Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, Arjun Munda, the Agriculture Minister, unveiled a Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi, which serves as a centralized hub for monitoring digital innovations in agriculture. The Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) is a technological solution incorporating multiple IT applications and platforms. Hence, satatement 1 is incorrect.

It is established within the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare to facilitate informed decision-making in the agricultural sector. The facility boasts eight large 55-inch LED screens display information on crop yields, production, drought situations and cropping patterns. Data is presented in map, timeline and drill-down views, showcasing trends, outliers, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and insights. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

The objectives of ICCC include comprehensive monitoring of the agricultural sector through aggregated geospatial information and integration of data for efficient decision-making. Future capabilities include generating personalized advisories for farmers based on their specific needs and circumstances. The system will utilize AI and machine learning to provide customized recommendations in local languages. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, the scientists at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Srinagar, conducted a study on Mushk Budiji rice. It is a short-grain, aromatic rice variety grown in the Anantnag district of Kashmir. In August 2023, it was granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The rice is labor-intensive and high-yielding, but it's at risk of blast disease and faces marketing hurdles. It's also a better choice for a balanced diet as it contains low fat. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

However, a revival program initiated by scientists at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) in 2007 helped in its slow comeback. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) and an 'electronic nose' were used to study the flavor profile of Mushk Budiji rice. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: C

Explanation:

The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) is an autonomous body that evaluates and accredits higher education institutions (HEIs) in India.  It was established in 1994 by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is headquartered in Bangalore. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Its primary objective is to improve the quality of education provided by these institutions and to ensure that they meet national and international standards. The NAAC bases its assessment procedure on seven criteria, including curricular aspects, teaching-learning and evaluation, research, infrastructure, student support, governance and innovative practices. It awards grades ranging from A++ to C based on parameters such as curriculum, faculty, infrastructure, research and financial well-being. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: D

Explanation:

Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) revealed that it has achieved another milestone as the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3) met its fiery end through a re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.  The POEM-3 is a space platform that launched on January 1, 2024, alongside the XPoSat satellite. It involved the transformation of the terminal stage of PSLV into a 3-axis stabilized platform specifically for experimentation purposes. It is a three-axis-attitude controlled platform with power generation and telecommand & telemetry capabilities. It's the third version of a space lab that can control its position in all three directions in space, make its own power and send and receive messages from Earth. To facilitate early re-entry into Earth's atmosphere and minimize risks of accidental break-up, POEM-3 was strategically de-orbited from 650 km to 350 km. Hence, all statements are correct.    

Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, the Thailand's lower house approved legislation to legalize same-sex marriage, potentially would make it the first country in Southeast Asia and the third Asian country to legalise gay marriage. Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia. Bangkok is the capital of this country. Thailand shares its borders with Myanmar (Northwest), Laos (Northeast), Cambodia (Southeast), Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia (South), the Andaman Sea (Southwest).  It boasts numerous islands in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao. The highest point in Thailand is Doi Inthanon, located in the Chiang Mai Province in the northern part of the country. The major rivers in Thailand include the Chao Phraya, Mekong, Mae Klong, Nan and Ping. Hence, option (a) is correct.