Which of the following is a primary objective behind the expansion of Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) in India?
A To promote large-scale industrial development in ecologically sensitive areas.
B To protect unique ecosystems and conserve threatened species and their habitats.
C To facilitate commercial exploitation of biological resources within these sites.
D To reduce the role of local communities in conservation efforts.
Answer: B
The core purpose of BHS is the conservation of unique ecosystems, endemic species, and threatened flora and fauna, along with their habitats. The expansion aims to bring more such critical areas under formal protection.
42.
Under which section of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, are Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) notified by State Governments?
A Section 37
B Section 40
C Section 35
D Section 42
Answer: A
Section 37 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, empowers State Governments to notify Biodiversity Heritage Sites in consultation with local bodies. These sites are areas of significant biodiversity, endemism, and ecological importance.
43.
A significant challenge highlighted by the 'Himalayan Glacier Conservation Strategy' is the impact of climate change. Which of the following is identified as a primary driver of accelerated glacial melt in the Himalayas?
A Increased volcanic activity in the region.
B Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns due to global warming.
C Deforestation in the Gangetic plains only.
D Reduced solar radiation reaching the Himalayas.
Answer: B
Global warming, leading to changes in atmospheric circulation and increased temperatures, is the primary driver of accelerated glacial melt in the Himalayas. While deforestation can have localized impacts, global climate change is the overarching factor. Volcanic activity and reduced solar radiation are not the primary causes.
44.
The 'Himalayan Glacier Conservation Strategy' also focuses on community involvement. Which of the following approaches is MOST likely to be integrated into this strategy for local participation?
A Mandatory migration of local communities to urban centers.
B Promoting sustainable livelihood options and traditional knowledge in climate adaptation.
C Establishing large-scale industrial zones in glacial valleys.
D Discouraging local festivals and cultural practices.
Answer: B
Sustainable livelihoods and the integration of traditional knowledge are key to empowering local communities to participate in conservation efforts and adapt to climate change impacts. The other options are detrimental to local communities and conservation goals.
45.
Which of the following is a key component of the recently proposed 'Himalayan Glacier Conservation Strategy' aimed at addressing the rapid melting of glaciers in the region?
A Large-scale artificial snow-making operations.
B Development of advanced glacier monitoring systems using AI and satellite imagery.
C Relocation of major Himalayan settlements to lower altitudes.
D Construction of massive ice walls to prevent glacial retreat.
Answer: B
The strategy emphasizes leveraging technology like AI and satellite imagery for better monitoring and understanding of glacier dynamics, which is crucial for effective conservation efforts. Artificial snow-making and ice walls are not considered viable or scalable solutions, and relocation is a drastic measure not typically part of such strategies.
46.
The 'Varuna' series of naval exercises, including 'Varuna-2026', has been a cornerstone of India-France strategic partnership. In which year did this bilateral exercise officially begin?
A 1993
B 2001
C 2008
D 1998
Answer: B
While India and France have conducted naval exercises since 1983, the exercise was officially christened 'Varuna' in 2001, marking a formalization of their annual bilateral naval drills.
47.
What is the primary objective of the 'Varuna-2026' joint naval exercise between India and France?
A To conduct joint anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden
B To enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime cooperation
C To test new submarine technologies
D To establish a joint naval base in the Indian Ocean
Answer: B
The 'Varuna' exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Indian and French navies, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen their ability to operate together in a complex maritime environment.
48.
The joint naval exercise 'Varuna-2026' recently commenced in the Arabian Sea. This exercise is conducted between India and which other country?
A United States
B Russia
C France
D United Kingdom
Answer: C
'Varuna' is the flagship bilateral naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the French Navy, symbolizing strong maritime cooperation and strategic partnership.
49.
The induction of 'Prahari' tactical drones is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Army's capabilities in which of the following areas?
A Deep-sea exploration
B Cyber warfare operations
C Real-time battlefield intelligence and target acquisition
D Space-based satellite communication
Answer: C
'Prahari' tactical drones provide real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, enabling faster decision-making and precise target acquisition for ground forces, thereby enhancing overall battlefield effectiveness.
50.
The 'Prahari' tactical drones, recently inducted by the Indian Army, are a significant step towards self-reliance in defense. Which organization is most likely responsible for their indigenous development?
A Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
B Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
C Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
D Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Answer: B
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier agency responsible for the design, development, and production of cutting-edge defense technologies and systems in India, including advanced indigenous drones.
