The correct answer is (c) Regulatory clarity and scientific validation

India’s nutraceutical industry faces challenges including unclear regulations and a need for scientific studies on traditional ingredients. Without regulatory clarity, it’s challenging to support the sector effectively. Additionally, scientific validation is necessary to ensure traditional ingredients meet global standards and gain wider acceptance in the international market.

The correct answer is (D) North America, Japan, and Europe

The United States, Japan, and Europe dominate the global nutraceutical market, accounting for over 90% of the total share. While India has a promising industry with rich resources, its current market share remains below 2%. However, India’s nutraceutical market is projected to grow significantly, aiming to reach USD 18 billion by 2025.

The correct answer is (C)It lacks the bitter aftertaste found in some sweeteners

Allulose is about 70% as sweet as regular sugar but doesn’t have the bitter aftertaste found in certain other sweeteners like aspartame. This characteristic, along with its potential benefits in controlling blood sugar and aiding weight loss, makes it a strong alternative to other sugar substitutes.

The correct answer is (A) World Health Organization (WHO)

In 2023, the World Health Organization issued guidelines advising against using non-sugar sweeteners for weight control, highlighting potential long-term undesirable effects. Additionally, WHO classified aspartame as a possible carcinogen but indicated it is safe to consume within established limits, emphasizing caution in artificial sweetener use.

The correct answer is (C) They have a hull that enables them to land on water

Flying boats are a type of seaplane with a boat-like hull that allows them to take off and land on water directly, without needing separate floats. Floatplanes, in contrast, have floats attached to the wings or fuselage. Both types of seaplanes offer versatility by accessing remote areas without traditional runways.

The correct answer is (A) They can access remote locations with limited infrastructure

Seaplanes are ideal for reaching remote areas that lack traditional airports or runways. Their ability to take off and land on water reduces infrastructure needs, making them versatile for use in regions with limited access. This characteristic has made them popular in areas with numerous lakes and rivers or along extensive coastlines.

The correct answer is (D) To boost regional air connectivity and promote tourism

India’s first seaplane project, launched in Gujarat, aimed to enhance regional air connectivity and promote tourism. By connecting the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, the project showcased the potential of water-based aviation in India. Though initially suspended due to high costs, it reflects India’s interest in integrating seaplanes into its tourism and transport sectors.

The correct answer is (B) To integrate seaplane operations into India’s aviation network

The new guidelines for seaplane operations introduced by the Union Minister for Civil Aviation aim to integrate seaplanes into India’s broader aviation landscape. Leveraging India’s 7,517 km coastline and its extensive river and lake network, the guidelines encourage seaplane use to improve connectivity and expand tourism opportunities.

The correct answer is (D) South Korea

South Korea has become a significant testing ground for the sweetener allulose, which is gaining traction as a promising sugar substitute due to its lower caloric content and mild sweetness without a bitter aftertaste. Unlike other non-sugar sweeteners, allulose is popular as it offers a similar experience to sugar, aiding its acceptance among consumers seeking alternatives to sugar.

The correct answer is (B) Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU)

CO₂-to-methanol technology helps utilize captured CO₂, reducing its atmospheric impact. Methanol produced can serve as a renewable fuel, support energy storage, and act as a versatile feedstock for various chemical industries. However, while CCU reduces CO₂ emissions, it doesn’t permanently eliminate CO₂ from the atmosphere.

The correct answer is (A) Supports cultivation of various medicinal plants

India’s diverse agro-climatic zones support the cultivation of a wide range of medicinal plants essential to the nutraceutical industry. This diversity provides India with a unique advantage in developing nutraceutical products based on traditional health practices and ingredients, though scientific validation is needed to reach international standards..

The correct answer is (D) It lacks the bitter aftertaste of other sweeteners

Allulose is approximately 70% as sweet as regular sugar and lacks the bitter aftertaste often found in artificial sweeteners like aspartame. This makes it an appealing alternative, especially for consumers who desire a sweetener that closely mimics the taste of sugar without unwanted aftertastes.

The correct answer is (A) They can take off and land on both water and traditional runways

Seaplanes can access remote locations by taking off and landing on water, and amphibious seaplanes can also operate from traditional runways. This versatility enables them to serve areas with limited infrastructure, making them ideal for tourism, regional connectivity, and emergency operations in isolated regions.

The correct answer is (B) Allulose’s effectiveness in blood sugar control and weight loss

South Korea has become a prominent testing ground for allulose because of its benefits in blood sugar management and potential for aiding weight loss. Its characteristics, such as reduced calorie content and lack of aftertaste, make it a suitable alternative for consumers interested in healthier dietary options.

The correct answer is (C) Initiation of German reunification

The fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, marked the start of Germany’s reunification, formally completed on October 3, 1990. This event also signified the beginning of the end of the Cold War, leading to the expansion of democracy and market economies in Eastern Europe and reducing Soviet influence.

The correct answer is (B) It contributes unique ingredients and formulations

Traditional knowledge, especially Ayurveda, allows India’s nutraceutical industry to offer unique ingredients, such as ashwagandha and curcumin, which are rooted in Indian health practices. This traditional knowledge gives India a competitive advantage in nutraceuticals, though scientific validation is often necessary to meet global regulatory standards.

The correct answer is (D) Dominance of India in the global market

India’s current market share in the global nutraceutical industry is below 2%, so it is not a dominant player. The industry’s main challenges include regulatory clarity, scientific validation of traditional ingredients, and the need for increased research and development. These areas are crucial for India to strengthen its position in the international market.

The correct answer is (B) Potential long-term health risks

The WHO issued guidelines advising against the use of non-sugar sweeteners for weight control due to potential undesirable long-term health effects. WHO also classified aspartame as a “possible carcinogen,” but stated it is safe within specific intake limits. These cautions highlight the need for careful use of artificial sweeteners in diets.

The correct answer is (A) To synthesize methanol for renewable fuel production

NTPC’s project at the Vindhyachal plant synthesizes methanol by capturing CO₂ from industrial flue gases and combining it with hydrogen produced from electrolysis. This innovation aims to create a sustainable fuel source, utilizing CO₂ in a way that can help reduce its environmental impact and contribute to energy storage solutions.

The correct answer is (D) Their capacity to photosynthesize like plants

Cyanobacteria, also known as “blue-green algae,” are photosynthetic microorganisms that convert CO₂ into organic material, similar to plants. This photosynthetic ability makes them valuable for carbon sequestration, as they absorb CO₂ and can potentially store it at the bottom of water bodies, contributing to long-term carbon capture efforts.