraviolet region
- Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/astronomers-led-by-iucaa-team-detect-uv-light-from-galaxy-9-3-billion-light-years-away-from-earth/story-qft7LFciEtrVqJg3K7ASkL.html
With respect to MY IAF, Consider the following statements
1.It is a mobile application aims to provide career related information and details for those desirous of joining the Indian Air Force
2.It has been developed by Indian Air Force(IAF) in association with Centre for Development of Advanced Computing
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
In NEWS:
Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, Chief of the Air Staff launched a mobile application ‘MY IAF’ at Air HQs Vayu Bhawan as a part of Digital India initiative.
The application developed in association with Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) provides career related information and details for those desirous of joining the Indian Air Force (IAF). Hence statement 2 is correct
The user-friendly format of the app serves as a single digital platform interfacing the users with the details of selection procedure, training curriculum, pay and perks etc for both officers and airmen in the IAF. Hence statement 1 is correct
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1648257
Which of the following statement is correct regarding INSPIRE Programme?
It is a three month corporate acceleration programme for energy startups housed at the corporate premises.
It is a series of space exploration missions being conducted by NASA
It is used to installation of Stand-Alone Purification System in rural Schools.
It aims to communicate to the youth of the country the excitements of creative pursuit of science and attract talent to the study of science at an early age
Answer: (d) It aims to communicate to the youth of the country the excitements of creative pursuit of science and attract talent to the study of science at an early age
Explanation:
In NEWS: INSPIRE faculty fellow developing low-cost biodiesel from microalgae
Low-cost biodiesel from microalgae of marine origin may soon turn a reality, thanks to the efforts of a scientist who is working on biotechnological studies and tools for increasing the lipid accumulation in microalgae for biodiesel production.
Techniques for enhancing Triacylglycerol content in marine microalgae towards economic biodiesel production received the “Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) faculty fellowship instituted by the Department of Science & Technology
About INSPIRE Scheme
“Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE)” is an innovative programme sponsored and managed by the Department of Science & Technology for attraction of talent to Science.
The basic objective of INSPIRE is to communicate to the youth of the country the excitements of creative pursuit of science, attract talent to the study of science at an early age and thus build the required critical human resource pool for strengthening and expanding the Science & Technology system and R & D base. Hence option (d) is correct
INSPIRE Scheme has included three programs and five components, they are:
Scheme for Early Attraction of Talents for Science (SEATS): Aims to attract talented youth to study science by providing INSPIRE Award
Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE): Aims to enhance rates of attachment of talented youth to undertake higher education in science intensive programmes, by providing scholarships and mentorship.
Assured Opportunity for Research Careers (AORC): Aims to attract, attach, retain and nourish talented young scientific Human Resource for strengthening the R&D foundation and base.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1648132
Consider the following statements
1.The Delimitation Commission in India is a high power body whose orders have the force of law and can be questioned before any court.
2.In India, Delimitation Commissions have been constituted 4 times
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:
In NEWS: New office premises for Delimitation Commission inaugurated
A new office premise for Delimitation Commission was opened by Justice Mrs. Ranjana Desai, Chairperson-Delimitation Commission.
About Delimitation Commission.
Delimitation literally means the act or process of fixing limits or boundaries of territorial constituencies in a country or a province having a legislative body.
The Delimitation Commission is appointed by the President of India and works in collaboration with the Election Commission of India.
Composition: Retired Supreme Court judge, Chief Election Commissioner and Respective State Election Commissioners
The job of delimitation is assigned to a high power body. Such a body is known as Delimitation Commission or a Boundary Commission.
In India, such Delimitation Commissions have been constituted 4 times – in 1952 under the Delimitation Commission Act, 1952, in 1963 under Delimitation Commission Act, 1962, in 1973 under Delimitation Act, 1972 and in 2002 under Delimitation Act, 2002. Hence statement 2 is correct
The Delimitation Commission in India is a high power body whose orders have the force of law and cannot be called in question before any court. Hence statement 1 is incorrect
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1648174
Bonda Tribes are mostly living in which of the following state in India?
1.Karnataka
2.Maharashtra
3.Odisha
4.Gujarat
Answer: (c) Odisha
Explanation:
In NEWS: Virus breaches another wall, four Bondas test positive
The COVID-19 pandemic has reached the Bondas, a tribal community residing in the hill ranges of Malkangiri district in Odisha. Four members of the community have tested positive for COVID-19. They have been isolated from the rest of the community members.
Odisha is home to 62 tribal communities — the largest diverse groups of tribal population in India
About Bonda Tribe:
The Bonda are a Munda ethnic group approximately 12,000 (2011 census) who live in the isolated hill regions of the Malkangiri district of southwestern Odisha, India, near the junction of the three states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh. Hence option © is correct
The Bonda tribe of Odisha are believed to be part of the first wave of migration out of Africa about 60,000 years ago. They were the first forest settlers in India. Anthropologists say that they are members of a group of Austroasiatic tribes,
It is one of the 13 particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) in Odisha.
They are known for their distinctive cultural traditions, the Bondas are divided into two groups: Lower Bondas – who live in south Odisha’s Malkangiri district bordering Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and Upper Bondas – who live in the hilly terrains of the remote villages in the district.
Consider the following statements regarding Biochar
1.It is a charcoal-like substance made by burning organic material from agricultural and forestry wastes
2.It has the potential to immobilize heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, reduce N2O and CH4 emissions from soils.
3.It is a porous material, can help retain water and nutrients in the soil for the plants to take up as they grow.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
1 and 3 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 2 only
1,2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1,2 and 3
Explanation:
In NEWS: Biochar application can help Ghana’s smallholder farmers fight back climate change: Study
New research shows biochar application is more effective in promoting cowpea growth and yield in Ghana
About Bio Char
Biochar is defined as carbonised biomass obtained from sustainable sources and sequestered in soils to sustainably enhance their agricultural and environmental value under present and future management. Hence statement 1 is correct
Biochar, which is produced by burning organic matter without oxygen, can help tackle crop burning and air pollution.
Biochar, a porous material, can help retain water and nutrients in the soil for the plants to take up as they grow. Hence statement 3 is correct
Biochar could be an effective way to minimise the effect of climate change on agricultural soils and enhance crop productivity
Due to its adsorption ability, some biochars have the potential to immobilise heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, and hormones; prevent nitrate leaching and faecal bacteria into waterways; and reduce N2O and CH4 emissions from soils. Hence statement 2 is correct
Research worldwide into biochar has increased drastically over the past decade, and in India specifically, the number of studies on biochar have gone up in the past five years.
Ancient cultures like settlers along the Amazon River and Native American tribes have successfully used it to improve soil fertility by burning organic matter inside covered pits.
Consider the following statements regarding National Company Law Tribunal
1.It is a quasi-judicial body
2.It was based on the recommendations of Justice Eradi committee on the law relating to insolvency and winding up of companies.
The setting up of the NCLT as a specialized institution for only corporate justice
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
1 and 3 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 2 only
1,2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1,2 and 3
Explanation:
In NEWS: Explained: Why does Anil Ambani face bankruptcy proceedings?
The Mumbai bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has allowed the initiation of insolvency proceedings against Anil Ambani after two companies promoted by him failed to pay dues on Rs 1,200 crore that they had borrowed from State Bank of India
The insolvency process will be initiated against Ambani as he had given personal guarantee against the loans provided to his firms.
In the case of banks providing loans against personal guarantee, the guarantor has to furnish a list of assets whose value is equivalent to the total amount of loan being given.
The bank cannot claim rights over the assets of his wife or children.
About National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT):
NCLT is a quasi-judicial body in India that adjudicates issues relating to Indian companies. Hence statement 1 is correct
NCLT was constituted under the section 408 of the Companies Act, 2013 on 1st June 2016.
It was based on the recommendations of Justice Eradi committee on the law relating to insolvency and winding up of companies. Hence statement 2 is correct
The setting up of the NCLT as a specialized institution for corporate justice. Hence statement 3 is correct
The establishment of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) consolidates the corporate jurisdiction of the following authorities:
- Company Law Board
- Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction (BIFR).
- The Appellate Authority for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction
- Jurisdiction and powers relating to winding up restructuring and other such provisions, vested in the High Courts.
The well-known painting “Warli” belongs to the
- Maharashtra
- Odisha
- Tamilnadu
- Uttar pradesh
Answer: (a) Maharashtra
Explanation:
In NEWS: National Fertilizers Limited Noida office complex adorns its walls with Warli paintings
To promote Indian folk art, National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) a PSU under the Department of Fertilizers has displayed Maharashtra’s famous Warli painting on the outer walls of its Corporate Office in Noida.
About Warli Painting
- Warli Painting is a style of tribal artmostly painted on Walls.
- It is practiced in Maharashtra. Warli is the name of the largest tribe found on the northern outskirts of Mumbai. Hence option (a) is correct
- This art makes use of geometric shapes such as circles, triangles and squaresto form numerous shapes.
- The painting is the vivid expression of daily and social events of the Warli tribe and do not depict mythological characters or images of deities.
- Women are mainly engaged in the creation of these paintings.
- Initially, Warli art was done on walls on special occasions. The painting would be done over a brown backgroundwhich would basically be a mixture of mud and cow dung cakes.
- The white pigment used to draw shapes and figureswould be a mixture of rice mixed with water and gum.
- One of the most popular themes in Warli art is a spiral chain of humans around one central motif. This in accordance with their belief that life is an eternal journey, and it has no beginning and end.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1648442
Consider the following statements regarding the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
1.It is an apex body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
2.It is mandated with the responsibility of promotion and development of the export of agricultural and its allied products.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
In NEWS: APEDA signs MoUs with AFC India Limited and National Cooperative Union of India to synergize the activities in the interest of agriculture and allied sectors
- The objective is to utilise their expertise by mutually working together to synergize the activities in the interest of agriculture and allied sectors for bringing better value to the stakeholders.
About Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
- The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was established by the Government of India under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act passed by the Parliament in December, 1985.
- APEDA replaced the Processed Food Export Promotion Council (PFEPC).
- APEDA, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industries, promotes export of agricultural and processed food products from India. Hence statement 1 is correct
- APEDA is mandated with the responsibility of promotion and development of the export of agricultural and its allied products. Hence statement 2 is correct
- Chairman is appointed by the Central Government.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1648442
With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013, consider the following statements:
1.The families coming under the category of ‘below poverty line (BPL)’ only are eligible to receive subsidies food grains.
2.The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3.Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a ‘take-home ration’ of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2
- 2 only
- 1 and 3
- 3 only
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is not correct: The Act provides for coverage of upto 75% of the rural population and upto 50% of the urban population for receiving subsidized foodgrains under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), thus covering about two-thirds of the population.
- Statement 2 is correct: It provides that eldest woman of the household of age 18 years or above is to be the head of the household for the purpose of issuing of ration cards.
- Statement 3 is not correct: Besides meal to pregnant women and lactating mothers during pregnancy and six months after the child birth, such women will also be entitled to receive maternity benefit of not less than Rs. 6,000
