Explanation: Keetham Lake, also known as Sur Sarovar, near Agra, is a Ramsar site recognized for its ecological importance. It attracts migratory birds and supports fish, turtles, and aquatic plants. Pollution and encroachment remain concerns for its conservation.

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve lies in the Terai region, bordering Nepal. It consists of Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Katarniaghat Sanctuary. The moist deciduous forest and grasslands provide ideal habitats for tigers, rhinos, and swamp deer.

Explanation: The Gomti River Front Project, launched in Lucknow, is part of a broader river conservation effort under NRCP. It includes sewage treatment, embankment construction, and ecological restoration. However, it has faced criticism for poor planning and environmental damage.

Explanation: Ballia, along with parts of Ghazipur and Varanasi, faces high levels of arsenic in groundwater due to geological factors. This poses serious health risks including cancer and skin lesions. Efforts are underway to switch to surface water sources and install treatment units.

Explanation: The National Chambal Sanctuary, shared between UP, MP, and Rajasthan, is a significant breeding ground for the endangered Indian Skimmer. Its sandy banks and clean water are critical for this species. The sanctuary also supports gharials and Gangetic dolphins.

Explanation: The Gandhi-Irwin Pact, also called the Allahabad Agreement, was signed in Allahabad. It marked the end of the Civil Disobedience Movement and resulted in Gandhi attending the Second Round Table Conference in London.

Explanation: Prayagraj district has multiple constituencies due to its large population and administrative division. This ensures proper representation in the state legislature and effective governance of local issues.

Explanation: According to Article 173 of the Constitution, a person must be at least 25 years old to contest for a seat in the Legislative Assembly. The rule ensures maturity and accountability in elected representatives.

Explanation: The Allahabad High Court is the principal judiciary for the state of Uttar Pradesh. It has benches in Allahabad and Lucknow. It is one of the oldest high courts in India.

Explanation: This commission is responsible for redrawing boundaries of electoral constituencies based on census data. It ensures fair representation of the population in elections. It functions as an independent body under parliamentary law.

Explanation: As per Article 156, the Governor holds office for a term of five years. However, the tenure can be shorter if the President removes the Governor earlier or if the Governor resigns.

Explanation: Constituted every five years, the Finance Commission suggests how the state government should allocate funds to local bodies. This strengthens decentralization and ensures financial viability of local institutions.

Explanation: The Lokayukta in Uttar Pradesh investigates corruption and maladministration among state public officials. It was established to enhance accountability and transparency. It functions similarly to the Central Lokpal but at the state level.

Explanation: The Chief Justice of the state's High Court administers the oath of office and secrecy to the Governor. This is a constitutional formality under Article 159 of the Indian Constitution.

Explanation: Under this Act, the Uttar Pradesh Human Rights Commission was set up to investigate human rights violations. It can inquire into police excesses, custodial deaths, and rights denial in the state. Its recommendations carry significant weight.

The Speaker is chosen by a simple majority of Assembly members. The role is vital in maintaining order, conducting business, and deciding on disqualification matters under the Tenth Schedule.

Explanation: The 73rd Constitutional Amendment introduced Panchayati Raj Institutions across India. In UP, it strengthened local governance by empowering Gram Panchayats. These bodies now manage village-level development and welfare activities.

Explanation: Yogi Adityanath became the longest-serving Chief Minister in UP’s history by surpassing previous leaders like Sampurnanand. His second term and uninterrupted leadership since 2017 contribute to this record. His tenure is marked by policy and infrastructure reforms.

Explanation: The Chief Secretary is the top bureaucrat in the state and is appointed by the Chief Minister. Though officially under the Governor’s name, the appointment is made on CM’s advice. The role includes coordinating all administrative functions.

Explanation: The Vidhan Parishad acts as the Upper House in the state legislature, similar to the Rajya Sabha at the central level. It reviews and delays legislation passed by the Assembly. It plays a consultative and revisory role.

Explanation: Sucheta Kripalani became the first woman Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 1963. She was also the first woman to hold such a post in any Indian state. She played a significant role in the independence movement and in state politics.

Explanation: The Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) of UP has 403 elected members. It is one of the largest state legislatures in India. These members are directly elected through general elections.

Explanation: Charan Singh served as the Chief Minister of UP and later became the fifth Prime Minister of India. He was a leader of the farmer community and promoted agrarian policies. His tenure as PM was brief but historically important.

Explanation: As per Article 155 of the Constitution, the Governor of a state is appointed by the President. The Governor is the nominal executive head of the state. He or she acts on the advice of the state’s Council of Ministers.

Explanation: The State Election Commission handles elections to panchayats, municipalities, and municipal corporations. It is a constitutional body under Article 243K. Elections to the Assembly and Parliament are handled by the Election Commission of India.

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.

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.

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.