Answer: (A)

Explanation: The Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship will attend the inaugural ceremony of the Kala Utsav 2024 that is going to organise from 9-12 January at National Bhavan the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, New Delhi. The Kala Utsav will be organised by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
It focuses on 10 diverse art forms, including traditional folk and indigenous toys, highlights its aim to celebrate India's cultural richness and foster unity in diversity. It will witness performances in 10 art forms: 1. Vocal Music – Classical, Vocal Music – Traditional Folk, Instrumental Music – Percussive, Instrumental Music – Melodic, Dance – Classical, Dance – Folk, Visual Arts (2-dimensional), Visual Arts (3-dimensional), Indigenous Toys and Games and Drama (Solo acting). Around 700 students from 36 States and Union Territories, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti will showcase their art forms in all these genres. Hence, statement 2 is correct while statement 3 is not correct.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: Kapdaganda Shawl is woven and embroidered by the women of the Dongria Kondh tribe, a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) in the Niyamgiri hills in Odisha’s Rayagada and Kalahandi districts. The shawl reflects the rich tribal heritage of the Dongria Kondhs. The shawl is worn by both men and women and the Dongrias gift it to their family members as a token of love and affection. Hence, option (c) is correct.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: The formulation named ‘Tricholime’, integrates Trichoderma and lime into a single product, making the application easier for farmers. Trichoderma is a fungal biocontrol agent, has proven effective in suppressing several soil-borne plant pathogens and serves as a successful bio-pesticide and bio-fertilizer in crop production. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
By combining both components, Tricholime eliminates the need for separate applications of lime and Trichoderma, simplifying soil management and saving time for farmers. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
While Tricholime does neutralize soil acidity and protect crops from pathogens through Trichoderma, it also has other positive impacts on soil properties:

• Improves soil physical condition: The lime base enhances soil aeration and drainage, creating a more favorable environment for plant roots and beneficial microbes.
• Increases secondary nutrient availability: Tricholime helps make essential nutrients like phosphorus and potassium more readily accessible to plants for better growth.
• Boosts soil microbial activity: The formulation stimulates the activity of beneficial microbes, leading to increased organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling, further enriching the soil.

Therefore, Tricholime's benefits extend beyond just acidity neutralization and pathogen protection Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: Sponge farming is considered a sustainable practice as it doesn't involve harvesting wild sponges, which can damage marine ecosystems.
Cultivated sponges also filter and clean water, contributing to environmental health. Sponge farming is a relatively new business opportunity that does not harm the marine environment. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Sponges have exceptional regenerative abilities. They can regrow from fragments and damaged parts, making them ideal for farming. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Unlike seaweed, sponges are remarkably resilient to climate change fluctuations. They require minimal maintenance because they're filter feeders and don't need feeding or specific water conditions. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Innovations for Defence Excellence- Defence Innovation Organization (iDEX-DIO) is all set to participate in the tenth edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 from 10 to 12 January 2024 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Defence, Govt of India launched in 2018. The objective of the scheme is to cultivate an innovation ecosystem in the Defence and Aerospace sector by collaborating with startups, innovators, MSMEs, incubators, and academia. It is currently engaged with around 400+ Startups and MSMEs. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.