GRADE - 7
Echoes of India
Words of Indian Origin NAME :
India's linguistic heritage has a significant influence on the English language. Many
english words are derived from Indian culture, traditions, and practices.Can you identify
the words based on the hints provided ?
Which word, derived from the name of a deity worshipped in massive processions with
colossal chariots in India, is now used to describe a force that is overwhelmingly powerful
and unstoppable?
During World War I, British soldiers stationed overseas used a word, derived from an
Indian term for "foreign land," to nostalgically refer to their homeland. What is this term
that evokes feelings of home and comfort?
Borrowed from an Indian term for "leg garments," this word describes loose-fitting,
comfortable clothing often worn at night. What is this word that has become a staple of
bedtime attire globally?
Derived from a word that originally described single-story houses built in a specific Indian
architectural style, what term is used in English for such homes, often characterized by
their simplicity and open verandas?
This word, named after a traditional Indian drink made with five ingredients, now refers to
a type of fruit-based beverage. What is this term that also suggests impact or force in
another context?
Borrowed from an Indian word meaning "forest," what term is used to describe a wild,
untamed area, often portrayed as dense and mysterious in literature and media?
Which word, originating from a Hindi term for "massage," describes a hair-cleansing
product that is now a household essential?
Derived from an Indian word for "plunder," what term refers to stolen goods, often
associated with theft during wars or conflicts?
Words of Indian Origin 1
GRADE - 7
Valiant chronicles
India's Military Operations and Heroes NAME :
The Indian Army has carried out numerous significant operations and missions to
protect the nation and maintain peace. Each operation or personnel represents a
crucial part of India's military history. Can you give a brief idea about the operations
and identify the personnel mentioned below?
Operation Trident :
Known for his
bravery in the
capture of Point
4875 during the
Kargil War.
Operation Meghdoot :
The first woman in the
Operation Talwar :
Indian Armed Forces
to be promoted
to a Three-star rank.
Operation Raahat :
Known as the "Hero of
Naushera," he led
Operation Sankat Mochan : successful defense
operations in Jammu
and Kashmir.
Operation Safed sagar
Major Wars of India 2
GRADE - 7
ROOTS OF PLAY
GAMES ORIGINATED IN INDIA
NAME :
India has a rich history of traditional games that have been played for centuries and have
evolved over time. Can you identify the games mentioned below from the descriptions
provided?
A game of dice and pieces, it was traditionally played on a
cloth or board divided into a series of squares. The objective
is to move pieces to the center of the board by rolling dice. It
is closely associated with the epic Mahabharata.
This traditional game involves a wooden top that players spin by
winding a string around it and then pulling the string to launch
the top. The objective is to keep the top spinning as long as
possible. It is known by different names in various parts of India.
A game played on a square board with an eight-by-eight grid.
Players place black and white pieces on the board, aiming to
capture their opponent's pieces by surrounding them. This
game is often considered a precursor to modern chess.
This traditional Indian game involves a setup with nine small holes
dug into the ground in a 3x3 grid. Players use seeds or small stones
to play the game, with the objective being to capture the
opponent's pieces by forming a row of three.
A game involving a square grid drawn on the ground with boxes
numbered sequentially. Players throw a small object, like a stone
or coin, into the numbered boxes and hop through the grid to
retrieve it, following specific rules.
Games Originated in India 3
GRADE - 7
Marvels with a Twist
Exploring Quirky Monuments NAME :
Quirky monuments are unique or unconventional structures known for their unusual designs,
purposes, or histories. They often defy traditional architecture, capturing attention with their
creativity and charm. Can you match these quirky monuments with their unique
characteristics?.
The Upside-down House Oxford, England
Cadillac Ranch Peru
Genghis Khan Equestrian Texas, USA
Statue
The Shoe House Myanmar
Machu Picchu New York, USA
The Fork Poland
The Big Duck Nebraska, USA
The Headington Shark Vevey, Switzerland
Bagan Mongolia
Carhenge Pennsylvania, USA
Quirky Monuments 4
GRADE - 7
Ripples and Revelries
India's Lakes and Festive Heritage
NAME :
India, a land of diverse beauty, blends serene lakes with vibrant festivities. From the
spiritual Kumbh Mela to Kerala’s thrilling Vallamkali and Rajasthan’s Pushkar Fair,
each celebration reflects the nation’s rich culture. Choose the correct answer for the
following
Dal Lake is often referred to as the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir" due to its
picturesque beauty and unique features. It is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas
and is famous for houseboats and shikaras. What other distinct feature of Dal Lake
attracts tourists from around the world?
a) Floating vegetable markets
b) Migratory bird sanctuary
c) Brackish water ecosystem
d) Home to Irrawaddy dolphins
Chilika Lake, located in Odisha and recognized as Asia's largest brackish water lagoon,
is a significant Ramsar Site known for its biodiversity. Which unique characteristic of
Chilika Lake makes it a vital wintering ground for migratory birds?
a) Presence of Nalabana Island
b) Floating lotus gardens
c) Scenic houseboats
d) Proximity to the Himalayas
Dal Lake in Srinagar is famous for its floating gardens, shikaras, and houseboats,
attracting tourists worldwide. On the other hand, Chilika Lake in Odisha, Asia's largest
brackish water lagoon, is ecologically significant. What makes Chilika Lake a critical
habitat for wildlife?
a) Presence of migratory birds and Irrawaddy dolphins
b) Scenic Himalayan backdrop
c) Seasonal lotus blooms
d) Floating vegetable markets
The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracting
millions of pilgrims. It rotates between four sacred sites in India. What is the primary
ritual performed by devotees during the Kumbh Mela?
a) Holy dip in rivers
b) Lighting of lamps
c) Offering food to monks
d) Meditation in caves
Water bodies of India 5
GRADE - 7
Ripples and Revelries
India's Lakes and Festive Heritage
NAME :
Pushkar Mela, held annually in Rajasthan, is a vibrant cultural festival famous for its
camel fair and trading activities. Apart from livestock trading, what unique event draws
international tourists to this fair?
a) Camel beauty contest
b) Elephant polo matches
c) Bull racing competitions
d) Kite flying festivals
Ratnagiri Utsav, celebrated in Maharashtra, is a cultural festival showcasing the region's
art, cuisine, and traditions. What is one of the primary attractions of this festival that
highlights the local culture?
a) Konkan food exhibitions
b) Boat races in backwaters
c) Tribal dances of central India
d) Desert safaris
Vallamkali, also known as the Snake Boat Race, is a traditional water sport in Kerala
celebrated during the Onam festival. What is the distinguishing feature of Vallamkali
that makes it a popular event?
a) Long wooden boats rowed by synchronized teams
b) Boats decorated with colorful sails
c) Single-person canoe racing
d) Night-time boat parades with lights
The Kumbh Mela is celebrated in a 12-year cycle at four different locations in India.
Which one of the following cities is NOT a venue for the Kumbh Mela?
a) Haridwar b) Prayagraj c) Ujjain d) Jaipur
Pushkar Mela is held in the holy town of Pushkar, near the Pushkar Lake. Apart from the
camel fair, the mela is associated with which significant spiritual activity?
a) Bathing in Pushkar Lake to cleanse sins
b) Climbing Mount Abu for blessings
c) Planting sacred trees for good luck
d) Offering prayers to river Ganga
Vallamkali, the Snake Boat Race of Kerala, is held in various backwaters during the Onam
festival. What is the primary purpose of this race, which has historical and cultural
significance?
a) Honoring the king of the region
b) Paying tribute to Lord Krishna
c) Celebrating agricultural prosperity
d) Commemorating naval victories
Water bodies of India 6
GRADE - 7
WESTERN CLASSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Guess the Sound, Discover the Instrument NAME :
Western Classical Instruments have been a cornerstone of orchestral music for centuries.
Known for their distinct sounds, diverse playing techniques, and essential roles in musical
compositions, these instruments continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Can you
identify the instruments below from the description provided.
SN Description Answer
1 A double-reed instrument known for its bright and sharp sound.
A reedless instrument played by blowing air across an opening,
2
producing a clear, light sound.
3 A large double-reed instrument with a deep, resonant tone.
The largest brass instrument, producing the lowest pitch and a deep,
4
resonant sound.
A small string instrument known for its bright, high-pitched sound,
5
played with a bow.
A brass instrument with a deep, mellow tone, known for its circular
6
shape and wide bell.
A slightly larger string instrument than the violin, producing a
7
deeper, warmer sound.
The largest string instrument, producing the lowest tones, played
8
upright.
A large string instrument with a rich, deep sound, played while
9
seated.
A brass instrument with a bright, bold sound, played by buzzing the
10
lips into a metal mouthpiece.
A brass instrument known for its sliding mechanism to change pitch,
11 producing a smooth, rich tone.
Western Classical Instruments 7
GRADE - 7
WESTERN CLASSICAL INSTRUMENTS
NAME :
Cello
A large string instrument played
while seated.
Violin Produces a rich, deep, and
resonant tone.
Plays both harmony and melody
Smallest string instrument in in the lower register
the family.
Produces the highest pitch.
Leads the melody in orchestras.
Bass Large
st stri
instru ng
ment.
Viola Produ
ces th
pitch e lowe
Slightly larger than the in the st
string
violin. family
Produces a deeper, warmer .
Provid
tone. found es the
ationa
Plays harmony in l bass
in orc line
orchestras. hestra
s.
Oboes Flute Basson Clarinet
A double-reed A woodwind A large double- A single-reed
woodwind instrument reed woodwind woodwind
instrument with without a reed, instrument with instrument with
a bright, producing a a deep, rich tone, versatile tone,
penetrating light, airy sound often used for capable of
tone, often used by blowing bass and playing both soft
for melodies in across an open counter-melody melodies and
orchestras. hole. parts. dynamic
passages.
Trumpet French horn Tuba Trombone
A brass A circular brass The largest brass A brass
instrument with instrument with instrument with instrument with
a bright, bold a warm, mellow a deep, resonant a slide to change
sound. It has tone. It has a sound. It pitch. It has a
three valves and wide range and provides the rich, powerful
is used for plays both bass foundation tone, used for
fanfares and harmony and in orchestras harmony and
melodies. melody. and bands. dramatic effects.
Western Classical Instruments 8
GRADE - 7
Banners of Identity
Flags of Organizations NAME :
A flag of an organization is a symbolic banner representing a specific group, company,
institution, or entity. It typically incorporates designs, logos, colors, or emblems that embody
the organization's values, mission, or identity. Can you identify which organizations the
following flags belong to?
Red Can you gusess in whih
direction if travelled
would the car slow down
Yellow
World of Flags 9
INTERNATIONAL
Australia has introduced legislation banning children under 16 from social media
platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram to protect minors from online harm.
COP29, the 29th UN Climate Summit, kicked off in Baku, Azerbaijan, focusing on
climate finance and the "New Collective Quantified Goal" (NCQG).
Archaeologists may have uncovered the world’s oldest solar calendar at Göbekli Tepe
in southern Turkey.
The Gympie-Gympie (Dendrocnide moroides), found in Australia, Indonesia, and the
Moluccas, is the world's most toxic plant, with heart-shaped leaves covered in
neurotoxin-laden trichomes that cause excruciating.
WHO declared Dhulikhel Municipality in Nepal as the country’s first healthy city and
the second healthiest city in Asia.
Angkor Wat was named the most photogenic UNESCO World Heritage site in Asia by
Times Travel.
Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, won the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award
for his contributions to animation and storytelling.
Claudia Sheinbaum made history by becoming Mexico’s first female president.
Egypt was declared malaria-free by the WHO, making it the second country to receive
this certification in 2024.
Brazil opted out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, becoming the second BRICS
member to do so.
Alexander Dunn won the 2024 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize for his significant work in
analytic number theory.
Bangladesh's Supreme Court stayed a verdict declaring ‘Joy Bangla’ as the national
slogan.
Collins Dictionary named "brat" its Word of the Year for 2024, reflecting shifting
social dynamics and pop culture.
Time magazine named Donald Trump its Person of the Year for 2024, recognizing his
political influence and comeback.
Oxford's Word of the Year 2024 is ‘brain rot’, highlighting concerns about the impact
of low-quality online content.
Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year 2024 is ‘polarization’, reflecting societal and
political divides.
www.thinqtank.in PAGE- 10
NATIONAL
Maharashtra has become the first state to adopt the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for
its employees ahead of the October 2024 Legislative Assembly election.
The Abathsahayeswarar Temple Conservation Project in Tamil Nadu and the BJPCI
Conservation Project in Maharashtra won UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural
Heritage Conservation 2024.
The New Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, is replacing the
105-year-old Pamban Bridge to improve connectivity to Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh has been officially designated as India’s
57th Tiger Reserve, reinforcing the state's commitment to tiger conservation.
India has declared snakebite a notifiable disease to reduce mortality and morbidity,
aligning with the WHO's goal to halve snakebite deaths by 2030.
The 4th Eaglenest Bird Festival will be held in Arunachal Pradesh from January 17-19,
2025, promoting biodiversity and sustainable eco-tourism.
Uber launched Asia's first water transport service, Uber Shikara, in Dal Lake, Srinagar,
to modernize traditional shikara rides and enhance tourism.
PM Modi was awarded ‘The Order of Excellence’ by Guyana for his exceptional
contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his global leadership.
Sonu Sood has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador and Honorary Tourism
Advisor for Thailand.
The Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) flowering shrub has been added to the
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
The Indian government announced the inaugural Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskars, with
Dr. Govindarajan Padmanabhan receiving the Vigyan Ratna Puraskar for his
contributions to science.
The Union Minister for Fisheries launched the “Rangeen Machhli” mobile app to
support India’s ornamental fisheries sector.
India launched Operation Sadbhava to provide humanitarian aid to Southeast Asian
countries affected by Typhoon Yagi.
Kaziranga National Park has been recognized as India’s second-largest butterfly
diversity hub, with 446 butterfly species.
India has been re-elected to the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission for the
2025-2026 term, reaffirming its commitment to global peace and stability.
Telangana launched the ‘Telangana Darshini’ Program, offering free educational trips
to historical and tourist sites for government school students.
www.thinqtank.in PAGE- 11
DEFENCE
The Indian Army conducted the ‘Parvat Prahaar’ exercise in Ladakh, focusing on
high-altitude warfare and operational readiness.
The India-Malaysia bilateral air exercise ‘Udara Shakti 2024’ concluded successfully
on August 9, 2024, at RMAF's base in Malaysia.
The 5th edition of the Vietnam-India bilateral army exercise, ‘VINBAX 2024,’
commenced on November 4, 2024, strengthening military cooperation.
The India-Sri Lanka ‘Mitra Shakti’ military exercise began on August 12, 2024,
enhancing defense cooperation between the two countries.
The 21st edition of the India-France naval exercise, ‘Varuna-23,’ took place in two
phases in 2023, strengthening naval ties.
The 20th edition of the India-USA military exercise, ‘Yudh Abhyas 2024,’
commenced on September 9, 2024, at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan.
The National Disaster Management Authority organized ‘Exercise AIKYA,’ a two-
day symposium on disaster management strategies.
The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan military exercise, ‘KAZIND 2024,’ took
place in Uttarakhand from September 30 to October 13, 2024.
INS Tushil, a Russian-built guided missile frigate, was commissioned into the
Indian Navy, strengthening India-Russia naval ties.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Japan launched the world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, made from honoki
wood, to test the viability of timber for future space structures.
ISRO will launch the Proba-3 Solar Observation Mission in December, collaborating
with the European Union to study the Sun’s faint corona.
Hyderabad’s TM2Space will launch India’s first AI lab in space, MOI-TD, aboard
ISRO’s PSLV C60 rocket in December 2024.
Google DeepMind introduced the GenCast AI model, which outperforms ECMWF ENS
in weather forecasting and extreme event prediction.
OpenAI launched Sora, an AI video generation model for paid subscribers, enabling
users to create 20-second videos from text prompts.
China opened its first atmospheric monitoring station in Antarctica, the Zhongshan
National Atmospheric Background Station, to study climate change.
Wisdom, the world’s oldest wild bird at 74 years, laid her first egg in four years,
marking a significant milestone in wildlife conservation.
www.thinqtank.in PAGE- 12
SPORTS
Rohit Sharma was honored with the CEAT International Cricketer of the Year Award
for his exceptional performances in international cricket.
Kush Maini made history by becoming the first Indian to win the FIA F2
Constructors’ World Championship with Invicta Racing.
Dommaraju Gukesh, at just 18, became the youngest chess world champion by
defeating Ding Liren in the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship, surpassing Garry
Kasparov’s record.
Anuya Prasad from Jaipur won the gold medal in the women’s air pistol event at the
second World Deaf Shooting Championship in Hannover, Germany.
Deepali Thapa became the first-ever schoolgirl champion at the Asian Youth Boxing
Championships in Al Ain, UAE.
Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka won their first-ever US Open titles in the men’s
and women’s singles categories, respectively.
Ajinkya Rahane led Mumbai to victory in the 2024-25 Irani Cup, defeating Rest of
India based on the first-innings lead.
New Zealand’s Women’s Cricket team won their first-ever ICC Women’s T20 World
Cup title by defeating South Africa by 32 runs in the final.
CHAMPIONS TROPHY
Year Host Nation(S) Winner Runner-Up
1998 Bangladesh South Africa West Indies
2000 Kenya New Zealand India
2002 Sri Lanka Sri Lanka and India None
2004 England West Indies England
2006 India Australia West Indies
2009 South Africa Australia New Zealand
2013 England and Wales India England
2017 England and Wales Pakistan India
www.thinqtank.in PAGE- 13
Indian Origins of Words Roots of Play Banners of Identity
1. European Union
Juggernaut
Pachisi 2. WHO
Blighty
Lattu 3. Indian Navy
Pyjama
Chaturanga 4. Indian Army
Bungalow
Navakankari 5. Olympics
Punch
Hopscotch 6. United Nations
Jungle
7. SAARC
Shampoo
8. Indian Airforce
Loot
9. NATO
Ripples and Revelries Valiant chronicles
1. a) Floating vegetable markets Operation Trident : A 1971 naval attack
2. a) Presence of Nalabana Island on Karachi, crippling Pakistan's harbor
3. a) Presence of migratory birds and and showcasing India's naval strength.
Irrawaddy dolphins Operation Meghdoot: Launched in 1984,
4. a) Holy dip in rivers it secured the Siachen Glacier,
5. a) Camel beauty contest preventing Pakistani occupation.
6. a) Konkan food exhibitions Operation Talwar (1999): A naval
7. a) Long wooden boats rowed by blockade during the Kargil War, cutting
synchronized teams off Pakistan's maritime supply lines.
8. d) Jaipur Operation Rahat: A 2013 mission to
9. a) Bathing in Pushkar Lake to evacuate thousands of civilians stranded
cleanse sins during the Uttarakhand floods.
10. c) Celebrating agricultural Operation Sankat Mochan: In 2016, it
prosperity evacuated Indian nationals from South
Sudan during its civil war.
Operation Safed Sagar: The IAF's key role
in the 1999 Kargil War, targeting enemy
Western Classical Instruments positions at high altitudes.
1. Captain Vikram Batra
1. Oboe
2. Lieutenant General Punita Arora
2. Flute
3. Brig. Mohammad Usman
3. Bassoon
4. Tuba
5. Violin Marvels with a Twist
6. French Horn
7. Viola 1. Upside down house - Poland
8. Double Bass 2. Cadillac Ranch - Texas
9. Cello 3. Genghis Khan Equisterian -
10. Trumpet Mongolia
11. Trombone 4. Shoe House - Pennsylvania
5. Machu Pichu - Peru
6. The Fork - Vevey
7. The Big duck - Newyork
Register for the 3rd edition of 8. The Headington Shark - Oxford
Thinqtank Quiz league 9. Bagan - Myanmar
“Battle of Brains” 10. Carhenge - Nebraska,USA
