1. Identify the lake from the statements given below:
- Kallada River is the major source of water for this lake.
- It is called the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala.
- It is a Ramsar site.
Choose the correct answer using the codes given below:
[A] Vembanad
[B] Ashtamudi
[C] Sasthamkotta
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Ashtamudi]
Notes:- Ashtamudi Lake or Ashtamudi Kayal in the Kollam District is called the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala.
- Kallada River is the major source of water for Ashtamdui Lake.
- Ashtamudi means ‘eight braids’ in Malayalam, which indicates the palm-shaped topography of the lake with multiple branches.
- It possesses a unique wetland ecosystem and the Ashtamudi estuary is famous for its diverse biodiversity and ecological peculiarities.
- The lake is well known for its houseboat and backwater resorts.
- Ramsar Site under Ramsar Convention (1971)
2. Consider the following statements about the Dalai Lamas:
- The Dalai Lama belongs to the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism.
- The Dalai Lamas are believed to be manifestations of ‘Avalokiteshvara’, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
- The 14th and current Dalai Lama is Tenzin Gyatso.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
[A] Only 2 and 3
[B] Only 1
[C] Only 3
[D] 1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Only 2 and 3]
Notes:
The Dalai Lamas belong to the Gelug school, not the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. They are revered as manifestations of ‘Avalokiteshvara’, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The 14th and current Dalai Lama is Tenzin Gyatso. Thus, only statements 2 and 3 are correct, while statement 1 is incorrect.
3. Gamosa which was in news recently is a:
[A] GI tagged rice of Assam
[B] GI tagged ginger of Assam
[C] GI tagged scarf of Assam
[D] GI tagged wine of Assam
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [GI tagged scarf of Assam]
Notes:
The gamosa is a cloth from Assam that is used to wipe the body. It is also used to cover altars in prayer halls or to cover scriptures. The gamosa is considered a symbol of Assamese cultural identity.
The gamosa has been given a Geographical Indication (GI) registration certificate. A GI is a name that indicates a product’s quality and distinctiveness. The gamosa’s GI registration certificate was received by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The gamosa has a history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally used as a handkerchief or head covering by the people of Bengal. Over time, it became an essential item of clothing for farmers and laborers.
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