Explanation : 

Gucchi (Morel Mushrooms)

Gucchi, also known as morel mushrooms (Morchella esculenta), is indeed a type of fungus that is highly prized for its culinary uses, particularly in gourmet cooking. The statements provided can be assessed as follows:

Assessment of Statements About Gucchi

1. It is a fungus. – This statement is correct. Gucchi refers to a species of wild edible fungus known for its distinctive honeycomb-like appearance.

2. It grows in some Himalayan Forest areas. – This statement is also correct. Morel mushrooms, including Gucchi, are known to grow in the wild in forested areas of the Himalayas, particularly in regions with temperate climates. They are usually found at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 meters above sea level and are often harvested in the spring season after snowfall.

3. It is commercially cultivated in the Himalayan foothills of north-eastern India. – This statement is incorrect. As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, Gucchi mushrooms are not typically commercially cultivated on a large scale due to the difficulty in replicating their specific growing conditions. They are primarily foraged from the wild, which contributes to their rarity and high price. While there have been some attempts at cultivation, it is not a widespread commercial practice, especially not specifically in the Himalayan foothills of northeastern India.

Therefore, the correct answer is that statements 1 and 2 are correct, making the correct choice “1 and 2“.

Explanation : 

Ghadar Party and Its Association with Indian Revolutionaries

The Ghadar Party was an organization founded by Punjabi Indians in the United States and Canada with the aim to secure India’s independence from British rule. It was formed in 1913, and its members were predominantly Indian immigrants, many of whom were Sikhs, but also included Hindus and Muslims.

Association of Key Individuals with the Ghadar Party

Barindra Kumar Ghosh: He was an Indian revolutionary and younger brother of Aurobindo Ghosh (later known as Sri Aurobindo). Barindra Kumar Ghosh was associated with the revolutionary group Anushilan Samiti, which was active in Bengal. He was not directly associated with the Ghadar Party, which was more active in North America.

Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee: He was another Indian revolutionary who was involved in the Indian independence movement. While he was active in revolutionary activities, his association was not with the Ghadar Party but with other movements and organizations within India.

Rash Behari Bose: He is the one who had a direct association with the Ghadar Party. Rash Behari Bose was a revolutionary leader who played a key role in the Indian independence movement against British rule. He was involved in the Ghadar conspiracy, which was an effort during World War I by the Ghadar Party and the Berlin Committee to initiate a pan-Indian rebellion against the British Raj. Later, Bose became a prominent figure in Japan and helped form the Indian National Army (INA) with the help of the Japanese government during World War II.

Therefore, the correct answer is “3 only,” as Rash Behari Bose was the only one among the three who was actively associated with the Ghadar Party.

Explanation : 

Fanams: Medieval Indian Currency

In medieval India, the term “Fanam” referred to a type of coin. Fanams were small-sized coins made of gold, silver, or other metals that were widely used as a medium of exchange in various parts of India, particularly in the southern regions. The use of fanams can be traced back to as early as the Chola dynasty, which ruled from the 9th to the 13th centuries, and they continued to be used in subsequent periods.

Variability in Weight and Value

The weight and value of fanams varied over time and across different regions. Due to their small size and intrinsic value, fanams were convenient for everyday transactions and were often used for trade both within and outside of India. The term “fanam” itself is thought to have been derived from the Sanskrit word “phāṇa,” which means “marked” or “stamped,” referring to the imprints on the coins.

Designs and Symbols on Fanams

Fanams often featured various designs, including symbols, deities, and inscriptions, which could indicate the issuing authority or the region of circulation. The widespread use of fanams as currency illustrates the economic activity and trade networks that existed in medieval India.

Explanation : 

The Government of India Act 1919: Dyarchy Explained

The Government of India Act 1919, also known as the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, introduced a dual scheme of governance known as “dyarchy” in the provinces of British India. Under this system, the provincial subjects were divided into two categories: “Reserved” and “Transferred“.

The “Reserved” subjects were those considered too important or sensitive to be handled by Indian ministers and remained under the direct control of the Governor and the British officials. The “Transferred” subjects were those handed over to the control of Indian ministers responsible to the legislative councils.

The “Reserved” subjects typically included:

Reserved Subjects

1. Administration of Justice: This was considered a critical function that required impartiality and adherence to the rule of law, and it was kept under British control to ensure that British legal standards were maintained.

2. Land Revenue: Control over land revenue was crucial for the colonial administration as it was a significant source of income for the government.

3. Police: The police force was essential for maintaining law and order, and the colonial government wanted to keep this under their direct control to ensure their authority and control over the population.

Local Self-Government, on the other hand, was considered a “Transferred” subject. It was handed over to Indian ministers because it dealt with more local and municipal matters, which were seen as less critical to the overall governance of the province by the British.

Therefore, the correct answer is “1, 3 and 4,” which means that the “Reserved” subjects were:

1. Administration of Justice
3. Land Revenue
4. Police

Local Self-Government was not a “Reserved” subject but a “Transferred” one.

Explanation : 

Miyawaki Method: Creating Dense, Native Forests

The Miyawaki method is a technique developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki that is used to create dense, native forests. The approach is well-known for its ability to help establish mini forests in urban areas, even on small plots of land, and is particularly noted for its rapid growth and sustainability.

Key Principles of the Miyawaki Method

1. Native Species

The Miyawaki method emphasizes the use of native species that are naturally adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. This increases the chances of survival and reduces the need for maintenance.

2. Soil Preparation

The soil is prepared with a mixture that supports the natural growth of these plants. This often includes compost and other organic material that enriches the soil and provides a healthy base for the seedlings.

3. High Density Planting

Trees and plants are planted very close to each other. This high density not only ensures that the plants grow upwards rather than outwards (due to competition for sunlight) but also helps to block out weeds.

4. Multi-layered Structure

The forest created using the Miyawaki method has multiple layers, including a shrub layer, sub-tree layer, tree layer, and canopy layer. This structure mimics a natural forest and helps create a diverse ecosystem.

5. Rapid Growth

The forests grown using this method can grow incredibly quickly, becoming self-sustaining after a few years. They are often said to grow 10 times faster, be 30 times denser, and have 100 times more biodiversity than those planted by conventional methods.

The Miyawaki method has gained popularity in urban environments because it allows for the creation of natural, self-maintaining green spaces that support biodiversity, improve air quality, and enhance the local environment, even in areas with limited space. It has been used in various cities around the world to bring the benefits of forests into urban settings, combatting the effects of urbanization such as the heat island effect and providing a habitat for local wildlife.

Explanation : 

Biorock Technology: A Lifeline for Coral Reefs

Biorock technology, also known as mineral accretion technology, is a method used for the restoration of damaged coral reefs. This innovative approach involves the use of a low-voltage electrical current passed through seawater to promote the precipitation of minerals, such as calcium carbonate, which are essential for coral growth.

How Biorock Technology Works

The process works as follows:

1. A metal structure, often made of steel, is placed underwater in the vicinity of a damaged coral reef.

2. A safe, low-voltage direct current is applied to the structure, typically sourced from solar panels, wind turbines, or sometimes from an onshore power supply.

3. The electrical current causes minerals dissolved in seawater, particularly calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, to precipitate onto the structure. This forms a hard, limestone-like coating.

4. The accreted mineral substrate serves as an ideal base for coral larvae to settle and grow. Additionally, the electric field is believed to stimulate faster growth and stronger resilience in corals.

5. Over time, the electrified structure becomes encrusted with new coral growth, which attracts other marine life and helps to rebuild the ecosystem.

Biorock technology has been used in various parts of the world to help restore coral reefs that have been damaged by factors such as climate change, pollution, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices. The technology not only helps to speed up coral growth but also enhances the survival rate of corals under stress from rising sea temperatures and acidification.

The other options listed, such as the development of building materials using plant residues, identification of areas for exploration/extraction of shale gas, and providing salt licks for wild animals, are unrelated to Biorock technology. Therefore, the correct answer in the context provided is the restoration of damaged coral reefs.

Explanation : 

Nitrogen Fixation in Plants

Nitrogen fixation is a process by which certain plants, often in a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria, convert atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into a form that can be used by living organisms (usually ammonia or related compounds). This process is critical for replenishing soil nitrogen levels, which is essential for plant growth.

Known Nitrogen-Fixing Plants

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a well-known nitrogen-fixing plant. It forms a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia bacteria within its root nodules, which fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use.

Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is not a nitrogen-fixing plant. It does not form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria and thus does not fix atmospheric nitrogen.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) are legumes that also fix nitrogen. They have root nodules that house rhizobia bacteria, which perform the nitrogen fixation process.

Clover (Trifolium spp.) is another legume that fixes nitrogen. Like alfalfa and chickpeas, clover plants have root nodules with rhizobia bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for the plant.

Purslane (Kulfa) (Portulaca oleracea) is not a nitrogen-fixing plant. It is known for its ability to grow in poor soil conditions, but it does not have the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen.

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is also not a nitrogen-fixing plant. It requires nitrogen in the soil to grow but does not contribute to soil nitrogen levels through fixation.

Based on this information, the correct answer to the question is “1, 3 and 4 only.” Alfalfa, chickpea, and clover are the only plants on the list that are known to fix nitrogen.

Explanation : 

Golden Mahseer

The Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora) is not a bird; it is actually a type of fish. This freshwater fish is found in rivers and streams across South and Southeast Asia. It is highly regarded among anglers for its size and the challenge it presents in sport fishing. The Golden Mahseer is known for its beautiful golden coloration and is considered an important species in riverine ecosystems.

Other Avian Species

On the other hand, the other options listed are indeed birds:

The Indian Nightjar

The Indian Nightjar (Caprimulgus asiaticus) is a bird species found in the Indian subcontinent. It is a nocturnal bird, with cryptic plumage that helps it blend into its surroundings during the day.

Spoonbills

The Spoonbill is a group of large, long-legged wading birds, which includes several species such as the Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia). They are named for their distinctive spoon-shaped bills, which they use to sift through mud to find food in wetlands.

The White Ibis

The White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) is a species of bird found in the Americas, particularly the southeastern United States and parts of Central and South America. It is easily recognizable by its all-white plumage, black-tipped wings, and long, down-curved bill.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is the Golden Mahseer, as it is the only option that is not a bird.

Explanation : 

Web 3.0: Decentralized Online Ecosystem

Web 3.0, often referred to as the third generation of the internet, is a concept that envisions a decentralized online ecosystem based on blockchain technology.

Statement 1: Control Over Personal Data

Web 3.0 technology enables people to control their own data. One of the core principles of Web 3.0 is to give users control over their own data. In contrast to Web 2.0, where data is often controlled by centralized entities (like social media platforms or search engines), Web 3.0 aims to empower users with ownership and control over their personal information through technologies like blockchain and decentralized identity solutions.

Statement 2: Blockchain-Based Social Networks

In a Web 3.0 world, there can be blockchain-based social networks. Blockchain technology enables the creation of decentralized applications (DApps), including social networks that are not owned by a single entity. These networks can operate on a peer-to-peer basis, with governance and rules encoded in smart contracts. This allows for a new kind of social network where users can have a say in the platform’s development and potentially benefit from the value they create.

Statement 3: User-Operated Decentralized Networks

Web 3.0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation. The vision of Web 3.0 includes decentralized networks that are collectively operated by their users rather than centralized corporations. This is achieved through the use of blockchain technology, which allows for distributed consensus mechanisms and decentralized governance models. Users can participate in decision-making processes, contribute to the network’s security, and even earn rewards for their contributions.

Explanation : 

Aarogya Setu

Aarogya Setu is India’s COVID-19 tracking mobile application, developed by the National Informatics Centre under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. It uses contact tracing to inform users about the potential risk of infection with COVID-19. The source code for Aarogya Setu was made open-source in May 2020, which means that developers can inspect, modify, and enhance the code.

CoWIN (COVID-19 Vaccine Intelligence Network)

CoWIN is the digital platform India used to streamline its COVID-19 vaccination process. It was used for registering for vaccinations, scheduling appointments, and tracking vaccination status. The platform’s API was made open-source, allowing for transparency and the potential for other countries to adapt the system for their own use.

DigiLocker

DigiLocker is a platform launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for the issuance and verification of documents and certificates digitally. It eliminates the use of physical documents and enables the sharing of verified electronic documents across government agencies. DigiLocker’s core components are available as open-source software.

DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing)

DIKSHA is an e-learning platform that hosts educational content for students, teachers, and parents. It is part of the National Teacher Platform released by the Ministry of Education, India. DIKSHA is built using open-source technology and is designed to support multiple languages, making it accessible and useful across the country.

Since all these platforms are built on open-source technology, they provide numerous benefits, including increased security through community review, cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and the fostering of innovation by allowing developers to contribute to the improvement and adaptation of the software.