Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, the Sangeet Natak Akademi has undertaken the revival of Tholu Bommalata, an ancient form of puppetry, which faces the threat of extinction. Tholu Bommalata, also known as "Bommalattam" or "Tolpava Koothu," is a shadow puppetry art form that originated at Godavari region in Andhra Pradesh, India around the 3rd century BCE. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

The term "Tolu" means leather, and "Bommalattam" means puppetry in Tamil.  The puppeteer manipulates the puppets from behind with two sticks and the puppets tell mythological and folk tales from the epics through a blend of music, dance, and vibrant visuals. The puppets often depict animals, birds, gods and demons. The Government of India designated Tholu Bommalata as a Geographical Indication (GI) in 2008. It is recognized by The Government of India as a part of its One District One Product (ODOP) Initiative. Hence, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

Answer: C

Explanation:

Recently, security forces in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir successfully thwarted an infiltration bid by terrorists at Sabura Nala along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Uri sector of Baramulla in north Kashmir. The Line of Control (LoC) is a military control line that separates the parts of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir that are controlled by India and Pakistan. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries. The LoC is not a legally recognized international boundary, but it serves as the de facto border. It is 460 miles (740 km) long and was established by the Simla Agreement, which ended the Indo-Pakistani War in 1971. Hence, statement 2 is correct but statement 3 is incorrect.

It is located close to the Jehlum valley route. On February 25, 2021, India and Pakistan announced a ceasefire along the LOC. Hence, statement 4 is correct.

Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, nine medical colleges in Telangana have moved a step closer to establishment as the National Medical Commission (NMC) has advanced their applications. The National Medical Commission (NMC) is an Indian regulatory body that regulates medical education and professionals. It was established by an Act of Parliament in August 2019, replacing the Medical Council of India (MCI) and came into force on September 25, 2020. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

It regulates medical education, profession and ins titutions across India. It sets standards for medical education and grants recognition to medical qualifications. The National Medical Commission (NMC) comprises 25 members, majority of them being nominated by the Central government with a four-year tenure (except for part-time members whose tenure is two years). Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, Odisha has been actively promoting climate-resilient agriculture through its rice fallow initiative using paira cropping system.  Paira cropping system is a traditional agricultural practice primarily observed in coastal areas, notably in states like Odisha. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

In this agricultural practice, seeds of crops such as lentil, lathyrus, urdbean or mungbean are broadcast in the standing crop of rice approximately 2 weeks before its harvest. Paira cropping requires minimal intervention and cost as it utilizes the existing infrastructure of paddy fields and relies on natural moisture. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, Norway declared its intention to raise its defense budget by 83% over the next 12 years. Norway, formally known as the Kingdom of Norway is a Nordic country in Northern Europe, situated on the Scandinavian Peninsula. Oslo is the capital of this county. Norway shares its borders with Sweden to the east, Finland and Russia to the northeast, Norwegian Sea, Atlantic Ocean to the west & south, the Arctic Ocean to the north, the North Sea to the south. The highest point in Norway is Galdhopiggen. Norway's major rivers include Glomma, Numedalslågen, Drammenselva, Tana and Vefsna. It is a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). Hence, option (b) is correct.