Q1. What is the capital city of Goa?
a) Margao
b) Vasco da Gama
c) Panaji
d) Mapusa
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Correct Answer: c) Panaji
Explanation: Panaji, also known as Panjim, is the capital city of Goa. It became the state’s capital in 1843 when the Portuguese moved their seat of government from Old Goa. Panaji is located on the banks of the Mandovi River and is known for its Portuguese colonial architecture and vibrant culture.
Q2. When did Goa become a state of India?
a) 1961
b) 1987
c) 1947
d) 1975
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Correct Answer: b) 1987
Explanation: Goa became the 25th state of India on May 30, 1987. Prior to this, it was a Union Territory along with Daman and Diu. The state was liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961 but remained a Union Territory for 26 years before attaining full statehood.
Q3. Which is the official language of Goa?
a) Marathi
b) Portuguese
c) Konkani
d) Hindi
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Correct Answer: c) Konkani
Explanation: Konkani is the official language of Goa, as recognized by the Goa, Daman and Diu Official Language Act, 1987. It is an Indo-Aryan language spoken by the Konkani people along the western coast of India. Despite Portuguese influence, Konkani remained the primary language of communication among Goans.
Q4. Which famous church in Goa holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier?
a) Se Cathedral
b) Church of St. Francis of Assisi
c) Basilica of Bom Jesus
d) Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
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Correct Answer: c) Basilica of Bom Jesus
Explanation: The Basilica of Bom Jesus, located in Old Goa, houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Built in 1605, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an exemplary piece of Baroque architecture. The saint’s body is kept in a silver casket and displayed to the public every ten years.
Q5. What is the area of Goa?
a) 3,702 sq km
b) 4,500 sq km
c) 2,800 sq km
d) 5,100 sq km
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Correct Answer: a) 3,702 sq km
Explanation: Goa covers an area of 3,702 square kilometers, making it India’s smallest state by area. Despite its small size, Goa is known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, estuaries, and the Western Ghats mountain range, contributing to its rich biodiversity and tourism appeal.
Q6. Which empire ruled Goa before the Portuguese conquest?
a) Mughal Empire
b) Maratha Empire
c) Vijayanagara Empire
d) Bijapur Sultanate
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Correct Answer: d) Bijapur Sultanate
Explanation: Before the Portuguese conquest in 1510, Goa was ruled by the Bijapur Sultanate. The Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur controlled the region and established Velha Goa (Old Goa) as their auxiliary capital. The Portuguese, led by Afonso de Albuquerque, defeated the Bijapur forces to establish their colony.
Q7. What is the popular beach sport in Goa that originated from Brazil?
a) Volleyball
b) Footvolley
c) Beach soccer
d) Surfing
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Correct Answer: b) Footvolley
Explanation: Footvolley, a sport that combines elements of beach volleyball and football, has gained popularity in Goa. Originating from Brazil in the 1960s, it has become a common sight on Goan beaches. Players use their feet, chest, and head to volley a ball over a net, similar to volleyball but without using hands.
Q8. Which river forms the northern border of Goa with Maharashtra?
a) Mandovi
b) Zuari
c) Terekhol
d) Chapora
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Correct Answer: c) Terekhol
Explanation: The Terekhol River, also known as Tiracol, forms the northern border between Goa and Maharashtra. This tidal river originates in Maharashtra and flows for about 26 kilometers before emptying into the Arabian Sea. The river is known for its scenic beauty and the historic Tiracol Fort located at its mouth.
Q9. What is the name of Goa’s famous carnival?
a) Sao Joao
b) Shigmo
c) Goa Carnival
d) Bonderam
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Correct Answer: c) Goa Carnival
Explanation: The Goa Carnival, locally known as “Carnaval,” is a vibrant and colorful festival held annually in Goa. It’s a legacy of Portuguese rule, typically occurring in February or March before Lent. The carnival features parades, music, dance, and elaborate floats, attracting tourists from around the world to experience Goa’s unique cultural blend.
Q10. Which fort in Goa is famous for its lighthouse and panoramic views?
a) Chapora Fort
b) Aguada Fort
c) Reis Magos Fort
d) Cabo de Rama Fort
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Correct Answer: b) Aguada Fort
Explanation: Fort Aguada, built in 1612 by the Portuguese, is famous for its lighthouse and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Located at the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, it was a crucial defense fortification. The fort’s lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest of its kind in Asia and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.