Correct answer: (b) Jamnagar
Explanation
- A
Mumbai
Option (a) claims Mumbai is the location of India's first National Centre for Marine Biodiversity. Mumbai is a major financial hub with significant marine research institutions, but it is not home to this specific national centre. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
- B
Jamnagar
Option (b) states that Jamnagar is where the first National Centre for Marine Biodiversity (NCMB) of India is situated. Established in Gujarat near the Gulf of Kutch marine ecosystem, this pioneering facility was set up to conserve and study rich coastal biodiversity. Consequently, this option is the official key.
- C
Bhavnagar
Option (c) suggests Bhavnagar hosts the centre. While Bhavnagar is another important coastal city in Gujarat known for maritime and industrial activities, it does not house the NCMB. Thus, this choice is wrong.
- D
Puducherry
Option (d) points to Puducherry as the location. Puducherry has notable marine biology study centres affiliated with local universities, but it was not chosen for India's premier national marine biodiversity facility. Hence, this option is incorrect.
Summary. Official key is (b) Jamnagar. The question tests the precise geographical location of India's pioneering marine conservation institution. Aspirants often confuse major coastal research hubs like Mumbai or Puducherry with specialized national centres. Jamnagar was specifically chosen due to its proximity to the ecologically rich Gulf of Kutch marine national park. Therefore, only option (b) correctly identifies the establishment site of the NCMB.