5th November 2025

Explanation - The Katkari are an Indian tribe classified as a Scheduled Tribe and one of the 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). They are bilingual, speaking Katkari (a dialect of Marathi-Konkani languages) among themselves and Marathi with others. The Census 2001 indicates Maharashtra has 235,022 Katkari, mainly in Raigad and Thane districts, with smaller populations in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. The Katkari are historically known for consuming rodents like field mice and rats, which they believe provides strength and longevity. 

Explanation - Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland, not the pituitary gland. Its production is highest during darkness and decreases with light exposure. Exogenous melatonin refers to the synthetically made hormone sold as a dietary supplement, while the naturally occurring hormone is simply melatonin or endogenous melatonin. Overuse of synthetic melatonin can cause headaches, hormonal changes, mood swings, and sleep cycle disturbances. 

Explanation - Silicon Carbide (SiC) is a synthetically produced crystalline compound, not naturally occurring. It is classed as a semiconductor with electrical conductivity between metals and insulating materials, not higher than metals. It is the hardest ceramic material and is used in refractory linings for industrial furnaces. Its hardness is surpassed only by diamond, cubic boron nitride, and boron carbide. 

Explanation - PM-DevINE (Prime Minister's Development Initiative for North-East) will be implemented through the North-Eastern Council, not the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. An initial allocation of Rs 1,500 crore will be made for the scheme to fund infrastructure and social development projects based on felt needs of the North-East. However, it will not be a substitute for existing central or state schemes—it will supplement them. Central ministries may propose candidate projects, but priority is given to state proposals. 

Explanation - The BBNJ Treaty, also known as the High Seas Treaty, is an international agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It was adopted on 19 June 2023 and is the third implementing agreement to UNCLOS (alongside the 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement and the 1995 UN Fish Stocks Agreement). The agreement addresses conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, encompassing over half of Earth's surface.