RAS Prelims MCQ Practice

Explanation

Cracking the genetic code allowed scientists to understand exactly how changes in DNA sequences, known as mutations, can lead to diseases or altered traits. This knowledge provided the necessary framework for genetic engineering, enabling researchers to modify organisms by inserting or changing specific genes. It transformed medicine and agriculture by allowing the production of insulin, vaccines, and genetically modified crops.

Explanation

Jaisalmer is said to have suffered two and a half sackings. In the half shaka the Rajput men died in battle, but the women were saved before they could carry out jauhar. In the full shakas, jauhar took place.

Explanation

The Charminar, an iconic monument and mosque located in Hyderabad, was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591 to commemorate the end of a devastating plague. It features four grand arches and four elegant minarets, serving as a landmark of Qutb Shahi architecture. In contrast, Ibrahim Rauza is in Bijapur, the Chand Minar is in Daulatabad, and the Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan is situated in Bidar.

Explanation

The NHRC is funded by grants-in-aid from the Central Government after appropriation by Parliament. Its expenses are not charged on the Consolidated Fund like those of the UPSC.

Explanation

A major objective of the Ayushman Bharat PM- JAY scheme is to protect poor and vulnerable families from the devastating financial impact of serious illnesses. By providing a health cover of five lakh rupees per family, the initiative aims to significantly reduce catastrophic out-of-pocket health expenditures. This allows families to access quality healthcare without the fear of falling deeper into poverty.

Explanation

The Shikhara is the towering roof over the main shrine, the Amalaka is the ribbed stone disk at the top of the tower, the Antarala is the vestibule between hall and sanctum, and the Jagati is the raised platform. This gives A-iii, B-i, C-iv, D-ii.

Explanation

The internal political landscape of the Bahmani Kingdom was dominated by a persistent and often violent rivalry between two factions of the nobility: the ‘Deccanis’ (local Muslim converts and residents) and the ‘Afaqis’ (foreign immigrants from Persia, Iraq, and Central Asia). This factionalism weakened the central administration, led to the execution of talented leaders like Mahmud Gawan, and ultimately caused the kingdom’s fragmentation into five independent states.

Explanation

The National Commission for Women is a statutory body established under a 1990 Act, not a constitutional one. Its main responsibilities include reviewing the legal and constitutional safeguards for women and recommending legislative improvements. It serves as a vital link between the government and the female population to ensure gender-specific rights are upheld. The commission was formally set up in 1992. It plays a proactive role in identifying systemic gender biases in the law and suggesting remedial measures. By monitoring the implementation of policies, it ensures that the constitutional promises of equality and protection are translated into practical benefits for women across all sectors.

Explanation

The fundamental rights articles related to social justice in the Indian Constitution follow a logical sequential order starting from Article 14. This article establishes the broad principle of equality before the law. It is followed by Article 15, which prohibits discrimination, and Article 16, which ensures equality in employment. Finally, Article 17 provides specific protection by completely abolishing untouchability.

Explanation

Jagadish Chandra Bose invented the Crescograph to observe and record the growth of plants. This highly sensitive instrument could magnify plant movements up to ten thousand times, making nearly invisible growth processes apparent. Through this invention, Bose provided empirical evidence that plants react to various external stimuli, establishing a scientific link between the biological responses of plants and animals.