Answer: (a)

Explanation:

Researchers have observed instances of brumation in various reptilian species across habitats. Brumation is the name to describe a period of dormancy or slowed activity in reptiles, much like hibernation in mammals. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

It typically occurs during colder months, when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce. During brumation, reptiles may retreat to underground burrows, rock crevices or other sheltered areas where temperatures are relatively more stable. Their metabolism slows significantly, allowing them to go weeks or even months without eating. This period of reduced activity allows reptiles to conserve energy and minimise their resource requirements. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

Answer: (b)

Explanation:

Hastsal Minar is located in a small village of western Delhi. Construction of the minar (or tower) was finished in 1634 during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. It is also known as Mini Qutab Minar. Among the locals, it is also known as Hastsal Ki Laat and Kaushal Minar. It was constructed using lakhori bricks and clad with red sandstone. The minar is 17 metres (five storeys) tall, standing on a square platform and with an octagonal body. Shah Jahan utilised Hastsal as one of his hunting lodges during the 17th century. In 2018, the minaret was deemed as Grade A in heritage value and was given the permission to be conserved under Phase IV of Delhi government’s project to protect lesser-known monuments in the capital. Hence, option (b) is correct.

Answer: (c)

Explanation:

India’s retail inflation eased to a three-month low of 5.1% recently. Retail inflation, also known as Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, tracks the change in retail prices of goods and services which households purchase for their daily consumption. CPI is calculated for a fixed basket of goods and services that may or may not be altered by the government from time to time. The change in the price index over a period of time is referred to as CPI-based inflation, or retail inflation. CPI is calculated as a percentage. It is a comparison of the general price level in the markets in a particular time period from a time frame in the past. This is known as the base year. CPI, therefore, is calculated by referring to a base year, which is a benchmark. Currently, the base year is 2012. Hence,  statements 1 and 2 both are correct.

Answer: (d)

Explanation:

Bor Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary which was declared a tiger reserve in July 2014. It is located in the Wardha District of Maharashtra. It is the smallest tiger reserve in India by area. It is centrally located among several other Bengal Tiger habitats. The area is populated by Dry Deciduous Forest type. Teak, tendu, bamboo, tarot, and gokhru are some of the abundant species. Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to several other mammals like leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, Indian bison (gaur), chital, wild boars, and more. Hence, option (d) is correct.

Answer: (c)

Explanation:

Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is an annual, four-day event that engages bird enthusiasts of all ages around the world in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are. It was launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. It was established to help researchers learn more about how birds are doing and how to protect them and the environment. Participants count birds for as little as 15 minutes (or as long as they wish) on one or more days of the four-day event and report their sightings online. Anyone can take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count, from beginning bird watchers to experts. One can participate from his/her backyard, or anywhere in the world. Indian birders have participated in the GBBC since 2013. In India, GBBC is coordinated by the Bird Count India (BCI) collective, a coming-together of a number of groups and organisations that are interested in birds, nature, and conservation. Hence, all statements are correct.