RAS Prelims MCQ Practice

Explanation

Before joining DRDO, Dr. Kalam spent two decades at ISRO, where he achieved a major milestone as the Project Director for India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle. The successful launch of SLV-3 in 1980, which placed the Rohini satellite into orbit, made India a member of the exclusive space club. This achievement demonstrated his leadership in managing complex aerospace projects.

Explanation

The Padmini Palace is inside the Chittorgarh Fort. It is linked with Rani Padmini, who is associated with the siege of Chittorgarh by Alauddin Khalji.

Explanation

The Vittalaswami temple is famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars that emit different notes when struck. The Virupaksha temple, an ancient shrine, was greatly expanded with a large gopuram by Krishnadeva Raya. The Lotus Mahal displays a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, while the Mahanavami Dibba was a massive ceremonial platform used by the kings during the important Navaratri festivals.

Explanation

Padan Pol is a gate of Chittorgarh, Loha Pol of Mehrangarh, Ganesh Pol of Amber and Akhai Pol of Jaisalmer. This gives A-iii, B-i, C-iv, D-ii.

Explanation

The iconic Stone Chariot, a masterpiece of Dravidian sculpture, is situated within the courtyard of the Vittalaswami temple complex at Hampi. In contrast, the Mahanavami Dibba was a ceremonial platform, not a granary. The Elephant Stables exhibit significant Indo-Islamic influences, such as arched openings and domes. Raya Gopurams were actually massive and highly decorative gateways, rather than small or unadorned structures.

Explanation

Dr. Kalam played a pivotal role as the Chief Project Coordinator for the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests. Working alongside atomic energy scientists, he ensured the technical success of the mission. The public success of these tests, combined with his leadership in the missile program, firmly established his reputation as the "Missile Man" and a national icon of scientific strength.

Explanation

A living fort is one where many civilians live inside the walls, as at Jaisalmer, where houses, shops and temples stand inside the fort. It does not mean a garrison or a fort made of wood.

Explanation

The monuments of Hampi primarily follow the Dravidian style of architecture, characterized by towering Gopurams (gateways) and extensive pillared Mandapas (halls). A unique feature of this period was the use of composite pillars and monolithic carvings. While some secular structures incorporated Islamic architectural elements like arches and domes, the religious buildings remained firmly rooted in the classical South Indian temple-building traditions developed over centuries.

Explanation

The National Human Rights Commission is a statutory body, meaning it was established by an act of Parliament rather than directly by the Constitution. The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, provides the legal framework for its establishment, powers, and functions, aiming to strengthen the institutional mechanism for protecting human rights. This Act was passed in response to international developments and a growing domestic need for an independent body to monitor human rights violations. It outlines the commission’s broad mandate, which includes investigating complaints, promoting human rights awareness, and reviewing existing laws and policies to ensure they align with human rights standards.

Explanation

Dr. Kalam was a prolific writer who inspired millions through his books like ‘Wings of Fire’, ‘Ignited Minds’, and ‘India 2020’. These works detailed his life, vision for the country, and the role of youth in development. ‘The Discovery of India’, however, was written by Jawaharlal Nehru while he was imprisoned during the Indian independence movement.