RAS Prelims MCQ Practice

Explanation

A fundamental difference is that the new institution functions strictly as an advisory think-tank and does not possess the power to allocate funds to states or ministries. That power was a key feature of the former Planning Commission but has now been transferred to the Ministry of Finance, streamlining the budgetary process. This separation of policy-making from financial allocation allows the institution to focus on long-term strategic planning and expert advice. By removing the burden of fund distribution, the body can provide more objective and technical guidance, leaving the complex task of financial management and resource allocation to the specialized executive departments.

Explanation

The National Quantum Mission aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1000 qubits over an eight-year period. While this is a significant national initiative, India is not the first country to launch a dedicated government mission for quantum technology; several other nations, including the United States, China, and Canada, had already established similar large-scale national programs.

Explanation

Saheliyon-Ki-Bari, known as the Garden of the Maidens, is a beautifully landscaped garden in Udaipur. It was built by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies and is situated near the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. The garden is famous for its lush lawns, marble art, and numerous fountains that are fed by the waters of the adjacent lake through gravity.

Explanation

The Prime Minister serves as the ex-officio Chairperson. The Vice-Chairperson, who holds the rank of a Cabinet Minister, is appointed directly by the Prime Minister. The Chief Executive Officer is also appointed by the Prime Minister for a fixed tenure. This structure ensures that the institution remains closely aligned with the executive’s strategic vision. The Vice-Chairperson is the functional head of the body and plays a critical role in coordinating its activities. This direct appointment process ensures that the leadership of the institution possesses the necessary expertise and is trusted by the executive to drive the national development agenda forward in a strategic and professional manner.

Explanation

The institution uses a multi-tiered planning framework. The Action Plan covers a short-term period of three years. The Strategy Document looks at a medium-term horizon of seven years. Finally, the Vision Document outlines the long-term goals and aspirations for the country over a fifteen-year period, replacing the old five-year plan model. This tiered approach allows for both immediate operational focus and long-term strategic direction. By moving away from the rigid five-year plans, the new framework provides the flexibility needed to adapt to changing global and domestic conditions while maintaining a clear and consistent vision for the nation’s future development and transformation.

Explanation

Shor’s algorithm, Grover’s algorithm, and Quantum Phase Estimation are specifically designed to run on quantum computers to solve complex problems like factoring and searching exponentially faster. Bubble Sort is a traditional sorting algorithm used in classical computer science. While it is a standard tool for conventional programming, it does not utilize quantum mechanics and is not categorized as a quantum algorithm.

Explanation

The Jai Prakash Yantra is one of the most innovative and versatile instruments at the Jaipur Jantar Mantar. It consists of two hemispherical bowls sunk into the ground, representing the celestial sphere. Astronomers used these to determine the positions of stars and planets by mapping their coordinates. Its unique design allowed observers to enter the instrument to take measurements with high accuracy.

Explanation

Regional Councils are established to address issues affecting multiple states or regions. They are formed for a specific duration and comprise the relevant Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors. These councils are chaired by the Prime Minister or their nominee, not by the President, ensuring that regional issues are handled with executive focus and coordination. These councils provide a targeted mechanism for solving regional problems that might not require national intervention but involve more than one state. By bringing together the relevant regional leaders under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the institution ensures that interstate cooperation is prioritized and that regional development challenges are addressed effectively.

Explanation

The National Quantum Mission is structured around four primary Thematic Hubs located at top academic and R&D institutes. These hubs focus on Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing and Metrology, and Quantum Materials and Devices. These areas represent the most promising applications of quantum science. Quantum Genetic Engineering is currently not a recognized or planned thematic area under this national mission.

Explanation

Jaisamand Lake, also known as Dhebar Lake, was commissioned by Maharana Jai Singh of Mewar in the late seventeenth century. At the time of its completion, it was one of the largest artificial fresh-water lakes in the world.