Solution (d)

Explanation:

The Fourth Schedule of the Constitution deals with the allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha to the states and union territories. The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is fixed at 250, out of which, 238 are to be the representatives of the states and union territories (elected indirectly) and 12 are nominated by the president. The president nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha from people who have special knowledge or practical experience in art, literature, science and social service. Hence, option d is the correct answer.

Solution (b)

Explanation:

• The summoning of Parliament is specified in Article 85 of the Constitution. The power to convene a session of Parliament rests with the Government. The decision is taken by the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs which is formalised by the President, in whose name MPs are summoned to meet for a session. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

• The maximum gap between two sessions of Parliament cannot be more than six months. Thus, the Parliament should meet at least twice a year. However, India does not have a fixed parliamentary calendar. By convention (i.e. not provided by the Constitution), Parliament meets for three sessions in a year. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

The Budget Session is the longest and most important session of the Parliament. The primary focus of the Budget Session is the presentation, discussion, and passing of the Union Budget, which outlines the government’s revenue and expenditure plans for the upcoming fiscal year. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Solution (b)

Explanation:

• The Jarawas are one of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands. They inhabit the western coasts of South and Middle Andaman Islands, a region rich in biodiversity that supports their traditional way of life. The 2011 Census recorded 380 Jarawa individuals out of the 28,530 Scheduled Tribe individuals across Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

• The Jarawas are known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, reliance on forest resources, and deep connection to their natural environment. They are one of the world’s oldest surviving tribes and are mostly hunter-gatherers, living in nomadic bands of 40-50 individuals.  The first significant friendly contact with the Jarawas occurred in April 1996, marking a turning point in their interaction with the outside world. This event was initiated when Enmei, a 21-year-old Jarawa tribesman, suffered a serious fracture in his left ankle. Hence, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

Solution (c)

Explanation:

A World Heritage Site is a location recognised by UNESCO for its “outstanding universal value”. It is guided by Convention Concerning Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (called World Heritage Convention). It has three categories: Cultural heritage, Natural heritage, and Mixed heritage (cultural as well as natural). There are 44 World Heritage Sites in India. Out of these, 36 are cultural, seven are natural, and one, Khangchendzonga National Park, is of mixed type, listed for both cultural and natural properties. Hence, option c is the correct answer.

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• The National Medical Commission (NMC) has been constituted by an act of Parliament known as National Medical Commission Act, 2019. The headquarters of the National Medical Commission is located in New Delhi. Hence, statement 1 is INCORRECT.

It replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI) which had been the regulatory body for medical education and practice in India since 1934. Committed to upholding the highest standards in healthcare education, NMC ensures the delivery of quality medical education and training across the nation. Hence, statements 2 and 3 are correct.