Explanation: Article 169 of the Indian Constitution provides the framework for the creation or abolition of a Legislative Council in a state. It requires a resolution passed by the Legislative Assembly with a special majority. Uttar Pradesh uses this provision.

Insulin — lowers blood sugar.

Explanation: The Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) is a permanent body that cannot be dissolved, although members retire by rotation. It functions like the Rajya Sabha at the state level. Uttar Pradesh is one of the few states with a bicameral legislature.

Hemoglobin — in red blood cells.

Explanation: Uttar Pradesh sends 80 members to the Lok Sabha, the highest among all Indian states. This makes it politically significant in national elections. Its large population is the reason for such high representation.

SA node — initiates heartbeat.

Direct transfer — via pili.

Explanation: Before the adoption of the Indian Constitution, the region was known as the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. It was renamed Uttar Pradesh on 26 January 1950. This marked its formal inclusion as a state in the Indian Republic.

Explanation: Govind Ballabh Pant served as the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh from 1950 to 1954. He played a crucial role in integrating princely states into the Indian Union. His leadership laid the foundation for UP’s political structure.

Viruses — they target cellular machinery.

Explanation: The State Election Commission conducts elections to urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions, while the Election Commission of India handles Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. It ensures free and fair local governance in the state.

Retrovirus — uses reverse transcription (e.g., HIV).

Explanation: Under Article 165, the Governor appoints the Advocate General, who is the highest law officer in the state. The AG advises the government on legal matters and represents it in court. He/she holds office at the Governor’s pleasure.

Explanation: Article 200 empowers the Governor to either assent, withhold, or reserve a bill for the President's consideration. This is done when the bill may contradict central laws or touch upon matters beyond state jurisdiction. It adds a layer of constitutional check.

Explanation: Uttar Pradesh sends the largest number of members to the Rajya Sabha—31—due to its population and Assembly size. These members are elected by the MLAs through a proportional representation system using the single transferable vote. This shows UP’s influence in national politics.

Thick peptidoglycan layer — retains crystal violet stain.

Explanation: Under the Tenth Schedule (Anti-Defection Law), the Speaker of the Assembly is empowered to decide on disqualification of a member. The Speaker’s decision can later be challenged in court. This provision ensures party discipline within the legislature.

Aerobes — need O₂ for metabolism.

Light — mediated by auxin distribution.

Ovary — after fertilization, it develops into fruit.

Opening — controlling gas exchange/water loss.

Water and minerals — root-to-shoot movement.

Chlorophyll a — absorbs light in photosystems.

The sarangi is a traditional string instrument widely used in Rajasthani folk music.

Jal Mahal, or Water Palace, is a stunning architectural gem situated amidst Man Sagar Lake.

Mithri River is infamous for sudden flooding in the Barmer region.

Fatehpur was founded by Rao Fateh Singh, and is known for its grand havelis and frescoes.

Barmer is known for its vibrant Bandhani (tie-and-dye) and hand block printed textiles.