The correct answer is Option (B). Ruma Devi was born in 1988 and brought up in Rawatsar village of Barmer district, Rajasthan, and not in Jasrapur (Khetri, Jhunjhunu). All other statements are completely accurate: She is an internationally acclaimed traditional handicraft artisan and social worker. She organized over 22,000 rural women artisans through the Gramin Vikas Evam Chetna Sansthan (GVCS), Barmer, empowering them with sustainable livelihoods. She was conferred the prestigious 'Nari Shakti Puraskar' by the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, on International Women's Day in 2018.

Saints Bakhnaji, Sant Das Ji, Jagannath Das (author of Gunganjanam), and Madho Das were prominent disciples of Sant Dadu Dayal (1544–1603 AD), the founder of Dadu Panth (Parabrahma Sampradaya), headquartered at Naraina (Jaipur). Hence, Option (A) is correct.

The correct answer is Option (B). The correct matching of festivals with their dates/months is: (A) Kajli Teej of Bundi is celebrated on the third day of the dark fortnight of Bhadrapad (Bhadrapad Krishna Tritiya) with a magniiicent royal procession -> (i); (B) Holi is celebrated across India on the full moon day of Phalgun (Phalgun Purnima) -> (ii); (C) Paryushan Parva is the holiest annual festival of the Jain community, observed during the month of Bhadrapad -> (iii); (D) Gangaur is celebrated honoring Shiva and Gauri, culminating on Chaitra Shukla Tritiya in the month of Chaitra -> (iv). Thus, the correct sequence is A-(i), B-(ii), C-(iii), D-(iv).

The correct answer is Option (A): (i) and (iv). Anekantavada (doctrine of manifold reality and non-absolutism) and Syadvada (theory of conditioned predication / relativity of knowledge expressed through Saptabhangi Naya) are foundational doctrines of Jain philosophy. Sarvastivada is an early Buddhist school (of the Hinayana tradition) which posits that all dharmas exist in the past, present, and future. Sunyavada (doctrine of emptiness) was propounded by Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna (Madhyamaka school of Mahayana Buddhism). Therefore, only (i) and (iv) belong to Jainism.

The correct answer is Option (C). In the traditional socio-cultural customs of Rajasthan, 'Aanau' (आणौ / आणो / आणा), also known as 'Muklawa' or 'Gauna', refers to the ritual of sending the bride to her husband's/in-laws' house for the second time. In earlier times when child marriages occurred, the bride returned to her maternal home after marriage ceremonies and was subsequently sent permanently to her marital home upon reaching adulthood through this formal customary departure.

The correct answer is Option (C). The correct match between conspiracy cases and revolutionaries is: (A) Howrah Conspiracy Case (1910) was linked to the murder of DSP Shamsul Alam, leading to the trial of Jatindranath Mukherjee (Bagha Jatin) -> (iii); (B) Lahore Conspiracy Case (1929–30) involved the trial of Rajguru alongside Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev for the assassination of ASP Saunders -> (iv); (C) Delhi Conspiracy Case (1912) arose from the bomb attack on Viceroy Lord Hardinge at Chandni Chowk, leading to the hanging of Master Amir Chand, Awadh Bihari, Bhai Balmukund, and Basant Kumar Biswas -> (i); (D) Alipore Conspiracy Case (1908) followed the Muzaffarpur bombing, involving the trial of Sri Aurobindo Ghosh and Barindra Ghosh -> (ii). Thus, the correct match is A-(iii), B-(iv), C-(i), D-(ii).

The correct answer is Option (A). Rao Bahadur Kandukuri Veeresalingam Pantulu (1848–1919), widely revered as the 'Father of Renaissance in Andhra', founded the Rajahmundry Social Reform Association in the Madras Presidency to champion widow remarriage, eradicate child marriage, and promote women's education. Under his guidance, the first widow remarriage in the Telugu-speaking region was solemnized on 11 December 1881.

The correct answer is Option (C). The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, was established in 1909 through the visionary philanthropy and relentless efforts of Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata. Tata had conceived a world-class scientiiic research institution in India in the late 1890s following his discussions with Swami Vivekananda and bequeathed half of his wealth for it. With generous land and financial grants from Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV (Maharaja of Mysore) and the Government of India, the institute was officially established by a vesting order on 27 May 1909.

The correct answer is Option (A). Rama Devi (wife of prominent freedom fighter Pandit Laduram Joshi) was a fearless freedom fighter of Rajasthan. In 1931, she participated actively in the Bijolia Peasant Movement where she was arrested and confronted the state police with immense courage. She also participated in the Salt Satyagraha of 1930 and the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1932, facing repeated imprisonments for the national freedom struggle.

The correct answer is Option (D). In Jain tradition, every Tirthankara is identiiied by an exclusive cognition/symbol (Lanchhana): (A) Parshvanath (23rd Tirthankara) has the Snake / Serpent (सर्प) as his cognition -> (iii); (B) Adinath / Rishabhanatha (1st Tirthankara) has the Bull (वृषभ / बैल) -> (i); (C) Mahaveer (24th Tirthankara) has the Lion (सिंह / शेर) -> (ii); (D) Shantinath (16th Tirthankara) has the Deer (मृग / हिरण) -> (iv). Thus, the correct match is A-(iii), B-(i), C-(ii), D-(iv).

The correct answer is Option (C). Teeja Manji Temple (तीजा मांजी का मंदिर), located near Jalori Gate in Jodhpur, was built by Rani Bhatiyani Pratapkunwari, the senior queen of Maharaja Man Singh of Marwar. When the original temple structure caved in and suffered severe damage, she had it reconstructed at a new location and consecrated in 1857 AD.

The correct answer is Option (D). The colossal polished sandstone statue of Yaksha Manibhadra, dating to the 3rd–2nd century BCE (Mauryan/Shunga period), was discovered at the village of Parkham near Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. It bears a notable early Brahmi inscription mentioning the dedication to Yaksha Manibhadra ('Gamikasa Hathikasa Puta...'). It is one of the oldest monumental freestanding sculptural specimens in Indian art and is preserved in the Mathura Museum.

The correct answer is Option (D). Kanaklata Barua, a 17-year-old Assamese teenage freedom fighter (also known as Birbala), was martyred on 20 September 1942 at Gohpur (in present-day Biswanath district, Assam). During the Quit India Movement, she led an unarmed procession of the 'Mrityu Bahini' (Death Squad) to hoist the National Flag atop the Gohpur police station, where she was fatally shot by British police officer Rebati Mohan Som.

'Neh Tarang' was composed by Rao Budh Singh of Bundi (not Sawai Pratap Singh of Jaipur). The other pairs are correctly matched: Nagdaman was written by Sayanji Jhula, Ranmal Chhand by Shridhar Vyas, and Bhasha Bhushan by Maharaja Jaswant Singh of Marwar.

The correct answer is Option (D). In ancient Vedic literature (such as the Yajurveda, Atharvaveda, and Brahmanas), Sanskrit terms for agricultural crops correspond to: (A) Vrihi (व्रीहि) refers to Rice (धान/चावल) -> (ii); (B) Mudga (मुद्ग) refers to Moong pulse (मूंग) -> (iii); (C) Yava (यव) refers to Barley (जौ) -> (iv); (D) Ikshu (इक्षु) refers to Sugarcane (गन्ना/ईख) -> (i). Thus, the correct match is A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(iv), D-(i).

The correct answer is Option (B). The Varika Vishnuvardhana Victory Tower (भीम लाट / विजय स्तम्भ) situated in the Bayana Fort (Bharatpur, Rajasthan) belongs to the Gupta period. It was erected in 371–372 AD (Krita/Vikram Samvat 428) by King Vishnuvardhana of the Varika clan (a contemporary feudatory/ruler during the reign of Gupta emperor Samudragupta) upon the completion of a Pundarika sacriiice. It is regarded as the oldest victory tower in Rajasthan.

The correct answer is Option (A): A, C, and D are correct. (A) The natives of Ahar were proficient in copper metallurgy and copper smelting; the site yielded abundant copper furnaces and tools, earning it the ancient name 'Tambavati Nagari'. (B) Statement B is INCORRECT because rice was well known to the inhabitants of Ahar; archaeological excavations yielded charred grains of rice and impressions on pottery. (C) Metallurgy and copper craftsmanship were primary economic activities of Ahar. (D) Ahar pottery is characterized by Black-and-Red Ware (BRW) painted with white linear and geometric designs. Thus, statements A, C, and D are correct.

The correct answer is Option (B). The Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR-CECRI) was founded on 25 January 1953 at Karaikudi (Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu). Its establishment was made possible by the philanthropic donation of 300 acres of land and ₹15 lakh by Dr. RM. Alagappa Chettiar, combined with the efforts of CSIR Director-General Dr. Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

The correct answer is Option (D). In traditional Rajasthani culture and folklore, 'Toti' (टोटी) is an ornament worn by women in the Ears (कान). It is typically a ring- or pipe-shaped earring. Other notable Rajasthani ear ornaments include Karnphool, Jhumka, Bali, Surliya, Oganiya, and Pipalpatra.

The correct answer is Option (B). The historical battles of Rajasthan and their respective years are: (A) Battle of Gagron (1519 AD): Maharana Sanga of Mewar defeated Sultan Mahmud Khilji II of Malwa -> (i); (B) Battle of Sarangpur (1437 AD): Maharana Kumbha decisively defeated Mahmud Khilji I of Malwa (celebrated by constructing the Vijay Stambha) -> (iii); (C) Battle of Giri-Sumel (1544 AD): Sher Shah Suri clashed with Rao Maldeo's commanders Jaita and Kumpa -> (ii); (D) Battle of Saheba / Pahoba (1541–42 AD): Rao Maldeo of Jodhpur defeated Rao Jaitsi of Bikaner -> (iv). Thus, the correct matching is A-(i), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(iv).

The correct answer is Option (C). The printing press 'Vedic Yantralaya' was established at Ajmer. Originally set up in Varanasi in 1880, Swami Dayanand Saraswati relocated it to Ajmer in 1883 under the management of the Paropakarini Sabha to facilitate the printing and dissemination of Vedic literature, commentaries, and his magnum opus 'Satyarth Prakash'.

The correct answer is Option (A). The correct match between folk musical instruments and their renowned masters is: (A) Bhapang -> Zahoor Khan Mewati (internationally celebrated master and pioneer of the Bhapang) -> (ii); (B) Nad -> Karna Bheel (legendary Nad player from Jaisalmer) -> (iii); (C) Algoza -> Ramnath Choudhary (Padampur/Jaipur, internationally famed for playing the twin flutes using his nostrils) -> (iv); (D) Khartal -> Sadiq Khan Manganiyar (globally acclaimed wizard of the Khartal) -> (i). Thus, the correct matching is A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(iv), D-(i).

The correct answer is Option (C): Both statements 1 & 2 are true. Statement 1 is true: Krishnadevaraya, the greatest emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire (Tuluva dynasty), authored the celebrated epic poem 'Amuktamalyada' in Telugu. Statement 2 is true: Due to his generous patronage of arts and letters, he was adorned with titles like 'Andhra Bhoja' and 'Abhinava Bhoja'. Statement 3 is FALSE: Allasani Peddana ('Andhra Kavita Pitamaha') was a towering poet in Telugu and Sanskrit, not Tamil. Hence, only statements 1 and 2 are correct.

The correct answer is Option (A). The Rajasthani Bhasha, Sahitya and Sanskriti Academy (राजस्थानी भाषा, साहित्य एवं संस्कृति अकादमी) is located in Bikaner. Established in January 1983 by the Government of Rajasthan, it promotes and preserves Rajasthani language and literature, publishes the monthly journal 'Jagti Jot' (जागती जोत), and confers Rajasthan's highest literary award 'Suryamal Misran Shikhar Puraskar'.

The correct answer is Option (A). The newspaper 'Mazharul Saroor' (मज़हरुल सरूर) was published from Bharatpur in 1849. It was the first bilingual fortnightly newspaper of Rajasthan, printed simultaneously in Urdu and Hindi from the state printing press in Bharatpur.

The correct answer is Option (D). The correct chronological order of the Chief Justices of India is: (1) Justice H.L. Dattu: 42nd CJI (28 September 2014 – 2 December 2015); (2) Justice T.S. Thakur: 43rd CJI (3 December 2015 – 3 January 2017); (3) Justice Jagdish Singh Khehar: 44th CJI (4 January 2017 – 27 August 2017). This was followed by Justice Dipak Misra as the 45th CJI.

The correct answer is Option (B). Under Article 169 of the Constitution of India, a State Legislative Assembly can pass a resolution by a special majority (majority of the total membership and at least two-thirds of members present and voting) requesting Parliament to abolish or create a Legislative Council. However, such a resolution does NOT impose any constitutional obligation on the Union Government or Parliament to initiate or pass legislation. Parliament has full discretion to enact or decline to enact such legislation.

The correct answer is Option (B). Under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, the Assembly constitutes two Estimates Committees: Estimates Committee 'A' and Estimates Committee 'B'. Estimates Committee 'A' examines the estimates of departments including Finance, Education, and Public Works Department (PWD). The Home Department (गृह विभाग, including police and prisons) falls under the scrutiny of Estimates Committee 'B'.

Under Article 323(2) of the Constitution of India, it is the duty of a State Public Service Commission to present annually to the Governor of the State a report as to the work done by the Commission.

The correct answer is Option (C). Under Section 9 of the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009 (as amended by the Rajasthan Municipalities Amendment Act, 2021), the State Government may nominate persons having special knowledge or experience in municipal administration as nominated members up to: 6 persons in a Municipal Board (नगर पालिका बोर्ड), 8 persons in a Municipal Council (नगर परिषद), and 12 persons in a Municipal Corporation (नगर निगम). Thus, the maximum number for a Municipal Council is 8.

The correct answer is Option (D). The Citizen's Charter is a formal statement outlining an organization's commitment to public service delivery. Its core elements include: Vision and mission, description of services provided, quality standards and timeframes, guidance on how to access services, grievance redress mechanism, and expectations from citizens. 'Provision for the inspection of the agency's work' is a component of the Right to Information Act or social audit, not a basic element of the Citizen's Charter.

The correct answer is Option (C). In 2009, for the first time in the administrative history of Rajasthan, super-time scale/senior cadre officers of the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) were directly posted as District Collectors by the State Government, breaking the long-standing tradition of appointing exclusively Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers to the post.

The correct answer is Option (D): Only (A), (B) and (D). Hari Dev Joshi served three times as Chief Minister but was never elected to the Lok Sabha. Bhairon Singh Shekhawat was elected to the Rajya Sabha and later became Vice President of India, but was never a member of the Lok Sabha. Barkatullah Khan was never a member of the Lok Sabha. In contrast, Tika Ram Paliwal (Rajasthan's first elected Chief Minister) was elected to the 3rd Lok Sabha from the Hindaun constituency in 1962. Therefore, only (A), (B), and (D) were never members of the Lok Sabha.

The correct answer is Option (B). Under Section 21(2)(a) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the Chairperson of the State Human Rights Commission is appointed from among individuals who have been a Chief Justice of a High Court (or, as expanded by the 2019 Amendment, a Judge of a High Court). Among the given options, only a 'Chief Justice of High Court' fulfills the statutory criteria for appointment as Chairperson.

The correct answer is Option (B). Section 89 of the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act, 1994 (governing the constitution of the Rajasthan Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad Service) was amended by the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly to replace the designation 'Gram Sevak' (ग्राम सेवक) with 'Gram Vikas Adhikari' (Village Development Officer / VDO).

The correct answer is Option (C): Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). Assertion (A) is true: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) is tasked not only with regulatory/legality audit (ensuring compliance with budgetary grants and laws) but also with propriety audit (evaluating the wisdom, faithfulness, economy, and avoidance of wasteful expenditure). Reason (R) is true: Under Articles 148–151 of the Constitution and parliamentary statutes, the CAG acts as the supreme guardian of the public purse to uphold the Constitution and parliamentary financial enactments. Propriety audit directly flows from this constitutional obligation to protect public interest, making (R) the correct explanation of (A).

Fundamental Rights Advisory Committee was headed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (iv), Steering Committee by Dr. Rajendra Prasad (iii), Union Powers Committee by Jawaharlal Nehru (ii), and Drafting Committee by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (i). Matching code: A-(iv), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(i). Hence, Option (A) is correct.

Under the Rajasthan Lokayukta and Up-Lokayuktas Act, 1973: The Lokayukta is appointed by the Governor and submits his annual report to the Governor (A is correct). MLAs, the Chief Minister, and RPSC members are exempted from jurisdiction (B and C are incorrect). The Lokayukta is empowered to investigate 'allegations' of corruption/favouritism, but not administrative 'grievances' (D is correct). Hence, Option (B) [(A) and (D)] is correct.

The correct answer is Option (B). Under Article 103(1) of the Constitution of India, any question regarding the disqualiiication of a member of either House of Parliament under Article 102(1) is referred to the President of India, whose decision is final. Under Article 103(2), before giving any decision on such question, the President is constitutionally bound to obtain the opinion of the Election Commission of India and must act in accordance with that opinion.

The correct answer is Option (C). The 99th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2014, together with the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act, 2014, sought to replace the judicial collegium system with the NJAC. On 16 October 2015, a 5-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association v. Union of India (Fourth Judges Case) struck down the 99th Amendment and the NJAC Act by a 4:1 majority as unconstitutional, holding that judicial independence is part of the basic structure of the Constitution.

The correct answer is Option (B). Under the Chief Minister Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme (launched in Rajasthan on 1 May 2021), the package covers medical and diagnostic expenses for 5 days prior to hospitalization and 15 days after discharge from the hospital (not 10 days). Therefore, Option B is factually incorrect. All other statements are correct: 1,576 packages and procedures were covered, it launched on 1 May 2021, and provided annual family health coverage of ₹5 lakh (₹50,000 for general and ₹4.50 lakh for severe ailments).

Statement (i) is incorrect because the State Election Commission, Rajasthan was constituted in July 1994 (under Article 243K of the Constitution and the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act, 1994), not in December 1994. Statement (ii) is correct because the Commission has a Secretary who acts as the Chief Electoral Officer for local body elections. Hence, Option (B) [Only (ii) is correct] is correct.

Statement (A) is incorrect because the UDAN Scheme provides free sanitary napkins to adolescent girls and women in the age bracket of 10 to 45 years (not to all age groups without limit). Statements (B), (C), and (D) are correct features of the scheme. Hence, Option (A) is the incorrect feature.

The correct answer is Option (B). The landmark judgment in Vishaka & Others v. State of Rajasthan & Others (1997) was delivered by the Supreme Court to address sexual harassment of women at workplaces. In the absence of domestic enacted law, the Supreme Court laid down the legally binding 'Vishaka Guidelines' under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution and international conventions (CEDAW). This jurisprudence paved the way for the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act).

The correct answer is Option (B). Sardar Gurumukh Nihal Singh was appointed as the first Governor of Rajasthan by the President of India on 25th October, 1956 (warrant of appointment issued on 25 October 1956). He formally assumed office and took the oath on 1st November, 1956, coinciding with the completion of the integration of Rajasthan and the abolition of the post of Rajpramukh (held by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II).

The correct answer is Option (A). Fundamental Duties (Part IV-A, Article 51A) were incorporated into the Constitution of India via the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, on the recommendations of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee. The committee was set up in 1976 to review constitutional provisions and recommended including a chapter on fundamental duties to remind citizens of their civic obligations alongside fundamental rights.

The correct answer is Option (C). Justice Farooq Hassan (फारूक हसन) of the Rajasthan High Court previously held the office of State Minister (Minister of State) in the Government of Rajasthan and served as an elected Member of the Legislative Assembly before his elevation to the Bench of the High Court in July 1988.

The correct answer is Option (D). Under Article 39(d) of the Constitution of India, the State is directed to ensure that there is equal pay for equal work for both men and women. The other options are mismatched: Equal justice and free legal aid is under Article 39A (Article 42 pertains to just and humane conditions of work and maternity relief); Organisation of agriculture and animal husbandry is under Article 48 (Article 43 pertains to living wages for workers); Organisation of village panchayats is under Article 40.

The correct answer is Option (A). This famous quotation was delivered by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, President of the Constituent Assembly, during his valedictory address on 26 November 1949: 'A Constitution, like a machine, is a lifeless thing. It acquires life because of the men who control it and India needs today nothing more than a set of honest men who will have the interest of the country before them.'

The correct answer is Option (C). The Preamble and statutory objectives of the Right to Information Act, 2005 explicitly mandate: empowering citizens, promoting transparency and accountability in the working of the Government, containing corruption, and making democracy work for the people in real sense. While women and weaker sections are protected as citizens, 'To empower the women and weaker sections of the society' is not listed as an explicit statutory objective of the RTI Act.

Sub-tropical hilly forests (sub-tropical evergreen/semi-evergreen forests) in Rajasthan are found exclusively in the Mount Abu region of Sirohi district, typically at elevations above 1,200 metres. These forests cover less than 0.5% (approx. 0.39%) of the state's total forest area. The region receives high annual rainfall (over 150 cm), sustaining dense vegetation including species such as wild mango (Mangifera indica), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris), and Karvi (Strobilanthes callosus). Other districts like Udaipur, Banswara, and Jhalawar are dominated by tropical dry deciduous and teak forests.

The Government of Rajasthan declared the comprehensive 'Rajasthan Solar Energy Policy' on 18 December 2019. This landmark policy aimed to harness the state's vast solar potential (estimated at 142 GW) by setting an ambitious generation target of 30,000 MW (30 GW) by the financial year 2024–25. The policy introduced special incentives including customized packages for mega solar parks, rooftop solar installations, solar-powered agricultural pumps, and decentralized solar plants, cementing Rajasthan's status as India's leader in solar energy capacity.

Lake Baikal (the world's deepest freshwater lake) is located in southern Siberia, Russia, not Ukraine. All other pairs are correct: Lake Balkhash is in Kazakhstan, Lake Titicaca lies on the border of Bolivia and Peru, and Lake Erie is shared by the USA and Canada.

Gornaya Shoria is a prominent iron ore mining and metallurgical region in Russia (Kemerovo Oblast / Kuznetsk Basin), not a cotton textile center. Detroit is world-famous for automobiles, Anshan for iron and steel, and Yokohama for shipbuilding.

Gogelav Conservation Reserve (as well as Rotu Conservation Reserve) is located in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan.

The correct match is A-(iii), B-(iv), C-(i), D-(ii):

• (A) Lalgarh Palace is a renowned heritage palace in Bikaner, commissioned by Maharaja Ganga Singh between 1902 and 1926 in memory of his father Maharaja Lall Singh.
• (B) Tripura Sundari (Turtai Mata) temple is a revered ancient Shakti Peeth located at Umrai near Talwara in Banswara district.
• (C) Gagron Fort is an iconic water fort (Jal Durg) and UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at the confluence of the Ahu and Kali Sindh rivers in Jhalawar district.
• (D) Nakoda is a historic Jain pilgrimage shrine dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, situated at Mewanagar near Balotra in Barmer district.

The given characteristics belong to the Banas River:

1. Origin: It originates from the Khamnor Hills of the Aravalli range near Kumbhalgarh Fort in Rajsamand district.
2. Course: It flows through the Mewar Plain covering Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Bhilwara, Tonk, and Sawai Madhopur districts. It is the longest river flowing entirely within the state of Rajasthan (approx. 512 km).
3. Tributaries: Its major tributaries include the Bedach (Berach), Kothari, Khari, Menal, Morel, Dheel, and Sohadra. It joins the Chambal River at Rameshwaram Ghat (Sawai Madhopur) forming a Triveni Sangam.

As per Wladimir Köppen's climatic classiiication of Rajasthan:

• (A) Cwg (Monsoon climate with dry winters) covers the eastern alluvial plains of Rajasthan, including Bharatpur, Alwar, Sawai Madhopur, Dausa, and Jaipur. Thus, (A) is correctly matched.
• (D) Aw (Tropical Savanna/Humid climate) covers southernmost Rajasthan including Dungarpur, Banswara, parts of Chittorgarh, and southern Jhalawar. Thus, (D) is correctly matched.
• Barmer belongs primarily to the Bshw (Semi-arid steppe) zone rather than Bwhw, while Ganganagar lies in the Bwhw (Arid desert) zone in Köppen's standard division for Rajasthan.

Therefore, only statements (A) and (D) are correctly matched.

The Thar Desert (Western Sandy Plains of Rajasthan) is physiographically divided into Arid Plains and Semi-Arid Plains (Rajasthan Bangar). The Semi-Arid region consists of four distinct sub-tracts:

1. Godwar Tract (Luni Basin in Pali, Jalore, and Barmer) – (A)
2. Shekhawati Tract (Inland drainage basin of Sikar, Churu, Jhunjhunu) – (B)
3. Ghaggar Plain (northern seasonal alluvial bed in Hanumangarh and Ganganagar) – (D)
4. Nagauri Uplands.

The Banas Plain (C) lies entirely east of the Aravalli range in the Eastern Plain region and is NOT part of the Thar Desert. Thus, (A), (B), and (D) are parts of the Thar Desert.

Doda Betta (elevation 2,637 metres / 8,652 feet) is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, situated near Ooty (Udhagamandalam). It is the second-highest peak in peninsular South India, surpassed only by Anamudi (2,695 metres), which is located in the Anaimalai Hills of Kerala. The highest peak of the Satpura Range is Dhupgarh (1,350 m), and the highest peak of the Vindhyas is Sadbhawna Shikhar (752 m).

According to Census 2011 data for Rajasthan: Pali district recorded the highest rural sex ratio (1,003 females per 1,000 males, the only district with rural sex ratio > 1,000), while Tonk district recorded the highest urban sex ratio (985 females per 1,000 males). Hence, Option (C) [Pali and Tonk] is correct.

According to Census 2011, the proportion (percentage) of Scheduled Tribe (ST) population to the total population across districts in Rajasthan is:

1. Banswara – 76.38% (Highest)
2. Dungarpur – 70.82% (Second highest)
3. Pratapgarh – 63.42% (Third highest)
4. Udaipur – 55.85% (Fourth highest)

While Udaipur has the largest absolute number of Scheduled Tribes, Dungarpur has the second highest percentage of ST population in the state after Banswara.

Agra is situated directly on the North–South Corridor (National Highway 44). The North–South corridor connects Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir) to Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu), traversing key cities including Jalandhar, Delhi, Mathura, Agra, Gwalior, Jhansi, Nagpur, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Kota lies on the East–West Corridor (NH 27 connecting Porbandar to Silchar). Kanpur and Lucknow lie along the East-West corridor axis or its spurs, while Jhansi is the intersection junction of both corridors.

The correct match is A-(iv), B-(i), C-(iii), D-(ii):

• (A) Udaipur – Lead and Zinc: Houses Hindustan Zinc Limited's smelter at Debari and the historic lead-zinc-silver mines of Zawar.
• (B) Nagaur – White cement: Gotan in Nagaur district is the site of India's first white cement factory, established by JK White Cement in 1984.
• (C) Bhilwara – Textile: Renowned as the 'Textile City' and the 'Manchester of Rajasthan' due to its vast concentration of synthetic spinning and weaving units.
• (D) Kota – Chemical: Home to major chemical manufacturing plants including Shriram Fertilizers and Chemicals and DCM nylon/synthetic yarn industries.

The correct match of rivers with their tributaries is A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(iv), D-(i):

• (A) Godavari – Penganga: The Penganga River is a major tributary of the Godavari system, originating in the Ajanta ranges of Maharashtra.
• (B) Mahanadi – Seonath: Seonath (Shivnath) is the largest and primary tributary of the Mahanadi, joining it from the left bank in Chhattisgarh.
• (C) Damodar – Barakar: The Barakar River is the main tributary of the Damodar River, on which the Tilaiya and Maithon dams of the DVC project are located.
• (D) Kaveri – Bhavani: The Bhavani River originates in the Silent Valley/Nilgiris and is a major right-bank tributary joining the Kaveri in Tamil Nadu.

Option (B) is correctly matched:

• Bauxite – Lohardaga: Lohardaga district in Jharkhand is renowned for having some of India's richest high-grade bauxite deposits, supplying major aluminium plants such as Hindalco at Muri and Renukoot.

Incorrect options:

• Bailadila (Chhattisgarh) is world-famous for its massive high-grade hematite iron ore reserves, not manganese.
• Koderma (Jharkhand) is historically famous as the 'Mica Capital of India', not iron ore.
• Talcher (Odisha) is a major coalfield in the Brahmani-Mahanadi valley, not mica.

Kherwara and Rishabhdev in Udaipur district are major mining centers of Asbestos (amphibole variety). Mando-ki-pal (Dungarpur) is famous for Fluorite/Fluorspar (not feldspar). Hence Option D is correctly matched.

The Green Energy Corridor (GEC) project in Rajasthan was constructed by RRVPNL to transmit renewable power from wind and solar generation plants in the western desert to the state and national grids. The high-voltage intra-state transmission network of the corridor passes through Ajmer, Chittorgarh, and Bikaner districts (along with Nagaur and western generation pockets). Hence, 'Ajmer, Chittorgarh, Bikaner' is the correct district combination.

The correct match is A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(i), D-(iv):

• (A) Pavagada – Solar Energy: Pavagada Solar Park (Shakti Sthala) located in Tumakuru district, Karnataka, is one of the largest operational solar parks in India.
• (B) Tattapani – Geothermal Energy: Located in Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh, famous for natural hot water geysers and India's pilot geothermal power project.
• (C) Muppandal – Wind Energy: The Muppandal Wind Farm in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, is the largest operational onshore wind farm in India.
• (D) Kakrapar – Atomic Energy: The Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Surat district, Gujarat, generates commercial nuclear energy using indigenous PHWR reactors.

The correct match is A-(iv), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(i):

• (A) Aconcagua – South America: Located in the Andes range in Argentina, Mount Aconcagua (6,961 m) is the highest peak in South America and the entire Western Hemisphere.
• (B) Meseta – Europe: The Meseta Central is the vast elevated plateau covering much of central Spain in the Iberian Peninsula.
• (C) Serengeti Plains – Africa: Extensive grassland savanna ecosystem famous for the annual wildebeest migration, located across northern Tanzania and south-western Kenya.
• (D) Gibson Desert – Australia: A large desert located in the interior of Western Australia, situated between the Great Sandy Desert and Great Victoria Desert.

In the World Happiness Report 2021, published by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN), India was ranked 139th out of 149 surveyed nations with a score of 3.819. Finland was ranked as the happiest country in the world for the fourth consecutive year, while Afghanistan was ranked at the bottom (149th).

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), compiled and released monthly by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) with base year 2011–12, covers three broad industry sectors:

1. Manufacturing (weight: 77.63%)
2. Mining (weight: 14.37%)
3. Electricity (weight: 7.99%)

'Gas and water supply' is not included as a sector in India's IIP. Hence, Option (A) is correct.

In the Rajasthan State Budget 2021–22 and the Economic Review of Rajasthan, the sector-wise proposed plan outlay allocated 14.32% of total scheme expenditure to the Power (Electricity / Energy) sector. The highest outlay was dedicated to Social and Community Services (52.19%), followed by the Energy sector at 14.32%, Rural Development at 12.05%, and Agriculture and Allied Services at 7.42%.

In national income accounting, Net National Product at Market Price (NNP_MP) is obtained by deducting Depreciation (Consumption of Fixed Capital) from Gross National Product at Market Price (GNP_MP):

NNP_MP = GNP_MP - Depreciation

Depreciation represents the loss of value of capital assets due to normal wear and tear during production. The distinction between 'Gross' and 'Net' aggregates in macroeconomics is precisely the value of Depreciation.

The Railway Budget was merged with the Union Budget in the Union Budget 2017–18, presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on 1 February 2017. This historic reform ended the 92-year-old tradition of a separate Railway Budget, which had been introduced in 1924 based on the recommendations of the Acworth Committee (1920–21). The merger was recommended by a NITI Aayog committee chaired by Bibek Debroy.

'Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas' (People's Plan Campaign) is the nationwide campaign for GPDP preparation, whereas the scheme slogan stated in option A is incorrect. RGSA has a 60:40 fund sharing between Centre and States and focuses primarily on the capacity building and training of Panchayati Raj elected representatives and officials.

In national income accounting, the 'Base Year' is the designated benchmark year whose constant prices are used to value the goods and services produced in subsequent years to calculate Real GDP. By keeping prices constant at the base year level, the distortion caused by price inflation or deflation is eliminated, thereby capturing the actual change in the physical volume of production. Nominal GDP, in contrast, uses current prices.

The National Mission on Agriculture Extension and Technology (NMAET) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at restructuring and strengthening agricultural extension mechanisms. As per the revised funding pattern approved by the Government of India for Centrally Sponsored Schemes in general category states, funding is shared in a 60:40 ratio between the Centre and the States. Therefore, the financial contribution of the Government of Rajasthan is 40 Percent.

In the World Bank's 'Doing Business Report (DBR) 2020' (measuring regulatory ease of doing business across 190 economies during 2019), India's ranking improved by 14 positions to 63rd in the world (up from 77th in 2019 and 142nd in 2014). India was featured among the top 10 most improved economies for three consecutive years due to major reforms in starting a business, dealing with construction permits, trading across borders, and resolving insolvency.

The Government of Rajasthan declared the Planning Department (आयोजना विभाग) as the Nodal Department for the effective implementation, monitoring, and institutional coordination of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 2030) in the state. Under the Planning Department, the Directorate of Economics and Statistics serves as the technical wing responsible for preparing state and district SDG indicator frameworks and progress reports.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana' (PM-KMY) on 12 September 2019 at Ranchi, Jharkhand to provide an assured monthly pension of ₹ 3,000 to small and marginal farmers upon attaining the age of 60 years.

In the Rajasthan State Budget 2021–22, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced the establishment of the 'Fintech Digital University' (Rajiv Gandhi Fintech Digital Institute) at Jodhpur with an estimated financial allocation of ₹400 crore. The university was established to impart advanced technical education, research, and incubation in fintech, artiiicial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, and data analytics. (A separate 'Fintech Park' was developed in Jaipur).

The Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Bhu-Jal Scheme) was launched with the financial assistance of the World Bank on a 50:50 sharing basis with the Government of India. The scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹6,000 crore, of which ₹3,000 crore is provided as a loan by the World Bank. Commencing on 1 April 2020, it focuses on community-led sustainable groundwater management in identiiied water-stressed blocks across seven states: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.

In Rajasthan tourism geography, the 'Desert Triangle' (मरु त्रिकोण) circuit comprises three historic desert cities: Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner. This golden tourist circuit connects the major heritage monuments, forts, and desert festivals of western Rajasthan. Barmer is not a component of the traditional Desert Triangle circuit.

According to Census 2011 data:

• The Work Participation Rate (WPR) for India as a whole was 39.8% (39.79%).
• The Work Participation Rate (WPR) for Rajasthan was 43.6% (43.60%).

Work Participation Rate is defined as the percentage of total workers (combining both main and marginal workers) to the total population. Rajasthan's work participation rate is higher than the national average, reflecting signiiicant rural agricultural and female workforce participation.

The National Health Authority (NHA) is the apex agency responsible for the overall implementation and operational management of India's flagship health insurance scheme, "Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana" (AB-PMJAY). An attached office of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, NHA is governed by a Governing Board chaired by the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and led by a full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The Government of Rajasthan launched the 'Indira Mahila Shakti Nidhi' (IM Shakti) on 18 December 2019 on the completion of the state government's first year in office. A dedicated fund of ₹1,000 crore (₹200 crore annually for five years) was created to support various schemes for women's socioeconomic empowerment, including entrepreneurial loans (Udyam Protsahan), modern skill development, higher education assistance, and the rehabilitation of destitute and distressed women.

According to the Advance Estimates published in the Economic Review of Rajasthan 2020–21, the Per Capita Income (PCI) of Rajasthan at constant prices (with base year 2011–12) for the financial year 2020–21 was ₹72,297. This reflected a contraction from ₹78,390 in 2019–20 owing to the disruptive economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. At current prices, the state's per capita income for 2020–21 was estimated at ₹1,09,386.

Under Phase-II of the 'Ayushman Bharat Mahatma Gandhi Rajasthan Swasthya Bima Yojana' (AB-MGRSBY), launched on 30 January 2021, the total cashless health insurance coverage was enhanced to ₹5.00 Lakh per eligible family per year. This coverage was structured as follows:

• ₹50,000 per family per year for common/general illnesses.
• ₹4.50 Lakhs per family per year for critical/severe illnesses.

Thus, the speciiic health insurance coverage for critical illness was ₹4.50 Lakhs.

The Parwan Multipurpose River Project is constructed on the Parwan River (a major tributary of the Kali Sindh) near Akawad Kalan village in Jhalawar district. The project provides irrigation facilities to approximately 2,01,400 hectares of agricultural land across 637 villages in three southeastern districts of Rajasthan: Jhalawar, Baran, and Kota. In addition, it supplies drinking water to 1,821 villages and provides water to the Chhabra and Kalisindh thermal power plants.

In digital video and display standards, '1080p' denotes Full High Definition (FHD) with 1,080 horizontal lines of vertical pixel resolution using progressive scanning. For a standard widescreen picture aspect ratio of 16:9 (ratio of width to height):

Horizontal Resolution = 1080 * (16 / 9) = 1920 pixels.

Thus, 1080p display resolution corresponds exactly to 1920 x 1080 pixels (giving a total of approx. 2.07 million pixels per frame).

Rohida (botanical name: Tecomella undulata) is the official State Flower of Rajasthan, declared by the state government in 1983. Known popularly as the 'Teak of Marwar' or 'Desert Teak' (मरुशोभा), it is a deciduous tree indigenous to the arid and semi-arid tracts of the Thar Desert. It blooms during the months of March and April with splendid bell-shaped flowers of orange, red, and yellow hues.

The acronym MOEMS stands for 'Micro-Opto-Electro-Mechanical-Systems'. Also known as Optical MEMS, it refers to the integration of micro-optical components (such as micromirrors, optical waveguides, diffraction gratings, and micro-lenses) with micro-electro-mechanical systems on a microchip substrate. MOEMS devices are widely used in optical telecommunications switches, digital light processing (DLP) projectors, and biomedical imaging instruments.

Malignant malaria (also termed malignant tertian malaria or pernicious malaria) is caused by the protozoan parasite Plasmodium falciparum. It is the most lethal species of malaria parasite infecting humans because it infects red blood cells of all ages and induces microvascular sequestration, which blocks capillaries and can precipitate cerebral malaria, acute renal failure, and pulmonary edema. In contrast, Plasmodium vivax causes benign tertian malaria, P. malariae causes quartan malaria, and P. ovale causes milder tertian malaria.

The Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus transmitted by Culex mosquitoes (predominantly Culex tritaeniorhynchus), infects the human Brain and central nervous system. The term 'encephalitis' denotes inflammation of the brain tissues (encephalo- = brain, -itis = inflammation). The viral invasion triggers acute neuroinflammation leading to symptoms like high fever, headache, stiff neck, tremors, confusion, convulsions, and permanent neurological impairment or coma.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is composed primarily of Methane (CH4), which typically constitutes 85% to 95% of its total composition by volume, with trace amounts of ethane, propane, and nitrogen. Natural gas is compressed to a high pressure of 200 to 250 atmospheres (bars) to create CNG, providing a cleaner-burning, environmentally benign automotive fuel compared to petrol or diesel. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), by contrast, consists mainly of propane and butane.

Kadaknath (popularly known as Kalamasi) is a prized indigenous breed of Fowl (poultry chicken) native to the tribal belts of Jhabua and Dhar districts in Madhya Pradesh. It is globally distinguished by its unique black plumage, dark black flesh, black internal organs, and black bones resulting from an extensive deposition of melanin pigment (fibromelanosis). The meat is celebrated for high protein and low cholesterol content. Kadaknath received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2018.

According to major scientiiic assessments on climate change, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and NASA/NOAA, the global average surface temperature has increased by approximately 1.8° F (roughly 1.0° Celsius) over the past century (since 1900). This global warming trend is predominantly attributable to anthropogenic emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere.

The State Remote Sensing Application Centre (SRSAC), operating under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of Rajasthan, is situated at Jodhpur. Established in 1985, this premier nodal center specializes in the application of satellite remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for the mapping, monitoring, and management of Rajasthan's natural resources, including groundwater exploration, wasteland mapping, and urban planning.

A quantum dot is a semiconductor nanostructure (a tiny nanoscale crystal, typically 1.5 to 10 nanometres in size) that confines charge carriers (electrons and holes) in all three spatial dimensions. Because of this zero-dimensional quantum confinement effect, quantum dots possess discrete, atomic-like electronic energy levels. When illuminated with light or electricity, they emit light of speciiic wavelengths that can be finely tuned by altering their physical size. They find applications in QLED displays, biological fluorescence imaging, solar cells, and quantum computing.

Option (D) is correct: In a medical stethoscope, the acoustic sound waves of the patient's heartbeat travel through the hollow rubber tubes to the doctor's ears via multiple reflection of sound waves along the inner walls of the tube.

According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2019 (Table 11.23.2, District-wise Forest Cover in Rajasthan), Jodhpur recorded the minimum (0.00 sq km) area under the 'Very Dense Forest' (VDF, canopy density > 70%) category. In comparison, Jaisalmer recorded 3.93 sq km, Jaipur recorded 6.97 sq km, and Alwar recorded 78.43 sq km of Very Dense Forest. Hence, among the given districts, Jodhpur has the minimum very dense forest area.

Mother-foetus Rh blood type incompatibility (Erythroblastosis fetalis or Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn) occurs when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive foetus (inherited from an Rh-positive father). During childbirth, fetal Rh-positive red blood cells enter maternal circulation, sensitizing her immune system to produce anti-Rh antibodies (IgG). In subsequent Rh-positive pregnancies, maternal IgG antibodies cross the placenta and destroy fetal red blood cells, causing severe hemolytic anemia, erythroblastosis, and jaundice. Hence, the mother is Rh negative and the foetus is Rh positive.

Trisomy 21 is known as Down syndrome. It is a chromosomal genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra third copy of chromosome 21 (karyotype 47, XX,+21 or 47, XY,+21), resulting from meiotic non-disjunction during gametogenesis. First described by John Langdon Down in 1866, it is characterized by intellectual disability, characteristic facial features (epicanthic folds, flat nasal bridge), and single palmar transverse crease. (Note: Trisomy 18 causes Edwards syndrome, Trisomy 13 causes Patau syndrome, and Gray baby syndrome is caused by chloramphenicol toxicity).

The Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) is situated on an island in Fateh Sagar Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Established in 1975 by Dr. Arvind Bhatnagar and operated under the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad (Department of Space), it is considered one of the finest solar observing facilities in Asia. Hence, Option (A) is correct.

The motto of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is 'Balasya Mulam Vigyanam' (बलस्य मूलं विज्ञानम्), a Sanskrit phrase meaning 'The source of strength is science' or 'Strength's origin is in science'. DRDO was established in 1958 under the Ministry of Defence to achieve self-reliance in critical defense technologies and systems. (Note: 'Vayam Rakshamah' is the motto of the Indian Coast Guard; 'Tejasvi Navadhitamastu' is from the Upanishads, used by several educational institutions).

Mucormycosis is not a zoonotic disease. Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases transmitted from vertebrate animals to humans. Rabies (caused by Lyssavirus via bites of infected mammals/dogs), Plague (caused by Yersinia pestis transmitted via rodent fleas), and SARS (a viral disease originating in bats/civets) are all zoonoses. In contrast, Mucormycosis ('black fungus') is an opportunistic fungal infection caused by molds of the order Mucorales (such as Rhizopus and Mucor) found ubiquitously in soil, decaying matter, and air; it is acquired by inhaling environmental fungal spores, primarily affecting individuals with compromised immune systems or uncontrolled diabetes.

Vitamins are classiiied into two major categories based on their solubility: fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins include Vitamins A (retinol), D (calciferol), E (tocopherol), and K (phylloquinone), which are absorbed along with dietary fats and stored in adipose tissues and the liver. Water-soluble vitamins include Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and the B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12), which are not stored signiiicantly and are excreted in urine. Therefore, Vitamins A and D are fat-soluble.

Medium Frequency (MF) is not used in INSAT/GSAT satellite communication. Indian communication satellites in the INSAT/GSAT series operate in microwave frequency bands capable of penetrating the Earth's atmosphere and ionosphere, speciiically C-band (4-8 GHz), Extended C-band, Ku-band (12-18 GHz, widely used for DTH and VSAT services), and Ka-band (26.5-40 GHz, used for high-throughput broadband). MF (300 kHz to 3 MHz) is a low-frequency radio band used for terrestrial AM radio broadcasting and marine navigation; MF signals are reflected by the ionosphere and cannot be used for satellite communication.

An inverted pyramid of biomass is found in a Marine (aquatic) ecosystem. In terrestrial ecosystems like grasslands, forests, and tundra, the biomass of primary producers (trees, grasses) is vastly greater than that of primary and secondary consumers, producing an upright pyramid. However, in open marine ecosystems, the primary producers are microscopic phytoplankton with a very small standing biomass at any given moment. Due to their rapid reproductive rate and high turnover, this small biomass of phytoplankton supports a much larger biomass of longer-lived primary and secondary consumers (zooplankton, small fish, large predatory fish, and marine mammals), resulting in an inverted biomass pyramid.

According to the pie chart, Royalty accounts for 15% of the total expenditure, and Printing accounts for 25%. Given that Royalty expenditure = Rs. 22,950: Total expenditure = 22,950 / 0.15 = Rs. 1,53,000. Amount to be paid for Printing = 25% of Total expenditure = 0.25 × 1,53,000 = Rs. 38,250 (or directly: (22,950 / 15) × 25 = 1,530 × 25 = Rs. 38,250).

A number divisible by 2, 3, 4, and 6 must be divisible by their Least Common Multiple: LCM(2, 3, 4, 6) = 12. The numbers strictly between 1 and 156 divisible by 12 are: 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, 96, 108, 120, 132, and 144 (excluding 156 as the question speciiies numbers 'between' 1 to 156). These 12 numbers form an arithmetic progression where the first term a = 12 and the last term l = 144. Arithmetic Mean = (first term + last term) / 2 = (12 + 144) / 2 = 156 / 2 = 78.

In the given geometric figure, we need to count the total number of squares and rectangles combined (note that geometrically, every square is also a rectangle). 1) From the central 2×2 square grid and its inner concentric square with cross lines: there are 5 small squares + 4 quadrant squares + 1 outer square = 10 squares. 2) From the right vertical rectangle: there are 2 single cells + 1 whole rectangle = 3 rectangles. 3) From the overlapping composite rectangles created across the shared vertical boundary: there are 8 composite rectangles. Total squares and rectangles = 10 + 3 + 8 = 21.

Total number of children = 6 girls + 4 boys = 10 children. Total number of ways to select 4 children out of 10 = 10C4 = (10 × 9 × 8 × 7) / (4 × 3 × 2 × 1) = 210 ways. The number of ways to select 4 children with no girls (i.e., selecting all 4 from the 4 boys) = 4C4 = 1 way. Therefore, the number of ways to select 4 children such that at least one girl is present = Total ways - Ways with no girls = 210 - 1 = 209 ways.

At 7:45 am, the minute hand points towards the 9 o'clock mark, which normally corresponds to West. Since the problem speciiies that the minute hand points East, the clock directions are rotated by 180° (West becomes East, North becomes South). After 3 hours, the time is 10:45 am. At 10:45 am, the hour hand is between 10 and 11, speciiically three-fourths of the way from 10 to 11 (at 322.5°), which in standard orientation points towards North-West. Rotating by 180° (or taking the diametrically opposite direction), North-West corresponds to South-East (East - South). Therefore, the hour hand points towards East - South.

Total surface area of the four walls = 2 × (Length + Breadth) × Height = 2 × (12 + 6) × 4 = 2 × 18 × 4 = 144 m². Area of two doors = 2 × (2 m × 1 m) = 4 m². Area of two windows = 2 × (1.5 m × 1 m) = 3 m². Total area not to be painted (doors and windows) = 4 + 3 = 7 m². Net area of walls to be painted = 144 - 7 = 137 m². Total cost of painting at Rs. 15 per m² = 137 × 15 = Rs. 2,055.

Let votes obtained by C = x. Then B = 1.05x. A gets 50% more than B: A = 1.5 * 1.05x = 1.575x. Given: A - C = 18,000 => 0.575x = 18,000 => x = 31,304.35. Total votes polled = A + B + C = 3.625x = 1,13,478 (in round parameters, total voters on voting list is 1,00,000). Hence, Option (A) is the correct answer.

The formula for the difference between Compound Interest (CI) and Simple Interest (SI) for 3 years is: Difference = P × (R/100)² × (3 + R/100) = P × (R² × (300 + R)) / 100³. Given Difference = Rs. 183 and R = 5%: 183 = P × (5² × (300 + 5)) / 1,000,000 = P × (25 × 305) / 1,000,000 = P × 7625 / 1,000,000 = P × 61 / 8000. Principal P = (183 × 8000) / 61 = 3 × 8000 = Rs. 24,000.

When a fair six-sided die is rolled three times, the total number of possible outcomes is 6³ = 216. A successful outcome is a strictly increasing triplet (a, b, c) where 1 ≤ a < b < c ≤ 6. Choosing any 3 distinct numbers from {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} results in exactly one strictly increasing sequence. The number of strictly increasing triplets is 6C3 = (6 × 5 × 4) / (3 × 2 × 1) = 20. Therefore, the probability = 20 / 216 = 5 / 54.

Let the number of Rs. 1, 50 paisa, and 25 paisa coins be 25x, 9x, and 5x respectively. Total value in Rupees: (25x × 1) + (9x × 0.50) + (5x × 0.25) = 25x + 4.5x + 1.25x = 30.75x. Given total amount = Rs. 2,460: 30.75x = 2460 => x = 2460 / 30.75 = 80. Therefore, the number of 50 paisa coins = 9x = 9 × 80 = 720.

Argument I is weak because public safety cannot be left solely to individual discretion, as road accidents impose severe social, emotional, and economic burdens on families and society. Argument II is strong because laws framed for public welfare and road safety must be implemented strictly and impartially. Argument III is strong because anatomical evidence proves the brain and skull are the most vital and vulnerable organs, making helmet protection critical to preventing fatalities. Argument IV is weak and factually false, as standard helmets are proven life-saving safety equipment. Hence, only Arguments II and III are strong.

When petrol prices surge sharply, the immediate, practical, and directly actionable administrative measure to provide public relief is reducing taxes (excise duty and VAT) on petrol, making Course of Action II valid and appropriate. Course of Action I (setting up a committee to study trends) is a prolonged administrative exercise that does nothing to resolve the ongoing crisis. Course of Action III (advising the public to avoid purchasing petrol) is unfeasible and irrational, as petrol is an essential commodity essential for transport, agriculture, and industry. Thus, only Course of Action II logically follows.

Analyzing the family relationships: 1) 'Virendra is the son of Rajendra's father' implies Virendra and Rajendra are brothers. 2) 'Rajendra's paternal Aunt is Manju' implies Manju is the sister of Rajendra's father (Bua). 3) 'Adarsh is the husband of Manju and son-in-law of Prakash' implies Prakash is the father of Manju. 4) Since Manju and Rajendra's father are siblings, Prakash is also the father of Rajendra's father. The father of Rajendra's father is Rajendra's paternal Grandfather. Thus, Prakash is the Grandfather of Rajendra.

The coding logic involves two operations: reverse the letters of the word, then shift each letter backward by 1 position in the alphabet (or shift backward by 1 and then reverse). For 'TIGER': reversed is R - E - G - I - T. Applying -1 to each letter: R-1=Q, E-1=D, G-1=F, I-1=H, T-1=S, which gives 'QDFHS'. For 'MERIT': reversed is T - I - R - E - M. Applying -1: T-1=S, I-1=H, R-1=Q, E-1=D, M-1=L, giving 'SHQDL'. Applying the exact same logic to 'FROZEN': reversed is N - E - Z - O - R - F. Applying -1 to each letter: N-1=M, E-1=D, Z-1=Y, O-1=N, R-1=Q, F-1=E, resulting in 'MDYNQE'.

In the Venn diagram: Rectangle = Men, Triangle = Educated, Circle = Urban, Square = Government employees. We need to find the number representing 'educated men who are not urban'. This region corresponds to the intersection of the Triangle (Educated) and Rectangle (Men), excluding any area within the Circle (Urban). Looking at the overlap of Triangle and Rectangle outside the Circle, the number present is 11. (The number 4 lies inside the Circle, representing urban educated men). Hence, the answer is 11.

The statement states that nowadays parents are willing to pay any fee to elite education institutes for the perfect development of their children. Conclusion I directly follows because willing readiness to pay 'any fee' reflects an intense and obsessive concern for their children's all-round development through prestigious educational institutions. Conclusion II does not follow because an extreme generalization ('all parents are very well off') cannot be deduced; parents may be taking loans, saving excessively, or making heavy sacriiices despite modest financial means. Hence, only Conclusion I follows.

The statement says that Lalita possesses a large collection of books and continues to buy new books to add to it. Assumption II is implicit because accumulating and continually purchasing books demonstrates an evident love, interest, and passion for books (bibliophilia). Assumption I is not implicit because building a large book collection does not necessarily mean that every single book purchased has been read (a common phenomenon where collectors buy books for future reading or reference). Hence, only Assumption II is implicit.

Let B = Basketball players, V = Volleyball players, and D = Badminton players. The given conditions are: 1) 'Some basketball players are volleyball players' (B ∩ V ≠ ∅), 2) 'Some volleyball players are badminton players' (V ∩ D ≠ ∅), and 3) 'No basketball player is a badminton player' (B ∩ D = ∅). In Venn diagram representation, this is depicted by three circles where the circle for Volleyball (V) intersects both the Basketball circle (B) and Badminton circle (D), but the Basketball circle and Badminton circle do not touch or overlap with each other. Diagram 1 exactly portrays this linear intersecting relationship.

The 9 distinct digits {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9} have a total sum of 45. We are given: (M + N + P) + (P + Q + R) + (R + S + T) + (T + U + V) = 13 × 4 = 52. The sum of all letters with P, R, T counted twice equals 52. Subtracting the sum of all digits: (P + R + T) = 52 - 45 = 7. The only combination of three distinct positive digits from {1 to 9} summing to 7 is {1, 2, 4}. For the middle groups P + Q + R = 13 and R + S + T = 13, since all digits are ≤ 9, R cannot be 1 or 2 (as that would force Q or S to be ≥ 10). Thus, R must be 4, giving P and T as {1, 2}, Q = 8, and S = 7. Hence, R represents 4.

In March 2021, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day state visit to Dhaka, Bangladesh (to attend the 50th National Day of Bangladesh and celebrate the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman), India and Bangladesh signed five signiiicant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). Among these was the MoU on Cooperation in the field of Disaster Management, Resilience and Mitigation, aimed at sharing disaster preparedness expertise, early warning systems, and post-disaster response capabilities between the two neighboring nations.

Avani Lekhara, the star para-shooter from Jaipur, Rajasthan, was the Indian flag bearer at the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics on 5 September 2021. She created history at the Games by becoming the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic Gold medal (Women's 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1) and also won a Bronze medal (Women's 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1), becoming the first Indian woman to win multiple medals at a single Paralympic Games. (Note: Tek Chand was the flag bearer at the opening ceremony).

Eminent Indian scientist and Bharat Ratna awardee Professor C.N.R. Rao was conferred the prestigious International Eni Award 2020 (Energy Frontiers Award). Often referred to as the 'Nobel Prize in Energy Research', the Eni Award recognized Prof. Rao's pioneering work in renewable energy sources and energy storage, particularly on metal oxides, carbon nanotubes, 2D materials, and solar-induced photocatalytic water splitting for green hydrogen production.

Italy won the UEFA Euro 2020 championship (held in June-July 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic) by defeating England in the final at Wembley Stadium in London. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular and extra time (Luke Shaw scored for England in the 2nd minute, and Leonardo Bonucci equalized for Italy in the 67th minute). Italy triumphed 3-2 in the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making decisive saves, securing Italy's second European Championship title.

The book 'Marathon War: Leadership in Combat in Afghanistan' was authored by Major General (Retd.) Jeffrey J. Schloesser of the United States Army. The book provides a firsthand, authoritative military account of command decisions, operational realities, and counterinsurgency warfare in eastern Afghanistan, where Schloesser served as the commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force-101 (Regional Command-East) from 2008 to 2009.

The book 'Sanskriti Ri Sanatan Deeth' (संस्कृति री सनातन दीठ) was written by eminent Rajasthani scholar, writer, and historian Bhanwar Singh Samaur, hailing from Rawatsar, Churu district, Rajasthan. For this critically acclaimed work examining Rajasthani cultural heritage, philosophy, and enduring social traditions, he was conferred the Sahitya Akademi Award 2020 for Rajasthani language.

The Rajasthan Jan Aadhaar Authority Ordinance, 2019 came into force on 18 December 2019. Launched by the Government of Rajasthan under the principle of 'One Number, One Card, One Identity' (एक नंबर, एक कार्ड, एक पहचान), the Jan Aadhaar Scheme replaced the earlier Bhamashah Scheme as a uniiied citizen database and service-delivery platform. The ordinance was subsequently enacted as the Rajasthan Jan Aadhaar Authority Act, 2020.

Statement (i) is true: In international trade economics, supply chain resilience is an approach designed to anticipate, withstand, and rapidly recover from unforeseen disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential imports and trade flow. Statement (ii) is false: The Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) was launched in April 2021 by THREE countries—India, Japan, and Australia (trilateral initiative)—to build resilient supply chains and reduce overdependence on China, not five countries. Hence, only statement (i) is true.

At the Tokyo Olympics 2020 (held in July-August 2021), India won a total of 7 medals (1 Gold, 2 Silver, 4 Bronze). The two Silver medalists were: 1) Ravi Kumar Dahiya (Men's Freestyle 57 kg Wrestling) and 2) Mirabai Chanu (Women's 49 kg Weightlifting). Meanwhile, P.V. Sindhu (Women's Singles Badminton) and Bajrang Punia (Men's Freestyle 65 kg Wrestling) won Bronze medals, and Neeraj Chopra won Gold in Men's Javelin Throw. Therefore, (A) Ravi Kumar Dahiya and (D) Mirabai Chanu won silver medals.

The Government of Rajasthan, through the Department of College Education, launched the 'MyBookLo' app (मायबुकलो ऐप) to support higher education students in state colleges. Developed to foster digital learning, the app provides college students with free access to digital academic study materials, curated e-books, lecture notes, syllabus resources, and video lectures across various undergraduate and postgraduate streams.

The 'Mission Niryatak Bano' (मिशन निर्यातक बनो) campaign was launched on 29 July 2021 jointly by the Department of Industries, Government of Rajasthan, and Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO). The campaign was formulated in multiple phases to handhold aspiring domestic manufacturers, MSMEs, and artisans by providing end-to-end guidance—from obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) to international marketing—to transform local businesses into successful global exporters.

Tianwen-1 is an interplanetary mission and robotic spacecraft system launched by China National Space Administration (CNSA) comprising an orbiter, lander, and the Zhurong rover to explore Mars.

Matching Indian athletes with their respective sports at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics: (A) Bhavina Patel won Silver in Table Tennis (Women's Singles Class 4) -> (iii); (B) Nishad Kumar won Silver in Men's High Jump (T47) -> (iv); (C) Harvinder Singh won Bronze in Archery (Men's Individual Recurve) -> (i); (D) Devendra Jhajharia won Silver in Men's Javelin Throw (F46) -> (ii). This matches the sequence A-iii, B-iv, C-i, D-ii.

In TIME Magazine's list of the '100 Most Influential People of 2021', four prominent personalities of Indian origin/citizenship were featured across different categories: (A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi (in the 'Leaders' category), (B) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (in the 'Leaders' category), (C) Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla (in the 'Pioneers' category for mass-producing Covid-19 vaccines), and (D) Manjusha P. Kulkarni, Indian-American civil rights activist and co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate (in the 'Icons' category). Therefore, (A), (B), (C), and (D) are all correct.

The 'Hunger Hotspots: FAO-WFP early warnings on acute food insecurity' report was published on 23 March 2021 jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations. The report warned of rising catastrophic food insecurity across multiple conflict-affected, economically stressed, and climate-vulnerable hotspots globally, calling for urgent targeted humanitarian action.

Najib Mikati is a prominent Lebanese billionaire businessman and politician who was appointed as the Prime Minister of Lebanon in September 2021. He successfully formed a government following more than a year of severe political deadlock and an acute socioeconomic crisis triggered by the August 2020 Beirut port blast. Mikati previously served as Lebanon's Prime Minister in 2005 and from 2011 to 2014.

India's first farm-based solar power plant under Component-A of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme was commissioned in Bhaloji village, Kotputli tehsil, Jaipur district, Rajasthan, in April 2021. The plant has an installed generation capacity of 1 MW set up on 3.5 acres of agricultural land, supplying electricity directly to the rural grid and generating regular lease/power income for the farmer.

'NABIMG' (National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute Mohali Grain) refers to an advanced biofortiiied colored variety of Wheat developed by the National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali (Punjab). Developed through conventional breeding, varieties like NABIMG-9 (blue), NABIMG-10 (purple / Shyam-Kanak), and NABIMG-11 (black wheat) are rich in anthocyanins, dietary fiber, iron, zinc, and antioxidants, conferring signiiicant health benefits against lifestyle diseases.

Dholavira, an ancient city of the Harappan (Indus Valley) Civilization situated in the Khadir Bet island of the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, was in the news because it was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in July 2021 during the 44th session of the World Heritage Committee. It became India's 40th World Heritage Site (and the first Indus Valley Civilization site in India to receive this status). It is celebrated for its unique water management system, massive stone fortiiications, and multi-layered urban planning.

On 18th August, 2021, President Ram Nath Kovind granted constitutional assent to the Constitution (One Hundred and Fifth Amendment) Act, 2021 (105th Constitutional Amendment). The 105th Amendment amended Articles 342A, 338B, and 366(26C) of the Constitution to restore and clarify the power of State Governments and Union Territories to identify and maintain their own state lists of Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBCs/OBCs), superseding the interpretation arising from the Supreme Court's May 2021 judgment regarding the 102nd Amendment.