24th July 2025

Consider the following statements about King Rajendra Chola I — 

1. He assumed the title Gangaikonda Chola after his successful military campaign up to the Ganges and built a new capital called Gangaikondacholapuram. 
2. He was the first Indian king to launch overseas military expeditions, conquering territories in Southeast Asia, including Srivijaya and the Khmer kingdom. 
3. Under his reign, the Chola navy emerged as the largest blue-water navy in Indian history, dominating trade routes in the Indian Ocean. 
4. He promoted religious tolerance, supporting both Shaivism and Buddhism, and constructed Buddhist stupas in South India and Southeast Asia. 

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Which of the following statements regarding biostimulants is/are correct? 

1. They are substances or microorganisms that enhance plant growth by stimulating natural processes like nutrient absorption and stress tolerance. 
2. According to the Fertiliser Control Order (1985), biostimulants include pesticides and plant growth regulators. 
3. They can improve grain filling in crops like corn and enhance postharvest fruit quality. 
4. Biostimulants are exclusively derived from synthetic chemicals and do not include natural sources like seaweed or plant waste. 

Select the correct answer using the code given below

Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale’ (SASCI) Scheme – 

1. The scheme aims to develop iconic tourist centres in India with a focus on branding and marketing them globally. 
2. Project proposals under SASCI are identified solely by the Central Government without any inputs from State Governments. 
3. The funding support under this scheme will be available only until March 31, 2026. 
4. Parameters such as connectivity, tourism ecosystem, and sustainability measures are considered while evaluating projects. 

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Consider the following statements regarding the Paika Rebellion of 1817 — 

1. The rebellion was triggered by the British failure to honor their agreement with Mukunda Deva II of Khurda, leading to the execution of Jayee Rajguru. 
2. The economic hardships caused by the British land revenue policies, including the switch to a rupee-based taxation system, played a significant role in fueling the revolt. 
3. The rebellion was led solely by tribal Kondhs and did not involve the participation of the Paikas. 
4. Bakshi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar, a former commander of the Khurda kingdom, was a key leader of the uprising but surrendered to the British in 1825. 

Which of the statements given above are correct?