Answer: (C)

Explanation: Recently, The Stanford team has found that an absorbent material can be produced using sisal leaves, and could replace cotton, wood pulp, and chemical absorbents in sanitary napkins. Sisal is a member of the Asparagaceae family and its fiber is the most important of the leaf fiber group. It is a xerophytic, monocarp, semi-perennial leaf fibre producing plant. Sisal leaves are stiff, green, sword-like and possess exceptional durability. These leaves store water due to their succulent nature, making sisal plants drought-resistant. Each sisal plant typically yields around 200-250 usable leaves during its lifespan of 7-10 years. Sisal fibers are used for making ropes, paper, cloth and now, highly absorbent materials for menstrual hygiene products. The plants grow best in moderately rich soil with good drainage and in warm moist climates.
In India, sisal is mainly found in Orissa, Maharashtra and southern states. Aztec and Mayan civilizations were among the first to make paper from sisal leaves. Sisal leaves historically used for various purposes like making twine, cloth, carpets and even in the production of mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage. Brazil is the largest producer, followed by Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar and China. Hence, all statements are correct.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The meat of sharks and rays (Elasmobranch), long consumed by tribal and coastal people in India, has found favour among new demographic categories such as foreign tourists and Indian middle- and upper classes. The term elasmobranch refers to the sharks, rays, and skates. These animals have a skeleton made of cartilage, rather than bone.

• Its skeleton is made of cartilage rather than bone.
• They have five to seven gill openings on each side.
• Rigid dorsal fins (and spines if present)
• Spiracles to aid in breathing
• The upper jaw of elasmobranchs is not fused to their skull.
• Elasmobranchs have several rows of teeth which are continually replaced.
• They don't have swim bladders, but instead their large livers are full of oil to provide buoyancy.
• They reproduce sexually with internal fertilization and either bear live young or lay eggs.
• Elasmobranch skin is made of tiny, hard, tooth-like placoid scales called denticles.
• These are renowned for their highly tuned senses, which make them incredibly successful in their environment.

Their distribution ranges from nearshore regions to the deep oceanic waters. Some species are known to travel long distances, hence can be considered as highly migratory. Their stock can be found in more than one Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). They are widely distributed in the Oceans but are most diverse in the tropical and subtropical IndoPacific Ocean. Hence, all statements are correct.

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Recently, the Chandubi Festival was celebrated along the Chandubi Lake in the state of Assam. It is organised every year for five days starting from the first day of the New Year along the Chandubi lake, which is situated in the state of Assam. The main attractions of the Chandubi festival are the local folk culture, ethnic cuisine, local handloom and dresses, boating, etc. The major aim of the Chandubi Festival is to promote eco-tourism in this biodiversity hotspot of Assam. Preserving the waterbody, the water level of which has rapidly been lowering over the years, has been the motive for organising the festival every year. The festival has been providing an opportunity to generate livelihood to different tribes – Rabhas, Garos, Gorkhas and tea tribes – living in the area by selling different food items and homemade beverages, and traditionally woven attire. Hence, option (a) is correct.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: Israel recently deployed Sky Dew along the Lebanese border as tensions with Hezbollah escalated. Sky Dew is a massive balloon-like structure in the shape of a puffed aircraft. The high-altitude observation balloon acts as a detection radar blip for small unmanned aircraft and cruise missiles. It is one of the largest aerial threat warning systems in the world. The technology has been jointly developed by Israel Defense and US company TCOM. The project was entirely funded by the U.S. Department of Defence. The Israel Air Force was handed over the Sky Dew in 2022. The system comprises a blimp capable of flying at high altitudes with radar and detection systems to scan a wide range in any direction. The radar on the balloon is capable of observing at 250 km and tracking multiple targets, including low-altitude ones and those in valleys. It can carry 7,000 pounds and has an operational altitude of 10,000 feet. It offers a significant advantage in its ability to remain in surveillance for extended periods without needing fuel or crew replacement. Hence, all statements are correct.

Answer: (C)

Explanation: Recently, the scientists have characterised a natural pathogenic fungi to help save eucalyptus forests from devastating pest. Pathogenic fungi are naturally occurring organisms that infect and cause diseases in insects, pests, and sometimes in plants. They act as natural biocontrol agents, targeting specific pests without harming other organisms or the environment. They are utilized in developing bio-pesticides for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. They offer an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, reducing reliance on harmful chemicals. These fungi, such as Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae, are known for their effectiveness in controlling pest populations. These fungi find applications in various sectors like agriculture, forestry and even urban pest management. Hence, both statements are correct.