GK Questions

Shor's Algorithm (1994) factors integers in polynomial time on a quantum computer, threatening RSA encryption which relies on factoring difficulty. Requires fault-tolerant quantum computers not yet available. Grover's Algorithm provides quadratic speedup for unstructured search. Critical for cryptography and quantum advantage questions.

Metaverse integrates: VR/AR for immersive interfaces, blockchain for digital ownership (NFTs) and economy, AI for intelligent agents and content generation, and cloud/edge for scalable infrastructure. No single technology suffices; convergence enables persistent, interoperable virtual worlds. Emerging topic for future tech questions.

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) uses a laser to fuse polymer, metal, or ceramic powder particles into solid structures. No support structures needed as unsintered powder supports overhangs. Used for functional prototypes, end-use parts, and complex geometries. FDM extrudes filament; SLA cures resin; BJ binds powder with adhesive.

Lead-through programming involves physically guiding the robot arm through desired motions, which are recorded and replayed. Teach pendant uses a handheld controller for point-and-path programming. Both are common in manufacturing for tasks like welding, painting, and assembly. Important for industrial automation questions.

NM-QTA, launched in 2020, allocates ₹8000 crore over 5 years for research in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials. Implemented by DST with participation from IITs, IISc, and industry. Aims to position India as a global leader in quantum technologies. Critical for science policy and emerging tech questions.

Superposition enables qubits to represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously, unlike classical bits. This parallelism allows quantum computers to process vast solution spaces exponentially faster for specific problems like factoring, optimization, and simulation. Entanglement correlates qubit states; interference amplifies correct answers; decoherence is error from environmental noise.

Shodhganga is a digital repository of Indian theses and dissertations hosted by INFLIBNET. Provides open access to research output, promoting knowledge sharing and avoiding duplication. Critical for academic research infrastructure and open science questions.

PM-KISAN provides ₹6,000/year income support to farmer families via DBT. Aadhaar authentication ensures accurate beneficiary identification and reduces leakage. Integrated with land records and bank accounts. Critical for digital governance and agricultural welfare questions.

Health Claims Exchange (HCX) standardizes data formats and protocols for insurance claims, enabling seamless portability between insurers and providers. Reduces administrative burden and improves user experience. Critical for health financing reform and digital infrastructure questions.

LCH (Light Combat Helicopter) Prachand is designed for high-altitude operations, armed with missiles, rockets, and cannon. Features composite structure, stealth features, and advanced avionics. Inducted into Army and Air Force. Represents self-reliance in rotary-wing combat platforms. Critical for defense indigenization questions.

Qure.ai develops AI algorithms for interpreting medical images (X-rays, CT scans) to detect TB, pneumonia, and other conditions. Deployed in public health programs and hospitals globally. Represents India's strength in AI for social impact. Important for healthtech innovation questions.

NDEAR is a framework of specifications and standards enabling interoperability among education apps, platforms, and data systems. Supports innovation while ensuring privacy, security, and portability. Critical for scalable, inclusive digital education ecosystem under NEP 2020.

Remote sensing via satellites (like Resourcesat, Sentinel) provides multispectral imagery for crop health monitoring, acreage estimation, and yield prediction. Used in PMFBY (crop insurance) for objective loss assessment. Critical for technology-enabled agricultural policy and risk management questions.

ABDM includes HFR (Health Facility Registry) and HPR (Healthcare Professionals Registry) to create verified directories of providers. Enables discovery, credentialing, and interoperable service delivery. Critical for digital health infrastructure and governance questions.

EWSS (Electronic Warfare Support Suite) developed by DRDO provides radar warning, jamming, and countermeasures for Tejas. Enhances survivability in contested airspace. Represents self-reliance in critical avionics. Important for defense technology indigenization questions.

SISFS provides up to ₹20 lakh for proof of concept and ₹50 lakh for commercialization via incubators. Targets early-stage startups in innovation-driven sectors. Part of Startup India ecosystem support. Critical for understanding government funding mechanisms for entrepreneurship.

PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) is proposed under NEP 2020 as a national assessment center. Will set standards, conduct surveys, and promote technology-enabled assessments. Critical for education reform and quality assurance questions.

Meghdoot (by IMD & ICAR) provides location-specific weather forecasts and crop advisories via SMS/app. mKisan sends relevant information from agricultural scientists. Both leverage ICT for climate-resilient farming. Critical for agricultural extension and digital inclusion questions.

CDSS use AI/ML to analyze patient data, symptoms, and guidelines to assist clinicians in diagnosis and treatment decisions. Enable rapid triage, reduce errors, and standardize care. Integrated with EHRs for real-time insights. Important for AI in healthcare and hospital management questions.

BrahMos Aerospace is a JV between DRDO and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya. BrahMos missiles (290-450 km range, Mach 2.8-3 speed) are deployed by Army, Navy, and Air Force. Land-attack variant tested successfully. Represents successful international defense collaboration. Critical for strategic studies questions.