UPSC Current Affairs Quiz : 30 March 2024

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The Current Affairs Quiz is a daily quiz based on the DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS AND PIB SUMMARY from the previous day, as posted on our website. It covers all relevant news sources and is designed to test your knowledge of current events. Solving these questions will help you retain both concepts and facts relevant to the UPSC IAS civil services exam.

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• Question 1 of 10 1. Question 1 points Consider the following nations: Egypt Syria Lebanon Jordan Israel How many of the above nations share borders with the Gaza strip? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) Only four Correct Ans: (b) Explanation: Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire. The Gaza Strip is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Egypt on the southwest and Israel on the east and north. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/ Incorrect Ans: (b) Explanation: Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire. The Gaza Strip is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Egypt on the southwest and Israel on the east and north. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/

#### 1. Question

Consider the following nations:

• Egypt Syria Lebanon Jordan Israel

How many of the above nations share borders with the Gaza strip?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) Only four

Explanation:

• Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire.

• The Gaza Strip is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Egypt on the southwest and Israel on the east and north.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/

Explanation:

• Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire.

• The Gaza Strip is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Egypt on the southwest and Israel on the east and north.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/

• Question 2 of 10 2. Question 1 points Consider the following nations: Egypt Lebanon Jordan Iran How many of the above nations share borders with Israel? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Ans: (c) Explanation: Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire. Israel is bordered by Syria, Lebanon, Golan Heights, the West Bank, Jordan, the Gaza Strip, and Egypt. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/ Incorrect Ans: (c) Explanation: Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire. Israel is bordered by Syria, Lebanon, Golan Heights, the West Bank, Jordan, the Gaza Strip, and Egypt. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/

#### 2. Question

Consider the following nations:

• Egypt Lebanon Jordan Iran

How many of the above nations share borders with Israel?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Explanation:

• Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire.

• Israel is bordered by Syria, Lebanon, Golan Heights, the West Bank, Jordan, the Gaza Strip, and Egypt.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/

Explanation:

• Context: After five and a half months of conflict in Gaza, with significant casualties and displacement, the UN Security Council called for an immediate ceasefire.

• Israel is bordered by Syria, Lebanon, Golan Heights, the West Bank, Jordan, the Gaza Strip, and Egypt.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/un-security-council-resolution-on-gaza/

• Question 3 of 10 3. Question 1 points Consider the following statements: In a T+0 settlement cycle, transactions are settled on the same day they are executed. T+0 settlement cycle allows for immediate transfer of securities and funds. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Ans; (c) Explanation: Context: India’s stock exchanges have launched a beta version of same-day transaction settlement, known as T+0, for select cash segment stocks. Currently, in a limited rollout phase, T+0 enables trades to settle on the same day they occur, offering benefits such as faster access to funds and increased flexibility for investors. This new system is being tested with around 25 stocks and a select group of brokers, with the aim of assessing its effectiveness and resolving any issues before wider implementation. T+0 settlement allows investors to promptly reinvest funds, react quickly to market changes, and potentially reduce counterparty risk. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/t0-settlement-cycle/ Incorrect Ans; (c) Explanation: Context: India’s stock exchanges have launched a beta version of same-day transaction settlement, known as T+0, for select cash segment stocks. Currently, in a limited rollout phase, T+0 enables trades to settle on the same day they occur, offering benefits such as faster access to funds and increased flexibility for investors. This new system is being tested with around 25 stocks and a select group of brokers, with the aim of assessing its effectiveness and resolving any issues before wider implementation. T+0 settlement allows investors to promptly reinvest funds, react quickly to market changes, and potentially reduce counterparty risk. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/t0-settlement-cycle/

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements:

• In a T+0 settlement cycle, transactions are settled on the same day they are executed. T+0 settlement cycle allows for immediate transfer of securities and funds.

• In a T+0 settlement cycle, transactions are settled on the same day they are executed.

• T+0 settlement cycle allows for immediate transfer of securities and funds.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation:

• Context: India’s stock exchanges have launched a beta version of same-day transaction settlement, known as T+0, for select cash segment stocks.

• Currently, in a limited rollout phase, T+0 enables trades to settle on the same day they occur, offering benefits such as faster access to funds and increased flexibility for investors.

• This new system is being tested with around 25 stocks and a select group of brokers, with the aim of assessing its effectiveness and resolving any issues before wider implementation.

• T+0 settlement allows investors to promptly reinvest funds, react quickly to market changes, and potentially reduce counterparty risk.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/t0-settlement-cycle/

Explanation:

• Context: India’s stock exchanges have launched a beta version of same-day transaction settlement, known as T+0, for select cash segment stocks.

• Currently, in a limited rollout phase, T+0 enables trades to settle on the same day they occur, offering benefits such as faster access to funds and increased flexibility for investors.

• This new system is being tested with around 25 stocks and a select group of brokers, with the aim of assessing its effectiveness and resolving any issues before wider implementation.

• T+0 settlement allows investors to promptly reinvest funds, react quickly to market changes, and potentially reduce counterparty risk.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/t0-settlement-cycle/

• Question 4 of 10 4. Question 1 points Consider the following financial institutions: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC) New India Assurance Co. Ltd. How many of the above were classified as Domestically systemically important insurance companies in India? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Ans: (c) Explanation: Context: In the financial year 2023-24, three domestic insurance companies have been identified as systemically important for the stability of the economy: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC), and New India Assurance Co. Ltd. These companies are considered “too important to fail,” and there is an expectation of government support in case of financial distress. Designated as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs), they play a critical role in ensuring the availability of insurance services to the national economy. D-SIIs are subject to additional regulatory measures to manage systemic risks and moral hazard issues, including enhancing corporate governance and implementing robust risk management frameworks. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/domestically-systemically-important-insurance-companies/ Incorrect Ans: (c) Explanation: Context: In the financial year 2023-24, three domestic insurance companies have been identified as systemically important for the stability of the economy: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC), and New India Assurance Co. Ltd. These companies are considered “too important to fail,” and there is an expectation of government support in case of financial distress. Designated as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs), they play a critical role in ensuring the availability of insurance services to the national economy. D-SIIs are subject to additional regulatory measures to manage systemic risks and moral hazard issues, including enhancing corporate governance and implementing robust risk management frameworks. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/domestically-systemically-important-insurance-companies/

#### 4. Question

Consider the following financial institutions:

• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC) New India Assurance Co. Ltd.

• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)

• General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC)

• New India Assurance Co. Ltd.

How many of the above were classified as Domestically systemically important insurance companies in India?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Explanation:

• Context: In the financial year 2023-24, three domestic insurance companies have been identified as systemically important for the stability of the economy:

• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC), and New India Assurance Co. Ltd.

• These companies are considered “too important to fail,” and there is an expectation of government support in case of financial distress.

• Designated as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs), they play a critical role in ensuring the availability of insurance services to the national economy.

• D-SIIs are subject to additional regulatory measures to manage systemic risks and moral hazard issues, including enhancing corporate governance and implementing robust risk management frameworks.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/domestically-systemically-important-insurance-companies/

Explanation:

• Context: In the financial year 2023-24, three domestic insurance companies have been identified as systemically important for the stability of the economy:

• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC), and New India Assurance Co. Ltd.

• These companies are considered “too important to fail,” and there is an expectation of government support in case of financial distress.

• Designated as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs), they play a critical role in ensuring the availability of insurance services to the national economy.

• D-SIIs are subject to additional regulatory measures to manage systemic risks and moral hazard issues, including enhancing corporate governance and implementing robust risk management frameworks.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/domestically-systemically-important-insurance-companies/

• Question 5 of 10 5. Question 1 points What is Sagittarius A? (a) A type of star found in the constellation Sagittarius. (b) A massive black hole located at the center of the Milky Way galaxy. (c) A planetary nebula formed from the remnants of a dying star. (d) A distant galaxy beyond the Milky Way. Correct Ans: (b) Explanation: Context: Astronomers have detected a twisted magnetic field in a spiral pattern around the Milky Way’s supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A (Sgr A), indicating previously unknown features of the powerful object. The term “twisted” magnetic field refers to a magnetic field that has a spiral or helical shape rather than being uniformly aligned. This discovery sheds light on previously unknown qualities of the supermassive black hole at the centre of our galaxy, indicating similarities with the magnetic field surrounding another black hole known as M87. The twisted magnetic field structure suggests the potential for the Milky Way’s black hole to power efficient jets of material into space, similar to those observed in M87. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/twisted-magnetic-field/ Incorrect Ans: (b) Explanation: Context: Astronomers have detected a twisted magnetic field in a spiral pattern around the Milky Way’s supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A (Sgr A), indicating previously unknown features of the powerful object. The term “twisted” magnetic field refers to a magnetic field that has a spiral or helical shape rather than being uniformly aligned. This discovery sheds light on previously unknown qualities of the supermassive black hole at the centre of our galaxy, indicating similarities with the magnetic field surrounding another black hole known as M87. The twisted magnetic field structure suggests the potential for the Milky Way’s black hole to power efficient jets of material into space, similar to those observed in M87*. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/twisted-magnetic-field/

#### 5. Question

What is Sagittarius A*?

• (a) A type of star found in the constellation Sagittarius.

• (b) A massive black hole located at the center of the Milky Way galaxy.

• (c) A planetary nebula formed from the remnants of a dying star.

• (d) A distant galaxy beyond the Milky Way.

Explanation:

• Context: Astronomers have detected a twisted magnetic field in a spiral pattern around the Milky Way’s supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A (Sgr A), indicating previously unknown features of the powerful object.

• The term “twisted” magnetic field refers to a magnetic field that has a spiral or helical shape rather than being uniformly aligned.

• This discovery sheds light on previously unknown qualities of the supermassive black hole at the centre of our galaxy, indicating similarities with the magnetic field surrounding another black hole known as M87*.

• The twisted magnetic field structure suggests the potential for the Milky Way’s black hole to power efficient jets of material into space, similar to those observed in M87*.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/twisted-magnetic-field/

Explanation:

• The term “twisted” magnetic field refers to a magnetic field that has a spiral or helical shape rather than being uniformly aligned.

• The twisted magnetic field structure suggests the potential for the Milky Way’s black hole to power efficient jets of material into space, similar to those observed in M87*.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/twisted-magnetic-field/

• Question 6 of 10 6. Question 1 points START 2024, a new training program, will be conducted by the (a) CSIR (b) DRDO (c) ISRO (d) NITI Correct Ans: (c) Explanation: Context: ISRO will conduct the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024 program, aiming to attract young individuals to the fields of space science and technology. The training will cover introductory topics in various aspects of space science and technology, along with sessions on Indian space exploration programs and research opportunities. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/start-2024/ Incorrect Ans: (c) Explanation: Context: ISRO will conduct the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024 program, aiming to attract young individuals to the fields of space science and technology. The training will cover introductory topics in various aspects of space science and technology, along with sessions on Indian space exploration programs and research opportunities. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/start-2024/

#### 6. Question

START 2024, a new training program, will be conducted by the

Explanation:

• Context: ISRO will conduct the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024 program, aiming to attract young individuals to the fields of space science and technology.

• The training will cover introductory topics in various aspects of space science and technology, along with sessions on Indian space exploration programs and research opportunities.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/start-2024/

Explanation:

• Context: ISRO will conduct the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024 program, aiming to attract young individuals to the fields of space science and technology.

• The training will cover introductory topics in various aspects of space science and technology, along with sessions on Indian space exploration programs and research opportunities.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/start-2024/

• Question 7 of 10 7. Question 1 points In which of the following states is Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary located? (a) Karnataka (b) Tamil Nadu (c) Telangana (d) Maharashtra Correct Ans: (c) Explanation: The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Warangal, Telangana, and lies on the border of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari. The sanctuary is home to various flora including bamboo, maddi, dry deciduous teak, thiruman, and madhuca. As for fauna, it harbors species such as the sloth bear, chinkara, nilgai, black buck, among others. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/ Incorrect Ans: (c) Explanation: The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Warangal, Telangana, and lies on the border of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari. The sanctuary is home to various flora including bamboo, maddi, dry deciduous teak, thiruman, and madhuca. As for fauna, it harbors species such as the sloth bear, chinkara, nilgai, black buck, among others. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/

#### 7. Question

In which of the following states is Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary located?

• (a) Karnataka

• (b) Tamil Nadu

• (c) Telangana

• (d) Maharashtra

Explanation:

• The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Warangal, Telangana, and lies on the border of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.

• It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari.

• The sanctuary is home to various flora including bamboo, maddi, dry deciduous teak, thiruman, and madhuca.

• As for fauna, it harbors species such as the sloth bear, chinkara, nilgai, black buck, among others.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/

Explanation:

• The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Warangal, Telangana, and lies on the border of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.

• It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari.

• The sanctuary is home to various flora including bamboo, maddi, dry deciduous teak, thiruman, and madhuca.

• As for fauna, it harbors species such as the sloth bear, chinkara, nilgai, black buck, among others.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/

• Question 8 of 10 8. Question 1 points Consider the following statements about Amrabad Tiger Reserve: It is located in the state of Maharashtra. It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari. It was established with the aim of conserving the sloth beer. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Ans: (d) Explanation: Amrabad Tiger Reserve is located in the Indian state of Telangana. It is one of the largest tiger reserves in the country, covering an area of approximately 2,800 square kilometers. The reserve is situated on the border of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, encompassing parts of the Nallamala Hills. It was established with the aim of conserving the endangered Bengal tiger and its habitat. Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to various other species of wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaurs, and several species of birds and reptiles. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/ Incorrect Ans: (d) Explanation: Amrabad Tiger Reserve is located in the Indian state of Telangana. It is one of the largest tiger reserves in the country, covering an area of approximately 2,800 square kilometers. The reserve is situated on the border of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, encompassing parts of the Nallamala Hills. It was established with the aim of conserving the endangered Bengal tiger and its habitat. Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to various other species of wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaurs, and several species of birds and reptiles. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/

#### 8. Question

Consider the following statements about Amrabad Tiger Reserve:

• It is located in the state of Maharashtra. It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari. It was established with the aim of conserving the sloth beer.

• It is located in the state of Maharashtra.

• It is traversed by the rivers Dayyam Vagu and Godavari.

• It was established with the aim of conserving the sloth beer.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Explanation:

• Amrabad Tiger Reserve is located in the Indian state of Telangana.

• It is one of the largest tiger reserves in the country, covering an area of approximately 2,800 square kilometers.

• The reserve is situated on the border of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, encompassing parts of the Nallamala Hills.

• It was established with the aim of conserving the endangered Bengal tiger and its habitat.

• Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to various other species of wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaurs, and several species of birds and reptiles.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/

Explanation:

• Amrabad Tiger Reserve is located in the Indian state of Telangana.

• It is one of the largest tiger reserves in the country, covering an area of approximately 2,800 square kilometers.

• The reserve is situated on the border of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, encompassing parts of the Nallamala Hills.

• It was established with the aim of conserving the endangered Bengal tiger and its habitat.

• Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to various other species of wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaurs, and several species of birds and reptiles.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/eturnagaram-amrabad-wildlife-sanctuaries/

• Question 9 of 10 9. Question 1 points The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was constituted under ___. (a) The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (b) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 (c) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (d) The Environment Protection Act of 1986 Correct Ans: (b) Explanation: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It was later given powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and serves as a field formation providing technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Its key functions include promoting the cleanliness of streams and wells to prevent water pollution and improving air quality to prevent air pollution nationwide. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/central-pollution-control-board/ Incorrect Ans: (b) Explanation: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It was later given powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and serves as a field formation providing technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Its key functions include promoting the cleanliness of streams and wells to prevent water pollution and improving air quality to prevent air pollution nationwide. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/central-pollution-control-board/

#### 9. Question

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was constituted under ___.

• (a) The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972

• (b) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

• (c) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

• (d) The Environment Protection Act of 1986

Explanation:

• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It was later given powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and serves as a field formation providing technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Its key functions include promoting the cleanliness of streams and wells to prevent water pollution and improving air quality to prevent air pollution nationwide.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/central-pollution-control-board/

Explanation:

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/central-pollution-control-board/

• Question 10 of 10 10. Question 1 points With reference to India’s Banni Grassland, consider the following statements: The Banni Grassland is a unique ecosystem located in the Rann of Kutch region of Gujarat, India. It is characterized by its vast expanse of grasslands, interspersed with wetlands and patches of scrubland. The Banni Grassland supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. The local Maldhari community has traditionally practiced a sustainable form of pastoralism in the Banni Grassland for centuries. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Ans: (c) Explanation: Statement 3 is incorrect Aspect Details Location Banni Grassland is situated near the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. Size It is considered to be the largest Grassland in Asia, spreading over 2,618 kilometres and accounting for almost 45% of the pastures in Gujarat. Formation The land in Banni was formed from the sediments deposited by the Indus and other rivers over thousands of years. Ecosystem Two ecosystems, wetlands, and grasslands, coexist in Banni. Vegetation The vegetation is sparse and highly dependent on rainfall. It is dominated by low-growing forbs and graminoids, many of which are halophiles (salt-tolerant). The grasslands were traditionally managed by a system of rotational grazing. Flora and Fauna Rich biodiversity with 192 species of plants, 262 species of birds, several species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It is also known for the Banni breed of buffaloes Reserve Forest Status In 1955, the court notified the grassland as a reserve forest. In 2019, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered to demarcation of the boundaries of Banni grassland and restricted non-forest activities. Most of the livestock keepers in Banni belong to the Maldhari community. They rear the Banni or Sindhi buffalo, Kankrej cattle, sheep, goats, horses, donkeys and camels Significance The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has identified Banni Grassland as one of the last remaining habitats of the cheetah in India. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/luna-crater-in-banni-plains/ Incorrect Ans: (c) Explanation: Statement 3 is incorrect Aspect Details Location Banni Grassland is situated near the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. Size It is considered to be the largest Grassland in Asia, spreading over 2,618 kilometres and accounting for almost 45% of the pastures in Gujarat. Formation The land in Banni was formed from the sediments deposited by the Indus and other rivers over thousands of years. Ecosystem Two ecosystems, wetlands, and grasslands, coexist in Banni. Vegetation The vegetation is sparse and highly dependent on rainfall. It is dominated by low-growing forbs and graminoids, many of which are halophiles (salt-tolerant). The grasslands were traditionally managed by a system of rotational grazing. Flora and Fauna Rich biodiversity with 192 species of plants, 262 species of birds, several species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It is also known for the Banni breed of buffaloes Reserve Forest Status In 1955, the court notified the grassland as a reserve forest. In 2019, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered to demarcation of the boundaries of Banni grassland and restricted non-forest activities. Most of the livestock keepers in Banni belong to the Maldhari community. They rear the Banni or Sindhi buffalo, Kankrej cattle, sheep, goats, horses, donkeys and camels Significance The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has identified Banni Grassland as one of the last remaining habitats of the cheetah in India. Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/luna-crater-in-banni-plains/

#### 10. Question

With reference to India’s Banni Grassland, consider the following statements:

• The Banni Grassland is a unique ecosystem located in the Rann of Kutch region of Gujarat, India. It is characterized by its vast expanse of grasslands, interspersed with wetlands and patches of scrubland. The Banni Grassland supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. The local Maldhari community has traditionally practiced a sustainable form of pastoralism in the Banni Grassland for centuries.

• The Banni Grassland is a unique ecosystem located in the Rann of Kutch region of Gujarat, India.

• It is characterized by its vast expanse of grasslands, interspersed with wetlands and patches of scrubland.

• The Banni Grassland supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard.

• The local Maldhari community has traditionally practiced a sustainable form of pastoralism in the Banni Grassland for centuries.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Explanation:

• Statement 3 is incorrect

Aspect | Details

Location | Banni Grassland is situated near the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.

Size | It is considered to be the largest Grassland in Asia, spreading over 2,618 kilometres and accounting for almost 45% of the pastures in Gujarat.

Formation | The land in Banni was formed from the sediments deposited by the Indus and other rivers over thousands of years.

Ecosystem | Two ecosystems, wetlands, and grasslands, coexist in Banni.

Vegetation | The vegetation is sparse and highly dependent on rainfall. It is dominated by low-growing forbs and graminoids, many of which are halophiles (salt-tolerant). The grasslands were traditionally managed by a system of rotational grazing.

Flora and Fauna | Rich biodiversity with 192 species of plants, 262 species of birds, several species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It is also known for the Banni breed of buffaloes

Reserve Forest Status | In 1955, the court notified the grassland as a reserve forest. In 2019, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered to demarcation of the boundaries of Banni grassland and restricted non-forest activities.

Most of the livestock keepers in Banni belong to the Maldhari community. They rear the Banni or Sindhi buffalo, Kankrej cattle, sheep, goats, horses, donkeys and camels

Significance | The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has identified Banni Grassland as one of the last remaining habitats of the cheetah in India.

Refer: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/29/luna-crater-in-banni-plains/