UPSC Daily Quiz | 23 April 2024

Explanation:

• Direct taxes are:
• Capital Gains Tax - This is a direct tax on the profit that is realized from the sale of a non-inventory asset that was greater in value than the purchase price.
• Securities Transaction Tax (STT) - This is a direct tax levied on the value of securities (such as stocks) transacted through a recognized stock exchange.
• GST and excise duty are indirect taxes.

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: BrahMos is a two-stage missile with a solid propellant booster engine. Its first stage brings the missile to supersonic speed (meaning faster than sound) and then gets separated. The liquid ramjet or the second stage then takes the missile closer to three times the speed of sound in cruise phase. 

• Statement 2 is correct:  The missile has an extremely low radar signature, making it stealthy, and it can follow a variety of paths. To hit the target, the ‘fire and forget’ missile can fly at a cruising height of 15 km and a terminal altitude of 10 m.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The BrahMos has three times the speed, 2.5 times the flying range, and a longer range than subsonic cruise missiles. The missile’s course can be altered by moving these controlling surfaces.

Explanation:

•  Arrow System: Anti-ballistic missiles, capable of intercepting long-range missiles. Developed in collaboration with the US. Arrow-2 can intercept ballistic missiles within the atmosphere. Arrow-3 has the capability of intercepting missiles outside the Earth’s atmosphere.
•  David’s Sling (or Stunner): Israel’s medium-range air defence system, which can intercept cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and aircraft. Its range is 300 kilometres.
• Iron Dome: Israel’s indigenous short-range air defence system which can intercept rockets, artillery shells, and mortar bombs. Its range is 70 kilometers.
• Patriot PAC-2 and PAC-3: The US-made Patriot PAC-2 and PAC-3 are air defence systems that can intercept a range of missiles and target aircraft and drones.
•  Spyder: Family of multi-range mobile air defence systems to defend large areas against aerial attack. It’s an all weather system and can be activated within seconds of the target being declared hostile.
•  Israel is developing the Iron Beam to intercept incoming threats with laser technology. It is yet to be fully operational.

Explanation:

•  Chabahar, which sits at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman, is Iran’s first deepwater port that puts the country on the global oceanic trade route map. The port is also part of the proposed International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
•  There are two distinct ports in the Chabahar project, Shahid Beheshti and Shahid Kalantari. India’s investment is restricted to the Shahid Beheshti port.

Explanation:

• The Kashan style is associated with Persian rugs, which are renowned for their beauty, craftsmanship, and intricate designs. Kashan rugs typically feature a central medallion pattern, floral motifs, and intricate details, with a palette dominated by rich reds and blues.
•  They are made from high-quality wool or silk, and the exceptional weaving techniques result in durable and luxurious pieces. Kashan style, which originated in Iran, has also influenced the craftsmanship of Kashmiri carpets in the Kashmir region of India. 
• The Kashmiri artisans adopted and adapted the techniques and designs from Kashan, creating a unique blend of Persian and Indian influences in their carpets.