UPSC Daily Quiz | 23 May 2024

Explanation: 

•  It is also known as Blue Mountain National Park. 
• It is one of the two national parks in Mizoram (the other being Murlen National Park).
• Geographical Location: Close to the border with Burma (Myanmar)
• Landmarks: The park overlooks the Chhimtuipui River, which flows towards Burma. 
• Distinctive Geography: Characterized by its cloud-covered mountain area, giving it a distinctive blue appearance from a distance.

Explanation: 

• The Scarborough Shoal (also known in English as the Scarborough Reef) is a series of small rocks and islands which are formed into a triangle shape in the South China Sea.

Explanation: 

• • Definition:  In the Indian legal context, furlough refers to a conditional release granted to a prisoner serving a long-term sentence.
  • Legality: In India, parole (as well as furlough) are covered under The Prisons Act of 1894. Prisoners convicted of multiple murders or under the anti-terror Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) are not eligible for parole.
  •  Statement 1 is correct:  State-Specific Rules: Since prison is a State subject in the Constitution, every State has formulated its own set of rules/guidelines for getting furlough and parole.
  •  Statement 2 is incorrect: Legal Status: It's considered a substantial legal right, but not an absolute right. Prisoners can't necessarily demand it, but authorities can't deny it arbitrarily if permitted by law.

• Key Differences from Parole:

• Reason: Furlough is granted periodically without a specific reason, while parole requires a specific reason like a family emergency.
• Sentence Impact: The time spent on furlough is considered remission of the sentence, effectively reducing the total time served. Time spent on parole isn't deducted from the sentence.
•  Statement 3 is incorrect:Duration: Furlough typically lasts a maximum of 14 days, while parole can be for a month or longer.
• Parole can be granted number of times whereas there is a limitation in the case of furlough.
• Statement 4 is correct:Grant: Parole is granted by Divisional Commissioner and furlough is granted by the Deputy Inspector of General of Prisons.

Explanation: 

• About Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH):
•  CTHs are designated areas within National Parks and Sanctuaries deemed necessary to remain ‘inviolate’ for wildlife conservation.
• ‘Inviolate’ is a general term used to indicate no human settlement and usage.
•  Statement 1 is incorrect: They are also known as the core areas of tiger reserves and are designated under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA) of 1972.
• Statement 2 is incorrect:The notification of CTH is done by the state government in consultation with the expert committee constituted for the purpose.

Explanation: 

• Statements 1 and 2 are correct: Flamingos often stand on one leg, a behavior known as unipedal resting or standing. Flamingos have long, slender legs that are typically longer than their bodies, allowing them to wade through shallow water and find food with their bills. Their long legs help them navigate their aquatic habitats efficiently and keep their body elevated above the water's surface. Flamingos are regular migratory visitors. India hosts two species of flamingos: the Greater Flamingo and the Lesser Flamingo. These birds migrate to India from various regions, including Africa, the Middle East, and other parts of Asia, primarily for feeding and breeding purposes.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Flamingos are filter feeders and primarily feed on small organisms such as algae, crustaceans, and diatoms found in shallow water or mud. They use their unique curved bills to sift through water and mud while moving their head upside down. Flamingos do not dive deep underwater or feed on fish like some other aquatic birds.