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 : 

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Uses

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a type of plastic that is widely used in the manufacture of various products, including textiles, bottles, and food containers. Let’s evaluate each of the statements provided:

PET in Textile Blends

Its fibers can be blended with wool and cotton fibers to reinforce their properties. This statement is correct. PET fibers, often known as polyester fibers, are commonly blended with natural fibers like wool and cotton to improve the strength, durability, and wrinkle resistance of the fabric.

PET for Alcoholic Beverage Storage

Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage. This statement is not entirely correct. While PET containers are used for storing some types of alcoholic beverages, they may not be suitable for all kinds. Some alcoholic beverages, especially those with high alcohol content, can degrade PET over time, leading to potential contamination of the beverage and a decrease in the quality of the container. Therefore, PET is not universally used for all alcoholic beverage storage.

Recycling PET Bottles

Bottles made of it can be recycled into other products. This statement is correct. PET is a highly recyclable material, and bottles made from PET can be recycled into a variety of products, including fibers for textiles, new bottles, and even materials for construction.

Incineration of PET and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions. This statement is incorrect. Incinerating PET or any other plastic will produce carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. While incineration can be a method of disposal, it is not free from environmental impact, and it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

Based on the evaluation, the correct statements are 1 and 3, which means the correct answer is “1 and 3.”

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 : 

Importance of Wetlands in Environmental Health

The statement “If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys” is an analogy that compares the role of wetlands in the environment to the role of kidneys in the human body. Just as kidneys filter and remove waste products and excess substances from the bloodstream, thus helping to maintain the body’s internal environment, wetlands perform a similar function for the Earth’s water systems.

Wetlands as Earth’s Natural Filters

The correct answer, “Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients,” best reflects the analogy because it describes how wetlands act as natural filters for the environment. Here’s a breakdown of how this function is similar to that of kidneys:

• Filtering Waste: Wetlands filter out pollutants from the water, including heavy metals and excess nutrients, much like kidneys filter out waste products from the blood.
• Maintaining Balance: Just as kidneys help to regulate the balance of electrolytes and other substances in the body, wetlands help to maintain the chemical balance of water ecosystems by absorbing and transforming excess nutrients that could otherwise lead to problems like eutrophication, which is the over-enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and depletion of oxygen.
• Detoxification: Wetlands can break down or store harmful pollutants, similar to how kidneys detoxify the blood by removing toxins and converting them into less harmful substances that can be excreted.

The other options, while they describe important functions of wetlands, do not directly relate to the analogy of wetlands being the Earth’s “kidneys“:

• The water cycle in wetlands is more akin to the circulation of fluids in the body rather than the specific filtering function of kidneys.
• Algae forming the nutrient base for other organisms is related to the food chain and productivity of the ecosystem, not to the filtering and regulatory role of kidneys.
• Maintaining sedimentation balance and soil stabilization is more about physical support and erosion control than the specific cleansing and filtering function that the kidneys perform.

Therefore, the function of aquatic plants absorbing heavy metals and excess nutrients is the one that best reflects the idea of wetlands functioning as the Earth’s kidneys, providing a vital cleansing and balancing role in the environment.

Explanation : 

Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS)

The Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS) is a concept related to military strategy and weapons systems. The idea behind FOBS is to place a nuclear-armed missile into a low Earth orbit, allowing it to travel over the South Pole and approach targets from directions that are not covered by traditional early warning radar systems, which typically expect attacks to come over the North Pole. This system would allow a missile to be deorbited to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere and strike a target almost anywhere on the globe with little warning.

Here’s a breakdown of why the correct answer is “A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth”:

– The FOBS is not designed to counter asteroids, so the option regarding a hypersonic missile launched to explode an asteroid is not correct.

– The system does not involve landing a spacecraft on another planet, so the option about a spacecraft making several orbital motions before landing is not relevant.

– The FOBS is not related to placing a probe on a comet, so the option about a spacecraft moving along with a comet is incorrect.

– The correct answer is that a missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and then deorbits over a target on the Earth. This reflects the actual purpose of the FOBS, which is to use space as a medium to deliver a nuclear payload to a target on Earth in an unexpected manner, potentially evading missile defense systems.

The FOBS was primarily developed during the Cold War by the Soviet Union as a means to ensure their ability to strike targets even in the face of improving missile defenses. While the system was never fully operational, the concept has been revisited in discussions about modern military capabilities, particularly with the advent of new hypersonic missile technology.