Q4(c). Write about the following: Sania Mirza; Mahmud Abbas; Norah Jones; J.K. Rowling; Mahabodhi Temple; Sarkar Apke Dwar Programme; Janani Suraksha Yojana; Steps Proposed by Ministry of Railways to Reduce Rail Accidents

Sania Mirza

India’s leading tennis player, winner of multiple Grand Slam titles in women’s doubles and mixed doubles. She became world number one in doubles in 2015 and is a major icon for women’s sports in India.

Mahmud Abbas

Also known as Abu Mazen, he is the President of the Palestinian Authority and Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization. He has played a key role in Israel–Palestine peace negotiations.

Norah Jones

An American singer-songwriter, daughter of Indian sitar maestro Ravi Shankar. Winner of multiple Grammy Awards, she blends jazz, soul and pop.

J.K. Rowling

British author of the globally acclaimed Harry Potter series, which transformed children’s literature and became a multibillion-dollar franchise.

Mahabodhi Temple

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It marks the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Built originally in the third century BCE (Ashoka), the present structure dates to fifth–sixth century CE.

Sarkar Apke Dwar Programme

A governance initiative by some state governments (e.g., Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand) to deliver public services directly at people’s doorstep through integrated grievance redressal camps, ensuring last-mile delivery.

Janani Suraksha Yojana

A safe motherhood intervention under the National Rural Health Mission launched in 2005. It provides cash incentives to promote institutional deliveries, significantly reducing maternal mortality.

Steps Proposed by Ministry of Railways to Reduce Rail Accidents

• Anti-collision system Kavach
• Upgradation of signalling systems
• Track renewal and maintenance
• Elimination of unmanned level crossings
• Deployment of bio-toilets and fire-retardant materials
• Enhanced training for loco pilots and safety audits

These measures aim to reduce human error, improve infrastructure, and ensure passenger safety.