Q11. What is the highest peak in Uttarakhand?
a) Nanda Devi
b) Trisul
c) Kamet
d) Bandarpunch
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Correct Answer: a) Nanda Devi
Explanation: Nanda Devi, standing at 7,816 meters (25,643 feet) above sea level, is the highest mountain peak entirely within Uttarakhand. It is the second-highest mountain in India and is located in the Garhwal Himalayas. The peak is surrounded by the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, a glacial basin enclosed by a ring of peaks.
Q12. Which lake in Uttarakhand is known as the “Lake of Flowers”?
a) Nainital Lake
b) Bhimtal Lake
c) Sattal Lake
d) Naukuchiatal Lake
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Correct Answer: a) Nainital Lake
Explanation: Nainital Lake, located in the town of Nainital, is often referred to as the “Lake of Flowers” or “Naini Lake”. It’s a natural freshwater body shaped like an eye, hence the name “Nain” (eye) tal (lake). The lake is surrounded by hills and is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and boating activities.
Q13. What is the literacy rate of Uttarakhand according to the 2011 census?
a) 68.82%
b) 78.82%
c) 88.82%
d) 98.82%
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Correct Answer: b) 78.82%
Explanation: According to the 2011 census, the literacy rate of Uttarakhand is 78.82%. This places Uttarakhand above the national average literacy rate. The state has made significant strides in education, with a focus on improving access to schools in remote mountainous regions.
Q14. Which of the following is NOT a major river originating in Uttarakhand?
a) Ganga
b) Yamuna
c) Brahmaputra
d) Alaknanda
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Correct Answer: c) Brahmaputra
Explanation: While the Ganga, Yamuna, and Alaknanda rivers originate in Uttarakhand, the Brahmaputra does not. The Brahmaputra originates in Tibet and enters India through Arunachal Pradesh. Uttarakhand is the source of several major rivers that are part of the Ganges river system, playing a crucial role in North India’s water supply.
Q15. What is the popular name given to Uttarakhand due to its religious significance?
a) Land of Gods
b) Holy State
c) Himalayan Paradise
d) Spiritual Haven
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Correct Answer: a) Land of Gods
Explanation: Uttarakhand is often referred to as “Devbhumi” or the “Land of Gods” due to its numerous temples, pilgrimage sites, and religious significance in Hinduism. The state is home to several important holy places including the Char Dham sites, making it a major destination for spiritual tourism.
Q16. Which hill station in Uttarakhand is known as the “Queen of Hills”?
a) Nainital
b) Mussoorie
c) Almora
d) Ranikhet
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Correct Answer: b) Mussoorie
Explanation: Mussoorie is popularly known as the “Queen of Hills”. Located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is a famous hill station known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and colonial architecture. It was developed as a retreat by the British during the colonial era and continues to be a popular tourist destination.
Q17. What is the state bird of Uttarakhand?
a) Himalayan Monal
b) Great Indian Bustard
c) Himalayan Quail
d) Cheer Pheasant
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Correct Answer: a) Himalayan Monal
Explanation: The Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) is the state bird of Uttarakhand. This colorful pheasant is found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. The male Monal is known for its iridescent plumage with vibrant colors, making it one of the most beautiful birds in the region.
Q18. Which famous boarding school in Uttarakhand is known as the “Eton of the East”?
a) Welham Boys’ School
b) Doon School
c) Woodstock School
d) St. George’s College
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Correct Answer: b) Doon School
Explanation: The Doon School, located in Dehradun, is often referred to as the “Eton of the East”. Founded in 1935, it is one of India’s most prestigious all-boys’ boarding schools. The school is known for its high academic standards, emphasis on extracurricular activities, and for producing notable alumni in various fields.
Q19. What is the traditional folk art of Uttarakhand that involves decorative wall and floor paintings?
a) Madhubani
b) Aipan
c) Warli
d) Thangka
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Correct Answer: b) Aipan
Explanation: Aipan is a traditional folk art of Uttarakhand, particularly popular in the Kumaon region. It involves creating decorative designs on walls and floors using rice paste. These designs are typically geometric and floral patterns, often used during festivals and special occasions. Aipan is considered auspicious and is an integral part of Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage.
Q20. Which famous Indian mathematician and astronomer, known for discovering zero, was born in Uttarakhand?
a) Aryabhata
b) Brahmagupta
c) Varahamihira
d) None of the above
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Correct Answer: d) None of the above
Explanation: While Uttarakhand has a rich cultural and scientific heritage, none of the mentioned mathematicians were born in the region that is now Uttarakhand. Aryabhata was from Pataliputra (modern-day Patna), Brahmagupta was from Rajasthan, and Varahamihira was from Madhya Pradesh. However, Uttarakhand has been home to many scholars and spiritual leaders throughout history.