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.