KVKs (agricultural science centers) train farmers, demonstrate new methods, and conduct soil/water testing, forming a backbone of rural agricultural extension in Bihar.

Explanation: In the Haber process, nitrogen and hydrogen gases are combined under high pressure and temperature in the presence of an iron catalyst to produce ammonia (NH₃). Hydrogen is typically obtained from natural gas or water electrolysis. Ammonia is essential for fertilizer production. This process revolutionized global agriculture in the 20th century.

Explanation: Percolation is the process where water slowly filters through the soil and rocks, helping in the natural purification of water. This movement removes many impurities and harmful organisms. The filtered water eventually collects in underground aquifers. It is crucial in the natural water cycle. Human interference often affects this important ecological function.

Explanation: The State Finance Minister presents the annual financial statement or budget in the Legislative Assembly. It outlines the revenue, expenditure, and fiscal plans for the year. The budget must be approved by the majority in the Assembly. It’s a critical tool for governance and development. Public services and infrastructure projects depend heavily on its provisions.

Explanation: The 73rd Amendment to the Constitution in 1992 brought about a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj in rural India, including Uttar Pradesh. It ensured decentralized governance with elected bodies at the village, block, and district levels. These bodies receive funds and have administrative roles. In UP, they play a key role in rural development. Elections are held every five years.

Explanation: After India’s independence in 1947 and the formation of the state of Uttar Pradesh in 1950, the Indian National Congress formed the first government. Govind Ballabh Pant served as the first Chief Minister. The Congress dominated UP politics until the late 1980s. Its decline led to regional parties gaining ground. This marked a shift in the political landscape.

Explanation: Members of the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) in Uttar Pradesh serve a term of six years, with one-third retiring every two years. This ensures continuity in legislative functioning. The body acts as a permanent chamber, unlike the Legislative Assembly. It provides experienced oversight in lawmaking. Teachers, graduates, and local bodies elect some of its members.

Explanation: The State Election Commission conducts elections for urban local bodies such as Municipal Corporations, including the election of Mayors. It ensures free and fair polls under Article 243K of the Constitution. The Mayor is directly elected by the public in UP. This system enhances local democratic participation. The Commission is an autonomous constitutional body.

Explanation: Unlike the Parliament of India, there is no constitutional provision for a joint sitting of the two houses in state legislatures. The Legislative Council (Upper House) and Legislative Assembly (Lower House) function independently. In case of disagreement, the Assembly's decision prevails. This reflects the supremacy of the directly elected house. The Council serves only as a revisory body.

Explanation: The composition and allocation of seats in the Vidhan Parishad (Legislative Council) are governed by the Representation of the People Act and not directly listed in a specific schedule. The creation and structure of the council are subject to Article 169. The central Parliament must pass a law based on a resolution passed by the state. This allows flexibility for different states.

Explanation: The Governor’s role as Chancellor of state universities is defined under respective state university acts, not the Indian Constitution. In Uttar Pradesh, the Governor presides over university convocations and approves vice-chancellor appointments. This position is largely ceremonial but symbolically powerful. The issue often becomes politically contentious. Recent reforms have tried to reduce gubernatorial control.

Explanation: The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly has 403 seats. Therefore, a party or coalition needs at least 203 seats to form a majority government. This majority ensures the ruling party can pass bills and stay in power without dependence on opposition parties. UP’s large assembly size makes coalition management important. A simple majority is often the benchmark in state politics.

Explanation: Baer’s Pochard, a diving duck, is listed as Critically Endangered and has been spotted in wetlands of eastern UP. Habitat degradation and hunting are primary threats. Conservation measures include wetland protection and awareness.

Explanation: Eucalyptus, though fast-growing, depletes groundwater and reduces biodiversity due to allelopathy. Its monoculture plantations in UP have faced criticism. Experts suggest replacing it with native species for sustainable forestry.

Explanation: This state-run program encourages mass tree plantation drives, especially during monsoons. It also creates awareness about solid waste management, air quality, and river pollution. It engages schools, NGOs, and local authorities.

Explanation: Rivers like Ghaghara, Rapti, and Gandak carry heavy monsoon runoff from Nepal, leading to floods in eastern UP. The flat terrain and encroachment of drainage channels worsen the situation. Floodplain zoning is still weak.

Explanation: Under this program, municipal solid waste is converted into compost, energy, or recycled materials. Cities like Lucknow and Varanasi have pilot projects. It aligns with Swachh Bharat and circular economy principles.

Explanation: Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide piped water to every rural household by 2024. In UP, it focuses on arsenic- and fluoride-affected districts. It is a step toward water security and women’s empowerment.

Explanation: Water hyacinth chokes ponds and lakes, reducing oxygen levels and hindering fish movement. Its uncontrolled spread in UP’s wetlands threatens biodiversity and reduces utility for irrigation and drinking.

Explanation: This central scheme is being implemented in various UP cities like Lucknow and Agra to create urban forests on vacant lands. It aims to improve urban air quality and promote public awareness about the environment.

Explanation: According to the India State of Forest Report 2023, UP’s forest cover is 9.23% of its geographical area, which is lower than the national average. This highlights the need for afforestation and conservation programs.

Explanation: UP relies heavily on coal-fired thermal power plants, especially in Sonbhadra and Anpara, which emit large quantities of carbon and particulate matter. This leads to acid rain, respiratory issues, and ecological damage.

Explanation: The Vindhya hills support a unique ecosystem of dry deciduous forests that act as corridors for species like leopards, sloth bears, and hyenas. Conservation in this region helps prevent habitat fragmentation and species isolation.