Correct Answer: Strengthened economic ties

Solution : In the post-Mao era, India-China relations have seen a shift towards strengthened economic ties, despite ongoing border disputes and political tensions.

Correct Answer: Bihar

Solution : The correct answer is (a) Bihar

The state in India with the highest poverty rate is Bihar. However, poverty rates can change over time due to various factors such as economic development, government policies, and social programs. It's important to note that poverty rates can vary among different states and regions within India.

Correct Answer: Bihar

Solution : The correct answer is Bihar.

The Chhath Puja festival is very famous in Bihar. It is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. This festival is dedicated to the Hindu god Sun, Suryadev. Chhath Puja is celebrated to thank God Surya for sustaining life on Earth, and people make requests to grant certain wishes.

Correct Answer: Southern region  
 

Solution : The Southern region of India typically shows higher human development indicators, such as literacy rates and life expectancy, compared to other regions.

Correct Answer:  All of the above  

Solution : The India-US cooperation in space exploration includes collaboration on the International Space Station, Mars exploration missions, and satellite technology.

Correct Answer: Vadodara (IOS)

Solution : The correct answer is Vadodara (IOS).

Jamnagar Oil Refinery is the largest oil refinery in India, located in Vadodara Gujarat. It was commissioned on 14 July 1999. It is a privately owned crude oil refinery in India. It is also the largest oil refinery in the world. 

Correct Answer: Mahmud of Ghazni

Solution : The correct option is Mahmud of Ghazni

Mahmud of Ghazni was the ruler of Afghanistan, and he resorted to attacks and raids to fulfil the economic requirements of his native kingdom. Under his rule, Ghazni achieved several conquests. When Ghazni invaded India, it brought more gold and wealth to the city. Ghazni's first incursion into India was in 1001 and Ghazni invaded many times in 25 years. Ghazni died of malaria on a campaign in April 1030, aged 58.

Correct Answer: Lord Dufferin

Solution : The correct option is Lord Dufferin.

Lord Dufferin was the Viceroy of India during the formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885. The Congress, founded by A. O. Hume and others, played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence by advocating for greater representation and civil rights within the British colonial framework.

Correct Answer: India-39, Pakistan-45, China-9
 

Solution : Percentage of improved sanitation in different economies was
India-39, Pakistan-45, China-9.
Hence option C is correct.

Correct Answer: Balanced regional development

Solution : The correct answer is (b) Balanced regional development.

In the given case, the allocation of INR 700 crores for the construction of health infrastructure in the states of Karnataka, Orissa, and Bihar indicates the objective of balanced regional development in the government budget.

Balanced regional development aims to promote equitable development across different regions or states within a country. It involves allocating resources and investments to address regional disparities and ensure that all regions have access to necessary infrastructure, services, and opportunities for development.

By allocating funds specifically for the construction of health infrastructure in these states, the government is addressing the healthcare needs of these regions and promoting balanced development across different parts of the country.