Q12 · UPSC current affairs · 14 October 2026 · PIB · National Culture Fund Heritage Conservation MoA

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Bekal Fort, recently associated with heritage conservation agreements, is recognized as:

A The largest keyhole-shaped coastal fort in Kerala built in the 17th century
B A colonial naval stronghold in Tamil Nadu established by the Dutch East India Company
C The oldest inland hill fortress in Rajasthan constructed during the Gupta period
D A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka comprising Vijayanagara ruins

Correct answer: (a) The largest keyhole-shaped coastal fort in Kerala built in the 17th century

Explanation

Option A is correct because Bekal Fort is the largest keyhole-shaped coastal fort in Kerala built in the 17th century. Option D describes Hampi, while options C and D are historically incorrect descriptions.

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