General Facts, Superlatives & Important National Days
Static general knowledge covers essential geographic superlatives, central research institutions, national awards, and significant commemorative dates across India. India's highest civilian honor is the Bharat Ratna, instituted in 1954 alongside the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri awards. Major geographic superlatives include the Thar Desert (largest desert), Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir (largest freshwater lake), and Chilika Lake in Odisha (largest coastal lagoon). Important national days commemorate pivotal events and leaders, such as National Science Day on February 28 (celebrating the landmark Raman Effect announcement), National Youth Day on January 12 (Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary), and Good Governance Day on December 25.
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- The Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was first conferred in 1954 to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, C. Rajagopalachari, and C.V. Raman.
- Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir, fed by the Jhelum River, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in South Asia formed by tectonic activity.
- National Science Day is celebrated every year on February 28 to mark Sir C.V. Raman's discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928.
- The Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is India's highest military decoration awarded for valiant acts of bravery in the presence of the enemy.