Correct Answer: Option C: 2, 1, 4, 3.

Explanation: 
1. Queensland: The capital city of Queensland is Brisbane. 
2. South Australia: The capital city of South Australia is Adelaide. 
3. Victoria: The capital city of Victoria is Melbourne.
4. Western Australia: Kalgoorlie is a city in Western Australia.

Now, let’s match the codes:
(a) Queensland – 2
(b) South Australia – 1
(c) Victoria – 4
(d) Western Australia – 3

The correct answer is: a) Laos

Explanation: A landlocked country is one that is entirely surrounded by land and does not have access to the sea. In Southeast Asia, Laos is the only landlocked country. It is bordered by China to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the southeast, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar to the northwest. Unlike other countries in the region such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, which have coastlines along seas or oceans, Laos has no direct access to any sea or ocean.

The correct answer is: Option A: a) 1 4 2 3

Explanation:

– Chinook: This is a warm, dry wind that occurs in the United States (U.S.A.), particularly in the Rocky Mountain region.

– Sirocco: This is a hot, dry wind that originates in the Sahara Desert in Africa and blows towards southern Europe.

– Brickfielder: This is a hot, dry wind that occurs in Australia.

– Mistral: This is a cold, dry wind that blows in Europe, particularly in southern France.

The correct answer is: a) Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Explanation: The states that share the Tungabhadra Multipurpose Project are Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. This project involves the Tungabhadra Dam, which is built on the Tungabhadra River, a tributary of the Krishna River. The dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, electricity generation, and flood control.

The correct answer is: Option B: Panchpatmali deposit (Odisha)

Explanation: The Panchpatmali bauxite deposit, located in the Koraput district of Odisha, is considered the largest bauxite deposit in India. It is a significant source of bauxite, which is the primary ore for aluminum production. This deposit is extensively mined by the National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), making it a key contributor to India’s aluminum industry.

The correct answer is: a) trying of sedition cases without a jury and holding suspects in jail without trial.

Explanation: The Rowlatt Act, passed in 1919 by the British colonial government, was strongly opposed by Indians because it allowed the government to suppress political activities and detain individuals suspected of sedition without a trial. It also permitted trials without juries, which was seen as a violation of basic civil rights and justice. This act was perceived as highly repressive and unjust, leading to widespread protests and opposition across India.

The correct answer is: c) Jharsuguda

Explanation: Gandhiji’s first padyatra against untouchability was undertaken in 1934 in Odisha. He began his march on May 8, 1934, from Puri, addressing the issue of untouchability and mobilizing support for Harijan welfare. This significant movement covered various parts of Odisha, including areas like Cuttack, Kendrapada, and Jharsuguda

The correct answer is: Option A: Sun Temple at Konark

Explanation: Bisu Moharana is a renowned architect historically associated with the construction of the Sun Temple at Konark, located in Odisha, India. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. It was built in the 13th century during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.

The correct answer is b) diamond.

According to historical accounts, after the famous Battle of the Hydaspes (326 BCE), King Porus and Alexander the Great established a mutual respect despite being on opposing sides. It is said that Porus gifted Alexander a diamond, showcasing their diplomacy and recognition of each other’s valor​.

The correct answer is: c) Government of Odisha.

Explanation: The principle of “Zero Casualty At Any Cost” (ZCAAC) is a disaster management approach adopted by the Government of Odisha, India. This principle emphasizes the importance of minimizing or completely avoiding human casualties during natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, and other emergencies. Odisha has been recognized for its effective disaster preparedness and response strategies, particularly in handling cyclones, where this principle has played a crucial role in saving lives.