General Awareness: India: UPSC Previous Year Questions (General Knowledge)

Explanation

Pair 1 is incorrect: The National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS) is located in Pune, Maharashtra. Established in 1986 under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, it specializes in cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, genetic engineering, and stem cell research.

Pair 2 is correct: The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) is an autonomous organization funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. CDFD is located in Hyderabad.

Pair 3 is correct: The National Brain Research Centre (NBRC), located in the Aravalli foothills, Manesar, Gurugram, is India’s premier institute for neuroscience research and education. An autonomous institute under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, it is also a Deemed-to-be University and an Institution of Excellence.

Explanation

Lal Bahadur Shastri (1904-1966), India’s 2nd Prime Minister (1964-1966), led the nation during the 1965 Indo-Pak War and coined the iconic slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan." He played a pivotal role in promoting the Green Revolution and translated Madame Curie’s Autobiography into Hindi, reflecting his passion for science and education.

Explanation

Elizabeth Hawley (1923-2018) was an American journalist and historian renowned for documenting Himalayan expeditions, particularly mountaineering in Nepal. She meticulously recorded details of Mount Everest and other Himalayan climbs, making her one of the most trusted sources on Himalayan mountaineering history. She maintained a comprehensive database of Himalayan expeditions for over five decades, authoring The Himalayan Database, a key reference for mountaineers. Though never climbing herself, her records were considered authoritative.

Explanation

T. S. Krishnamurthy, 13th Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, conducted the 2004 General Elections, which saw the UPA come to power. Played a crucial role in electoral reforms and ensuring free and fair elections. Prior to being CEC, he served as an Election Commissioner of India from 2000 to 2004.He was also a civil servant in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) before joining the Election Commission. K.C. Pant was the Chairman of the 10th Finance Commission of India from 1995-2000. A. M. Khusro was a renowned economist and the Chairman of the 11th Finance Commission of India. He contributed significantly to India’s economic planning and policy formulation. R. C. Lahoti was the 35th Chief Justice of India (CJI) advocated for speedy justice and emphasized reducing delays in the judicial system. Played a role in key judgments related to constitutional law and governance.

Explanation

Nagaland (1963), originally part of Assam, became a state following the Naga nationalist movement. Known for its indigenous tribes and the Hornbill Festival, its capital is Kohima. Haryana (1966) emerged from Punjab based on linguistic lines, with Chandigarh as its capital. It is a key agricultural and industrial hub, home to Kurukshetra. Sikkim (1975), once an independent kingdom, merged with India through a referendum. Gangtok is its capital, and it is known for Kanchenjunga and organic farming. Arunachal Pradesh (1987), formerly part of NEFA, became a state due to strategic importance. With Itanagar as its capital, it borders China and hosts diverse tribal cultures.

Explanation

The Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC) in Oragadam, Chennai (Tamil Nadu), is a National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project (NATRIP) center supporting automobile R&D in India. It provides vehicle testing, homologation, and ensures safety, emissions, and performance compliance with global standards.

Explanation

Raghuram Rajan served as the Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2003 - 2006. He was the first Indian to hold this prestigious position at the IMF. Later, he became the 23rd Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from 2013 - 2016.

Explanation

Bhajan Sopori (1948-2022), Exponent of Santoor A legendary Santoor player from Jammu and Kashmir. Known as "Saint of Santoor" for his unique style. Recipient of Padma Shri, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and J&K State Award. Revived and popularised Sufi and Hindustani classical music on the Santoor. Birju Maharaj (1938-2022), Kathak Dancer A world-renowned Kathak exponent from the Lucknow Gharana. Grandson of Kalka-Bindadin Maharaj, who shaped the Lucknow style of Kathak. Awarded Padma Vibhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and Kalidas Samman. Also choreographed dance sequences in Bollywood films like "Devdas" (2002) and "Vishwaroopam" (2013). Priyadarsini Govind, Bharatnatyam Dancer One of the leading Bharatanatyam dancers of India. Known for her expressive Abhinaya (facial expressions in dance). Received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her contributions to Bharatanatyam. Trained under Kalanidhi Narayanan and S.K. Rajarathnam Pillai. T. V. Gopalakrishnan, Mridangam Maestro A renowned Carnatic percussionist, vocalist, and musicologist. Known for his mastery of Mridangam and contributions to Carnatic and Hindustani music. Trained several musicians and played with stalwarts like M. S. Subbulakshmi and Balamuralikrishna. Awarded Padma Bhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and Kalaimamani Award.

Explanation

P. V. Narasimha Rao, former Prime Minister of India (1991-1996), wrote the book "Ayodhya: 6 December 1992". The book provides his perspective on the Babri Masjid demolition, which took place on December 6, 1992, during his tenure as Prime Minister. It discusses the political events, legal aspects, and administrative challenges related to the Ayodhya dispute.

Explanation

The Pulitzer Prize is a prestigious annual award presented by Columbia University, New York City, recognizing excellence in journalism, literature, and music. Established in 1917 through a $500,000 endowment from newspaper magnate Joseph Pulitzer, the prize is highly esteemed. Awards are announced on recommendations from the Pulitzer Prize Board, consisting of judges appointed by the university. Over time, the number and categories of awards have evolved, with the current structure including 14 prizes in journalism, 6 in literature, and 1 in music. Additionally, fellowships are granted to support aspiring professionals in these fields.