All questions of India: Facts and figures for UPSC CSE Exam

The capital of Madhya Pradesh is Bhopal.

Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is located in the central part of India. It is known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Bhopal serves as the administrative headquarters of the state and is one of the largest cities in Madhya Pradesh.

Historical Significance:
- Bhopal has a long and fascinating history. It was founded by Raja Bhoja in the 11th century and was later ruled by various dynasties such as the Mughals and the Marathas.
- The city gained prominence during the reign of Dost Mohammad Khan, a Pashtun soldier who established the Bhopal State in the 18th century.
- Under the rule of the Begums of Bhopal, the city witnessed significant development in areas like education, infrastructure, and governance.

Cultural Heritage:
- Bhopal is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and cuisine.
- The city is home to several historical monuments, including the iconic Taj-ul-Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and the Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil, which showcase a blend of Indo-Islamic and European architectural styles.
- Bhopal is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as beadwork, embroidery, and handloom fabrics.

Economic and Administrative Importance:
- As the capital city, Bhopal plays a crucial role in the economic and administrative affairs of Madhya Pradesh.
- It is a major center for government offices, educational institutions, and industries.
- Bhopal is home to several public sector enterprises, including Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Hindustan Electro Graphite (HEG), which contribute significantly to the local economy.

Education and Research:
- Bhopal is a hub of education and research, with numerous prestigious institutions and universities located in the city.
- The city is home to the Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), among others.
- Bhopal also has several research institutions, including the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

In conclusion, Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh and holds historical, cultural, economic, and educational significance. The city's rich heritage, administrative importance, and educational institutions make it a significant cultural and economic center in central India.

Capital of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh, a state in northern India, has Lucknow as its capital city.

Lucknow
Lucknow is not only the capital city of Uttar Pradesh but also serves as the administrative headquarters of the Lucknow district and the Lucknow division. It is a major cultural and political hub in India.

Significance of Lucknow
- As the capital city, Lucknow houses the state government offices, administrative buildings, and the official residence of the Governor of Uttar Pradesh.
- The city is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels like the Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and Rumi Darwaza.
- Lucknow is also famous for its traditional cuisine, especially Awadhi cuisine, which includes delicacies like kebabs, biryanis, and sweets like 'shahi tukda' and 'malai ki gilori'.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh and holds great historical, cultural, and administrative significance in the state.

Capital of Telangana
The capital of Telangana, a state in southern India, is Hyderabad. This city plays a pivotal role in the state's administration, culture, and economy.
Historical Significance
- Hyderabad was established in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah.
- It has a rich history influenced by various dynasties, including the Nizams and the Mughals.
Cultural Hub
- The city is known for its unique blend of cultures, showcasing a mix of Telugu, Urdu, and Anglo-Indian influences.
- Iconic landmarks such as the Charminar and Golconda Fort highlight its architectural heritage.
Economic Importance
- Hyderabad is a major center for the information technology (IT) industry, often referred to as "Cyberabad."
- The city hosts several multinational corporations and startups, contributing significantly to its economy.
Political Center
- As the capital, Hyderabad houses the state legislature, the governor's residence, and various government offices.
- It serves as the focal point for political activities in Telangana.
Comparison with Other Cities
- Warangal, Karimnagar, and Nizamabad are important cities in Telangana but serve different roles.
- Warangal was the historical capital of the Kakatiya dynasty and is known for its temples and heritage sites.
- Karimnagar and Nizamabad are emerging urban centers but do not hold the same administrative significance as Hyderabad.
In summary, Hyderabad stands out as the capital of Telangana due to its historical, cultural, economic, and political importance, making option 'A' the correct answer.

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Current Population Growth Rate in India
India's population growth rate has shown a significant decline in recent years. This trend can be attributed to various socio-economic factors and government initiatives aimed at family planning and health education.
Factors Contributing to Declining Growth Rate
- Increased Awareness: There has been a rise in awareness regarding family planning methods, leading to more couples opting for smaller families.
- Education and Empowerment: Improved education, especially among women, has played a crucial role in reducing birth rates. Educated women are more likely to pursue careers and have fewer children.
- Health Care Improvements: Better access to healthcare services has led to lower infant and maternal mortality rates, allowing families to plan their children more effectively.
- Government Initiatives: Programs aimed at promoting family planning, such as the National Family Planning Program, have significantly contributed to the decline in birth rates.
Current Statistics
- As of the latest census data and reports, India's population growth rate has decreased to around 1.0% per year.
- This represents a shift from the higher growth rates observed in previous decades, indicating a stabilizing population.
Future Projections
- If current trends continue, experts predict that India’s population growth rate will further decline in the coming years.
- The country may even witness a stabilization or slight decrease in population growth around the mid-21st century.
In conclusion, option 'C', which states that India's population growth rate is declining gradually, accurately reflects the ongoing demographic transition within the country.

The Largest Wildlife Sanctuary in India: Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary

The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the state of Gujarat, is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India. It covers an area of approximately 5,000 square kilometers and is spread across the Kutch and Surendranagar districts of Gujarat. The sanctuary is renowned for its unique and diverse ecosystem, making it a significant conservation area in the country.

Location and Geography
The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the westernmost part of India, bordering Pakistan. It encompasses the vast salt marshes of the Great Rann of Kutch, which are known for their white salt crusts and barren expanses. The sanctuary also includes the adjacent Banni grasslands, which provide a contrasting habitat for various wildlife species.

Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, adapted to the arid and saline conditions of the region. The vegetation primarily consists of xerophytic plants, such as thorny shrubs, grasses, and salt-resistant species. Some of the prominent plant species found in the sanctuary include Prosopis juliflora, Salvadora persica, and Capparis decidua.

The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse wildlife population. It serves as a breeding ground and wintering habitat for several migratory bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, cranes, and ducks. The sanctuary is also inhabited by various mammals, such as the Indian wild ass, chinkara, blackbuck, wolf, and desert fox. Reptiles like the tortoise, spiny-tailed lizard, and monitor lizard can also be found here.

Conservation Efforts
The sanctuary is recognized for its ecological importance and has been designated as a Ramsar site, a wetland of international significance. It is managed and protected by the Gujarat Forest Department, which implements conservation measures to preserve the unique ecosystem and biodiversity of the region.

Tourism and Activities
The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary attracts numerous nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through jeep safaris, camel rides, and nature walks. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for bird watching, especially during the winter months when migratory birds flock to the wetlands.

In addition to wildlife, the sanctuary is renowned for its cultural heritage, with nearby villages showcasing traditional art, crafts, and music. The Rann Utsav, a vibrant festival celebrating the culture and beauty of the region, is held annually and draws tourists from across the country.

Conclusion
The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary stands as the largest wildlife sanctuary in India, encompassing the unique ecosystems of the Great Rann of Kutch and Banni grasslands. With its diverse flora and fauna, conservation efforts, and cultural significance, the sanctuary serves as a testament to India's rich natural heritage.

The state in India with the highest infant mortality rate (IMR) is Assam.

Factors contributing to high IMR in Assam:
1. Healthcare Infrastructure:
- Assam faces challenges in terms of healthcare infrastructure, with limited access to healthcare facilities in remote areas.
- Lack of well-equipped hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers in rural areas affects the availability and quality of healthcare services.

2. Maternal Health:
- Assam has a high maternal mortality rate (MMR), which directly affects IMR.
- Poor maternal health during pregnancy, lack of proper antenatal care, and inadequate access to skilled birth attendants contribute to high IMR.

3. Malnutrition:
- Assam has a high prevalence of malnutrition among children, which further increases the risk of infant mortality.
- Lack of proper nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to weak immune systems and increased susceptibility to diseases.

4. Sanitation and Hygiene:
- Poor sanitation and hygiene practices in many areas of Assam contribute to the spread of diseases.
- Lack of access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities, and hygiene education increases the risk of infections and diseases among infants.

5. Socioeconomic Factors:
- Assam faces socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, which affects the overall health and well-being of the population.
- Limited access to education, healthcare, and nutrition exacerbates the problem of high IMR.

Efforts to reduce IMR in Assam:
1. Government Initiatives:
- The government of Assam has implemented various initiatives to address the high IMR, such as the National Health Mission and the Assam State Health Policy.
- These initiatives focus on improving healthcare infrastructure, providing better maternal and child health services, and promoting awareness about healthcare practices.

2. Immunization Programs:
- Immunization programs have been intensified to increase the coverage of vaccines among infants and children.
- Vaccines protect against various diseases and reduce the likelihood of infant mortality.

3. Nutrition Programs:
- The government has also initiated nutrition programs, such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, to address malnutrition among children.
- These programs aim to provide nutritious meals, supplements, and health education to pregnant women and children.

4. Awareness Campaigns:
- Awareness campaigns are conducted to educate communities about the importance of healthcare practices, sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition.
- These campaigns aim to change behaviors and promote positive health practices.

Overall, while efforts are being made to reduce the infant mortality rate in Assam, addressing the underlying challenges of healthcare infrastructure, maternal health, malnutrition, sanitation, and socioeconomic factors remains crucial to achieve significant improvements in infant survival rates.

Overview of Andhra Pradesh's Capital
The capital of Andhra Pradesh is Amaravati, which was officially designated as the state capital in 2015. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Historical Context
- Hyderabad: Previously, Hyderabad served as the capital of Andhra Pradesh before the bifurcation of the state in 2014, when Telangana was created.
- Amaravati’s Selection: After the bifurcation, the government decided to establish a new capital to reflect the aspirations of the region and to decentralize development.
Amaravati's Significance
- Planned City: Amaravati is being developed as a planned city, designed to accommodate the needs of the state’s administrative functions and to promote economic growth.
- Cultural Heritage: The city is situated on the banks of the Krishna River and is known for its rich historical and cultural significance, with links to ancient Buddhist heritage.
Current Status
- Infrastructure Development: The development of Amaravati involves extensive infrastructure projects, including government buildings, residential areas, and transportation systems.
- Future Prospects: As the capital, Amaravati aims to become a hub for governance, commerce, and education, with an emphasis on sustainable development.
Conclusion
In summary, while Hyderabad was the capital before the bifurcation, Amaravati was chosen as the new capital of Andhra Pradesh to symbolize a fresh start and to promote balanced growth within the state.

Demographic Transition:
The term demographic transition refers to the process of achieving a stable population growth rate. This transition typically occurs in four stages, each characterized by different patterns of birth and death rates, leading to changes in population size and structure.

Stages of Demographic Transition:
- Stage 1: High birth rates and high death rates result in a stable population size.
- Stage 2: Death rates decline due to improvements in healthcare and sanitation, leading to rapid population growth.
- Stage 3: Birth rates start to decline as society modernizes, leading to a decrease in population growth rate.
- Stage 4: Both birth and death rates are low, resulting in a stable population size.

Factors Influencing the Transition:
- Economic development: as countries develop economically, birth rates tend to decline due to increased education, urbanization, and access to family planning services.
- Healthcare improvements: better healthcare leads to lower death rates, contributing to population growth.
- Social changes: changing societal norms and values can also impact birth rates, such as increased emphasis on education and career opportunities for women.

Importance of Demographic Transition:
- Understanding demographic transition is crucial for policymakers to anticipate future population trends and plan for healthcare, education, and social services.
- A stable population growth rate can help ensure sustainable development and reduce the strain on resources and the environment.
In conclusion, the demographic transition refers to the process of achieving a stable population growth rate through changes in birth and death rates. By understanding and managing this transition, societies can better plan for the future and promote sustainable development.

Explanation:

CARTOSAT series
The CARTOSAT series of Indian satellites are primarily used for remote sensing applications. These satellites are designed to provide high-resolution images for cartographic, urban, rural, and infrastructure development, as well as applications in land information system (LIS) and geographical information system (GIS).

Remote Sensing Applications
- The CARTOSAT series satellites are equipped with high-resolution cameras that provide detailed images of the Earth's surface.
- These images are used for various purposes such as urban planning, rural development, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and resource mapping.
- The data collected by these satellites is valuable for agriculture, forestry, water resources, and infrastructure development.

Features of CARTOSAT series
- The CARTOSAT series satellites have different sensors and resolutions for various applications.
- They can capture images in different spectral bands, allowing for various types of analysis.
- These satellites have a high revisit time, which means they can capture images of the same location frequently.

Conclusion
The CARTOSAT series of Indian satellites play a crucial role in remote sensing applications by providing high-resolution images for various purposes. These satellites are a valuable asset for the country's development and monitoring of natural resources.

Overview of Mudumalai National Park
Mudumalai National Park, located in Tamil Nadu, India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and significant wildlife populations, including the Indian bison, also known as Gaur.
Habitat of the Indian Bison
- The park’s varied landscape, which includes hills, valleys, and forests, provides an ideal habitat for the Gaur.
- The dense forests and grasslands support the grazing habits of the bison, making it a suitable environment for their survival.
Population of Gaur
- Mudumalai is one of the few national parks in India where a stable population of Gaur can be observed.
- These large mammals are known for their impressive size and strength, often seen grazing in herds.
Conservation Efforts
- The park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which plays a crucial role in the conservation of various species, including the Indian bison.
- Efforts are in place to protect their habitat and ensure that human activities do not threaten their population.
Ecological Significance
- The presence of Gaur in Mudumalai contributes to the ecological balance of the region.
- As herbivores, they play a vital role in maintaining the health of the grasslands, which supports a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Conclusion
Mudumalai National Park stands out as a sanctuary for the Indian bison, making it a critical area for wildlife conservation in India. Its diverse ecosystem and dedicated conservation efforts make it a key location for observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The state in Northeast India that is known as the "Land of the Seven Sisters" is Arunachal Pradesh.

Goa has the lowest population density among the states in India.

Population Density in Goa:
- Goa is a state located on the western coast of India with a population density of approximately 394 people per square kilometer.
- Despite being the smallest state in terms of area, Goa has a relatively low population density compared to other states in India.

Reasons for Low Population Density in Goa:
- Tourism: Goa is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, nightlife, and heritage sites. The influx of tourists contributes to the state's economy but does not significantly impact the resident population.
- Limited land area: Goa has a small geographical area compared to other states, which limits the scope for large-scale population growth.
- Migration: Many Goans migrate to other states or countries for better job opportunities, resulting in a lower population density within the state.

Impact of Low Population Density:
- Better quality of life: With a lower population density, Goa can provide better infrastructure, healthcare, and education facilities to its residents.
- Environmental preservation: The low population density helps in preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of the state.
- Sustainable development: The state can focus on sustainable development practices due to its lower population density.

In conclusion, Goa's low population density can be attributed to its tourism-driven economy, limited land area, and migration trends. Despite its small size, the state benefits from a better quality of life, environmental preservation, and sustainable development initiatives.

The Tehri Dam Overview
The Tehri Dam is a significant engineering marvel located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the tallest dams in the country, standing at a height of 260.5 meters (856 feet) and plays a crucial role in water management and energy generation.
River on Which It Is Built
The correct answer to the question is option 'D': Bhagirathi River. Here’s why:

• Geographical Context: The Tehri Dam is constructed on the Bhagirathi River, which is one of the primary tributaries of the Ganges. The dam is situated at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangana rivers.
• Significance of the Bhagirathi: The Bhagirathi River is vital as it not only contributes to the Ganges but also holds cultural and religious significance for many in India.
• Hydroelectric Power Generation: The dam's primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, with an installed capacity of 1,000 MW. This capacity plays a critical role in meeting the energy needs of northern India.
• Water Storage and Irrigation: Besides power generation, the dam serves as a reservoir, providing water for irrigation and drinking purposes, thus supporting agriculture and local communities.

Conclusion
In summary, the Tehri Dam is built across the Bhagirathi River, making it a pivotal structure for energy production, irrigation, and water management in the region. Its strategic location and multipurpose use underline its importance in India's infrastructure development.

The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, located in the state of Telangana, is one of the largest dams in India. It is built across the Godavari River, making option 'A' the correct answer.

Background:
- The Godavari River is one of the longest rivers in India, originating in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra and flowing through several states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
- The river has immense significance and is considered sacred by many people. It plays a crucial role in irrigation, agriculture, and hydroelectric power generation in the region.

The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam:
- The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is a masonry dam constructed across the Godavari River in the Nalgonda district of Telangana.
- It is named after the nearby town of Nagarjuna Sagar, which is renowned for its ancient Buddhist civilizations.
- The dam was built between 1955 and 1967 as a multipurpose project aimed at providing irrigation, hydroelectric power, and drinking water supply to the region.
- It stands at a height of 124 meters and has a length of approximately 1,550 meters, making it one of the largest masonry dams in the world.

Key Features:
- Irrigation: The primary purpose of the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is to provide water for irrigation to the surrounding agricultural lands. The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 11,472 million cubic meters, which helps in irrigating vast agricultural areas, mainly in the districts of Nalgonda, Khammam, and Krishna.

- Hydroelectric Power Generation: The dam also serves as a source of hydroelectric power generation. It has a powerhouse with 26 turbines, each with a capacity of 40 MW. The total installed capacity of the hydroelectric power plants at Nagarjuna Sagar is 960 MW.

- Drinking Water Supply: The dam supplies drinking water to several towns and cities in the region, including Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana. The water from the reservoir is treated and supplied to meet the drinking water requirements of the population.

- Tourism: The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam has also become a popular tourist attraction due to its scenic beauty and the Nagarjuna Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary located nearby. The reservoir formed by the dam provides a picturesque environment for boating and other recreational activities.

Conclusion:
The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is a significant infrastructure project built across the Godavari River in Telangana. It serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and drinking water supply to the region.

"Sunshine State"?

Overview of Bhakra Nangal Dam
The Bhakra Nangal Dam, located on the Sutlej River in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the largest dams in India. It plays a crucial role in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.
States Benefited by Bhakra Nangal Dam
The dam primarily provides irrigation facilities to two states:

• Punjab: The dam supports extensive agricultural activities in Punjab, which is known as the "Granary of India." It ensures a stable water supply for crops like wheat and rice, enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Haryana: The dam also significantly benefits Haryana, where irrigation is vital for its agricultural economy. The water from the Bhakra Nangal Dam supports various crops and helps in maintaining the state's agricultural output.

Importance of Irrigation from the Dam
The irrigation facilities provided by Bhakra Nangal Dam have transformed the agrarian landscape of both states:

• Increased Agricultural Productivity: The availability of water has led to multiple cropping seasons, boosting food production.
• Economic Growth: Improved irrigation has raised farmers' incomes and contributed to the overall economic development of Punjab and Haryana.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'A', as the Bhakra Nangal Dam primarily supports irrigation in Punjab and Haryana, making it a critical infrastructure project for these states' agricultural economies.

Television Broadcasting Services:
INSAT-4B was primarily launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to provide television broadcasting services. It was a communication satellite designed to enhance the broadcasting capabilities in India.

Role in Television Broadcasting:
- INSAT-4B facilitated the transmission of television signals to homes across the country, improving the reach and quality of television services.
- It enabled the delivery of a wide range of television channels to viewers, including both national and regional channels.

Enhancing Broadcast Services:
- The satellite played a crucial role in expanding the reach of television broadcasting services to remote and rural areas of India, where terrestrial broadcasting infrastructure was limited.
- By using INSAT-4B, broadcasters could reach a wider audience and provide better coverage for important events, news, entertainment, and educational programs.

Impact on Media Industry:
- The availability of INSAT-4B greatly benefited the media industry in India by enabling broadcasters to offer a more diverse range of content to viewers.
- It also contributed to the growth of the television industry in the country, as more channels could be launched and existing channels could improve their services.
In conclusion, INSAT-4B was instrumental in enhancing television broadcasting services in India by providing a reliable and efficient platform for the transmission of television signals to viewers across the country.