Q1. Consider the following statements about the ‘Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Center’ (IN-SPACe):
- It is a single-window, independent, nodal agency that functions under the aegis of Indian Space Research Organisation.
- It is formed following the Space sector reforms to enable and facilitate the participation of private players.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
Explanation:
- Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is a single-window, independent, nodal agency that functions as an autonomous agency in the Department of Space (DOS). It is formed following the Space sector reforms to enable and facilitate the participation of private players.
- IN-SPACe is responsible to promote, enable authorize and supervise various space activities of non-governmental entities including building launch vehicles & satellites and providing space-based services; sharing space infrastructure and premises under the control of DOS/ISRO; and establishing of new space infrastructure and facilities.
- The agency acts as an interface between ISRO and Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) and assesses how to utilize India’s space resources better and increase space-based activities. It also assesses the needs and demands of private players, including educational and research institutions, and explores ways to accommodate these requirements in consultation with ISRO
Q2. Consider the following statements about ‘UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction’ (UNDRR):
- It is a specialized agency of the United Nations.
- It supports the implementation and review of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction adopted by the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction.
- It convenes the biennial Global Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Ans: (b)
Explanation:
- UNDRR (formerly UNISDR) is part of the United Nations Secretariat and it supports the implementation & review of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction adopted by the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction on 18 March 2015 in Sendai, Japan. The Sendai Framework is a 15-year voluntary people-centred approach to disaster risk reduction, succeeding the 2005-2015 framework.
- UNDRR coordinates international efforts in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and it reports on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. It convenes the biennial Global Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction.
Q3. What are ‘Tectonic plates’ in Earth’s geology?
(a) Large serving platters buried deep within the Earth’s mantle.
(b) Sections of the Earth’s lithosphere that move and interact with each other.
(c) Shifting masses of ice found in polar regions.
(d) Plates used in laboratory experiments to study earthquakes.
Ans: (b)
Explanation:
- Context: Scientists have recently rediscovered the “Pontus plate,” a long-lost tectonic plate that disappeared about 20 million years ago.
- Tectonic plates are large, rigid sections of the Earth’s lithosphere (the outermost layer) that move and interact with each other. Their movements are responsible for various geological phenomena, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the creation of mountains.
Q4. Consider the following statements about ‘Securities Exchange Board of India’ (SEBI):
- It works under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance.
- It was given statutory powers through the SEBI Act, 1992.
- The chairman of SEBI is appointed by the President of India.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Ans: (b)
Explanation:
- The SEBI is managed by its members, which consists of the following:
- The chairman is nominated by the Union Government of India.
- Two members, i.e., Officers from the Union Finance Ministry.
- One member from the Reserve Bank of India.
- The remaining five members are nominated by the Union Government of India, out of them at least three shall be whole-time members.
Q5. What is the use of ‘white phosphorus’ in warfare?
(a) A smokescreen to obscure troop movements and provide cover.
(b) An anti-tank weapon designed to penetrate armored vehicles.
(c) A chemical used for decontaminating areas exposed to biological agents.
(d) A food ration supplement to sustain soldiers in extreme cold conditions.
Ans: (a)
Explanation:
- It is a highly toxic, wax-like substance known for its ability to burn at extremely high temperatures, exceeding 800 degrees Celsius (1,500 degrees Fahrenheit).
- It can melt metal and is often used by militaries to create smokescreens due to its fast-spreading fires and thick smoke production that can last for about seven minutes.
- White phosphorus is harmful to humans and can cause severe burns, penetrating down to the bone. The chemicals can be absorbed by the body, leading to dysfunction in multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart
