Ans: C

Exp:

• Uttarakhand may soon become the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
• Statement 1 is correct: The UCC refers to a common set of laws on marriage, divorce and inheritance that would be applicable to all Indian citizens irrespective of religion, tribe or other local customs. Personal laws were placed in the Concurrent List, with the power to legislate being given to Parliament and State Assemblies.
• Statement 2 is correct: Article 44 contained in part IV of the Constitution says that the state “shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India”. While there is no draft or model document yet for the UCC, the framers of the Constitution envisioned that it would be a uniform set of laws that would replace the distinct personal laws of each religion with regard to matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, and inheritance. Part IV of the Constitution outlines the Directive Principles of State Policy, which, while not enforceable or justiciable in a court of law, are fundamental to the country’s governance.

Ans: B

Exp:

Volcano means the vent from which magma and other substances erupt to the surface, but it can also refer to the landform created by the accumulation of solidified lava and volcanic debris near the vent. Out of an estimated 1,350 active volcanoes worldwide, about 45 have continuing eruptions, and about 80 erupt each year, spewing steam, ash, toxic gases, and lava. 

In 2023, erupting volcanoes included the:

• Villarrica volcano in Chile
• Mount Marapi volcano in Indonesia
• Mount Ulawun in Papua New Guinea.
• Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland
• Kilauea in Hawaii
• Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy.
• Klyuchevskoy volcano in Russia.

Ans: D

Exp:

• Pair 1 is correct: Magh Bihu is celebrated in Assam. They celebrate Magh Bihu with traditional dances, bonfires, and feasting on various local delicacies. The warmth of the bonfires mirrors the festival’s spirit. 
• Pair 2 is correct: Pongal is celebrated in Tamil Nadu. The festival takes on a unique flavour with the preparation of a special dish called Pongal, made with newly harvested rice. It’s a feast that unites families in a delectable celebration.
• Pair 3 is correct: Down in the beautiful state of Kerala, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Makara Vilakku. Devotees throng to the Sabarimala Temple for the divine Makara Jyothi sighting, marking the culmination of the pilgrimage season.  The presiding deity will be adorned with the Thiruvabharanam prior to the Deeparadhana ritual.

Ans: A

Exp:

• Bhitarkanika Indian Wildlife Sanctuary Orissa is the 2nd largest Mangrove ecosystem of India. Proximity to the Bay of Bengal makes the soil of the area enriched with salts, and the vegetation and the species of the sanctuary are comprised of those which are mainly found in the tropical and subtropical intertidal regions. It is the breeding place for the endangered saltwater crocodiles which are the prime attractions of the sanctuary. The Gahirmatha Beach which forms the boundary of the sanctuary in the east is the largest colony of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles. The sanctuary lies in the estuarial region of Brahmani-Baitrani with the Bay of Bengal lying in the East.

Ans: D

Exp:

• Statement 1 is correct: Millets are a group of cereal grains that belong to the Poaceae family, commonly known as the grass family. They have multiple advantages over other crops, including drought and pest resistance. They’re also able to survive in harsh environments and less fertile soil.
• Statement 2 is correct: Pearl millet is the most widely produced variety intended for human consumption. Still, all types are renowned for their high nutritional value and health benefits. Millets provide more essential amino acids than most other cereals. These compounds are the building blocks of protein. Finger millet boasts the highest calcium content of all cereal grains, providing 13% of the DV per 1 cooked cup (100 grams).
• Statement 3 is correct: Millets are a gluten-free grain, making them a viable choice for people with celiac disease or those following a gluten-free diet. Gluten is a protein that occurs naturally in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. People with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity must avoid it because it triggers harmful digestive symptoms, such as diarrhoea and nutrient malabsorption.
  • Millets are rich in phenolic compounds, especially ferulic acid and catechins. These molecules act as antioxidants to protect your body from harmful oxidative stress. Millets are rich in fibre and non-starchy polysaccharides, two types of undigestible carbs that help control blood sugar levels.