UPSC Daily Quiz 17 October 2026
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Vajiram & Ravi’s Daily UPSC Quiz is designed to help aspirants strengthen their preparation by focusing on current affairs and concepts from the UPSC Syllabus 2026 for both Prelims & Mains. It allows candidates to revise important topics while regularly assessing their understanding and progress. Practicing these quizzes daily can improve accuracy, speed, and problem-solving skills. This consistent practice also enhances confidence in tackling exam-level questions. Overall, it is a valuable tool for both UPSC Prelims preparation and Mains revision.
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Question 1 of 10
1. Question
1 pointsConsider the following statements regarding Murud-Janjira Fort, recently seen in the news:
- It is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all sides and is one of the strongest marine forts of India.
- It is located in Karnataka.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: a
Explanation:
Months after being closed during the monsoon for safety and cleaning work, the historic Murud Janjira Fort in Maharashtra’s Raigad district has finally reopened to visitors recently.
About Murud-Janjira Fort:
- It is an island fort located on an island off the coastal village of Murud, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra.
- It is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all sides and is one of the strongest marine forts of India.
- History:
- The history of Murud Janjira Fort dates back to the 15th century, when the Siddi rulers established a powerful naval base along Maharashtra’s western coast.
- The Siddis were the rulers of Murud-Janjira. They were people of African origin who had come to India many centuries ago.
- The name “Janjira” is believed to have originated from the Arabic word “Jazeera,” meaning island.
- Initially constructed as a small wooden fort by local fishermen, it was later rebuilt into a massive stone fortress under the Siddis.
- The fort’s strategic location on the bustling maritime trade route connecting Broach, Daman, Diu, and Mangalore made it a vital hub for commerce and military operations.
- Over the centuries, Siddi alignment with Mughals provoked conflict with local kings, including Shivaji and his son Sambhaji, who attempted to scale the walls and tunnel to it, respectively.
- However, no outsider (including British, French, and Portuguese colonists) ever made it past the fort’s 12 m-high granite walls, which, when seen during high tide, seem to rise straight from the sea.
- Despite numerous attempts, its defenses remained unbreached, earning it the moniker “Unconquerable Janjira.”
- The history of Murud Janjira Fort dates back to the 15th century, when the Siddi rulers established a powerful naval base along Maharashtra’s western coast.
- Architecture:
- The structure is built on a rock outcrop and has 26 massive bastions and high protective walls.
- The fort was made by a mixture of lead, sand, and gul.
- The main gate of the fort facing Rajapuri on the shore is a huge structure. There is a small gate towards the open sea to escape from the enemies.
- Once it stood firm and robust in defence with 572 roaring cannons, only a few of the large cannons remain in place today, and the largest of them is known as the Kalaal Bangdi.
- Earlier the fort was a full-fledged living place with all the necessary facilities like palaces, quarters for officers, a mosque, two small 18 m natural freshwater lakes, etc.
- There is also a deep well with cold and sweet water, a wonder of nature in the midst of the sea.
Hence only statement 1 is correct.
Incorrect
Answer: a
Explanation:
Months after being closed during the monsoon for safety and cleaning work, the historic Murud Janjira Fort in Maharashtra’s Raigad district has finally reopened to visitors recently.
About Murud-Janjira Fort:
- It is an island fort located on an island off the coastal village of Murud, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra.
- It is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all sides and is one of the strongest marine forts of India.
- History:
- The history of Murud Janjira Fort dates back to the 15th century, when the Siddi rulers established a powerful naval base along Maharashtra’s western coast.
- The Siddis were the rulers of Murud-Janjira. They were people of African origin who had come to India many centuries ago.
- The name “Janjira” is believed to have originated from the Arabic word “Jazeera,” meaning island.
- Initially constructed as a small wooden fort by local fishermen, it was later rebuilt into a massive stone fortress under the Siddis.
- The fort’s strategic location on the bustling maritime trade route connecting Broach, Daman, Diu, and Mangalore made it a vital hub for commerce and military operations.
- Over the centuries, Siddi alignment with Mughals provoked conflict with local kings, including Shivaji and his son Sambhaji, who attempted to scale the walls and tunnel to it, respectively.
- However, no outsider (including British, French, and Portuguese colonists) ever made it past the fort’s 12 m-high granite walls, which, when seen during high tide, seem to rise straight from the sea.
- Despite numerous attempts, its defenses remained unbreached, earning it the moniker “Unconquerable Janjira.”
- The history of Murud Janjira Fort dates back to the 15th century, when the Siddi rulers established a powerful naval base along Maharashtra’s western coast.
- Architecture:
- The structure is built on a rock outcrop and has 26 massive bastions and high protective walls.
- The fort was made by a mixture of lead, sand, and gul.
- The main gate of the fort facing Rajapuri on the shore is a huge structure. There is a small gate towards the open sea to escape from the enemies.
- Once it stood firm and robust in defence with 572 roaring cannons, only a few of the large cannons remain in place today, and the largest of them is known as the Kalaal Bangdi.
- Earlier the fort was a full-fledged living place with all the necessary facilities like palaces, quarters for officers, a mosque, two small 18 m natural freshwater lakes, etc.
- There is also a deep well with cold and sweet water, a wonder of nature in the midst of the sea.
Hence only statement 1 is correct.
-
Question 2 of 10
2. Question
1 pointsKailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary, recently seen in the news, is located in which Indian state?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
A new study by WWF-India, in collaboration with the Rajasthan Forest Department, highlights Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary as a key stronghold for wildlife conservation and tiger recovery in Rajasthan.
About Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary:
- It is located in the Karauli district of Rajasthan.
- It spans about 674 sq.km. and was established in 1983.
- It serves as a northern extension and buffer zone of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, acting as a wildlife corridor connecting Ranthambore to the Chambal region.
- It is geographically characterized by rugged hills, deep gorges (locally referred to as khos), and dry deciduous forests, with the Banas River on its western edge and the Chambal River to the southeast.
- The sanctuary is also culturally significant due to the Kaila Devi Temple within its boundary, attracting many pilgrims.
- It has become a popular reference among environmentalists and conservationists for the community-initiated forest protection committees (referred to as kulhadi bandh panchayats) that are operational in the area.
- These forest protection committees prevent the carrying of axes into the forests, a symbol of protecting the forests.
- Flora: The forest vegetation mainly comprises species like dhok, khair, and tendu trees.
- Fauna: Its rich wildlife includes Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian grey wolves, striped hyenas, jackals, nilgai, chinkara, sambar, chital, and over 200 species of birds such as kingfishers and peafowl.
Hence option c is the correct answer.
Incorrect
Answer: c
Explanation:
A new study by WWF-India, in collaboration with the Rajasthan Forest Department, highlights Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary as a key stronghold for wildlife conservation and tiger recovery in Rajasthan.
About Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary:
- It is located in the Karauli district of Rajasthan.
- It spans about 674 sq.km. and was established in 1983.
- It serves as a northern extension and buffer zone of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, acting as a wildlife corridor connecting Ranthambore to the Chambal region.
- It is geographically characterized by rugged hills, deep gorges (locally referred to as khos), and dry deciduous forests, with the Banas River on its western edge and the Chambal River to the southeast.
- The sanctuary is also culturally significant due to the Kaila Devi Temple within its boundary, attracting many pilgrims.
- It has become a popular reference among environmentalists and conservationists for the community-initiated forest protection committees (referred to as kulhadi bandh panchayats) that are operational in the area.
- These forest protection committees prevent the carrying of axes into the forests, a symbol of protecting the forests.
- Flora: The forest vegetation mainly comprises species like dhok, khair, and tendu trees.
- Fauna: Its rich wildlife includes Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian grey wolves, striped hyenas, jackals, nilgai, chinkara, sambar, chital, and over 200 species of birds such as kingfishers and peafowl.
Hence option c is the correct answer.
-
Question 3 of 10
3. Question
1 pointsConsider the following statements regarding Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl, recently seen in the news:
- It is a forest-inhabiting species endemic to India’s Eastern Ghats.
- It is classified as ‘Least Concern’ under the IUCN Red List.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
In a major ornithological milestone, spot-bellied eagle-owl, a rare and elusive species, has been documented for the first time in Kozhikode, Kerala.
About Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl:
- The spot-bellied eagle-owl, also known as the forest eagle-owl, is a large bird of prey with a formidable appearance.
- Scientific Name: Ketupa nipalensis.
- It is closely related to the barred eagle-owl, which looks similar. However, these two owls live in different areas.
- Habitat and Distribution:
- It is a forest-inhabiting species found in the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
- In India, these spot-bellied eagle-owl species are distributed in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- It can be found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and savannas.
- Features:
- It is a very large owl. It can be from 50 to 65 cm long. This makes it one of the longest owls in the world.
- It also has very long wings. Its wingspan can reach up to 1.7 meters.
- The most distinguishing feature is its striking colouration. The upper parts of its body are a rich chocolate brown, speckled with white spots.
- The feathers on its wings and tail are barred with alternating shades of brown and white, creating a stunning pattern that helps it blend in with its surroundings.
- The underside of the owl is where it gets its name; its belly and breast are a light cream colour, covered in bold black spots.
- The nostrils are round. The beak is curved and yellowish.
- The owl has long ear tufts on its head. These tufts can be 63 to 76 mm long.
- Like most eagle owls, its legs and feet are covered in feathers. But the tips of its toes are bare.
- It is primarily nocturnal.
- It is a solitary bird that is territorial and maintains a home range.
- It is famous for its strange, human-like calls.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Hence only statement 2 is correct.
Incorrect
Answer: b
Explanation:
In a major ornithological milestone, spot-bellied eagle-owl, a rare and elusive species, has been documented for the first time in Kozhikode, Kerala.
About Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl:
- The spot-bellied eagle-owl, also known as the forest eagle-owl, is a large bird of prey with a formidable appearance.
- Scientific Name: Ketupa nipalensis.
- It is closely related to the barred eagle-owl, which looks similar. However, these two owls live in different areas.
- Habitat and Distribution:
- It is a forest-inhabiting species found in the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
- In India, these spot-bellied eagle-owl species are distributed in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- It can be found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and savannas.
- Features:
- It is a very large owl. It can be from 50 to 65 cm long. This makes it one of the longest owls in the world.
- It also has very long wings. Its wingspan can reach up to 1.7 meters.
- The most distinguishing feature is its striking colouration. The upper parts of its body are a rich chocolate brown, speckled with white spots.
- The feathers on its wings and tail are barred with alternating shades of brown and white, creating a stunning pattern that helps it blend in with its surroundings.
- The underside of the owl is where it gets its name; its belly and breast are a light cream colour, covered in bold black spots.
- The nostrils are round. The beak is curved and yellowish.
- The owl has long ear tufts on its head. These tufts can be 63 to 76 mm long.
- Like most eagle owls, its legs and feet are covered in feathers. But the tips of its toes are bare.
- It is primarily nocturnal.
- It is a solitary bird that is territorial and maintains a home range.
- It is famous for its strange, human-like calls.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Hence only statement 2 is correct.
-
Question 4 of 10
4. Question
1 pointsWith reference to the National Security Guard (NSG), consider the following statements:
- It is India’s premier counter-terror force.
- It was raised in the aftermath of the 2001 Indian Parliament Attack.
- It is under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
The Prime Minister recently extended greetings to personnel of the National Security Guard (NSG) on its Raising Day, lauding their courage, precision, and unwavering commitment to duty.
About National Security Guard (NSG):
- It is India’s premier counter-terror force, specially trained and equipped to respond to serious acts of terrorism and other exceptional security situations.
- The NSG members are also known as Black Cats because of the black drill cotton coveralls and balaclavas, or helmets, they wear.
- Establishment:
- It was raised in 1984, following Operation Blue Star and the assassination of Indira Gandhi.
- It was established under the National Security Guard Act of 1986.
- The Act places it under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which exercises operational tasking.
- The NSG was modelled on the pattern of the Special Air Service of the UK and GSG-9 of Germany.
- The NSG’s specific goals include:
- Neutralization of terrorist threats
- Handling hijacking situations in the air and on land.
- Bomb disposal (search, detection, and neutralisation of IEDs).
- PBI (Post Blast Investigation)
- Hostage Rescue
- VIP Security
- Motto: Sarvatra Sarvottama Suraksa.
- Headquarters: New Delhi.
- Director General (DG):
- The head of the NSG, designated as Director General (DG), is selected by the Home Ministry.
- All the selected DGs have been officers from the Indian Police Service (IPS).
- It is designed to be employed as a specialised counter-terrorism force “only in exceptional situations,” not to take over “functions of the State Police Forces or other paramilitary forces.”
- The teams of NSG work on a basic philosophy of swift and speedy strike and immediate withdrawal from the theatre of action.
- NSG deployments are usually not made public, with most of its operations remaining classified.
- Structurally, the NSG is a two-tier composite force.
- The Special Action Group (SAG) is the offensive assault component, manned entirely by personnel on deputation from the Indian Army, and constitutes roughly half the force.
- The Special Ranger Group (SRG) is drawn on deputation from the Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, BSF, ITBP, CISF) and the state police, and performs perimeter, support, VIP protection, and logistics roles.
- This dual sourcing is a deliberate design feature: it keeps the cutting-edge assault capability under Army-trained discipline while retaining a police-culture interface for civilian-environment operations.
- The force also fields specialised wings for bomb disposal, electronic countermeasures, and explosive detection and runs the National Bomb Data Centre (NBDC).
- The NBDC collects, collates, analyses, and evaluates all terrorist bombing activities and disseminates relevant information to concerned law enforcement agencies.
Hence option b is the correct answer.
News: https://ddnews.gov.in/en/pm-modi-extends-greetings-to-nsg-personnel-on-raising-day/
Incorrect
Answer: b
Explanation:
The Prime Minister recently extended greetings to personnel of the National Security Guard (NSG) on its Raising Day, lauding their courage, precision, and unwavering commitment to duty.
About National Security Guard (NSG):
- It is India’s premier counter-terror force, specially trained and equipped to respond to serious acts of terrorism and other exceptional security situations.
- The NSG members are also known as Black Cats because of the black drill cotton coveralls and balaclavas, or helmets, they wear.
- Establishment:
- It was raised in 1984, following Operation Blue Star and the assassination of Indira Gandhi.
- It was established under the National Security Guard Act of 1986.
- The Act places it under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which exercises operational tasking.
- The NSG was modelled on the pattern of the Special Air Service of the UK and GSG-9 of Germany.
- The NSG’s specific goals include:
- Neutralization of terrorist threats
- Handling hijacking situations in the air and on land.
- Bomb disposal (search, detection, and neutralisation of IEDs).
- PBI (Post Blast Investigation)
- Hostage Rescue
- VIP Security
- Motto: Sarvatra Sarvottama Suraksa.
- Headquarters: New Delhi.
- Director General (DG):
- The head of the NSG, designated as Director General (DG), is selected by the Home Ministry.
- All the selected DGs have been officers from the Indian Police Service (IPS).
- It is designed to be employed as a specialised counter-terrorism force “only in exceptional situations,” not to take over “functions of the State Police Forces or other paramilitary forces.”
- The teams of NSG work on a basic philosophy of swift and speedy strike and immediate withdrawal from the theatre of action.
- NSG deployments are usually not made public, with most of its operations remaining classified.
- Structurally, the NSG is a two-tier composite force.
- The Special Action Group (SAG) is the offensive assault component, manned entirely by personnel on deputation from the Indian Army, and constitutes roughly half the force.
- The Special Ranger Group (SRG) is drawn on deputation from the Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, BSF, ITBP, CISF) and the state police, and performs perimeter, support, VIP protection, and logistics roles.
- This dual sourcing is a deliberate design feature: it keeps the cutting-edge assault capability under Army-trained discipline while retaining a police-culture interface for civilian-environment operations.
- The force also fields specialised wings for bomb disposal, electronic countermeasures, and explosive detection and runs the National Bomb Data Centre (NBDC).
- The NBDC collects, collates, analyses, and evaluates all terrorist bombing activities and disseminates relevant information to concerned law enforcement agencies.
Hence option b is the correct answer.
News: https://ddnews.gov.in/en/pm-modi-extends-greetings-to-nsg-personnel-on-raising-day/
-
Question 5 of 10
5. Question
1 pointsWhat is the primary objective of PM-AJAY, recently seen in the news?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
The Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) has seen 18,093 villages declared Adarsh Grams as of September 8, 2026, reflecting efforts to improve infrastructure, basic services and quality of life in Scheduled Caste-majority villages.
About PM-AJAY:
- It is a comprehensive initiative by the Government of India, launched in FY 2021-22, aimed at the socio-economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes (SCs).
- It is a merger scheme of three erstwhile Centrally Sponsored Schemes, namely, Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY), Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP), and Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY).
- Implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, the scheme focuses on reducing poverty, enhancing educational opportunities, and improving infrastructure in SC-dominated areas.
- The objectives of the Scheme are to:
- Reduce poverty of the SC communities by generating additional employment opportunities through skill development, income-generating schemes, and other initiatives.
- Improve socio-economic developmental indicators by ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite services in the SC-dominated villages.
- Increase literacy and encourage enrollment of SCs in schools and higher educational institutions by providing adequate residential facilities in quality institutions, as well as residential schools where required, especially in the aspirational districts/SC-dominated blocks and elsewhere in India.
- The scheme is 100% funded by the Central Government. However, the States/UTs are free to provide additional funds from their own resources if they so desire.
- The states are required to submit their Annual Action Plans (AAPs) through the PM-AJAY portal in order to receive funds from the central government.
- The planning process is decentralized, allowing for the creation and approval of projects at both state and district levels.
- Key Components:
- Adarsh Gram Development: Transforming SC-majority villages into ‘Adarsh Grams’ (model villages) by filling critical gaps in infrastructure and services.
- Grants-in-Aid for Socio-Economic Projects: Providing financial assistance for district/state-level projects aimed at the socio-economic betterment of SCs. This includes:
- Creation of infrastructure in SC-dominated villages
- Construction of hostels/residential schools
- Comprehensive livelihood projects, including skill development and related infrastructure.
- Financial assistance towards loans taken by beneficiaries for asset acquisition/creation required for livelihood generation.
- Construction of Hostels: It includes building hostels in higher educational institutions ranked under the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and funded by the Centre/State/UT Governments, schools funded by the Centre/State/UT Governments, and recommended by the Ministry of Education.
- Financial support for monitoring and evaluation of the Scheme implementation through the Administrative Head of the Scheme.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- The SC persons living below the poverty lines are eligible for getting benefits under the various income-generating schemes and skill development programmes.
- In case of Infrastructure Development, the villages having 50% or more SC population are eligible for grants under the Scheme.
Hence option c is the correct answer.
Incorrect
Answer: c
Explanation:
The Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) has seen 18,093 villages declared Adarsh Grams as of September 8, 2026, reflecting efforts to improve infrastructure, basic services and quality of life in Scheduled Caste-majority villages.
About PM-AJAY:
- It is a comprehensive initiative by the Government of India, launched in FY 2021-22, aimed at the socio-economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes (SCs).
- It is a merger scheme of three erstwhile Centrally Sponsored Schemes, namely, Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY), Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP), and Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY).
- Implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, the scheme focuses on reducing poverty, enhancing educational opportunities, and improving infrastructure in SC-dominated areas.
- The objectives of the Scheme are to:
- Reduce poverty of the SC communities by generating additional employment opportunities through skill development, income-generating schemes, and other initiatives.
- Improve socio-economic developmental indicators by ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite services in the SC-dominated villages.
- Increase literacy and encourage enrollment of SCs in schools and higher educational institutions by providing adequate residential facilities in quality institutions, as well as residential schools where required, especially in the aspirational districts/SC-dominated blocks and elsewhere in India.
- The scheme is 100% funded by the Central Government. However, the States/UTs are free to provide additional funds from their own resources if they so desire.
- The states are required to submit their Annual Action Plans (AAPs) through the PM-AJAY portal in order to receive funds from the central government.
- The planning process is decentralized, allowing for the creation and approval of projects at both state and district levels.
- Key Components:
- Adarsh Gram Development: Transforming SC-majority villages into ‘Adarsh Grams’ (model villages) by filling critical gaps in infrastructure and services.
- Grants-in-Aid for Socio-Economic Projects: Providing financial assistance for district/state-level projects aimed at the socio-economic betterment of SCs. This includes:
- Creation of infrastructure in SC-dominated villages
- Construction of hostels/residential schools
- Comprehensive livelihood projects, including skill development and related infrastructure.
- Financial assistance towards loans taken by beneficiaries for asset acquisition/creation required for livelihood generation.
- Construction of Hostels: It includes building hostels in higher educational institutions ranked under the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and funded by the Centre/State/UT Governments, schools funded by the Centre/State/UT Governments, and recommended by the Ministry of Education.
- Financial support for monitoring and evaluation of the Scheme implementation through the Administrative Head of the Scheme.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- The SC persons living below the poverty lines are eligible for getting benefits under the various income-generating schemes and skill development programmes.
- In case of Infrastructure Development, the villages having 50% or more SC population are eligible for grants under the Scheme.
Hence option c is the correct answer.
-
Question 6 of 10
6. Question
1 pointsConsider the following statements regarding Sauj Jheel:
- It is a shallow lake located in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
- It is designated as Ramsar site.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
Recently, India has added Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel to the List of Wetlands of International Importance, bringing its total number of “Ramsar Sites” to 103.
About Sauj Jheel:
- Location: It is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
- It is a shallow lake surrounded by farmland in the floodplain of the Ganga River.
- It forms part of a larger network of wetlands, contributing to ecological connectivity in the wider landscape, and is close to Saman Bird Sanctuary.
- Vegetation: The lake supports diverse wetland-associated vegetation, including the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) and the wild sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum).
- Fauna: Notable waterbird species recorded at the Site include the vulnerable sarus crane (Grus antigone) and greater spotted eagle (Clanga clanga).
Hence both statements are correct.
News: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PRID=2324120®=1&lang=1
Incorrect
Answer: c
Explanation:
Recently, India has added Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel to the List of Wetlands of International Importance, bringing its total number of “Ramsar Sites” to 103.
About Sauj Jheel:
- Location: It is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
- It is a shallow lake surrounded by farmland in the floodplain of the Ganga River.
- It forms part of a larger network of wetlands, contributing to ecological connectivity in the wider landscape, and is close to Saman Bird Sanctuary.
- Vegetation: The lake supports diverse wetland-associated vegetation, including the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) and the wild sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum).
- Fauna: Notable waterbird species recorded at the Site include the vulnerable sarus crane (Grus antigone) and greater spotted eagle (Clanga clanga).
Hence both statements are correct.
News: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PRID=2324120®=1&lang=1
-
Question 7 of 10
7. Question
1 pointsConsider the following statements regarding Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary:
- It is located in the state of Odisha.
- It consists of Southern tropical dry deciduous forest type of vegetation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
A recent survey camera traps revealed a rich habitat of diverse wildlife, including bears, leopards, mountain goats, and wild boars of Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary.
About Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Location: It is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
- Rivers: It forms the catchment for river Pennar. The Telugu ganga canal flows into the eastern flank of the Sanctuary draining into the ‘Pennar river’.
- Vegetation: It consists of Southern tropical dry deciduous forest in the hills, scrub forest in the plains, Southern dry mixed deciduous forest, Tropical thorn forests and Tropical dry evergreen forest.
- Flora: It is home to the rare and endangered plants like Red sanders and Sandalwood are important species found in this area.
- The riparian vegetation is very rich in floristic value, consisting of Terminalia spp, Syzygium spp, (Jamun), Wild mangoes, Anogeissus latifolia, Phoenix spp, Bamboo, Hardwickia binata, etc.
- Fauna: It has good representation of species like Common toad, Bullfrog, Common Indian skink, Green vine snake etc.
- It is the only home and hopes for the rare and endangered bird the Jerdons courser.
Hence only statement 2 is correct.
News: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/amp/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/camera-traps-in-lankamala-for-census-reveal-biodiversity-in-sanctuary-1996128
Incorrect
Answer: b
Explanation:
A recent survey camera traps revealed a rich habitat of diverse wildlife, including bears, leopards, mountain goats, and wild boars of Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary.
About Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Location: It is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
- Rivers: It forms the catchment for river Pennar. The Telugu ganga canal flows into the eastern flank of the Sanctuary draining into the ‘Pennar river’.
- Vegetation: It consists of Southern tropical dry deciduous forest in the hills, scrub forest in the plains, Southern dry mixed deciduous forest, Tropical thorn forests and Tropical dry evergreen forest.
- Flora: It is home to the rare and endangered plants like Red sanders and Sandalwood are important species found in this area.
- The riparian vegetation is very rich in floristic value, consisting of Terminalia spp, Syzygium spp, (Jamun), Wild mangoes, Anogeissus latifolia, Phoenix spp, Bamboo, Hardwickia binata, etc.
- Fauna: It has good representation of species like Common toad, Bullfrog, Common Indian skink, Green vine snake etc.
- It is the only home and hopes for the rare and endangered bird the Jerdons courser.
Hence only statement 2 is correct.
News: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/amp/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/camera-traps-in-lankamala-for-census-reveal-biodiversity-in-sanctuary-1996128
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Question 8 of 10
8. Question
1 pointsConsider the following statements regarding Weather Information Network and Data System:
- It is an initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to strengthen weather data infrastructure across India.
- It is an initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
An ambitious Weather Information Network and Data System project by an Agriculture Ministry body to install automatic rain gauges and automatic weather stations in States is proceeding at a crawl due to shortage of land.
About Weather Information Network and Data System:
- It is a national initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to strengthen weather data infrastructure across India.
- It is a programme to set up a nationwide network of weather sensors to supply hyper-local weather data.
- It employs Automatic Weather Stations and Automatic Rain Gauges to collect hyperlocal weather data at the Block and Gram Panchayat levels.
- It integrates weather data pooled from IMD, State Governments, and public/private technical organisations into a single, unified national-level WINDS portal.
- This is mainly to aid in computing insurance estimates and payouts under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
- It is run by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and executed through the Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC).
- Features
- It harness advanced weather data analytics to provide stakeholders with actionable insight to make informed weather decisions on agriculture.
- WINDS will provide farmers with critical weather-related information and data.
- The WINDS initiative prioritizes the establishment of a robust network of meteorological stations.
- The goal of this effort is to create a large network of weather stations that spans the whole nation.
- The goal is to close the knowledge gap and empower decision-makers, farmers, and stakeholders at the grassroots level.
Hence both statements are correct.
News: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/land-shortage-cripples-agriculture-ministry-weather-network/article71588890.ece
Incorrect
Answer: c
Explanation:
An ambitious Weather Information Network and Data System project by an Agriculture Ministry body to install automatic rain gauges and automatic weather stations in States is proceeding at a crawl due to shortage of land.
About Weather Information Network and Data System:
- It is a national initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to strengthen weather data infrastructure across India.
- It is a programme to set up a nationwide network of weather sensors to supply hyper-local weather data.
- It employs Automatic Weather Stations and Automatic Rain Gauges to collect hyperlocal weather data at the Block and Gram Panchayat levels.
- It integrates weather data pooled from IMD, State Governments, and public/private technical organisations into a single, unified national-level WINDS portal.
- This is mainly to aid in computing insurance estimates and payouts under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
- It is run by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and executed through the Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC).
- Features
- It harness advanced weather data analytics to provide stakeholders with actionable insight to make informed weather decisions on agriculture.
- WINDS will provide farmers with critical weather-related information and data.
- The WINDS initiative prioritizes the establishment of a robust network of meteorological stations.
- The goal of this effort is to create a large network of weather stations that spans the whole nation.
- The goal is to close the knowledge gap and empower decision-makers, farmers, and stakeholders at the grassroots level.
Hence both statements are correct.
News: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/land-shortage-cripples-agriculture-ministry-weather-network/article71588890.ece
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Question 9 of 10
9. Question
1 pointsWith reference to Varunastra, consider the following statements:
- It is a ship launched, heavy weight, electrically-propelled anti-submarine torpedo.
- It is developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation.
- It is capable of being launched from surface ships and submarines.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
Recently, the Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth Rs 4,106 crore for the acquisition of a dedicated communication satellite capability, GSAT-7C for the Indian Air Force, and Varunastra Heavy Weight Torpedoes for the Indian Navy.
About Varunastra:
- It is a ship launched, heavy weight, electrically-propelled anti-submarine torpedo.
- It is capable of targeting quiet submarines, both in deep and shallow waters in an intense countermeasures environment.
- It was designed and developed by Vizag-based Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- It can be fired from all Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) ships capable of firing heavy weight torpedoes.
- Features:
- It is capable of being launched from surface ships and submarines.
- Speed: It can achieve speeds in excess of 40 knots (74 km/h; 46 mph) and has a range of 40 km.
- Capacity: It can carry a 250 kg high-explosive warhead and has a maximum operating depth of 600 metres (2,000 ft). It has long range with multi maneuvering capabilities.
- The torpedo’s guidance system uses active-passive acoustic homing, wire guidance, and GPS/NavIC satellite guidance.
- It has conformal array transducers that allow it to look at wider angles than most common torpedoes.
- It also has an advanced autonomous guidance algorithm with low drift navigational aids, an insensitive warhead that can operate in various combat scenarios, and a GPS-based locating aid.
Hence only statements 1 and 3 are correct.
News: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2323814®=48&lang=2
Incorrect
Answer: b
Explanation:
Recently, the Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth Rs 4,106 crore for the acquisition of a dedicated communication satellite capability, GSAT-7C for the Indian Air Force, and Varunastra Heavy Weight Torpedoes for the Indian Navy.
About Varunastra:
- It is a ship launched, heavy weight, electrically-propelled anti-submarine torpedo.
- It is capable of targeting quiet submarines, both in deep and shallow waters in an intense countermeasures environment.
- It was designed and developed by Vizag-based Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- It can be fired from all Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) ships capable of firing heavy weight torpedoes.
- Features:
- It is capable of being launched from surface ships and submarines.
- Speed: It can achieve speeds in excess of 40 knots (74 km/h; 46 mph) and has a range of 40 km.
- Capacity: It can carry a 250 kg high-explosive warhead and has a maximum operating depth of 600 metres (2,000 ft). It has long range with multi maneuvering capabilities.
- The torpedo’s guidance system uses active-passive acoustic homing, wire guidance, and GPS/NavIC satellite guidance.
- It has conformal array transducers that allow it to look at wider angles than most common torpedoes.
- It also has an advanced autonomous guidance algorithm with low drift navigational aids, an insensitive warhead that can operate in various combat scenarios, and a GPS-based locating aid.
Hence only statements 1 and 3 are correct.
News: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2323814®=48&lang=2
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Question 10 of 10
10. Question
1 pointsHornbill Festival, recently in news, is celebrated mainly in:
Correct
Answer: d
Explanation:
Recently, Nagaland has begun preparations for the 27th edition of the iconic Hornbill Festival.
About Hornbill Festival:
- It was first organized in the year 2000.
- It is celebrated at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama which is about 12 km from Kohima in
- It was named after the Hornbill bird given its association with the socio-cultural life of the Nagas.
- It aims to promote inter-tribal interaction and preserve Nagaland’s heritage, blending the traditional with the contemporary in a harmonious display of unity.
- It was initially began as a three-day event, was subsequently expanded to five days and then to ten days, which coincides with Nagaland’s Statehood Day on December 1,
- It is also called the festival of festivals and is held every year.
- Organised by: It is organized by the State Tourism and Art & Culture Departments of the Government of Nagaland.
- It has evolved into a celebration showcasing the diverse and vibrant cultural and traditional heritage of the tribes of Nagaland.
Hence option (d) is the correct answer.
News: https://ddnews.gov.in/en/nagaland-gears-up-for-27th-edition-of-iconic-hornbill-festival/
Incorrect
Answer: d
Explanation:
Recently, Nagaland has begun preparations for the 27th edition of the iconic Hornbill Festival.
About Hornbill Festival:
- It was first organized in the year 2000.
- It is celebrated at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama which is about 12 km from Kohima in
- It was named after the Hornbill bird given its association with the socio-cultural life of the Nagas.
- It aims to promote inter-tribal interaction and preserve Nagaland’s heritage, blending the traditional with the contemporary in a harmonious display of unity.
- It was initially began as a three-day event, was subsequently expanded to five days and then to ten days, which coincides with Nagaland’s Statehood Day on December 1,
- It is also called the festival of festivals and is held every year.
- Organised by: It is organized by the State Tourism and Art & Culture Departments of the Government of Nagaland.
- It has evolved into a celebration showcasing the diverse and vibrant cultural and traditional heritage of the tribes of Nagaland.
Hence option (d) is the correct answer.
News: https://ddnews.gov.in/en/nagaland-gears-up-for-27th-edition-of-iconic-hornbill-festival/
Last updated on Oct, 2026
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