Answer: (C)

Explanation: A debenture is a type of long-term debt instrument that companies issue to raise funds from the public or investors. When a company issues a debenture, it is essentially borrowing money from investors and agreeing to pay them back with interest over a specified period. Unlike shares, debentures do not confer ownership in the company. Instead, they represent a loan made by the debenture holder to the company. The company agrees to pay interest on the debenture's principal amount at a fixed rate, usually on a periodic basis (such as annually or semi-annually). Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Convertible debentures are a specific type of debenture that comes with an added feature – the ability to convert them into equity shares of the issuing company. This conversion typically occurs after a predetermined period or when certain conditions are met. This means that if an investor holds convertible debentures, they have the option to convert those debentures into a predetermined number of equity shares of the company. This can provide an opportunity for the debenture holder to participate in the company's potential future growth and profit, as they become shareholders with ownership rights. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: (C)

Explanation:

• The 'Belem Declaration' recognizes the significance of Indigenous knowledge in the realm of biodiversity conservation. Indigenous communities often possess a deep understanding of their local ecosystems, traditional practices, and interactions with nature. This knowledge can offer valuable insights into sustainable resource management and conservation efforts. By acknowledging Indigenous knowledge, the declaration highlights the importance of integrating traditional wisdom with modern conservation strategies. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The 'Belem Declaration' underscores the need to involve Indigenous Peoples in the processes of making decisions and forming policies that affect their lives and territories. Including Indigenous perspectives and voices in decision-making ensures that policies and actions are more well-rounded and sensitive to the unique needs, rights, and concerns of these communities. This approach also supports the principle of self-determination, allowing Indigenous Peoples to actively participate in shaping their own futures. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The 'Belem Declaration' promotes the responsible and sustainable utilization of biodiversity resources within the Amazon region. This means that while utilizing these resources for various purposes such as economic development or cultural practices, there is a commitment to do so in a way that does not harm the environment, deplete resources, or disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems. Sustainable use aims to ensure that future generations can also benefit from these resources. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Answer: (D)

Explanation:

• "The island of Hawaii, commonly referred to as the Big Island, is one of the eight main islands of the Hawaiian archipelago. It falls within the state of Hawaii, which is part of the United States of America."Mauna Kea is the tallest peak in Hawaii, standing at an elevation of about 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) above sea level. It is known for its observatories located at its summit. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
• Kilauea is an active shield volcano located on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is known for its continuous volcanic activity, including frequent eruptions. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

Answer: (B)

Explanation:

• UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was indeed established with the primary aim of promoting international collaboration in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication. Its purpose is to contribute to peace and security by advancing mutual understanding and knowledge-sharing among nations in these key areas. Hence, statement-I is correct.
• The founders of UNESCO did believe that fostering mutual understanding and knowledge-sharing among nations would contribute to world peace and security. This principle is in line with the broader goals of UNESCO to promote international cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication. The exchange of knowledge and ideas between different countries is seen as a way to reduce conflicts and promote peaceful relations by enhancing understanding and cooperation. Hence, statement-II is correct.
• However, while Statement-II aligns with the overall goals and philosophy of UNESCO, it is not a direct and complete explanation of Statement-I. While promoting mutual understanding and knowledge-sharing can contribute to world peace and security, this concept doesn't fully encompass all the areas of education, science, culture, and communication that UNESCO aims to collaborate on.

Answer: (D)

Explanation: The Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC) is a transformative initiative led by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Originating from an investors' summit in 2018, UPDIC aims to establish Uttar Pradesh as a global hub for defence and aerospace manufacturing.

Objectives & Features:

• Empower India in defence and aerospace.
• 6 strategic nodes: Agra, Aligarh, Lucknow, Kanpur, Chitrakoot, Jhansi.
• Infrastructure, technology, agriculture focus.
• Connects western, central, Bundelkhand regions.
• 6 expressways, 16 domestic, 5 international airports