Answer: Option C - Excessive use of chemical fertilizers

Explanation:

• Nitrate pollution in groundwater is primarily caused by the excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture.
• When fertilizers containing nitrogen compounds are over-applied, the nitrates can leach into the soil and eventually contaminate groundwater.
• This leads to high nitrate concentrations, posing risks to human health, including methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome) and other complications.
• Managing fertilizer use and adopting sustainable agricultural practices can mitigate this pollution.

Answer: Option A - Panama Canal

Explanation:

• The Torrijos-Carter Treaties, signed in 1977, led to the transfer of control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama.
• Under the agreement, the U.S. maintained the right to defend the neutrality of the canal, but full control was handed to Panama by December 31, 1999.
• The treaties are significant in global relations, particularly in terms of the U.S.-Panama relationship and the canal’s strategic importance.

Answer: Option B - Central Asia

Explanation:

• Przewalski's horse, native to the steppes of Central Asia, is the last truly wild horse species.
• It was nearly driven to extinction but has been successfully reintroduced into the wild through captive breeding and rewilding programs.
• This endangered species is primarily found in the grasslands and desert edges of Central Asia, with ongoing conservation efforts focusing on preserving its habitat and promoting population recovery.

Answer: Option B - Double-hump and adapted to cold desert

Explanation:

• The Bactrian camel, native to the cold deserts of Central Asia, is known for its two humps, which store fat for energy.
• These camels are well-adapted to extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°C to 40°C.
• Unlike the single-humped dromedary camel, the Bactrian camel thrives in harsh climates and is used for transport, milk, and wool.
• However, wild Bactrian camels are critically endangered due to habitat loss and human activities.

Answer: Option A - Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Explanation:

• The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• Established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, GEAC is responsible for appraising activities involving genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and assessing proposals for their release.

The committee evaluates environmental risks, conducts safety assessments, and monitors biotechnology's impact, ensuring that GM organisms do not pose risks to human health, biodiversity, or the environment.