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Serial No. Test Booklet Series

GENERAL STUDIES
Serial No
NPTS290123
PAPER-I
NPTS 14
N

MODEL
ANSWER

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1 (a)

Explanation:
Biotic potential :

• The maximum rate of reproduction of a species under unlimited resources and ideal environmental
conditions is called its reproductive potential or biological potential.
• Some species such as bacteria and rats can produce large numbers of offspring in a short period of
time, their biological potential is high, while elongated species such as elephants and humans produce
small numbers of offspring, thus their biological potential is low.
• Each population has so much reproductive potential that it can lead to an explosive population growth
under optimal growth conditions, so it is counterbalanced by nature. This counterbalance is called
environmental resistance.

2 (a)

Explanation:
Habitat :

• It is the physical environment in which an organism resides.

• Every organism requires specific things for its survival and this organism lives in a place where these
needs are met by the environment. For example, the human intestine is the habitat of tapeworms and
decaying objects are the habitat of fungi.
• A habitat can support a variety of species that have similar needs. For example, a single marine habitat
supports whales, seahorses, seals, phytoplankton, and a variety of other organisms.
• Therefore, different species live in the same habitat, that is, they have the same "address". Examples of
habitats are forest, sea, river etc.
Niche
• The term Niche was used by Joseph Grainnel in 1917.
• They use it for micro habitat. In nature many species are found in the same habitat but their functions
are different.
• Functional characteristics of a species in a habitat are called "niche".
• The habitat of a species is its 'address' (where it lives); While' Niche ( Niche; Nich or Nish)' can be
understood as its business.
• Niche refers to the sum of all the activities and relationships of a species by which this species uses the
resources of its habitat for its survival and reproduction.
• The niche of a species is unique or specific whereas the habitat contains many species.

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 • No two species can have the same niche in a habitat. This is because if two species have the same
niche, one will compete with the other until one species is displaced.

3 (b)

Explanation:
• Wind energy is the kinetic energy associated with the movement of atmospheric air.
• The country currently has the fourth largest wind installed capacity in the world.
• The efficiency of wind-farm performance is crucially determined by the quality of power grids to
which they are attached.
• The country’s total installed capacity was 41.67 GW as on September 30, 2022.
• The recent assessment indicates a gross wind power potential of 302 GW in the country at 100
meters and 695.50 GW at 120 meters above ground level.
• The state of Gujarat has the highest Wind Energy potential.
Source:

 https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/blowing-with-the-wind-32838
 https://mnre.gov.in/wind/current-status/

4 (b)

Explanation:
The interrelationship between the members of the castes in a community can be divided into two main
categories.
A. Intraspecific relations
• The members of the same species are called interspecies relations.
• These relationships are often strong, ranging from open conflict to the level of gregariousness .
• Some species are solitary , some have social structure and some have a sense of territoriality. The sense
of territoriality refers to the competition by some of its members to establish their ownership of some
part of their habitat.
• The winner uses the territory and the loser has to leave the territory. Territoriality limits the number of
individuals of a single species in that particular area. Thereby reducing destructive competition for
resources such as food and habitat.

B. Interspecific relation : In this the following are included _

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 • Amensalism: It is a negative association between two species in which one species limits or harms the
other species but itself is protected from any adverse effects due to the presence of the other species.
Organisms that secrete antibiotics and species that are inhibited by antibiotics are examples of
commensalism . For example, the bread mold fungus Penicillium produces penicillin, an antibiotic that
stops the growth of different types of bacteria. Penicillium clearly benefits because the elimination of
bacteria leaves more food available for Penicillium.
• Commensalism: In this type of relationship, one species is benefited. While the other species neither
benefits nor suffers any loss. Some species take advantage of shelter or transport from other species.
5 (d)

explanation:
Keystone Species:

• Within biotic communities, certain species are important enough to determine the ability of a
substantial number of other species to sustainably live in the community. These pivotal species are
called keystone species.
• Protecting keystone species is central to conservation efforts because if they disappear from protected
areas, many other species will become extinct. For example the severe reduction and extinction of
many species of pterapid bats or flying foxes had dramatic effects on many important plant species in
the Pacific Ocean, islands of the Indian Ocean.
• Highly potent ketone species are apex predators. Because their being predators is important to control
the number of herbivores.
• The effect of their reduction in numbers is clear from the example that in areas where the gray wolf
became extinct due to hunting by humans, the population of antelope increased very rapidly.
• The identification of keystone species has several important implications.
o First, the extinction of a keystone species from a community can lead to the elimination of many
other species.
o Second, it is also of great importance in the conservation of species of special interest, such as
conserving the monkey, it is necessary to protect the keystone species on which it directly or
indirectly depends , such as the fig tree and dung beetles.
o Third, if some of the keystone species of the community can be identified, they can be protected or
even increased.

6 (a)

Explanation:

• Deinococcus radiodurans is an extremophilic bacterium and one of the most radiation-resistant

organisms known.
• It can survive cold, dehydration, vacuum, and acid, and therefore is known as a polyextremophile.

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 • D. radiodurans been genetically modified for bioremediation applications. A nanotechnological
application of D. radiodurans in the synthesis of silver and gold.
• Researchers simulated the harsh ionising radiation on Mars in a new study where they found that
Deinococcus Radiodurans could potentially survive close to the surface of the planet much longer than
previously thought.
• They haven’t been used in vaccine development and nitrification as yet.

7 (d)

Explanation:
Ecological succession:

• The replacement of communities in an area over time is called ecological succession. In fact biological
communities are dynamic in nature and show changes over time.
• Abiotic and biotic components are involved in such changes. Thus , succession is actually a community-
controlled phenomenon , driven by the activities of living beings.
Primary succession : It occurs in areas where no other community is already present , such as newly formed
rock exposures , newly formed deltas , newly formed volcanic islands and lava flows. Exposed rocks are the
most suitable example for such succession because trees and shrubs cannot grow on exposed rocks. There is no
soil on such rocks, so there the primary succession starts with lichens . In areas where the natural vegetation has
either been destroyed or removed , the succession that occurs there is called secondary succession , such as in
forests destroyed by fire and deforestation in the early stages of herbaceous plants. To be possessed

Secondary succession: Such sequencing is possible because soil is already available. Secondary succession is
considered when the vegetation on the surface is completely or mostly gone but it has already been affected by
living organisms and at the same time there is an organic component present in it. In such areas seeds , spores
and plant propagators such as rhizomes are present in the soil and thus affect succession.
Tertiary succession i.e. Climax Community: This stage is more complex and dominated by species that
evolved there after succession. The community itself is stable and has the same form , although there is a

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constant replacement of individuals. The nature of the climax community is determined by various
environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, soil characteristics, topographical features, etc. The
extreme community has less tendency than the successional communities before it to modify its environment in
such a way that it is harmful to itself.

8 (c)

Explanation:
• Every living organism has a range of thermal tolerance. Those animals which can tolerate a wide range
of temperature , such animals are called Eurythermal . For example, cyclops , sperm whale , man etc.
On the other hand, those animals which can tolerate low range of temperature , such animals are called
Stenothermal . Like corals , termites , fishes and reptiles.
• In all living beings, all metabolic activities start at a certain low temperature. With the increase in
temperature, the rate of metabolic activity also increases, but with the further increase of temperature,
metabolic activities gradually start slowing down. Therefore, the optimum temperature for any living
being is the one at which the metabolic activities go on smoothly. Thus any factor has three cardinal
points:
• At low temperature the death of the animal is due to crystallization of the protoplasm while at high
temperature the death is due to denaturation of enzymes.
• The color of animals are affected by temperature. The color of animals found in hot and humid
regions is relatively darker. While the color of animals found in cold and dry regions is relatively
lighter. This phenomenon is called Gloger's rule. In Hyla and Phynosoma , pigment formation is
induced due to low temperature . In some species of Prawn, the color becomes lighter as the
temperature rises.
• The size of animals is affected by temperature. If we move from the equator towards the poles, the
atmospheric temperature decreases and the size of the animal increases. But the size of non-thermic
animals is smaller in the polar regions. This relationship of size with temperature plays an important
role in thermal degradation. This relation of temperature with the size of animals is called Bergman's
rule. Larger animals have less surface area in relation to the body than smaller animals. Due to this,
heat loss due to radiations is less in them. But in hot regions the larger size is more harmful to the
animals. To avoid this, animals of hot regions are smaller in size. Therefore, their surface area increases
and the loss of heat is more for the temperature regulation of the body.

9 (b)

Explanation:
Context: Recently Income Tax Department launched the HARIT Aaykar initiative on the occasion of
National Unity Day.
Harit (Hariyali Achievement Resolution by Income Tax) Aaykar initiative

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 • Launched by: Central Board of Direct taxes
• Objectives: to increase the green cover by planting trees and creating micro-forests in and
around Income Tax Department’s buildings and other public areas.

Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1872324

10 (a)

Explanation:
Effect of light on aquatic system:
Most of the biological activities in the aquatic system are controlled by the availability of light. Light is always
a limiting factor for plants in deep water such as oceans and lake systems.
The presence of producers and consumers is determined by the presence of light in the aquatic system. For
example, phytoplankton live on the exposed surface of the water, while benthic organisms live on the sediments
of the lake. On the basis of penetration of light, the lake is divided into 3 parts.

• Littoral Zone: There is shallow water at the edge of the lake, where most of the rooted vegetation
grows. Light passes through it penetrating the shallow water.
• Limnetic Zone: The open water area ahead of Littoral is called Limnetic zone, where phytoplankton
grow abundantly. In this area, depending on the cleanliness of the water, the light is 20 to 40 m. Can
reach deep.
• Abyssal Zone: The dark zone where light does not reach is called the abyssal zone. The bottom soil of
lakes and ponds forms the benthic zone, which is the habitat of benthic organisms such as snails, slugs
and microorganisms.

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11 (b)

Explanation:
Biome: A biome is a community of plants and animals found in a large geographic area. In other words, all major
ecosystems including plants and animals on the earth are called biomes. In general, under the biome, all the plants
and animals of all those parts of the continent are included, whose general characteristics are almost the same in
that entire land, under the biome, only the entire plant and animal communities of the terrestrial part are included.
Biome Soil characteristics
Desert plants and decomposers lack of but from mineral
flourished
Tundra nutrient levels low, permafrost layer found a few
inches below
Grass field high nutrient topsoil
Deciduous forest nutrients rich soil
Taiga acidic, mineral deficiency
Tropical rainforest low in nutrients

12 (d)

Explanation:
Effect of light: The food of all living beings is made by plants through photosynthesis. Apart from this, light
has a direct effect on many biological activities of animals and plants.
Effect of light on the colors and anatomy of animals: Due to the absence of light in animals living in caves,
their skin becomes colourless. Their eyes also remain almost inactive or vestigeal. Due to the difference in the
intensity of light in different parts of the globe, there is a difference in the colors of the animals. Light has a
special effect on the complexion of the skin and the composition of the eyes.
Locomotion: The effect of light on the movement of animals is called photokinesis. This effect is more
pronounced especially on small animals. Crab larvae become more mobile when the intensity of light is
increased and move very slowly when the intensity is reduced. Swarms of locusts stop flying as soon as the
light is blocked by the clouds and start flying again when the clouds are removed.
Effect of light on metabolism: Photosynthesis in plants can take place only in the presence of light. Light is an
essential factor for these metabolic processes of food formation. Similarly, the intensity of light has a direct
effect on the functioning of enzymes (enzyme-metabolism), solubility of salts and reaction of gases in various
animals. As the intensity of light increases, the activity of various enzymes increases rapidly and the solubility
of salts also increases. The intensity of light has opposite effect on the solubility of gases. The production of
pigments in animals is also an example of the effect of light on metabolism.

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13 (c)

Explanation:
• Context: Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) has demanded a ban on using aceclofenac in
cattle after a new study showed that the drug metabolises into diclofenac in water buffaloes.
• Aceclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug analog of diclofenac. It is used for the relief of
pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
• Aceclofenac gets rapidly converted to diclofenac after being injected into the water buffaloes.
• Aceclofenac in water buffaloes poses the same threat to vultures as it is a pro-drug of diclofenac.
• Meloxicam and tolfenamic acid are safer alternative for diclofenac and Aceclofenac.
What was diclofenac?
• Diclofenac — an anti-inflammatory drug — was banned for veterinary use by the Government of
India in 2006.
o It was found to be the main cause of a dramatic decline (99 per cent) of the
vulture population across Asia.
• The drug caused accidental poisoning in raptors after they fed on carcasses of cattle injected with it.

14(a)

Explanation:
Mediterranean Forest:

• These forests are found in the western parts of the continents in the middle latitudes.
• The summers here are hot and dry, while the winters are cold and wet.
• It rains here in winters.
• The main trees here are cork, olive, pine etc. This region is known for juicy fruits like grapes, lemon,
orange, pomegranate and pear etc. Colorful birds and fragrant herbs abound here.
• This biome is also called oak forest or chaparral . While, Walnut, Maple, Ash, Chestnut Beech etc. are
the main trees found in mid-latitude deciduous forests.

15 (d)

Explanation:

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Phytoplankton : They are found in almost all bodies of water on planet Earth and throughout the water
column.
• The density of the population decreases with time and some of the variables that affect the marine
environment.
• These organisms can form very dense temporary aggregates known as blooms, turbids or blooms.
• Scientists agree that the air we breathe contains oxygen from sea plants. Much of this oxygen comes from
tiny marine plants – called phytoplankton – that live near the surface of the water and drift with the
currents.
• Like all plants, they photosynthesize - that is, they use sunlight and carbon dioxide to make food. A
byproduct of photosynthesis is oxygen.
• Phytoplankton are like plants. They can convert carbon dioxide, a gas in air and water, into sugars using
energy from sunlight.
• Because they depend on the sun, phytoplankton can only live in the upper parts of a lake or ocean. In the
deep, dark waters, there isn't enough light for these creatures to survive.
• Between their significant contribution of minerals, vitamins, proteins and carbohydrates, we can say that
phytoplankton are a very complete food for us. Including phytoplankton in our diet also helps us to cleanse
the body more effectively.

16 (c)

Explanation:
• Lunar Gateway: involving four of the ISS partner agencies: NASA, European Space Agency (ESA),
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
o It is planned to be both the first space station beyond low Earth orbit and the first space station to
orbit the Moon.
• NASA has targeted the completion of the Gateway for 2026, while work on the spaceship is already
underway.
• The Gateway can be used at least once per year and astronauts cannot stay around the year like
they do on the International Space Station (ISS).
• Once docked to the Gateway, astronauts will be able to stay there for three months at a time.
o Compared to the ISS, the Gateway is much smaller.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-moon-rocket-artemis-i-set-for-third-launch-
attempt/article66137255.ece

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17 (c)

Explanation:
Silverfish: It is a type of insect.

• Two long antennae (tentacles) remain near the head

and three long formations are produced in the tail part.
• Like fishes, 'scales' are made on their body.
• They fill their stomach by biting paper and clothes like
wall paper, book cover, binding paper.
• Despite being very small in appearance, they cause a
lot of damage.

18 (a)

Explanation:
Barrier Island Ecosystem : It is a major source of biodiversity, it is formed by the sedimentation of soil in the
sea. This coastal area is called sea storm or tsunami, it is the area between the barrier island site and the marine
ecosystem. In which species living in both sea and land are found.

Shoreline Ecosystem : This ecosystem is also called the intertidal ecosystem. It is divided into rocky and sandy
coast. It is an area of high biodiversity and is found between low tide and high tide area. This area depends on
water current, salinity, temperature, humidity.

19 (b)

Explanation:
RVM:

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 • RVM is a modified version of the existing
Electronic Voting Machine (EVM).
• The special remote polling booths would be set
up in different states when elections are on in the
home state of migrants.
• The RVM can handle multiple constituencies from
a single remote polling booth.
• For this, instead of a fixed ballot paper sheet, the
machine has been modified to have an
electronic dynamic ballot display which will
present different candidate lists corresponding to
the constituency number of the voter read by a
constituency card reader.
• India is not the first country to have remote voting
system. Switzerland, Canada have tried remote
voting.
Security:
• The system would have a device similar to the EVM so voters can verify their votes.
• The units will save the number of votes for each candidate for each of the constituencies, to be
tallied on counting day.
• The results would then be shared with the home RO (Returning Officer).
o A returning officer is responsible for overseeing elections in one or more constituencies.

20 (a)

Explanation:
All things on the earth are acidic or alkaline in nature, otherwise they are neutral. The quality of acidity or
alkalinity depends on the concentration of hydrogen ions in a particular substance and is denoted by (pH) .
• pH 7.0 is the neutral point and numbers above 7.0 indicate alkalinity and below 7.0 indicate the
intensity of acidity.
• pH is also an important limiting factor in the distribution of animals.
• Mosquito larvae are most commonly found in water with a pH of 5.0 (slightly acidic) or below.
• But animals like Mollusca class snails, oysters etc. like to live in pH 7.0 to 8.0 or more pH i.e. alkaline
water and soil. Acidic soils with low pH are deficient in nutrients and produce less.

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21 (c)

Explanation:
Swamps and Marshes:

• Swamps is such a wetland in which trees are also found, whereas trees are not found in Marsh. Both of
these are often related to flowing water, so high productivity is found in them.
• Swamps is also called wetland forest. These can be on the banks of rivers or lakes. Marsh belongs to
relatively still waters. In these, the roots of the trees are inside the water and the leaves and stems are
outside the water. In these (Swamps and Marsh) photosynthesis takes place at a rapid pace.
Bog and Fen:

• Bogs are areas that may be treeless, but these areas are found only in submerged soils and have peat
accumulations. They are acidic in nature. Some marshy areas receive water from ground water or
surface runoff water, which are called fen, instead of rain water. Their nature is not acidic.

22 (a)

Explanation:
Corals form a strong calcium carbonate structure for coral reefs and provide protection and a home for
zooxanthellae. In return, the zooxanthellae provide nutrients to the coral.

• Only 0.1% of the ocean's surface is occupied by coral reefs, which are also known as the tropical
rainforests of the ocean and constitute the habitat for 25% of marine species.
• They are usually located in shallow places at a depth of less than 150 feet. However, some coral reefs
reach a depth of 450 feet.
• Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP) was launched by the G20 in 2020
to fast-track research and development solutions to save the world's corals.

23 (d)

Explanation:
• India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at 19th ASEAN-India summit
elevated their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, pledging to enhance cooperation in
areas ranging from maritime and cyber security to inter-operability of digital financial systems.
• Comprehensive Strategic Partnership:

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 o ASEAN and India adopted a joint statement announcing the elevation of the existing Strategic
Partnership to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
o It reiterated the commitment to enhance India-ASEAN cooperation in various areas such as
maritime activities, counter-terrorism, cyber security, digital economy, environment, science &
technology, tourism, among other areas.
o It proposes expediting the review of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make
it more user-friendly, simple, and trade-facilitative.
• ASEAN:
o It was established in August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand with the signing of the ASEAN
Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the founding fathers of ASEAN, namely Indonesia,
Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
o Its chairmanship rotates annually, based on the alphabetical order of the English names of Member
States.
o ASEAN is India’s 4th largest trading partner.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-asean-elevate-ties-to-comprehensive-strategic-partnership-
101668279031866.html

24 (c)

Explanation:
Biosphere Reserve :

• The concept of Biosphere Reserves was developed in 1975 under the MAB programme.
• Its objective is to conserve the ecosystem and its genetic material.
• Biosphere reserves are representative areas of natural and cultural landscapes that extend over
terrestrial and marine land.
• According to the MAB program, Biosphere Reserve refers to an area set aside for the protection of
natural habitats and the plant and animal species found there.
• Its determination and naming is done by the central government of the country where it is located.
• In 1976, a provision was made by the UNESCO Task Force to classify the Biosphere Reserve into
three areas or zones.
• In fact the concept of zone is very simple and flexible and it is classified on the basis of need of local
people and regional location. These three zones are as follows: core zone, buffer zone and Transition
zone.

25 (d)

Explanation:

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In fact, the energy cycle is based on two basic laws of thermodynamics.

• The first law of thermodynamics states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed , but is transformed
from one state to another. Therefore, according to this rule, solar energy can be converted into food energy
and heat.
• The second law of thermodynamics states that spontaneous transfer of energy does not occur unless energy
is dissipated by a center of energy.
• Thus, food energy is transferred from one organism to another in the ecosystem. Major components of
energy are dissipated as heat by metabolic activities and only a small amount of remaining energy is stored
in living tissues or biomass.
• The energy contained in food remains in a concentrated state, while heat is highly dispersed.
• Energy flows through food chains in the ecosystem. This flow of energy is non-cyclical and in one direction
only.
• Potential energy available at each trophic level to be transferred to the next higher trophic level decreases as
the amount of energy released by respiration increases from each trophic level to the next higher trophic
level.
• The flow of energy is the main driving force for the movement of nutrients among the various biotic
components of the ecosystem.
• Producers are able to absorb only the visible spectrum of solar energy , or photosynthetically active
radiation (PAR) , which accounts for about 50% of all direct solar radiation energy. Absorbed energy can
be calculated by multiplying the estimated productivity with the calorific value (energy contained per unit
weight) of the biomass.
• Calorific value is calculated by burning dry biomass in the presence of oxygen and measuring the amount
of heat released from it with a calorimeter.

26 (b)

Explanation:

• Senna spectabilis is a plant species of the legume family (Fabaceae) in the subfamily Caesalpinioideae
native to South and Central America.
• They are often grown as an ornamental in front yards, parks, gardens, buildings etc. due to their bright
yellow flowers that bloom during the summer months.
• They are also known as golden wonder tree, American cassia, popcorn tree, Cassia excelsa, golden
shower tree or Archibald's cassia.

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 • The plant has become an invasive alien species in parts of Africa such as Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania and
Uganda, and also in South-India, after it was introduce for resources such as firewood as well as to help
combat deteriorating ecosystems affected by deforestation and desertification.
• Currently, S. spectabilis is overtaking native tree species of forestry ecosystems around the world
because of its ability to grow quickly.
• The species has become highly invasive in the Sigur plateau in both the core and buffer zones of the
MTR.
• Over the last few years, its bright yellow flowers have become more visible across the Tiger Reserve.
• Conservationists say the invasive weed has a negative effect on local biodiversity, crowding out native
species and limiting food availability for wildlife.
• Senna spectabilis, along with Lantana camara, is among five major invasive weeds that had taken over
vast swathes of the Nilgiris, with wattle being the other major invasive species.

27 (c)

Explanation:
Food chain:

• A food chain is a linear series of feeders and foods.

• Through this, food energy is transferred from the source of plants to other living beings. The taxonomic
entity of a food chain is called a food link .
• As energy is transferred from one link to another, most of the potential energy is lost as heat.
• Therefore a food chain must have at least three links: Plants - Herbivores - Carnivores.
• Small carnivores are often preyed upon by larger carnivores. This sequence continues until four or five
links are included. More than five links in a food chain are rarely found.
• Detritus food chain: Not every food chain necessarily begins with a living plant. Many food chains
begin with dead organic matter. This substance is consumed by subtle beings. The detritus is eaten by
herbivores and their predators. Food chains that start with dead organic matter are called detritus food
chains.

28 (c)

explanation:
Inverted Pyramid of Numbers: If the number of producers in an ecosystem is less than the number of
primary consumers, secondary consumers and supreme consumers, then the shape of the pyramid built on the
basis of number of individuals becomes inverted. This is called the inverted pyramid of numbers. In this

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pyramid, the number of individuals increases on going from the base to the top. A forest ecosystem is an
example of this. Within a forest, there may be a number of large producers (huge trees) that can support many
herbivores.
Upright pyramid of biomass: In most terrestrial ecosystems, the biomass of consumers is the highest. Then
there are primary consumers, secondary and tertiary consumers. The biomass of top consumers is generally the
lowest. Thus the pyramid of biomass has primary producers at the base and a smaller trophic level (the apex
consumer) at the top.
Inverted pyramid of biomass: The biomass of producers and consumers in aquatic ecosystems is different
than in terrestrial ecosystems. There are The reason for this is that the producers of the water ecosystem are
microscopic phytoplanktons, which grow and reproduce very rapidly. Thus here the weight of the primary
consumers is more than that of the producers. Phytoplankton are consumed almost as fast as they reproduce,
and those that survive (and they are few) reproduce at a very rapid rate. Hence, the pyramid of biomass in
aquatic ecosystems becomes inverted.

29 (c)

Explanation:
Context – Cabinet approves Nutrient Based Subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers for Rabi
season 2022-23 from 1st October, 2022 to 31st March, 2023

• Under NBS, a fixed amount of subsidy decided on an annual basis, is provided on each grade of
subsidized Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, except for Urea, based on the nutrient content
present in them.
• Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme covers various Nutrients that is Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P),
Potash (K) and Sulphar (S) for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. It does not cover urea which
remains outside the ambit of NBS
• It is being implemented from April 2010 by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals &
Fertilizers.

30 (c)

Explanation:
The movement of pollutants up the food chain involves two processes – bioaccumulation and biomagnification.
Bioaccumulation: In bioaccumulation, the concentration of a pollutant in the environment increases in the first
organism of the food chain.

• Two different organisms as well as two species may have different levels of bioaccumulation.
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 • Bioaccumulation is greater in large, fat, and long-lived organisms or species that have slow metabolism
or excretion than in small, thin, and short-lived organisms. Therefore, older sea trout will have greater
bioaccumulation than young bluegill found in the same lake .
Bio magnification: Biomagnification refers to the tendency for pollutants to increase in concentration as they
move from one trophic level to another. Thus, in biomagnification, the concentration of a pollutant increases
from one link in the food chain to the next. The property of biomagnification is found in the following
elements:

• Polychlorinated Biphenyls: These are used as electrical or thermal insulators in transformers and fire
extinguishers .
• Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons : These are present in petroleum products.
• Heavy metals such as mercury, copper, cadmium, chromium, lead, nickel, zinc, tin (or tributyltin).

31 (b)

Explanation:
Why are the tropics rich in biodiversity ? Some of the important hypotheses in this context are the following:

• The emergence and evolution of new species is generally relative to time.

• The temperate zone has experienced continuous glaciation in the past, while the tropical zone, in
contrast, has been relatively undisturbed for millions of years and thus has had a long evolutionary time
for species diversification .
• Tropical environments, in contrast to temperate regions, are less seasonal, relatively more stable and
predictable. Such a fixed environment encourages niche species emergence and promotes species
diversity.
• Tropical regions are rich in solar energy, which contributes to high productivity. This productivity may
contribute indirectly to greater diversity.

32 (a)

Explanation:
There are two main factors to keep in mind when assessing diversity - abundance (richness) and evenness.

NIRMAN IAS 17
Richness or abundance is a count of the number of different types of organisms present in a particular area. The
number of species found in a sample is a measure of the abundance of biodiversity. The greater the number of
species in a given area, the richer that area is in terms of biodiversity. Evenness is the measure of the number of
members of each species present in a particular area. Species richness: It is the number of different species
represented in an ecological community, landscape or area.
There can be various scales to measure it. At the ecosystem-level , measurements of biodiversity are often used
to compare two ecosystems in a given area or to determine changes over time. For this the following three
indices are used:
Alpha diversity : It refers to the group of organisms within a particular area , community or ecosystem that are
living within the same environment or interact or compete for the same resources. It is measured by counting
the species present in the ecosystem.
Beta diversity : There is species diversity among ecosystems. Under this, the number of unique taxa is
compared between ecosystems . Beta-diversity describes the changes in biodiversity within or between
ecosystems. Measurement of beta-diversity indicates differences in species richness between two different
habitats or within the same community at different points in time .
Gamma diversity is a measure of the overall diversity for different ecosystems within a region.

33 (c)

Explanation:
• Context – Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently conducted a
successful maiden flight-test of Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) interceptor AD-1 missile
from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
• The AD-1 is a long-range interceptor missile designed for both low exo-atmospheric and endo-
atmospheric interception of long-range ballistic missiles as well as aircraft.
• It is propelled by a two-stage solid motor and equipped with indigenously-developed advanced
control system, navigation and guidance algorithm to precisely guide the vehicle to the target that
move at very high speeds.
• The fully functional ballistic missile defence system contained high-power radars and could
potentially protect large areas from the adversary missile or other air attacks.
Source: Indian Express

34 (d)

Explanation:

NIRMAN IAS 18
Hope Spots: Renowned American oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle proposed the concept of Hope Spots in
2009 under Mission Blue and the concept of Hope Spots was presented jointly with IUCN . While Norman
Myers did not propound the hotspot of biodiversity.
Mission Blue is an initiative by Doctor Sylvia Early that plans to create a global network of marine protected
areas through crowdfunding. Under this , there is a target of protecting 20% of the marine area by 2020 .
Currently there are 76 Hope Spots around the world . In 2013, Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep were
designated as Hope Spots from India.

35 (a)

Explanation:
Megadiverse country:

• It was a concept that was proposed in 1988 by anthropologist Russell Mittermeier, then president of
Conservation International. Conservation International identified 17 megadiversity countries in 1998 .
• Together, these 17 countries are home to more than 70 percent of Earth's species. All megadiverse
countries are located partly or entirely in tropical or sub-tropical regions.
• The megadiverse countries identified so far are: United States, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru,
Venezuela, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Madagascar, India , Malaysia , Indonesia ,
Philippines , Papua New Guinea, China and Australia .
• Its main parameter is endemism, which is applied first at the species level and then at higher taxonomic
levels such as genus and family.
• To qualify as a megadiverse country, a country must meet the following criteria:
o At least 5000 plants of the world are found in that country as endemic species.
o Marine ecosystems must be contained within the country's borders.
o Overall, the boundaries for the criteria are flexible, even when spatiality is considered the main
criterion.
• Along with this, countries are evaluated separately on the basis of all other criteria.

36 (d)

Explanation:
Context: Due to the intervention of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) and the Panamaram grama
panchayat, Panamaram heronry is set to get a fresh lease of life.

• Panamaram heronry is the largest breeding ground of different species of herons in the Malabar region.

NIRMAN IAS 19
 • The heronry, formed on a sandbank on the Panamaram River, is a breeding ground for nine species of
waterbirds.
• The tiny islet is a haven for globally threatened waterfowls, including the black headed-ibis, purple
heron, large egret, median egret, little egret, pond heron, night heron, and little cormorant.
• The site is also the only location in State where the cattle egret breeds.
• The cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) is a cosmopolitan species of heron (family Ardeidae) found in the
tropics, subtropics, and warm-temperate zones.
• Threats faced by the site: Destruction of bamboo groves after a massive blossoming of the plant and
illegal sand mining near the site.
Source; https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/panamaram-heronry-set-to-get-a-new-lease-of-
life/article66087005.ece

37 (d)

Explanation:
Dichloro diphenyl trichloroethane (DDT):

• Paul Müller (1899–1965) - was a Swiss chemist who received the 1948 Nobel Prize in Physiology or
Medicine. He was credited with the discovery of the insecticidal properties of DDT in 1939 and the use
of DDT in the control of vector diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. Received the Nobel Prize for
the use of
• It should not be used excessively. Because it is more harmful for birds. Due to the effect of this
medicine, the shells of eggs of birds are born thin. Due to which those eggs break quickly. By the way,
this DDT is also harmful for us. Because many people use this medicine as a pesticide in their fields.
• In commercial manufacture, dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane ( DDT) is prepared by heating chloral
and chlorobenzene in a 1:2 ratio in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid. That is, in the
commercial manufacture of DDT , chlorobenzene and chloral are used as raw materials.

38 (b)

Explanation:
IUCN was established on 5 October 1948 in Fontainebleau, France. While its headquarter is located in Gland,
Switzerland. When representatives of governments and conservation organizations inspired by UNESCO signed
a formal act forming the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUPN). The initiative to set up the
new organization came from UNESCO, and specifically its first Director-General, the British zoologist Julian
Huxley. Julian Huxley, the first Director-General of UNESCO, initiated the establishment of IUCN . At its
inception, IUCN was the only international organization focusing on the full spectrum of nature conservation.

NIRMAN IAS 20
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) have a long
history of working together on important environmental and development concerns.
WWF, a member of IUCN since 2012, was founded in 1961 as an international fundraising organization to aid
the efforts of already established conservation organizations such as IUCN. The World Conservation Strategy,
which was released by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 1980, would not have
been created without the financial support provided by WWF.

39 (c)

Explanation:
Bonalu Festival

• Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently joined the Budaga Jangalu community of Telangana and
whipped himself as part of the ‘Potharajulu’ tradition. The custom is part of the state's acclaimed
Bonalu festival.
• Bonalu is a Hindu Festival where Goddess Mahakali is worshiped.
• It is an annual festival celebrated in the twin Cities Hyderabad and Secunderabad and other parts of
Telangana state, India.
• Bonalu is celebrated usually during Ashada Masam that falls in July/August.
• Special poojas are performed for goddess Yellamma during the first and last day of the festival.
• The festival is considered as a form of thanksgiving to the Goddess after the fulfillment of vows.
• Bonam literally means Meal in Telugu, which is an offering to the Mother Goddess.
• During this, the devotees offer rice cooked with milk and jaggery in an earthen or brass pot, which is
decorated with neem leaves, turmeric and vermilion. Women carry these pots on their heads to temples.
• Apart from Yellamma, during the Bonalu festival, the different forms of Mahakali are worshipped,
including Mysamma, Dokkalamma, Pedamma, Pochamma, Yellamma, Poleramma and Ankalamma.
Source : Hindustan Times

40 (d)

Explanation:
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES):

• The first conference of CITES was organized in March 1973 in Washington , USA . It was
implemented on 1 July 1975 . India joined in 1976 . Its headquarters are located in Geneva ,
Switzerland (its secretariat is administered by UNEP ) .

NIRMAN IAS 21
 • Main Objective: To prevent illegal trade in wildlife and plants.
• The international trade in wildlife is worth billions of dollars and involves millions of animal and plant
species.
• This trade ranges from live animals and plants to various wildlife products such as food items , leather
products, musical instruments made of wood and medicines etc. During this, many species are
exploited as well as they have to stay away from their habitat, as a result of which many species have
reached the verge of extinction.
• Along with this, there are many species used in this trade which are not endangered, but the security
measures are not taken care of in their trade, which will affect their future. Very dangerous for
• Since the trade of wildlife and plants transcends national boundaries, there has been a need for an
international agreement to regulate them. CITES is one such convention. It currently provides
protection to more than 35 thousand animal and plant species in different categories.
• CITES is an international convention to which various nations and regional economic integration
organizations voluntarily join.
• Countries that agree to its principles are known as Parties to the Convention.
• Although CITES is legally binding on the parties, it does not take the place of national laws.
• Instead it provides a framework that is supported by all parties. The country concerned needs to amend
its domestic legislation accordingly and thus each nation ensures that it is CITES compliant.
• World Wildlife Day: It is celebrated on March 3 to commemorate the signing of CITES .

41 (a)

Solution:
• Heliophyte plants have the ability to perform photosynthesis even in high temperatures. Along with
this, the rate of respiration is also high in them.
• In shade adapted plants (sciophytes), the rates of photosynthesis, respiration and metabolic activities are
generally low. Example: Fern.
• Plants of saline environment are called Halophyte. They are adapted to grow in water or soil with high
salinity concentration. Halophyte plants become fleshy in warm and moist conditions and accumulate
salts of dilute ion concentration in cells, stems and leaves.

42 (b)

Explanation:

• The Indian government formulated an Environment Action Programme (EAP) in January 1994. The
main objective of this programme is to strengthen Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) of various

NIRMAN IAS 22
 projects through an organised system of natural resource accounting and environmental statistics. The
Environment Action Programme focuses on the following areas:
o Conservation of biodiversity including forests, marine life and mountain ecosystems.
o Conservation of soil and moisture and ensuring that water resources do not get polluted.
o Control of industrial pollution and waste.
o Access to clean technologies.
o Tackling urban environmental issues.
o Strengthening environmental education, training, awareness and resources management.
o Alternative energy plan.
• The programme envisaged in EAP co-ordinate with the thrust areas identified in the Agenda 21 adopted
at the Earth Summit in June 1992.

43 (b)

Explanation:

• Ministry of Education recently released a detailed report on Unified District Information System for
Education Plus (UDISE+) 2021-22 on school education of India.
Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE):

• The UDISE+ system of online data collection from the schools was developed by Department of
School Education & Literacy in the year 2018-19 to overcome the issues related to erstwhile practice of
manual data filling in paper format.
• UDISE+ has a mandate of collecting information from all recognized schools imparting formal
education from Pre-primary to class XII.
• UDISE+ provides a platform to organize and classify all school data across the country and build a
credible database of school data.
• It monitors, measures and keeps track of vital KPIs related to school performance.
• In UDISE+ system, improvements have been made particularly in the areas related to data capture, data
mapping and data verification.
• In UDISE+ 2021-22, additional data on important indicators viz., digital library, peer learning, hard
spot identification, number of books available in school library, etc have been collected for the first
time to align with the National Education Policy 2020 initiatives.
Source:

 https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/more-than-20000-schools-closed-in-india-during-2020-21-number-of-
teachers-declined-by-195-ministry-of-education/article66090905.ece

NIRMAN IAS 23
  https://udiseplus.gov.in/#/home

44 (d)

Explanation:

• Due to the influence of the sun, the combination of carbon dioxide and oxygen in plants produces
energy-rich organic substances, sugar and starch, both together. This is called photosynthesis. In this
process, both biotic and inorganic components have equal role, but only through abiotic components,
the platform for energy communication is prepared. The time illuminated by the Sun on Earth is called
the time of photosynthesis.
• The process of photosynthesis takes place only in sunlight, it does not happen at night. When
photosynthesis does not occur, there is a net emission of carbon dioxide and a net absorption of oxygen.
If there is enough light during the day, the rate of photosynthesis is higher than the rate of respiration.

45 (d)

Explanation:
• Carbon dioxide gas in the oceans is produced by photosynthesis.
• The production of essential proteins for life is done only by nitrogen gas.
• Oxygen is also found in the earth's surface, but it is not available due to chemically mixed with other
elements.
• Phosphorus, calcium and sulfur gases are involved in the sedimentary cycle.

46 (b)

Explanation:

• Assam’s Bodoland University is part of collaborative research on fungus-powered biosynthesised

nanogold particles that has received an international patent from Germany.
• Cordy gold nanoparticles (Cor-AuNPs) is the outcome of a collaborative experiment by scientists
from four Indian institutions, has earned an international patent from Germany.
• These nanoparticles, derived from the synthesis of the extracts of Cordyceps militaris and gold salts,
could make drug delivery in the human body faster and surer.

NIRMAN IAS 24
 • Cordyceps militaris is a high value parasitic fungus, lab-grown at the Department of Biotechnology’s
Technology Incubation Centre (TIC) in Bodoland University, one of the collaborators of the patented
research work.
• Gold salts are ionic chemical compounds of gold generally used in medicine.
• Wild Cordyceps mushroom is found in the eastern Himalayan belt.
Source: https://epaper.thehindu.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=GAOAFJAHI.1&imageview=0

47 (d)

Explanation:

• The biological constituent of environment is also called biotic component of environment. This
component consists of all living things like plants, animals and small micro-organisms like bacteria.
This component interacts with the abiotic component of the environment.
• The hydrosphere includes: the earth’s oceans and seas; its ice sheets, sea ice and glaciers; its lakes,
rivers and streams; its atmospheric moisture and ice crystals; and its areas of permafrost. The
hydrosphere includes both saltwater and freshwater systems, and it also includes the moisture found in
the soil (soil water) and within rocks (groundwater).
• The biological component of soil includes the plants, animals, insects, earthworms, nematodes,
arthropods, protozoa, fungi, and bacteria that live in the soil. The biological community is a very
important component of soil health. Water is also included in it but soil is not the part of hydrosphere.
• Geological organism Evolution: -Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of animals, plants, and
other organisms from the past. Fossils are important evidence for evolution because they show that life
on earth was once different from life found on earth today.

48 (d)

Explanation:

• The levels of ecological organization they are individual, population, community, ecosystem, biosphere
and biome. Hence option first is incorrect.
• Some components of environment are performing as resources and rest of perform as controller.
• Hence, the option 2 is partially correct. So we didn’t consider it as a right answer.

49 (a)

Explanation:

NIRMAN IAS 25
 • The Ministry of Home Affairs has recently asked the States/Union Territories to appoint a Child
Welfare Police Officer (CWPO) in every police station to exclusively deal with children, either as
victims or perpetrators.
• According to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, there should be at least
one officer, not below the rank of an Assistant Sub-Inspector, as CWPO in every station.
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights had requested that a Special Juvenile Police Unit
in each district and city, which is headed by an officer not below the rank of a Deputy Superintendent
of Police, be established.
• The unit would comprise CWPOs and two social workers having experience of working in the field of
child welfare, of whom one shall be a woman, to co-ordinate all functions of police in relation to
children.
• The contact particulars of the CWPOs should be displayed in all police stations for the public to
contact.
• CPWO functions as a watch-dog for providing legal protection against all kinds of cruelty, abuse and
exploitation of children and report instances of non-compliance for further legal action.
Source: https://epaper.thehindu.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=GAOAFJACL.1&imageview=0

50 (a)

Explanation:

• Water vapor is also the most important greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. Heat radiated from Earth’s
surface is absorbed by water vapor molecules in the lower atmosphere. The water vapor molecules, in
turn, radiate heat in all directions. Some of the heat returns to the Earth’s surface.
• Water Vapor is not a living component. So it is not considered as a biotic component. It is an abiotic
component. Some examples of abiotic components are sunlight, temperature, atmospheric gases, air,
water, soil, etc.

51 (d)

Explanation:

• In ecology, productivity is the rate at which energy is added to the body of organisms in the form of
biomass. Productivity can be defined for any trophic level or other group, and can take units of energy
or biomass. There are two basic types of productivity: gross and net.
• Productivity is the amount of organic matter made by photosynthesizing (and/or sometimes chemo
synthesizing) organisms in an ecosystem. Biomass is the mass of all living organisms in an ecosystem,
or the mass of one or more species in an ecosystem, at a particular time.

NIRMAN IAS 26
 • Productivity is a rate function, and is expressed as dry matter produced or energy obtained per unit
area of land, per unit time. It is often expressed as energy in calories/cm2/year or as dry organic matter
in g/m2/year (g/m2 x 8.92 = lb/acre). Therefore, the productivity of different ecosystems can be easily
compared.

52 (b)

Explanation:

• Erosion, whether it is by water, wind or tillage, involves three distinct actions – soil detachment,
movement and deposition. Topsoil, which is high in organic matter, fertility and soil life, is relocated
elsewhere “on-site” where it builds up over time or is carried “off-site” where it fills in drainage
channels. Soil erosion reduces cropland productivity and contributes to the pollution of adjacent
watercourses, wetlands and lakes.
• Soil erosion can be a slow process that continues relatively unnoticed or can occur at an alarming rate,
causing serious loss of topsoil. Soil compaction, low organic matter, loss of soil structure, poor internal
drainage, salinization and soil acidity problems are other serious soil degradation conditions that can
accelerate the soil erosion process. The erosion potential of any area is determined by four principal
factors: the characteristics of its soil, its vegetative cover, its topography and its climate.
• The key climatic characteristics influencing erosion processes in a given territory include atmospheric
precipitation, wind, air temperature, air humidity and solar radiation.

53 (b)

Explanation:
National SC-ST Hub scheme:

• Recently, the 5th meeting of High Powered Monitoring Committee (HPMC) under National SC-
ST Hub scheme was chaired by Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
• Objective: Develop a supportive ecosystem for SC/ST entrepreneurs to achieve the mandated 4%
procurement by the CPSEs from the SC/ST entrepreneur as laid down in Central Government Public
Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises.
• Scheme applicable for: Existing and Aspiring SC/ST Entrepreneurs.
• Key Benefits:
o To achieve 4% Public Procurement target from SC-ST entrepreneurs.
o Facilitating SC/ST Entrepreneurs to be part of vendor development programs and mentoring
support.
o Collection, collation and dissemination of information regarding SC/ST enterprises and
entrepreneurs.

NIRMAN IAS 27
 o Distribution of trade specific tool kits to trained candidates.
• The key action areas: Vendor development, participation in public procurement, building reliable
database, credit facilitation, technology upgradation, marketing support, and special subsidies under
various schemes etc.
Source : PIB

54 (d)

Explanation:

• Thermoperiodism is defined as the ability to discriminate between day temperature and night
temperature. We conclude that thermo periodic control of floral transition is associated with modulation
of the diurnal expression patterns of Floral Transition, with timing of temperature alteration being
important rather than average daily temperature.

55 (c)

Explanation:

• BirdLife International is a global partnership of non-governmental organizations that strives to

conserve birds and their habitats. BirdLife International’s priorities include preventing the extinction of
bird species, identifying and protecting critical sites for birds, maintaining and restoring key bird
habitats, and empowering conservationists around the world.
• It has a membership of more than 2.5 million people across 116 country partner organizations,
including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the Wild Bird Society of Japan, the National
Audubon Society and American Bird Conservancy.
• BirdLife International has identified 13,000 Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas and is the official
International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List authority for birds. As of 2015, BirdLife
International has established that 1,375 bird species (13% of the total) are threatened with extinction
(critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable).
• BirdLife International publishes a quarterly magazine, BirdLife: The Magazine, which contains recent
news and authoritative articles about birds and their conservation.

56 (a)

Explanation:
IIPDF Scheme:

• The IIPDF Scheme was set up in 2007.

NIRMAN IAS 28
 • It is a Central Sector Scheme with total outlay of Rs 150 crore for a period of three years from
2022-23 to 2024-25.
• It is available to the Sponsoring Authorities for PPP projects for meeting the project
development costs.
• Objective: It is aimed to provide financial support for quality project development activities.
• Significance: The Sponsoring Authority will, be able to source funding to cover a portion of the
PPP transaction costs, thereby reducing the impact of costs related to procurement on their
budgets.
• Financial Outlay:
o The IIPDF will contribute upto 75% of the project development expenses to the
Sponsoring Authority as an interest free loan. The balance 25% will be co-funded by
the Sponsoring Authority.
o On successful completion of the bidding process, the project development expenditure
would be recovered from the successful bidder.
o However, in the case of failure of the bid, the loan would be converted into grant.
o In case the Sponsoring Authority does not conclude the bidding process for some reason,
the entire amount contributed would be refunded to the IIPDF.

57 (d)

Explanation:

• The Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) is a global partnership of governments, businesses, civil
society, and Indigenous Peoples focused on reducing emissions from deforestation and forest
degradation, forest carbon stock conservation, the sustainable management of forests, and the
enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries, activities commonly referred to as
REDD+.

58 (d)

Explanation:

• India has 38 world heritage sites that include 30 Cultural properties, 7 Natural properties and 1 mixed
site.
Natural Sites in India (7)

• Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area (2014)

• Kaziranga National Park (1985)

NIRMAN IAS 29
 • Keoladeo National Park (1985)
• Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (1985)
• Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks (1988, 2005)
• Sundarban National Park (1987)
• Western Ghats (2012)

59 (a)

Explanation:
• Members of the Garo tribal community recently performed Wangala dance on the occasion of ‘The
Rising Sun Water Fest-2022’ on the banks of Umiam Lake in Meghalaya
• The Wangala Festival, also known as the 100 drum festival is celebrated with much zeal and
enthusiasm in India’s north-eastern state of Meghalaya.
• Celebrated since 1976, it’s the most important festival of the Garo tribe and attracts a lot of tourists.
• During the Wangala, tribals offer sacrifices to please their deity Saljong, the Sun God.
• It marks the end of the long harvest season.
• The celebration also signifies the end of a long toil period in the field for the Garo tribe before the
start of the winters.
• The first day of the festival is celebrated with a ceremony called Ragula which is performed in the
house of the village’s chief.

60 (d)

Explanation:
• Critically Endangered (CR), a category containing those species that possess an extremely high risk
of extinction as a result of rapid population declines of 80 to more than 90 percent over the previous 10
years (or three generations), a current population size of fewer than 50 individuals, or other factors
• Endangered (EN), a designation applied to species that possess a very high risk of extinction as a
result of rapid population declines of 50 to more than 70 percent over the previous 10 years (or three
generations), a current population size of fewer than 250 individuals, or other factors
• Vulnerable (VU), a category containing those species that possess a very high risk of extinction as a
result of rapid population declines of 30 to more than 50 percent over the previous 10 years (or three
generations), a current population size of fewer than 1,000 individuals, or other factors

NIRMAN IAS 30
61 (d)

Explanation :

• All the pairs are correctly matched.

62 (c)

Explanation :
The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act ,
2006:

• It recognizes forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers who have been
living in such forests for generations , recognizing their forest rights on forest lands.
• Central Government may , by notification and subject to the condition of previous publication , make
rules for carrying out the provisions of this Act .
• Its expansion is all over India.
• Central Government may , by notification and subject to the condition of previous publication , make
rules for carrying out the provisions of this Act .
• It gives forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers ownership rights over
land cultivated by tribals or forest dwellers up to a maximum of 4 hectares.
• The rights of forest dwellers extend to minor forest produce , grazing areas etc.

63 (c)

Explanation:

• Nagaland hosted the first edition of the Tokhü Emong Bird Count (TEBC) between November 4 to 7, a
four-day documentation event to list birds in the state.
• It is the first avian documentation exercise taken by Nagaland to go beyond Amur falcons.
• The event is being held during the Tokhü Emong post-harvest festival of the Lotha Nagas to spread
awareness about Nagaland’s bird diversity.
• This event is being organised in collaboration with the Wokha Forest Division and the Divisional
Management Unit, Nagaland Forest Management Project (NFMP), Wokha, and Bird Count India.
• The TEBC falls within the Salim Ali Bird Count, a nationwide event conducted by the Bombay
Natural History Society.
Source : The Hindu

NIRMAN IAS 31
64 (a)

Explanation :
• The 1989 Montreal Protocol is not a climate agreement. Its purpose is to protect the Earth from ozone
depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were previously used in the air
conditioning and refrigerant industry.
• The Montreal Protocol converted CFCs to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) that do not deplete the ozone
layer.
• The Kigali Amendment aims to phase out hydrofluorocarbons ( HFCs) by cutting production and
consumption.
• India is the first country in the world to launch the Cooling Action Plan in the year 2019. This
comprehensive plan aims to reduce cooling demand, enable refrigerant transition, enhance energy
efficiency and provide better technology options over a 20 -year time period.

65 (a)

Explanation :

• The air quality index covers eight pollutants - PM 2.5, PM 10, ammonia, lead, nitrogen oxides, sulfur
dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide.

66 (a)

Explanation :
Snow Leopard

• Scientific Name: Panthera uncia

• Top Predator: Snow leopards act as an indicator of the health of the mountain ecosystem in which
they live, due to their position as the top predator in the food web.
• IUCN List of Threatened Species: Vulnerable.
• Habitat: They have a vast but fragmented distribution across the mountainous landscape of central
Asia, which covers different parts of the Himalayas such as Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand,
and Sikkim.
• Threat: Largely threatened because of the loss of natural prey species, retaliatory killing due to conflict
with humans and illegal trade of its fur and bones.
• The Department of Wildlife Protection has been conducting surveys with partner NGOs to
understand presence and abundance of snow leopards under the SPAI project funded by the Ministry of
Environment Forests and Climate Change.

NIRMAN IAS 32
67 (d)

Explanation :

• IPCC is an international body established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the
United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) in 1988 to provide policy makers:
o Regular Assessment of the Scientific Basis of Climate Change
o Effects and future risks associated with climate change
o Adaptation and mitigation options for climate change
• Membership of the IPCC is open to all members of the WMO and UNEP .
• Global net anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2019 were 59 Gigatonnes of Carbon
Dioxide Equivalent (GtCO2e), a 54% increase from 1990.

68 (a)

Explanation :

• On March 2 , 2022, At the fifth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA- 5.2) in
Nairobi, representatives from 175 countries agreed to create an internationally binding treaty to end
plastic pollution by 2024.
• Whenever plastic decomposes, it breaks down first into microplastics and then into nanoplastics.
• Effects of plastic pollution
o Ingestion, suffocation and entanglement of hundreds of marine species.
o Transfer of pollutants between marine species and humans through the consumption of
seafood.
o Contribution to global warming.

69 (a)

Explanation:
Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe:

• Article 342 of the Constitution, only the Parliament has the right to include any caste in the list of SC or
ST.
• If a caste is to be included in SC or ST, then the state government first sends a proposal related to it to
the central government.

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 • The Central Government sends the proposal to the Registrar General of India. After getting the registrar
general's clearance, it is sent to the SC or ST commission.
• After getting approval here, it goes to the cabinet. After the approval of the cabinet, it comes to the
Parliament and after getting the approval of the Parliament, the President issues an order related to it.
Then it becomes law.
• Recently the "Pahari Ethnic Group" has now been approved by the National Commission for Scheduled
Tribes (NCST) to be included in the Union Territory Scheduled Tribes (ST of Jammu and Kashmir )
list.
• Gujjars and Bakkarwals are other Scheduled Tribes of Jammu and Kashmir.

70 (d)

Explanation :

• Point source: When pollutants are released from a specific location such as a pipe carrying industrial
effluents directly into a water body, it represents point source pollution.
• Non-point source: This includes the discharge of pollutants from diffuse sources or over a large area ,
such as runoff from agricultural fields , grazing lands , construction sites , abandoned mines and pits,
etc.

71 (b)

Explanation :

• Biomedical waste is divided into 4 categories:

o Yellow Category: It includes animal waste, soil waste , expired drugs , chemical waste , chemical
liquid waste, microbiology, biotechnology and other clinical laboratory waste etc.
o Red Category: This includes contaminated waste , waste generated from disposable items such as
tubing, syringes, urine bags, gloves, etc.
o Blue Category: This includes waste containing sharp metals.
o White Category: This includes glassware waste.

72 (a)

Explanation :

• National Green Tribunal ( NGT) was established on 18 October 2010 under the National Green
Tribunal Act, 2010.
• As per the National Green Tribunal Act, it is mandatory for the NGT to dispose of environmental issues
referred to it within 6 months.

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 • The Chairperson is appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of
India.
• October 2021 , the Supreme Court declared the 'National Green Tribunal' ( NGT) as an 'exclusive'
forum with powers to take 'suo motu' to take up environmental issues across the country . is prosperous.
• According to the Supreme Court, the role of the 'National Green Tribunal' is not limited to adjudication
only, the Tribunal has to perform several other important roles as well, which may be preventive ,
corrective or remedial in nature.
• Being a statutory body, the NGT has appellate jurisdiction and can hear it.
• NGT is not bound to follow the judicial procedure laid down in the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
• An appeal can be made to the Supreme Court against the order/decision/award made by the NGT
within 90 days.
• Two important Acts [Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest
Dwellers Act, 2006] were kept out of the jurisdiction of NGT But this at times affects the working of
NGT as many issues related to environment come under these Acts.

73 (d)

Explanation:

• According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), climate
finance is local, national or international financing from public, private and alternative sources that
seeks to support climate change mitigation and adaptation actions.
• Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF): Administered by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the
LDCF aims to support the United Nations' approximately 50 least developed countries to address their
high vulnerability to climate change and implement their national adaptation plans.
• 60% of its daytime demand with solar power generated by the Ultra Mega Solar Park in Rewa, Madhya
Pradesh, developed with the support of the World Bank Group and the Climate Investment Fund.

74 (b)

Explanation :
Bioaccumulation of Nonylphenol:
o Nonylphenol, a dangerous chemical found in detergents, is known to enter water bodies and the food
chain. It bio-accumulates and can pose serious environmental and health hazards.

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 o It is found in human milk, blood and urine and has been associated with reproductive and
developmental effects in rodents.

75 (a)

Explanation :
• Eco-mark is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as a certification mark for products that
are ecologically safe as per the standards set by BIS.
• The Eco-Mark scheme comes under the purview of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change. This scheme first saw its application in 1991.
• Eco-Marks helps to identify eco-friendly products in the market. This mark is being issued in about 16
categories such as food, drugs, chemicals, electronic goods, paper, lubricating oil, packing material etc.

76 (a)

Explanation:

• Recently, the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) 112 and the United Nations Environment
Program (UNEP) released the ' Global Methane Assessment: 2030 Baseline Report ' .
• CCAC is a voluntary partnership of government, civil societies and the private sector.
• It seeks to protect the climate and improve air quality by reducing short-lived climate pollutants.
• Its initial focus is on methane, black carbon and hydrofluorocarbons ( HFCs) . India joined CCAC in
the year 2019 .

77 (c)

Explanation :

• Recently, the International Union for

Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has declared the
Migratory Monarch butterfly as Endangered in
the Red List.
• This butterfly consumes a poisonous plant (milk
weed).
• Female monarchs are larger in size than other
butterflies.

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 • The life span of these butterflies is only for four to five weeks.
• It is commonly seen in India and many countries of the world.
• Monarch butterflies are migratory butterflies.
• These travel 1200 and 2800 miles or more from the United States, California and Canada through the
jungles of central Mexico to Australia and then to India.

78 (b)

Explanation :

• India has committed to cover 13 million hectares of non-forested and barren land with vegetation by the
year 2020 and an additional 8 million hectares by the year 2030 .
• The Bonn Challenge is a global effort. Under this, vegetation will be grown on 150 million hectares of
non-forested and barren land of the world by the year 2020 and on 350 million hectares of land by the
year 2030 .
• In the United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Paris, India voluntarily accepted the Bonn
Challenge in 2015 .

79 (d)

Explanation:
• Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) covers methods and technologies to remove flue
gas (gases from chimneys or pipes) and CO2 from the atmosphere. After this, recycling and safe and
sustainable storage options for CO2 are determined for use.
• The stored gas is directly used in fire extinguishers, pharma, food and beverage industries as well as in
agriculture sector.
• CO2 is converted into fuels (methane and methanol), refrigerants and manufacturing materials using
CCUS.
• A study report titled ‘Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) Policy Framework and its
Deployment Mechanism in India’ has been released by NITI Aayog. The report explores the
importance of carbon capture, utilization and storage as an emissions reduction strategy.

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80(c)

Explanation :

• This convention is one of the major agreements adopted during the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro
in 1992.
• The CBD is the first comprehensive global agreement that covers all aspects related to biodiversity.
• The Cartagena Biosafety Protocol was adopted on January 29, 2000, under the auspices of the
Convention on Biological Diversity.
• Its main objective is to ensure the safe transfer, handling and use of such living modified organisms
(LMOs) as a result of modern technology. Which can have an adverse effect on the conservation and
sustainable use of biodiversity in view of human health.
• An updated strategic plan for biodiversity, named the Aichi Targets, was adopted at the 10th
Conference of the CBD held in Nagoya, Japan’s Aichi Prefecture.
• As a part of that, a comprehensive roadmap on biodiversity for 2011-2020 was prepared under the
short-term strategic plan-2020. Under this, a 10-year framework has been provided for all parties to
work for biodiversity.
• This short-term plan is a set of 20 ambitious goals, collectively known as the Aichi Targets .
• India has developed 12 National Biodiversity Targets (NBTs) in line with the 20 global Aichi
Biodiversity Targets .
Source: PIB, The Hindu

81 (b)

Explanation :
Climate Change Performance Index, 2023:

• It is published by Germanwatch, New Climate Institute and Climate Action Network on an annual
basis since 2005.
• It serves as an independent monitoring tool to track the performance of climate protection measures of
57 countries and the European Union.
• All the countries involved under this jointly emit more than 92 percent of greenhouse gas (GHG).
• It is released based on the overall performance of countries on 14 indicators under four categories.
GHG emissions (40% of the overall score), renewable energy (20%), energy use (20%), and climate
policy (20%).
• No country received a higher overall rating because no country performed better.
• That's why the top three positions (those with overall performance) remain vacant.

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 • Denmark, Sweden, Chile and Morocco were the only four smaller countries ranked above India at
fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh places respectively.
• India is the only country to feature in the top 10 among the G-20 countries.
• United Kingdom ranked 11th in CCPI 2023 .
• China has been ranked 51st in the CCPI 2023 and has a very low rating.

82 (d)

Explanation :
• Negative emissions mean reducing the amount of carbon by capturing it, removing it from the
environment and storing it in a safe place.
• It involves the use of plants as fuel. The carbon dioxide released is then captured and safely stored
indefinitely.
• This is commonly known as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) .
• It also has the potential to alter Earth's radiation balance through geoengineering.

83 (d)

Explanation:
Methane is the primary component of natural gas. Its contribution to global warming is more than 25%.
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) and has an atmospheric lifetime of 20 years. its global warming
potential is 80 times more than carbon dioxide (CO2). It is responsible for about half of the increase in ozone
formation in the troposphere. It is a colorless and odorless gas. It is found abundantly in nature and is also
emitted as a product of human activities.

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The world's five largest methane emitters (from all sources) are China , India , the United States , Russia, and
Brazil. Together , they account for about half of all methane emissions globally.

84 (c)

Explanation :

• Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest - Tamil Nadu

• Pala Wetlands - Mizoram
• Sakhya Sagar - Madhya Pradesh
• Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary - near Ahmedabad , Gujarat

85 (d)

Explanation:

• Biological contaminants include bacteria, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust, mites,
cockroaches, and pollen.
• Some biological contaminants trigger allergic reactions including hypersensitivity pneumonitis ,
allergic rhinitis and some types of asthma.

86 (c)

Explanation:
Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe): It acts as a single window nodal
agency for meeting the needs of the private sector in India's space programme.

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NewSpace India Limited (NSIL): It is a Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Space and the
commercial arm of ISRO. NSIL was established to meet the ever-increasing demands of the Indian space
program and to commercially exploit the emerging global space market. The emergence of NSIL will promote
the development of Indian industries in space related activities and enable Indian industries to increase their
manufacturing and production base.
Indian Space Association (ISPA): It was established in the year 2021. It is the apex, non-profit industry body.
It is working towards successful exploration, collaboration and development of private and public space
industry especially in India. It will provide policy support to all stakeholders and engage and coordinate with
them. It will act as a catalyst to accelerate exchange of knowledge, technology in space related domains.
Antrix Corporation Limited: This is the marketing arm of ISRO. It manages ISRO's commercial deals for
satellites and launch vehicles with foreign customers.
Space Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development (SEED): It is a competitive early stage incentive
program for start-ups and MSMEs to develop products and services in focus areas of interest to ISRO .

87(a)

Explanation :
• Section 2(a) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act , 1981 considers noise to be an '
air pollutant'. According to reports , an " air pollutant" is any solid , liquid or gaseous substance ,
including noise , which is present in the atmosphere in such concentration that is or may be harmful to
humans , other living beings, plants, property or the environment Could,
• Noise pollution and its sources are regulated under the Environment (Protection) Act , 1986 and the
Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules , 2000 .
• Under the Act , there is a defined ambient permissible noise level , restrictions on the use of
loudspeakers , sound emitting construction equipment , horns , bursting of firecrackers etc.
• Various physiological disorders caused by high noise include temporary deafness , headache and
increased blood pressure.
What is the acceptable level of noise ?

• The regulations have defined acceptable levels of noise in the areas during day and night. Day time is
from 6 AM to 10 PM and from 10 PM to 6 AM.
• In commercial areas maximum limits are 65 dB and 55 dB during day and night respectively. In
residential areas, they are 55 dB and 45 dB during the day and night, respectively.
• In industrial areas, the maximum limits are set at 75 dB and 70 dB during day and night, while in silent
areas it is 50 dB and 40 dB .

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88 (c)

Explanation :
Bioremediation:

• Oil spills in oceans can be cleaned using bacteria through bioremediation. Specific bacteria of can be
used to bioremediate specific contaminants, such as hydrocarbons, which are present in oil and
gasoline.
• Paraperlucidibaca, Cycloclasticus, Oleispira, Thalassolitus Zhongsania and a few others can help
remove many types of contaminants.
• Currently , India does not have any legislation covering oil spills and its consequential environmental
damages , but India has the " National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP) of 1996 " to
handle such situations .
• Skimmers removes froth from oil surfaces.
• Sorbents' are great absorbents that absorb oil.
• Dispersing agent are the chemicals which contain compounds that act to break up liquids such as oil
into smaller droplets. They accelerate its natural dispersal in the ocean.

89 (a)

Norovirus:
o It is a group of viruses that leads to gastrointestinal illness.
o It causes inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines, in addition to severe vomiting
and diarrhoea.
o Norovirus is resistant to many disinfectants and can heat up to 60°C. Therefore, merely
steaming food or chlorinating water does not kill the virus. The virus can also survive many
common hand sanitisers.
 Transmission:
o The virus can be transferred from an infected to a healthy individual through
contaminated surfaces or food.
o The virus can primarily be transmitted from oral-faecal.
• Disease outbreaks typically occur aboard cruise ships, in nursing homes,
dormitories, and other closed spaces.
• Vulnerable Group: The virus can affect people across all age groups but is known to
cause serious symptoms in children, the elderly and people with comorbidities.
• Symptoms: Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Stomach ache, gastrointestinal problems etc. are the symptoms.

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 • Treatment: While there is no specific treatment available to cure the virus, generic medications for
diarrhoea and vomiting can help cure the disease.

90 (b)

Explanation :

• Srivilliputhur Elephant Reserve - Tamil Nadu

• Nilambur Elephant Reserve - Kerala
• Rayala Elephant Reserve - Andhra Pradesh
• Intanki Elephant Reserve - Nagaland

91 (d)

Explanation :

• Alpha particles are positively charged He (helium) atoms , beta particles are negatively charged
electrons and gamma rays are neutral electromagnetic radiation.
• Radioactive elements are found naturally in the Earth's crust. Uranium , thorium and actinium are three
NORM (naturally occurring radioactive material) series that contaminate water resources.
• Radioactivity is measured in Becquerel (SI unit) or Curie. Unit Sievert measures the amount of
radiation absorbed by human tissues.
• Cosmogenic radionuclides are radioactive isotopes that are produced by natural processes and
distributed within the Earth system.
• Human tissues absorb radiation through contaminated water and foods , which can lead to serious
health risks. High doses of radiation can cause acute radiation syndrome or cutaneous radiation injury.
• Exposure to radiation causes various disorders in human physiology, including cancer, leukemia,
genetic mutations, cataracts, etc.

92 (b)

Explanation :
Microplastic:

• They are defined as plastics with a diameter of less than five millimeters.

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 • Primary microplastics: They are the smallest particles that are designed for commercial use and are
microfibres derived from clothing and other textiles.
• Microplastics can stick to the outer membranes of red blood cells and limit their ability to transport
oxygen.
• Plastic Pacts are business-led initiatives to transform the plastic packaging value chain for all formats
and products.

93 (c)

• The BharOS is an Indian government-funded project to develop a free and open-source

operating system (OS) for use in government and public systems.
• It is made in india first operating system for smartphones, to reduce dependence on foreign operating
system.
• The BharOS was developed by J&K Operations Private Limited (J&K ops), which has been incubated
by IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, a Section 8 (Not for Profit) Company established
by IIT Madras.
• It will reduce the dependency on foreign operating system, but totally replacement is not in its
objective.

94 (a)

Explanation :

• Environmental Impact Assessment in India is statutorily supported by the Environment Protection Act ,
1986 which contains various provisions on EIA methodology and procedure.
• 2006 Notification has decentralized environmental clearance projects by classifying developmental
projects into two categories, i.e. Category A (National Level Assessment) and Category B (State Level
Assessment).
• Different stages of EIA process
o Screening
o Scoping
o Collection of baseline data
o Impact prediction
o Mitigation Measures and EIA Report
o Public Hearing
o Decision making
o Monitoring and Implementation of Environment Management Plan:
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 o Assessment of Alternatives , Outline of Mitigation Measures and Environmental Impact
Assessment Report
o Risk Evaluation

95 (c)

Explanation :

• CCAMLR is an international treaty for the management of Antarctic fisheries in order to maintain the
species diversity and stability of the entire Antarctic marine ecosystem.
• CCAMLR came into force in April 1982.
• India has been a permanent member of CCAMLR since 1986.
• The National Center for Polar and Ocean Research ( NCPOR), Goa manages the entire Indian Antarctic
Programme.

96 (c)

Explanation:
• A participatory note, commonly known as a P-note or PN, is an instrument issued by a registered
foreign institutional investor (FII) to an overseas investor who wishes to invest in Indian stock markets
without registering themselves with the the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• These notes are a unique Indian invention started in 2000 by SEBI to enable foreign corporates and
high networth investors enter the Indian market.
• It is only available to foreign Investors.
• These instruments account for only 2 per cent of FPI assets currently.

97 (d)

Explanation :

• The National Mission for Clean Ganga is implemented by the National Council for Rejuvenation,
Conservation and Management of River Ganga, also known as 'National Ganga Council'.
• The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) functions as the implementation arm of the National
Ganga Council , which was registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act , 1860 on
August 2011 .

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 • The mission includes retrofitting and augmentation of existing sewage treatment plants (STPs) and
taking immediate short term steps to prevent pollution at riverfront exit points to check sewage flow.

98 (a)

Explanation :

• Forest (Conservation) Rules , 2022, MoEFCC has directed the constitution of a Project Screening
Committee in each State/UT for preliminary review of proposals related to transfer of forest land.
• The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 stipulated that central permission is required to practice sustainable
agro-forestry in forest areas. Also the violation or lack of permit was considered an offence.
• National Forest Policy , 1988 It envisages a target of covering 33% of the country's geographical area
with forests and trees.
• According to Article 48A under the Directive Principles of State Policy, the State shall work for the
protection and promotion of the environment and shall work towards the protection of forests and
wildlife throughout the country.
• National Afforestation Programme: It It has been implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest
and Climate Change for afforestation of degraded forest land since 2000.

99 (a)

• Penguins live almost exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere: only one species, the Galápagos penguin,
is found north of the Equator.
• They are not found naturally in North America, Europe and Asia.
• IUCN status of Emperor penguin is ‘Near Threatened’.

100 (b)

Explanation :

• Scientific forestry is concerned with the replacement and replanting of new crops and trees.
• Agro-forestry Individual farmers are urged to grow trees in their area to suit their family's domestic
needs.
• Extension forestry is becoming more widespread in urban areas and most residential estates.
• Extension forestry includes planting trees along canals, roads and railroads, as well as on wasteland.

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 • Social forestry produce is not covered by any agriculture insurance scheme and does not receive any
marketing support. Such policy gaps discourage social forestry.
• Agroforestry is the management of trees in an agricultural setting for a specific purpose.
• Agroforestry benefits include helping the environment, maintaining soil and water, earning extra
money, and providing shelter and grazing for animals.
• In agro-forestry, individual farmers are urged to grow trees in their fields to suit the household needs of
their families.

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