1. With reference to the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary, consider the following Statements:
- It is India’s only vulture sanctuary located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
- It houses a Long-billed vulture, an Egyptian Vulture, and a White-rumped vulture.
Which of the Statements given above is/are correct?
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 2
[C] Both 1 & 2
[D] Neither 1 nor 2
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only 2]
Notes:- It is India’s only vulture sanctuary located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Incorrect: Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary, located in Ramanagara district of Karnataka, is India’s first and only vulture sanctuary.
- It houses a Long-billed vulture, an Egyptian Vulture, and a White-rumped vulture. Correct: It was established in 2012 to protect the declining vulture population, particularly the long-billed, Egyptian, and white-rumped vultures.
2. With reference to traditional Indian textiles, consider the following statements:
- Khadi is a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric that became prominent during the Indian independence movement.
- Banarasi silk is known for its gold and silver brocade, and is traditionally woven in Varanasi.
- Pochampally Ikat is a unique weaving style from Andhra Pradesh that involves dyeing the threads before weaving.
- Chanderi is a lightweight fabric made from a blend of silk and cotton, originating from Madhya Pradesh.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] Only three
[D] All four
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [All four]
Notes:- Khadi is a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric that became prominent during the Indian independence movement: Correct. Khadi symbolizes self-reliance and was promoted by Mahatma Gandhi as a means to boycott British goods.
- Banarasi silk is known for its gold and silver brocade, and is traditionally woven in Varanasi: Correct. Banarasi sarees are among the finest in India, often used in weddings and festive occasions.
- Pochampally Ikat is a unique weaving style from Andhra Pradesh that involves dyeing the threads before weaving: Correct. This technique creates intricate patterns and is recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) product.
- Chanderi is a lightweight fabric made from a blend of silk and cotton, originating from Madhya Pradesh: Correct. Chanderi sarees are known for their sheer texture and luxurious feel, often featuring traditional motifs.
3. Consider the following:
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Mizoram
- Andhra Pradesh
- Nagaland
Which of the above states has historically held a special status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] Only three
[D] All four
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Only one]
Notes:- Jammu and Kashmir was granted special status under Article 370, allowing it autonomy over its laws and governance. This article was abrogated in August 2019, leading to political changes.
- Mizoram: Article 371G applies to Mizoram. It includes special provisions to preserve the religious and social practices, customary law, and procedure of Mizos in Mizoram, as well as for the administration of criminal and civil justice, besides ownership and transfer of land.
- Andhra Pradesh: Articles 371 D and E includes special provisions for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The President can pass an order to provide equitable opportunities and facilities to people belonging to different parts of Andhra Pradesh in public employment and education.
- Nagaland: Article 371A grants special status to Nagaland, and provides that the Parliament cannot legislate on matters relating to the Naga religion, social practices, customary law, land rights, and civil and criminal justice, without the consent of the state assembly.
4. Which of the following regions are correctly matched with their descriptions?
- Rayalaseema – A region in Andhra Pradesh known for its dry climate and historical significance
- Malnad – A hilly region in Karnataka known for its dense forests and coffee plantations
- Vidarbha – A western region of Maharashtra noted for its industrial growth
- Saurashtra – A peninsular region in Gujarat known for its coastal geography and economic activities
- Bundelkhand – A region spanning Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh known for its historical forts
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1, 2, 3 & 4
[B] Only 1, 2, 4 & 5
[C] Only 1, 3, 4 & 5
[D] Only 2, 3, 4 & 5
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only 1, 2, 4 & 5]
Notes:
Rayalaseema is correctly described as a region in Andhra Pradesh known for its dry climate and historical significance. Malnad is also accurately described as a hilly region in Karnataka known for its dense forests and coffee plantations. Vidarbha is an eastern region of Maharashtra, not a western one, thus the description in option 3 is incorrect. Saurashtra is a peninsular region in Gujarat known for its coastal geography and economic activities. Bundelkhand spans Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and is known for its historical forts, making option 5 correctly matched.
5. Consider the following traditional handicrafts and the states they are associated with.
| Handicraft/Item | State |
|---|
| 1. Bamboo Weave Box with Kalamkari Art | A. Kerala |
| 2. Ikat-Pochampalli Cover | B. Andhra Pradesh |
| 3. Ganjifa Fridge Magnet | C. Karnataka |
| 4. Screwpine Leaf Bookmark | D. Kerala |
How many of the pairs given above is/are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] Only three
[D] All four
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only two]
Notes:- Kalamkari Painted Bamboo Box (Andhra Pradesh):
This exquisite bamboo box is adorned with traditional Nimmalakunta Kalamkari paintings, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Andhra Pradesh. The item is GI-tagged, emphasizing its cultural and geographical uniqueness. - Ikat-Pochampalli Cover (Telangana):
Crafted with the famed Ikat weaving technique, this reusable Pochampalli cover highlights Telangana’s rich handloom tradition. It holds a GI tag, ensuring authenticity and regional significance. - Ganjifa Art Magnet (Karnataka):
Inspired by the intricate designs of traditional Ganjifa playing cards, this decorative magnet reflects Karnataka’s artistic legacy. In 2008, the Ganjifa Cards of Mysore were protected as Geographical Indication (GI) by the Government of India. The name “Ganjifa” is believed to have been derived from the Persian word “Ganjifeh,” meaning playing cards. The art form flourished under the Mughals and later spread to different regions of India, where local styles evolved. This art is not confined to Karnataka only but we have examples of Dashavatara Ganjifa from Maharastra, Pattachitra-style Ganjifa cards from Odisha and distinct styles of Karnataka and Rajatshan etc. - Screwpine Leaf Bookmark (Kerala):
Woven from natural screwpine leaves, this sustainable bookmark exemplifies Kerala’s commitment to eco-friendly crafts. It carries a GI tag, highlighting its cultural and environmental significance.
6. Recently, Saint Narahari Tirtha statue have been found at which temple in Andhra Pradesh?
[A] Ahobilam Temple
[B] Simhachalam Temple
[C] Kanaka Durga Temple
[D] Draksharama Temple
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Simhachalam Temple]
Notes:
A three-foot statue of 13th-century saint Narahari Tirtha was discovered at Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Narahari Tirtha was a Dvaita Vedanta philosopher and disciple of Madhvacharya, spreading the doctrine in eastern India, especially Kalinga (modern Odisha and Andhra Pradesh). He hailed from Chikakolu (now Srikakulam) and assisted Eastern Ganga dynasty kings for three decades, ensuring adherence to Sanatana Dharma and proper temple administration. His contributions are documented in inscriptions at Simhachalam and Srikurmam temples. He introduced Devaranamas in Kannada, Yakshagana Bayalata in Karnataka, and influenced Kuchipudi in Andhra Pradesh.
7. Which of the following traditional craftsmanship items is/are correctly matched with their respective regions?
- Udayagiri Wooden Cutlery – Kerala
- Channapatna Toys – Tamil Nadu
- Bidriware – Karnataka
- Kalamkari Textiles – Andhra Pradesh
- Kondapalli Bommalu – Andhra Pradesh
Select the correct option from the codes given below:
[A] Only 1, 3 & 5
[B] Only 2 & 4
[C] Only 1 & 4
[D] 1, 3, 4 & 5
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 3, 4 & 5]
Notes:
Udayagiri Wooden Cutlery is from Kerala, Bidriware originates from Karnataka, Kalamkari Textiles are associated with Andhra Pradesh, and Kondapalli Bommalu is also from Andhra Pradesh, thus all are correctly matched. However, Channapatna Toys are actually from Karnataka, not Tamil Nadu. Therefore, the correct options are 1, 3, 4, and 5.
8. Which invasive plant is being used by artisans in Andhra Pradesh for eco-friendly handicrafts?
[A] Water Hyacinth
[B] Neltuma juliflora
[C] Billygoat weed
[D] Lantana camara
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Water Hyacinth]
Notes:
Artisans in Andhra Pradesh are being trained to create eco-friendly products from water hyacinth, an invasive plant. This initiative, led by the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation, aims to clear water bodies while providing livelihood to local artisans. The fibrous stems of water hyacinth are processed into various handicrafts such as handbags and decorative items. Water hyacinth, called Gurrapudekka in Telugu, is an invasive aquatic plant with a fibrous stem.
It is used in making handicrafts like handbags, table mats, baskets, and decorative items. The plant absorbs heavy metals and pollutants, aiding in wastewater treatment, but needs careful disposal.
9. A Brahmi inscription was recently discovered in which district of Andhra Pradesh?
[A] Palnadu
[B] Nellore
[C] Guntur
[D] Kurnool
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Palnadu]
Notes:
A Brahmi inscription has been discovered in Dharanikota village, Amaravathi mandal, Palnadu district, Andhra Pradesh. The inscription is in the Prakrit language and uses Brahmi characters dating back to the 2nd century CE. Brahmi is one of the oldest known Indian scripts, originating from the Mauryan Period. It is the foundation for most current Indian scripts, including Devanagari, Bengali, Tamil, and Malayalam.
10. Recently, who was elected unanimously as the Speaker of the 16th Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly?
[A] Ashok Bendalam
[B] C Ayyannapatrudu
[C] Koyye Moshenu Raju
[D] Jagan Mohan Reddy
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [C Ayyannapatrudu]
Notes:
Telugu Desam Party’s Narsipatnam MLA, C. Ayyanna Patrudu, was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the 16th Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on June 22, 2024. His election was unopposed as no other MLA filed a nomination for the Speaker’s post.
