Explanation:

India’s Groundwater Situation

According to the CGWA, approximately 12-14% of India’s districts fall under the ‘overexploited’ or ‘critical’ category.
Source: Ground Water Resource Assessment | cgwb

Formation of CGWA

The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) was established under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986. This regulatory body is responsible for managing and controlling groundwater resources in India.

Largest Groundwater Irrigation Area

As per report of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of UN, the countries with the largest extent of areas equipped for irrigation with groundwater, in absolute terms, are India (39 million ha), China (19 million ha) and the USA (17 million ha).

Explanation:

Analysis of the Given Pairs

To determine the correct matches among the given pairs, let’s examine each one:

1. Bhilsa — Madhya Pradesh

Bhilsa, now known as Vidisha, is indeed in Madhya Pradesh. This place has historical significance and is known for its ancient monuments and archaeological heritage. So, this pair is correctly matched.

2. Dwarasamudra — Maharashtra

Dwarasamudra, the historical name for Halebidu, was the regal capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century. It is actually located in Karnataka, not Maharashtra. Therefore, this pair is incorrectly matched.

3. Girinagar — Gujarat

Girinagar, also known as Girnar, is located in Gujarat. It is famous for its hill temples and ancient history. Thus, this pair is correctly matched.

4. Sthanesvara — Uttar Pradesh

Sthanesvara, historically known as Thanesar, is actually in Haryana, not Uttar Pradesh. It is a place of religious and historical importance. Therefore, this pair is incorrectly matched.

Given the analysis, the pairs that are correctly matched are:

• Bhilsa — Madhya Pradesh
• Girinagar — Gujarat

Therefore, the correct answer is a) 1 and 3 only.

Explanation:

Location of Siachen Glacier

The Siachen Glacier, situated in the eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas, is located to the north of the Nubra Valley. This makes option (d) “North of Nubra Valley” the correct answer. Here’s a detailed explanation:

a) East of Aksai Chin

This option is incorrect because Aksai Chin is located to the east of Ladakh, and the Siachen Glacier is not directly east of Aksai Chin.

b) East of Leh

This option is not accurate because Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is situated to the south of the Siachen Glacier.

c) North of Gilgit

Gilgit is part of the Gilgit-Baltistan region, which is administered by Pakistan. The Siachen Glacier is to the east of Gilgit, not directly north.

d) North of Nubra Valley

This is the correct answer. The Nubra Valley is located to the north of Leh and is known for its scenic beauty, including sand dunes and monasteries. The Siachen Glacier lies to the north of the Nubra Valley, making this the most accurate description of its location.

The Siachen Glacier is strategically significant and has been a point of military contention between India and Pakistan. It is known as the highest battlefield in the world, with both countries maintaining a military presence in the region despite the harsh climatic conditions.

Explanation:

Desert National Park

The Desert National Park is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan and is spread over two districts, Jaisalmer and Barmer. It covers an area of approximately 3162 square kilometers and represents the Thar Desert ecosystem.

Human Habitation

Contrary to popular belief, there are villages and human settlements within the boundaries of the Desert National Park. There are 73 villages and also settlements or Dhanis existing within the Park. Other tribes include Bishnois, Bhils, Minas, Lohars, Garasians, Sahariyas, and Rabaris. Their presence is a unique aspect of conservation in the park, as they play a role in protecting the flora and fauna.

Habitat for Great Indian Bustard

The Desert National Park is indeed one of the last strongholds for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps). The park provides a suitable habitat for these birds, including open plains, scrublands, and undisturbed areas where they can breed and feed. Conservation efforts within the park are crucial for the survival of this species, which faces threats from habitat loss and hunting outside protected areas.

Explanation:

Government Control of Fertilizer Prices

At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government. However, this statement is incorrect for India. The government plays a significant role in controlling the prices of chemical fertilizers through subsidies.

The government fixes the maximum retail prices (MRP) of several essential fertilizers, including urea, and provides subsidies to manufacturers to sell fertilizers at below-market rates to farmers. This is done to ensure that fertilizers are affordable for farmers, thereby promoting agricultural productivity.

Ammonia Production from Natural Gas

Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas. This statement is correct. Ammonia synthesis on an industrial scale primarily relies on the Haber-Bosch process, which uses natural gas (methane) as a primary feedstock.

Natural gas is reformed into hydrogen and carbon dioxide, and the hydrogen is then used with nitrogen to produce ammonia. This process is energy-intensive but is the most common method due to the availability of natural gas.

Sulphur as a By-Product of Oil Refineries

Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries. This statement is also correct. Sulphur is indeed a by-product of the oil refining process, as well as of coal processing and the smelting of mineral ores.

When these raw materials are processed, sulphur is removed and collected because it is considered an impurity. The collected sulphur is then purified and sold, among other uses, for the production of sulphuric acid, which is a key ingredient in the manufacture of phosphoric acid fertilizers.

Explanation:

Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT)

Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT) is a significant parameter in the study of oceanography and climate science. It refers to the average temperature of the ocean up to a certain depth, which can provide insights into various climatic phenomena, including the prediction of monsoon patterns.

Statement 1

OMT is measured up to a depth of 26ºC isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March.

This statement is incorrect because the depth of the 26°C isotherm can vary significantly depending on geographical location and seasonal changes. Typically, the 26°C isotherm is found at depths ranging from 50 to 100 meters.

Statement 2

OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.

This statement is correct. The measurement of OMT during the January-March period is crucial for predicting the upcoming monsoon season’s rainfall patterns. OMT provides valuable information on the thermal energy stored in the ocean, which plays a significant role in influencing atmospheric circulation patterns and, consequently, the monsoon rainfall. A higher OMT can indicate a stronger monsoon, as it suggests more thermal energy available to fuel the monsoon system, while a lower OMT might indicate a weaker monsoon. Therefore, analyzing OMT during these months allows for an early assessment of the monsoon’s potential strength or weakness relative to the long-term mean, offering a valuable tool for agricultural planning, water resource management, and disaster preparedness.

Explanation:

Minerals Classification in India

In India, minerals are classified into two main categories: major minerals and minor minerals. The classification is based on the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, which was last amended in 2015. The distinction between major and minor minerals is significant in terms of the regulatory and administrative framework governing their extraction and management.

1. Bentonite

Bentonite is primarily a type of clay mineral, known for its ability to swell and absorb water, making it useful in various industrial and health applications. It is generally considered a minor mineral in India.

2. Chromite

Chromite is an important ore of chromium, which is used in stainless steel, nichrome, and chrome plating. Given its economic importance, chromite is classified as a major mineral.

3. Kyanite

Kyanite is an aluminum silicate mineral used in the manufacture of refractory materials, capable of withstanding high temperatures. It is valuable for industries that require materials with high thermal resistance. Kyanite is classified as a major mineral in India due to its economic importance and specific industrial uses.

4. Sillimanite

Sillimanite is also an aluminum silicate mineral used in the manufacture of refractory materials, capable of withstanding high temperatures. It is valuable for industries that require materials with high thermal resistance. Sillimanite is classified as a major mineral in India due to its economic importance and specific industrial uses.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is:

d) 2, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Fertigation: Combining Irrigation and Fertilization

Fertigation is an agricultural technique that combines irrigation with the application of fertilizers, soil amendments, or other water-soluble products into an irrigation system. This method efficiently and effectively distributes nutrients directly to plants’ root zones. The term “fertigation” is derived from a combination of “fertilization” and “irrigation.”

Key Components of Fertigation:

1. Irrigation System: Fertigation can be applied through various irrigation systems, including drip, sprinkler, or pivot systems. Drip irrigation is particularly effective for fertigation because it delivers water and nutrients directly to the root zone, minimizing waste and reducing the risk of leaf burn.
2. Fertilizer Injector: This device injects the liquid fertilizer into the irrigation water. The injectors can be of different types, such as venturi injectors, positive displacement pumps, or differential pressure tanks, depending on the system’s requirements.
3. Fertilizers and Nutrients: Water-soluble fertilizers are used in fertigation. These can be synthetic or organic, and the choice depends on the crop requirements, soil conditions, and the grower’s preferences.

Advantages of Fertigation:

1. Efficiency: Fertigation allows for precise application of nutrients, directly to the plant’s root zone, where they are most needed. This reduces the amount of fertilizer required and minimizes nutrient leaching.
2. Water Conservation: By combining irrigation with fertilization, fertigation can help conserve water. It ensures that water, along with nutrients, is only applied where needed, reducing waste.
3. Improved Crop Yield and Quality: The precise application of nutrients can lead to improved crop yields and quality, as plants receive the right amount of nutrients at the right time.
4. Flexibility: Fertigation systems can be adjusted easily to meet the changing nutritional requirements of crops throughout their growth stages.
5. Reduced Labor and Energy Costs: Fertigation reduces the need for manual labor for fertilizer application and can also lower energy costs associated with traditional fertilization methods.

Evaluating the Options for Fertigation

Option 1: Controlling the alkalinity of irrigation water is possible

Fertigation allows for the precise application of nutrients and amendments, including those that can adjust the pH (such as acid to lower alkalinity) of the irrigation water. This makes option 1 correct.

Option 2: Efficient application of Rock Phosphate and all other phosphatic fertilizers is possible

Fertigation typically uses water-soluble fertilizers for efficient delivery through the irrigation system. Rock Phosphate, however, is not readily water-soluble and is typically not used in fertigation systems. This makes option 2 incorrect.

Option 3: Increased availability of nutrients to plants is possible

Fertigation delivers nutrients directly to the root zone, increasing the efficiency of nutrient uptake by plants. This makes option 3 correct.

Option 4: Reduction in the leaching of chemical nutrients is possible

By applying nutrients directly to the root zone in precise amounts, fertigation reduces the risk of nutrient leaching beyond the root zone. This makes option 4 correct.

Given these evaluations, the correct answer is:

c) 1, 3, and 4 only

Explanation:

Ashoka the Great: Emperor of the Maurya Dynasty

Ashoka the Great was an emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled almost the entire Indian subcontinent from c. 268 to 232 BCE. He is remembered for his conversion to Buddhism after witnessing the mass deaths of the Kalinga War, which he himself had waged out of a desire for conquest. Ashoka’s remorse after the Kalinga War led him to adopt Buddhism and spread its teachings. He is known for his efforts to propagate the Buddhist philosophy and moral values through inscriptions on pillars and rocks across his empire. These inscriptions are known as the Edicts of Ashoka.

Ashoka’s Policy of Religious Tolerance

The inscription mentioned in the question reflects Ashoka’s policy of religious tolerance and his desire to promote harmony among different religious sects within his empire. It underscores the importance of respecting all religions and not elevating one’s own religion at the expense of others. This approach was revolutionary at the time and contributed to a period of peace and prosperity in his realm.

Significance of Ashoka’s Edicts

Ashoka’s edicts are a significant source of historical information about his reign and philosophy. They reveal his concerns for governance, the welfare of his subjects, justice, and the spread of Buddhism. The message of non-violence, respect for all living beings, and tolerance of all religions are recurrent themes in these inscriptions.

Explanation:

Kulyavapa

This term is associated with the measurement of land in terms of the amount of seed required to sow the land. Specifically, ‘kulyavapa’ refers to the amount of land that could be sown with a ‘kulya’ of seeds. A ‘kulya’ is a specific measure of volume for seeds, and thus ‘kulyavapa’ essentially denotes a unit of area based on the seed sowing capacity.

Dronavapa

Similar to ‘kulyavapa’, ‘dronavapa’ is another term related to land measurement based on the capacity of seed required for sowing. It refers to the amount of land that could be sown with a ‘drona’ of seeds. A ‘drona’ is another traditional Indian measure of volume, and thus ‘dronavapa’ represents a unit of area determined by the amount of seed (measured in ‘dronas’) that would be used to sow that area.