Correct Answer: d) Only 2

Explanation:

1. The definition of Dhamma given by Ashoka is taken from “Rahulovada-sutta.”

This statement is incorrect. While Ashoka’s concept of Dhamma is influenced by Buddhist teachings, particularly those related to moral conduct and social responsibility, it is not directly defined in the “Rahulovada-sutta.” Instead, the term Dhamma as used by Ashoka encompasses a broader interpretation of ethical behavior and social norms rather than being a direct citation from a specific text.

2. In the 14th year of his coronation, Ashoka appointed a new type of staff, called Dhamma-mahamatras.

This statement is correct. Ashoka did establish the position of Dhamma-mahamatras during his reign, specifically around the 12th year of his reign, to promote and oversee the practice of Dhamma across his empire. These officials were responsible for ensuring adherence to his policies and spreading his messages regarding moral conduct and social welfare.

Thus, the correct answer is Only 2.

Correct Answer: b) Increase of 2°C temperature in the Indian Ocean

Explanation:

Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues due to stress, primarily caused by elevated sea surface temperatures. These algae provide corals with food through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colors. Without the algae, corals turn white (bleached) and are at risk of dying if stressful conditions persist.

In the case of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the primary reason for catastrophic coral bleaching and mass coral deaths was the increase in sea surface temperature by approximately 2°C in the Indian Ocean. This temperature rise is linked to global warming and climate change, which have caused more frequent and intense marine heatwaves.

Correct Answer: a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Explanation:

– Assertion (A): Shivaji had to face opposition from the big Deshmukhs.

This statement is true. Shivaji, during his efforts to establish an independent Maratha state, faced significant resistance from the powerful Deshmukhs (local feudal lords). These Deshmukhs were influential figures in the Deccan region and held considerable power and autonomy under the Bijapur Sultanate.

– Reason (R): These Deshmukhs were not in favour of an independent Maratha State and wanted to remain as feudal lords of Bijapur.

This statement is also true. The Deshmukhs were accustomed to their feudal privileges under the Bijapur Sultanate and feared losing their autonomy and influence under a centralized Maratha state led by Shivaji. They preferred the status quo, where they could continue to act as semi-independent lords under Bijapur’s nominal authority.

– Relationship between (A) and (R):

The opposition Shivaji faced from the Deshmukhs was indeed because they were not in favor of an independent Maratha state. They wanted to maintain their feudal status under Bijapur rather than submit to Shivaji’s centralized authority. Thus, (R) correctly explains (A).

Hence, the correct answer is a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Correct answer: d) Only 2

Explanation:
The Workers and Peasants Party (WPP) was formed in different states around 1926 – 1927, but it was not until December 1928 that it took the shape of an All India Organisation. Therefore, the first statement is incorrect.

The second statement is correct that the party’s objective to work within the Indian National Congress to promote a more revolutionary approach and represent common people.

Thus, the correct answer is: d) Only 2

Correct Answer: d) 1, 2, 3, 4.

Explanation: 

1. East India Association – Founded in 1866 by Dadabhai Naoroji in London.

2. National Indian Association – Established in 1870 by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan to promote social and political awareness among Indians.

3. Indian Society – Formed in 1867, primarily by Indian students in London, aimed at discussing Indian issues and advocating for Indian interests.

4. Indian Association – Founded in 1876 in Kolkata, it played a significant role in the early nationalist movement.

Thus, the correct answer is: d) 1, 2, 3, 4.

Correct Answer: c) Only 1

Explanation: The Age of Consent Act, 1891, was a significant social reform legislation in colonial India. It raised the age of consent for sexual intercourse for girls from 10 to 12 years. This Act was primarily advocated by Behramji Malabari, a Parsi reformer from Bombay, who was deeply concerned about the plight of young girls subjected to early marriages and consummation. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

However, the Act faced opposition from certain sections of Indian society, including the extremist wing of the Indian National Congress led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. They viewed this legislation as an interference in Indian traditions and culture by the British colonial government. Therefore, statement 2 is incorrect.

Thus, the correct answer is c) Only 1.

Correct Answer: a) Both 1 and 2

Explanation:

The Justice Party was a political organization in the Madras Presidency during the early 20th century. It played a significant role in the social and political history of South India, particularly in opposing Brahmin dominance in politics and administration.

1. Statement 1: The Justice Party opposed Congress by calling it a Brahmin dominated organisation.

– This statement is correct. The Justice Party was formed primarily by non-Brahmin elites who felt that the Indian National Congress was dominated by Brahmins and did not adequately represent the interests of non-Brahmins. The party sought to challenge the social and political dominance of Brahmins in the Madras Presidency.

2. Statement 2: It claimed the same communal representation for non-Brahmins as the Morley-Minto reforms had given to Muslims.

– This statement is also correct. The Justice Party demanded communal representation for non-Brahmins in government services and legislative bodies, similar to the separate electorates and communal representation granted to Muslims under the Morley-Minto reforms of 1909. This demand was part of their broader agenda to secure political and social rights for non-Brahmins.

Thus, both statements are correct, and the correct answer is a) Both 1 and 2.

Correct Answer: a) Both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Explanation:

1. Statement 1: Scientific investigation depends on commitment to practical ideals.

– This statement is correct because scientific investigation is guided by principles such as objectivity, rationality, and the pursuit of truth. These practical ideals ensure that scientific research is conducted systematically and yields reliable results.

2. Statement 2: Honesty is particularly important in science.

– This statement is also correct because honesty is a fundamental value in science. It ensures the integrity of data, findings, and conclusions. Without honesty, scientific progress would be undermined, as falsified or manipulated results could lead to incorrect theories and applications.

Thus, both statements are correct, making option a the right choice.

Correct Answer: d) 2 4 1 3

Explanation:

1. Simlipal: This biosphere reserve is located in the state of Odisha. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is a significant tiger reserve.

2. Nokrek: This biosphere reserve is situated in Meghalaya. It is famous for its unique ecosystem and is home to the rare red panda.

3. Agasthyamalai: This biosphere reserve is located in Kerala (and partly in Tamil Nadu). It is part of the Western Ghats and is known for its endemic flora and fauna.

4. Manas: This biosphere reserve is in Assam. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Project Tiger reserve.

The correct sequence is 2, 4, 1, 3.

Final Answer: d) 2 4 1 3

Correct Answer: c) Number of species becomes small in ecological niche, if resources are sufficient.

Explanation: An ecological niche refers to the role and position a species has in its environment, including how it obtains resources, interacts with other organisms, and contributes to the ecosystem. Let us analyze each option:

a) Dominant species occupy extensive and broader ecological niche.

This is true. Dominant species often have a broader ecological niche because they are better adapted to utilize a wide range of resources and can outcompete other species.

b) Number of species becomes large in ecological niche of natural ecosystem, if resources are sufficient.

This is true. When resources are abundant and diverse, more species can coexist because competition is reduced, allowing for greater biodiversity.

c) Number of species becomes small in ecological niche, if resources are sufficient.

This is not true. If resources are sufficient, the number of species typically increases because there is less competition for limited resources, allowing more species to thrive. This statement contradicts ecological principles.

d) Dominance of single species becomes minimum if the resource distribution is equitable in a habitat.

This is true. When resources are distributed equitably, no single species can dominate the ecosystem, leading to a more balanced and diverse community.

Thus, the incorrect statement is c).