BPSC (Bihar) - MCQ Practice Questions

# Solution: Barabar Caves Location

The Barabar Caves are ancient rock-cut caves in Bihar that contain significant historical inscriptions related to Emperor Ashoka's reign.

Step 1: Identify the Historical Significance

The Barabar Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut caves that date back to the Mauryan Empire period and contain Ashoka's rock edicts and inscriptions. These caves are among the oldest stone structures in India and represent important archaeological evidence of early Buddhist and Mauryan administration.

Step 2: Locate the Geographic Position

The Barabar Caves are situated in the Jehanabad district of Bihar state in eastern India. They are positioned near the village of Barabar, approximately 45 kilometers from the district headquarters. The caves are known for their polished stone surfaces and the famous edicts inscribed on them by Emperor Ashoka during his reign (3rd century BCE).

Final Answer: (C) Jehanabad

The Barabar Caves, famous for Ashoka's rock edicts, are located in the Jehanabad district of Bihar.

The 24 spokes of the Ashoka Chakra represent the cycles of time and the Dharma (cosmic law and order) in Buddhist philosophy. Each spoke symbolizes the Buddhist path to enlightenment.

Calculation: (2 million / 3.2 million) × 100 = ($\frac{2}{3}$.2) × 100 = 0.625 × 100 = 62.5%. The Mauryan Empire under Ashoka controlled approximately 62.5% of ancient India.

The Barabar Caves and surrounding areas contain rock-cut caves with Ashokan edicts, representing significant archaeological sites within Bihar. These caves were used by the Ajivika sect.

Chola influence in Bihar affected multiple spheres including religious practices (Shaivism), temple architecture styles, and administrative structures, though their control was limited and intermittent.

NFSA provides food security to vulnerable populations, which supports household nutrition and enables farmers to invest in sustainable practices without immediate income pressure.

Climate change requires agricultural schemes to incorporate water-efficient irrigation, climate-resilient crop varieties, and soil conservation practices.

Drip irrigation is highly efficient, delivering water directly to plant roots, reducing losses through evaporation and seepage, crucial for water-scarce regions.

Sustainable Intensification integrates multiple practices to increase productivity while maintaining soil health and environmental sustainability.

PMFBY is a comprehensive scheme with affordable premiums (1.5% for kharif, 2% for rabi) covering yield losses from weather, pests, and diseases.

By testing soil samples and providing nutrient-status reports, farmers apply fertilizers scientifically, reducing wastage and costs while maintaining productivity.

Northern Bihar plains, particularly areas along the Ganges tributaries, experience seasonal flooding that significantly impacts agricultural productivity.

NSSO conducts detailed agricultural surveys every 5 years to collect comprehensive data on crop production, landholding patterns, and agricultural practices.

FAO provides technical support and guidance for the implementation of the Soil Health Card scheme to ensure quality soil testing and appropriate recommendations.

Bihar faces multiple challenges including fragmented landholdings (average farm size ~0.6 hectares), seasonal flooding in northern plains, and limited irrigation infrastructure affecting scheme implementation.

MSP is implemented through dual mechanisms: APMC acts as market regulator ensuring fair pricing, and FCI undertakes government procurement at MSP for crops like rice and wheat in Bihar.

Calculation: Required increase = [(50-40)/40] × 100 = ($\frac{10}{40}$) × 100 = 25%. This requires improved agricultural practices, quality seeds, and optimal fertilizer management.

IPM follows a hierarchical approach: first monitor crop health, then use preventive measures, implement cultural practices, and use chemical pesticides only as a last resort to minimize environmental impact.

NITI Aayog launched the National AI Mission in 2024 to position India as a leader in artificial intelligence research and development across various sectors.

Bihar represents approximately 9.1% of India's total population (over 104 million people) as per the 2021 Census, making it the third most populous state after Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.