Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) initiated genetic profiling for Idukki's 400 captive elephants in Kerala, providing forensic kits to the Kerala Forest Department for this national database project. Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an internationally acclaimed Institution, which offers training program, academic courses and advisory in wildlife research and management.  It was established in 1982 as an institution of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and is located at Dehradun in Uttarakhand. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Its aim is to encompass building scientific knowledge, training personnel, conducting research, providing advice, collaborating internationally and becoming a regional center for wildlife conservation. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

It is actively engaged in research across the country on biodiversity related issues. Its mission is to nurture the development of wildlife science and promote its application in conservation, in consonants with our cultural and socio-economic milieu. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

Answer: D

Explanation:

Recently, over 60 products from across India, including Banaras Thandai, have been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Six traditional crafts from Assam, including the Bihu dhol, Asharikandi terracotta craft, Jaapi (bamboo headgear) and Mishing handloom products, have received the GI tag. Thirteen other products from Assam, such as Bodo Do khona and Bodo Eri silk. The famous Banaras Thandai, a traditional drink blending milk with nuts, seeds and spices, has received the GI tag, reflecting its cultural significance and historical roots as an offering to the deity during festivals. Alongside Banaras Thandai, other products like Banaras Tabla and Banaras Shehnai have been recognized with the GI tag. Tripura's Pachra-Rignai (traditional dress) and Matabari Peda (sweet preparation), as well as Meghalaya's Garo Textile weaving and Lyrnai Pottery. Hence, option (d) is correct.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, fisherwomen from the self-help group Sea Gems Mahila Sahrudam Group showcased their crafted otolith ornaments at the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village showroom in Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram. Fish otoliths are calcium carbonate structures located in the heads of bony fish. Otoliths are biomineralised ear stones found in fish, crucial for hearing and maintaining balance. Hence, statement I is correct.

Otoliths have species-specific shapes and continue to grow throughout a fish's life, making them crucial for fish identification and age determination. They were historically known as "lucky stones" and have been used by civilizations like the Romans and Egyptians and are still used in various cultures, including countries like Brazil. This is the first time that ornaments made from otoliths are being made and sold in an organized way in India. Hence, statement II is correct.

Here, statements I and II both are correct but Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.

Answer: C

Explanation:

Recently, experiments on mice and analysis of samples from 118 individuals revealed that a member of the gut microbiome may contribute to autoimmune kidney disease by leaking antigens that activate the immune system. The gut microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites, residing in the human digestive tract. It is unique to each individual and plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, such as digestion, metabolism and immune system regulation. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The gut microbiome stimulates the immune system, breaks down toxins in food, produces vitamins and amino acids, metabolizes carbohydrates and synthesizes short-chain fatty acids. It is most abundant in the small and large intestines, outnumbering host cells by a factor of 10. Some common gut microbiota species include E. coli, Helicobacter pylori and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: C

Explanation:

Recently, a Bulgarian river cruise ship carrying 142 passengers, mostly from Germany, experienced a steering malfunction and collided with the sides of a lock on the Danube in Austria. Austria is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. Vienna is the capital of this country. Austria shares its borders with Hungary to the East, Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the West, the Czech Republic to the North, Slovakia to the Northeast, Germany to the Northwest and Slovenia and Italy to the South. The highest point in Austria is the Grossglockner, which is part of the Hohe Tauern mountain range in the Austrian Alps. Hence, option (c) is correct.