UPSC Prelims 2008 Q130: Science & Technology – Defence Technology
In the context of the Indian defence, what is ‘Dhruv’?
- (a) Aircraft - carrying warship
- (b) Missile - carrying submarine
- (c) Advanced light helicopter
- (d) Intercontinental ballistic missile
Answer: (c) Advanced light helicopter
Explanation
What "Dhruv" is in Indian defence
This indigenously developed defence asset serves a specific role in India's military capabilities.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Aircraft-carrying warship | Incorrect | Not what 'Dhruv' refers to |
| (b) Missile-carrying submarine | Incorrect | Also not what 'Dhruv' refers to |
| (c) Advanced light helicopter | Correct | 'Dhruv' is the name of India's indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), built by HAL |
| (d) Intercontinental ballistic missile | Incorrect | Not what 'Dhruv' refers to |
Dhruv facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Advanced Light Helicopter |
| Manufacturer | HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) |
Answer: (c) Advanced light helicopter.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Dhruv is not an aircraft-carrying warship.
- (b) Incorrect. It is also not a missile-carrying submarine.
- (c) CORRECT. Dhruv is India's Advanced Light Helicopter.
- (d) Incorrect. It is also not an intercontinental ballistic missile.
Key point
'Dhruv' is the name of India's indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopter, manufactured by HAL.
Remember
'Dhruv' is an Advanced Light Helicopter in Indian defence.
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'Dhruv' (a helicopter) with naval vessels or missile systems.
- Not knowing HAL's role in manufacturing this helicopter.
- Mixing up different Indian indigenous defence platform names.
Exam tip
'Dhruv' = India's Advanced Light Helicopter (HAL). A specific, named indigenous defence platform.
Sources
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited — Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — HAL Dhruv