Nalanda University was a world-renowned center of learning where subjects like mathematics and astronomy were taught extensively to students from across Asia.

Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President from Bihar, received the Bharat Ratna in 1962 for his contributions to the nation.

The Bihar Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) has 243 seats, making it one of the largest in India.

Sitamarhi is associated with the Hindu goddess Sita and is believed to be her birthplace according to local legends.

Champaran Satyagraha (1917) was Mahatma Gandhi’s first civil disobedience movement in India, protesting forced indigo farming in Bihar.

Vikramshila University was established by Pala King Dharmapala and is located in Bhagalpur; it was a rival to Nalanda University.

Located in West Champaran, Valmiki Tiger Reserve is Bihar’s only tiger reserve and a vital part of Project Tiger.

Bidesia is a folk theatre form originated by Bhikhari Thakur, often focusing on themes of migration and social issues.

The Barabar Caves near Gaya are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, built during Emperor Ashoka’s reign.

The Koshi Barrage near Bhimnagar was constructed to control flooding from the Kosi River, known as the "Sorrow of Bihar."

The Total Revolution (JP Movement) began in Bihar in 1974 to fight corruption and authoritarianism in the Indian government.

The Madhubani district is globally renowned for its traditional Mithila art using natural colors and intricate patterns.

Sher Shah Suri’s majestic tomb is located in Sasaram, Bihar, and is an architectural marvel built in Indo-Afghan style.

Explanation: TAL includes forest areas and protected reserves in UP, Bihar, and Uttarakhand. It focuses on connectivity for elephants and tigers across fragmented habitats. It is supported by WWF and government agencies for corridor protection and community-based conservation.

Explanation: Sugarcane requires massive water input, and the associated mills further consume and pollute water. In regions like Western UP, groundwater over-extraction is alarming. Sustainable farming techniques and drip irrigation are being promoted.

Explanation: Bijnor was awarded under the Swachh Survekshan for decentralized waste management and segregation practices. It focused on door-to-door collection and composting. Citizen participation and private partnerships were key to its success.

Explanation: The Ken-Betwa link aims to transfer surplus water from MP to water-scarce Bundelkhand areas in UP. But it involves submergence of forest and displacement in Panna Tiger Reserve. Ecologists warn of biodiversity loss and human displacement.

Explanation: This central act applies to UP and restricts the de-reservation or use of forest land for non-forest purposes without approval. It ensures sustainable forest use and compensatory afforestation. The act is enforced by both state and central authorities.

Explanation: In western UP, post-harvest rice stubble is often burned to clear fields for wheat sowing. This contributes significantly to winter air pollution, especially in the NCR. The government promotes happy seeders and bio-decomposers as alternatives.

Explanation: Declared the National Aquatic Animal, the Ganges Dolphin is a keystone species for river ecosystems. Found in rivers like Ganga and Ghaghara, its population is under threat due to pollution, damming, and fishing. Uttar Pradesh has dolphin sanctuaries to protect them.

Terai forests are rich in sal, teak, and bamboo, with a high water table and biodiversity. These moist deciduous forests support large mammals like tigers and elephants. Conservation is challenged by encroachment and illegal logging

Explanation: The 594 km Ganga Expressway is expected to impact wetlands, wildlife corridors, and prime agricultural areas. Environmentalists have warned about groundwater depletion and habitat fragmentation. Public hearings and EIA compliance are crucial steps.

Explanation: Originating in the Himalayas, the Ghaghara River floods annually during the monsoon and glacial melt, especially affecting districts like Barabanki and Bahraich. The government is investing in embankments and early warning systems to mitigate disasters.

Explanation: The UPPCB is tasked with enforcing environmental laws related to air and water quality, industrial effluents, and noise pollution. It issues consents to operate and monitors emissions. The board plays a regulatory as well as advisory role.

Explanation: Gorakhpur has integrated climate-resilient infrastructure under the Smart Cities Mission. The city focuses on urban wetlands, green mobility, and flood-resistant planning. Its work is also supported by global climate resilience networks.