ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

1. For the measurement/estimation of (c) 1 and 4 only

which of the following are satellite
images/remote sensing data used? [2019] (d) 1,2,3 and 4

1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a Ans. (d)

specific location
3. Consider the following
2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice statements: [2019]
paddies of a specific location
1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides
3. Land surface temperatures of a specific into environment.
location
2. Cattle release ammonia into environment.
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: 3. Poultry industry release reactive nitrogen
compounds into environment.
(a) 1 only
Which of the statements given above is/are
(b) 2 and 3 only correct?

(c) 3 only (a) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 only

Ans. (d) (c) 2 only

2. Consider the following: [2019] (d) 1, 2 and 3

1. Carbon monoxide Ans. (d)

2. Methane 4. Consider the following statements:

[2019]
3. Ozone
1. Some species of turtle are herbivores
4. Sulphur dioxide
2. Some species of fish are herbivores
Which of the above are released into the
atmosphere due to the burning of 3. Some species of marine mammals are
crop/biomass residue? herbivores

(a) 1 and 2 only 4. Some species of snakes are viviparous

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Which of the statement given above are (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer
correct? in children

(a) 1 and 3 only (c) They are small enough to absorbed by

crop plants in irrigated fields
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) They are often found to be used as food
(c) 2 and 4 only adulterants

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Ans. (a)

Ans. (d) 7. Recently, there was a growing

awareness in our country about the
5. Consider the following pairs : Wildlife: importance of Himalayan nettle
Naturally found in [2019] (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is
found to be a sustainable source of [2019]
1. Blue finned mahseer: Cauvery river
(a) anti-malarial drug
2. Irrawaddy dolphin : Chambal river
(b) biodiesel
3. Rusty spotted cats : Eastern ghats
(c) pulp for paper industry
Which one of the pair given above are
correctly matched? (d) textile fibre

(a) 1 and 2 only Ans. (d)

(b) 2 and 3 only 8. In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl

parathion phorate and triazophos is
(c) 1 and 3 only viewed with apprehension. These
chemicals are used as [2019]
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) pesticides in agriculture
Ans. (c)
(b) preservatives in processed foods
6. Why is there a great concern about the
microbeads that are released into (c) fruit-ripening agents
environment? [2019]
(d) moisturising agents in cosmetics
(a) They are considered harmful to marine
ecosystem Ans. (a)

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

9. Consider the following statements: 2. Lay down the standards for emission or
[2019] discharge of environmental pollutants from
various sources.
1. Under Ramsar convention, it is mandatory
on the part of the Government on India in Which of the statements given above is/are
protect and conserve all the wetlands in the correct?
territory of India
(a) 1 only
2. The Wetlands (Conservation and
Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by (b) 2 only
the Government of India based on the
recommendations of Ramsar convention. (c) Both 1and 2

3. The Wetlands (Conservation and (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass
the drainage area or catchment regions of the Ans. (b) -
wetlands as determined by the authority
11. As per the Solid Waste Management
Which of the statements given above is/are Rules, 2016 in India , which one of the
correct? following statements is correct? [2019]

(a) 1 and 2 only (a) Waste generator has to segregate waste

into 5 categories.
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) The Rules are applicable to notified
(c) 3 only urban local bodies, notified towns and all
industrial township only.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) The Rules provide for exact and
Ans. (b) elaborate criteria for the identification of
sites for landfills and waste processing
10. Consider the following statements : facilities.
The Environment Protection Act,
empowers the Government of India to (d) It is mandatory on the part of waste
[2019] generator that the waste generated in one
district cannot be moved to another district.
1. State the requirement of public
participation in the process of environmental Ans. (c)
protection, and the procedure and manner in
which it is sought. 12. Consider the following statements :
[2019]

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

1. As per law, the Compensatory 14. Consider the following statements

Afforestation Fund Management and [2018]
Planning Authority exists at both National
and State levels. 1. Most of the world's coral reefs are in
tropical waters.
2. People's participation is mandatory in the
compensatory afforestation programmes 2. More than one-third of the world's coral
carried out under the Compensatory reefs are located in the territories of
Afforestation Fund Act, 2016. Australia, Indonesia and Philippines.

Which of the statements given above is/are 3. Coral reefs host far more number of
correct? animal phyla than those hosted by tropical
rainforests.
(a) 1 only
Which of the statements given above is/are
(b) 2 only correct?

(c) Bth 1and 2 (a) 1 and 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) 3 only

Ans. (a) (c) 1 and 3 only

13. In India, 'extended producer (d) 1, 2 and 3

responsibility' was introduced as an
important feature in which of the Ans. (c)
following? [2019]
15. Which of the following statements best
(a) The Bio-medical Waste (management describes "carbon fertilization"? [2018]
and handling) rules,1998
(a) Increased plant growth due to increased
(b) The Recycled Plastic (manufacturing and concentration of carbon dioxide in the
usage) rules, 1999 atmosphere

(c) The e- Waste (Management and (b) Increased temperature of Earth due to
handling) rules, 2011 increased concentration of carbon dioxide in
the atmosphere
(d) The food safety and standard regulations,
2011 (c) Increased acidity of oceans as a result of
increased concentration of carbon dioxide in
Ans. (c) the atmosphere

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(d) Adaptation of all living beings on Earth 2. Pollution of groundwater

to the climate change brought about by the
increased concentration of carbon dioxide in 3. Lowering of the water-table
the atmosphere
Select the correct answer using the code
Ans. (a) given below:

16. The term "sixth mass extinction/sixth (a) 1 only

extinction" is often mentioned in the news
in the context of the discussion of [2018] (b) 2 and 3 only

(a) Widespread monoculture practices in (c) 1 and 3 only

agriculture and large-scale commercial
farming with indiscriminate use of (d) 1,2 and 3
chemicals in many parts of the world that
may result in the loss of good native Ans. (b)
ecosystems.
18. How is the National Green Tribunal
(b) Fears of a possible collision of a (NGT) different from the Central
meteorite with the Earth in the near future in Pollution Control Board [2018]
the manner it happened 65 million years ago
that caused the mass extinction of many 1. The NGT has been established by an Act
species including those of dinosaurs. . whereas the CPCB has been created by an
executive order of the Government.
(c) Large scale cultivation of genetically
modified crops in many parts of the world 2. The NGT provides environmental justice
and promoting their cultivation in other parts and helps reduce the burden of litigation in
of the world which may cause the the higher courts whereas the CPCB
disappearance of good native crop plants promotes cleanliness of streams and wells,
and the loss of food biodiversity. and aims to improve the quality of air in the
country.
(d) Mankind's over-exploitation/misuse of
natural resources, fragmentation/loss of Which of the statements given above is/are
natural habitats, destruction of ecosystems, correct:
pollution and global climate change.
(a) 1 only
Ans. (d)
(b) 2 only
17. Which of the following is/are the
possible consequence/s of heavy sand (c) Both 1and 2
mining in riverbeds ? [2018]
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. Decreased salinity in the river

5
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Ans. (b) Ans. (a)

19. Consider the following statements: 21. The Partnership for Action on Green
[2018] Economy (PAGE), a UN mechanism to
assist countries transition towards
1. The definition of "Critical Wildlife greener and more inclusive economies,
Habitat" is incorporated in the Forest Rights emerged at [2018]
Act, 2006.
(a) The Earth Summit on Development
2. For the first time in India, Baigas have 2002, Johannesburg
been given Habitat Rights.
(b) The United Nations Conference on
3. Union Ministry of Environment, Forest Sustainable Development 2012, Rio de
and Climate Change officially decides and Janeiro
declares Habitat Rights for Primitive and
Vulnerable Tribal Groups in any part of (c) The United Nations Framework
Indi(a) Convention on Climate Change 2015, Paris

Which of the statements given above is/are (d) The World Sustainable Development
correct? Summit 2016, New Delhi

(a) 1 and 2 only Ans. (b)

(b) 2 and 3 only 22. "Momentum for Change : Climate

Neutral Now" is an initiative launched
(c) 3 only by [2018]

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) The Intergovernmentai Panel on Climate

Change
Ans. (a)
(b) The UNEP Secretariat
20. In which one of the following States is
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary (c) The UNFCCC Secretariat
located? [2018]
(d) The World Meteorological Organisation
(a) Arunachal Pradesh
Ans. (c)
(b) Manipur
23. With reference to the 'Global Alliance
(c) Meghalaya for Climate Smart Agriculture (GACSA)',
which of the following statements is/are
(d) Nagaland correct? [2018]

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

1. GACSA is an outcome of the Climate (a) 1,3 and 4

Summit held in Paris in 2015.
(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5
2. Membership of GACSA does not create
any binding obligations. (c) 2, 4 and 5

3. India was instrumental in the creation of (d) 1, 2, 3 and 5

GACS(A)
Ans. (c)
Select the correct answer using the code
given 25. With reference to agricultural soils,
consider the following statements: [2018]
(a) 1 and 3 only
1. A high content of organic matter in soil
(b) 2 only drastically reduces its water holding
capacity.
(c) 2 and 3 only
2. Soil does not play any role in the Sulphur
(d) 1, 2 and 3 cycle.

Ans. (b) 3. Irrigation over a period of time can

contribute to the salinization of some
24. With reference to the circumstances in agricultural lands.
Indian agriculture, the concept of
"Conservation Agriculture" assumes Which of the statements given above is/are
significance. Which of the following fall correct?
under the Conservation Agriculture?
[2018] (a) 1 and 2 only

1. Avoiding the monoculture practices (b) 3 only

2. Adopting minimum tillage (c) 1 and 3 only

3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation (d) 1, 2 and 3

crops
Ans. (b)
4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface
26. With reference to organic farming in
5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop India, consider the following statements:
sequencing/ crop rotations [2018]

Select the correct answer using the code 1. The National Programme for Organic
given below: Production' (NPOP) is operated under the

7
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

guidelines and directions of the Union (4) Wind blowing.

Ministry of Rural Development.
Which of the above spread plant diseases?
2. The Agricultural and Processed Food
Products Export Development Authority' (a) 1 and 3 only
(APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the
implementation of NPOP. (b) 3 and 4 only

3. Sikkim has become India's first fully (c) 1, 2 and 4 only

organic State. Which of the statements given
above is/are correct? (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

(a) 1 and 2 only Ans. (d)

(b) 2 and 3 only 29. With reference to the Genetically

Modified mustard (GM mustard)
(c) 3 only developed in India, consider the following
statements: [2018]
(d) 1, 2 and 3
1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil
Ans. (b) bacterium that give the plant the property of
pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.
27. Which one of the following is an
artificial lake ? [2018] 2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the
plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
(a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)
3. GM mustard has been developed jointly
(b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh) by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural
University.
(c) Nainital (Uttarakhand)
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) correct ?

Ans. (a) (a) 1 and 3 only

28. Consider the following: [2018] (b) 2 only

(1) Birds (c) 2 and 3 only

(2) Dust blowing (d) 1, 2 and 3

(3) Rain Ans. (b)

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

30. Which of the following leaf (b) KunoPalpur Wildlife Sanctuary

modifications occur(s) in the desert areas
to inhibit water loss? [2018] (c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Hard and waxy leaves (d) Sariska National Park

2. Tiny leaves Ans. (b)

3. Thorns instead of leaves 33. In India, if a species of tortoise is

declared protected under Schedule I of
Select the correct answer using the code the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what
given below: does it imply ? [2017]

(a) 2 and 3 only (a) It enjoys the same level of protection as

the tiger.
(b) 2 only
(b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few
(c) 3 only individuals are under captive protection; and
now it is impossible to prevent its extinction.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) It is endemic to a particular region of
Ans. (d) India.

31. The term M-STRIPES' is sometimes (d) Both (b) and (c)stated above are correct
seen in the news in the context of [2017] in this context.

(a) Captive breeding of Wild Fauna Ans. (a)

(b) Maintenance of Tiger Reserves 34. According to the Wildlife (Protection)

Act, 1972, which of the following animals
(c) Indigenous Satellite Navigation System cannot be hunted by any person except
under some provisions provided by law?
(d) Security of National Highways [2017]

Ans. (b) 1. Gharial

32. Recently there was a proposal to 2. Indian wild ass

translocate some of the lions from their
natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of 3. Wild buffalo
the following sites ? [2017]
Select the correct answer using the code
(a) Corbett National Park given below:

9
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(a) 1 only Fauna and Flora in Commerce

(TRAFFIC): [2017]
(b) 2 and 3 only
1. TRAFFIC is a bureau under United
(c) 1 and 3 only Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that

trade in wild plants and animals is not a
Ans. (d) threat to the conservation of nature.

35. If you want to see gharials in their Which of the above statements is/are
natural habitat, which one of the correct?
following is the best place to visit? [2017]
(a) 1 only
(a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves
(b) 2 only
(b) Chambal River
(c) Both 1and 2
(c) Pulicat Lake
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) DeeporBeel
Ans. (b)
Ans. (b)
38. Due to some reasons, if there is a huge
36. From the ecological point of view, fall in the population of species of
which one of the following assumes butterflies, what could be its likely
importance in being a good link between consequence/consequences? [2017]
the Eastern Ghats and the Western
Ghats? [2017] 1. Pollination of some plants could be
adversely affected.
(a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
2. There could be a drastic increase in the
(b) Nallamala Forest fungal infections of some cultivated plants.

(c) Nagarhole National Park 3. It could lead to a fall in the population of

some species of wasps, spiders and birds.
(d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve
Select the correct answer using the code
Ans. (a) given below:

37. Consider the following statements in (a) 1 only

respect of Trade Related Analysis of
(b) 2 and 3 only

10
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(c) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 only

Ans. (c) (d) 1, 2 and 3

39. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a Ans. (c)

standard criterion for [2017]
41. In the context of mitigating the
(a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood impending global warming due to
anthropogenic emissions of carbon
(b) Computing oxygen levels in forest dioxide, which of the following can be the
ecosystems potential sites for carbon sequestration?
[2017]
(c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems
1. Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams
(d) Assessing oxygen levels in high altitude
regions 2. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs

Ans. (c) 3. Subterranean deep saline formations

40. In the context of solving pollution Select the correct answer using the code
problems, what is/ are the given below:
advantage/advantages of bioremediation
technique? [2017] (a) 1 and 2 only

1. It is a technique for cleaning up pollution (b) 3 only

by enhancing the same biodegradation
process that occurs in nature. (c) 1 and 3 only

2. Any contaminant with heavy metals such (d) 1, 2 and 3

as cadmium and lead can be readily and
completely treated by bioremediation using Ans. (d)
microorganisms.
42. It is possible to produce algae based
3. Genetic engineering can be used to create biofuels, but what is/are the likely
microorganisms specifically designed for limitation(s) of developing countries in
bioremediation. promoting this industry? [2017]

Select the correct answer using the code 1. Production of algae based biofuels is
given below: possible in seas only and not on continents.

(a) 1 only

11
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

2. Setting up and engineering the algae (b) 3 only

based biofuel production requires high level
of expertise/ technology until the (c) 2 and 3 only
construction is completed.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Economically viable production
necessitates the setting up of large scale Ans. (a)
facilities which may raise ecological and
social concerns. 44. Consider the following statements:
[2017]
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: 1. Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC)
to reduce Short Lived Climate Pollutants is a
(a) 1 and 2 only unique initiative of G20 group of countries.

(b) 2 and 3 only 2. The CCAC focuses on methane, black

carbon and hydrofluorocarbons.
(c) 3 only
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) 1, 2 and 3 correct?

Ans. (b) (a) 1 only

43. With reference to 'Global Climate (b) 2 only

Change Alliance', which of the following
statements is/are correct? [2017] (c) Both 1and 2

1. It is an initiative of the European Union. (d) Neither 1 nor 2

2. It provides technical and financial support Ans. (b)

to targeted developing countries to integrate
climate change into their development 45. Consider the following statements :
policies and budgets. The nation-wide 'Soil Health Card
Scheme' aims at [2017]
3. It is coordinated by World Resources
Institute (WRI) and World Business Council 1. expanding the cultivable area under
for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). irrigation.

Select the correct answer using the code 2. enabling the banks to assess the quantum
given below: of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis
of soil quality.
(a) 1 and 2 only

12
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

3. checking the overuse offertilizers in Nations Convention to Combat

farmlands. Desertification? [2016]

Which of the above statements is/are 1. It aims to promote effective action

correct? through innovative national programmes and
supportive inter-national partnerships.
(a) 1 and 2 only
2. It has a special/particular focus on South
(b) 3 only Asia and North Africa regions, and its
secretariat facilitates the allocation of major
(c) 2 and 3 only portion of financial resources to these
regions.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. It is committed to bottom-up approach,
Ans. (b) encouraging the participation of local people
in combating the desertification.
46. Which of the following practices can
help in water conservation in agriculture? Select the correct answer using the code
[2017] given below.

1. Reduced or zero tillage of the land (a) 1 only

2. Applying gypsum before irrigating the (b) 2 and 3 only

field
(c) 1 and 3 only
3. Allowing crop residue to remain in the
field (d) 1, 2 and 3

Select the correct answer using the code Ans. (c)

given below:
48. The term Intended Nationally
(a) 1 and 2 only Determined Contribution is sometimes
seen in the news in the context of : [2016]
(b) 3 only
(a) Pledge made by the European countries
(c) 1 and 3 only to rehabilitate refugees from the war-
affected Middle East.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) Plan of nation outlined by the countries
Ans. (c) of the world to combat climate changes.

47. What is/are the

importance/importances of the United

13
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(c) Capital contributed by the member (b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and
countries in the establishment of Asian Kashmir
Infrastructure Investment Bank.
(c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat
(d) Plan of action outlined by the countries
of the regarding Sustainable Developments (d) Western Ghats
Goals.
Ans. (d)
Ans. (b)
51. Which of the following best describe
49. Which of the following are the key the aim of Green India Mission‘ of the
features of National Ganga River Basin Government of India? [2016]
Authority (NGRBA)‘? [2016]
1. Incorporating environment benefits and
1. River basin is the unit of planning and costs into the Union and State Budgets
management. thereby implementing the green accounting‘.

2. It spearheads the river conservation 2. Launching the second green revolution to

efforts at the national level. enhance agriculture output so as to ensure
food security to one and all in the future.
3. One of the Chief Ministers of the State
through which the Ganga flows becomes the 3. Restoring and enhancing forest cover and
Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis. responding to climate change by a
combination of adaptation and mitigation
Select the correct answer using the code measures.
given below.
Select the correct answer using the code
(a) 1 and 2 only given below:

(b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only

(c) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 Only

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c)3 Only

Ans. (a) (d) 1, 2 and 3

50. In which of the following regions of Ans. (c)

India are you most likely to come across
the Great Indian Hornbill‘ in its natural 52. Consider the following pairs : Terms
habitat? [2016] sometimes seen in the news Their origin
[2016]
(a) Sand deserts of northwest India

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

1. Annex-I Countries: Cartagena Protocol (b) 3 Only

2. Certified Emissions Reductions : Nagoya (c) 2 and 3 only

Protocol
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Clean Development Mechanism : Kyoto
Protocol Ans. (c)

Which of the pairs given above is/are 54. What is/are unique about Kharai
correctly matched? camel‘ a breed found in India? [2016]

(a) 1 and 2 only 1. It is capable of swimming up to three

kilometers in seawater.
(b) 2 and 3 only
2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.
(c) 3 only
3. It lives in the wild and cannot be
(d) 1, 2 and 3 domesticated.

Ans. (c) Selected the correct answer using the code

given below:
53. With reference to an initiative called
The Economics of Ecosystems and (a) 1 and 2 only
Biodiversity (TEEB)‘, which of the
following statements is/are (b) 3 only
correct? [2016]
(c) 1 and 3 only
1. It is initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and
World Economic Forum. (d) 1, 2 and 3

2. It is a global initiative that focuses on Ans. (a)

drawing attention to the economic benefits
of biodiversity. 55. Recently, our scientists have
discovered a new and distinct species of
3. It presents an approach that can help banana plant which attains a height of
decision makers recognize, demonstrate and about 11 metres and has orange-coloured
capture the value of ecosystems and fruit pulp. In which part of India has it
biodiversity. been discovered? [2016]

Select the correct answer using the code (a) Anadaman Islands
given below:
(b) Anamalai Forests
(a) 1 and 2 only

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 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(c) Maikala Hills (c) It is an inter-governments agreement

ratified by all the member countries of the
(d) Tropical rain forest of northeast United Nations to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions to specified levels by the year
Ans. (a) 2022.

56. With reference to Red Sanders‘, (d) It is one of the multilateral REDD-
sometimes seen in the news, consider the initiatives hosted by the World Bank.
following statements: [2016]
Ans. (a)
1. It is a tree species found in a part of South
India. 58. Which of following statements is/are
correct? Proper design and effective
2. It is one of the most important trees in the implementation of UNREDD+
tropical rain forest areas of South India. Programme can significantly contribute
to [2016]
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct? 1. Protection of biodiversity

(a) 1only 2. Resilience of forest ecosystems

(b) 2 Only 3. Poverty reduction

(c) Both 1and 2 Select the correct answer using the code
given below
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 and 2 only
Ans. (a)
(b) 3 Only
57. What is Greenhouse Gas Protocol?
[2016] (c) 2 and 3 only

(a) It is an international accounting tool for (d) 1, 2 and 3

government and business leaders to
understand, quantify and manage Ans. (d)
greenhouse gas emissions
59. Gadgil Committee Report‘ and
(b) It is an initiative of the United Nations to Kasturirangan Committee Report‘,
offer financial incentives to developing sometimes seen in the news, are related to
countries toreduce greenhouse gas emissions [2016]
and to adopt eco-friendly technologies
(a) Constitutional reforms

16
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(b) Ganga Action Plan Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(c) Linking of rivers
(a) 1 only
(d) Protection of Western Ghats
(b) 2 only
Ans. (d)
(c) Both 1and 2
60. With reference to Agenda 21‘,
sometimes seen in the news, consider the (d) Neither 1 nor 2
following statements: [2016]
Ans. (b)
1. It is a global action plan for sustainable
development. 62. With reference to the Agreement at
the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015,
2. It originated in the World Summit on which of the following statements is/are
Sustainable Development held in correct? [2016]
Johannesburg in 2002.
1. The Agreement was signed by all the
Which of the statements given above is/are member countries of the UN and it will go
correct? into effect in 2017.

(a) 1 only 2. The Agreement aims to limit the

greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in
(b) 2 only average global temperature by the end of
this century does not exceed 20C or even
(c) Both 1and 2 1.50C above pre-industrial levels.

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 3. Developed countries acknowledged their

historical responsibility in global warming
Ans. (a) and committed to donate S 1000 billion a
year from 2020 to help developing countries
61. Consider the following statements: to cope with climate change.
[2016]
Select the correct answer using the code
1. The Sustainable Development Goals were given below.
first proposed in 1972 by a global think tank
called the Club of Rome‘. (a) 1 and 3 only

2. The Sustainable Development Goals have (b) 2 only

to be achieved by 2030.
(c) 2 and 3 only

17
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 only

Ans. (b) (c) 1 and 3 only

63. Which one of the following National (d) 1, 2 and 3

Parks has a climate that varies from
tropical to subtropical, temperate and Ans. (c)
arctic? [2015]
65. Bio Carbon Fund Initiative for
(a) Khangchendzonga National park Sustainable Forest Landscapes‘ is
managed by the [2015]
(b) Nandadevi National Park
(a) Asian Development Bank
(c) Neora Valley National Park
(b) International Monetary Fund
(d) Namdapha National park
(c) United Nations Environment Programme
Ans. (d)
(d) World Bank
64. With reference to Forest Carbon
Partnership Facility‘, which of the Ans. (d)
following statements is/are correct?
66. Which one of the following is the best
1. It is global partnership of governments, description of the term ―ecosystem‖?
businesses, civil society and indigenous [2015]
peoples
(a) A community of organisms interacting
2. It provides financial aid to universities, with one another
individual scientists and institutions
involved in scientific forestry research to (b) That part of the Earth which is inhabited
develop ecofriendly and climate adaptation by living organisms
technologies for sustainable forest
management (c) A community of organisms together with
the environment in which they live.
3. It assists the countries in their REDD+
(Reducing Emission from Deforestation and (d) The flora and fauna of a geographical
Forest Degradation+)‘ efforts by providing area.
them with financial and technical assistance.
Ans. (c)
Select the correct answer using the code
given below 67. With reference to an organization
known as Birdlife International‘ which of
(a) 1 only

18
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

the following statements is/are correct? 3. CITES is legally binding on the States
[2015] that have joined it, but this Convention does
not take the place of national laws.
1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation
Organizations. Select the correct answer using the code
given below.
2. The concept of biodiversity hotspots‘
originated from this organization. (a) 1 only

3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as (b) 2 and 3 only

Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas‘.
(c) 1 and 3 only
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. (d) 1, 2 and 3

(a) 1 only Ans. (b)

(b) 2 and 3 only 69. Which of the following National Parks

is unique in being a swamp with floating
(c) 1 and 3 only vegetation that supports a rich
biodiversity? [2015]
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) Bhitarkanika National Park
Ans. (c)
(b) KeibulLamjao National Park
68. With reference to the International
Union for Conservation of Nature and (c) Keoladeo Ghana National park
Natural Resources (IUCN) and the
Convention on International Trade in (d) Sultanpur National park
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora (CITES), which of the following Ans. (b)
statements is/are correct? [2015]
70. What is Rio+20 Conference, often
1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations mentioned in the news? [2015]
and CITES is an international agreement
between governments (a) It is the United nations Conference on
Sustainable Development
2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects
around the world to better manage natural (b) It is a Ministerial Meeting of the World
environments. Trade Organization

(c) It is a Conference of the Inter-

governmental Panel on Climate Change

19
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(d) It is a Conference of the Member Select the correct answer using the code
Countries of the Convention on Biological given below.
Diversity
(a) 1 only
Ans. (a)
(b) 2 only
71. With reference to dugong‘, a mammal
found in India, which of the following (c) Both 1and 2
statements is/are correct? [2015]
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. It is a herbivorous marine animal.
Ans. (a)
2. It is found along the entire coast of India
73. Which one of the following is
3. It is given legal protection under Schedule associated with the issue of control and
1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. phasing out of the use of ozonedepleting
substances? [2015]
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. (a) Bretton Woods Conference

(a) 1 and 2 (b) Montreal Protocol

(b) 2 only (c) Kyoto Protocol

(c) 1 and 3 (d) Nagoya Protocol

(d) 3 only Ans. (b)

Ans. (c) 74. With reference to Eco-Sensitive

Zones‘, which of the following statements
72. Which of the following statements is/are correct? [2014]
regarding Green Climate Fund‘ is/are
correct?[2015] 1. Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are
declared under the Wildlife (Protection) Act,
1. It is intended to assist the developing 1972 .
countries in adaptation and mitigation
practices to counter climate change. 2. The purpose of the declaration of Eco-
Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds of
2. It is founded under the aegis of UNEP, human activities, in those zones except
OECD, Asian Development Bank and agriculture.
World Bank.
Select the correct answer using the code
given below.

20
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(a) 1 only (b) botanical gardens

(b) 2 only (c) national parks

(c) Both 1and 2 (d) wildlife sanctuaries

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans. (a)

Ans. (d) 77. Consider the following pairs :

Wetlands Confluence of rivers [2014]
75. Consider the following statements:
[2014] 1. Harike Wetlands : Confluence of Beas
and Satluj/Sutlej
1. Animal Welfare Board of India is
established under the Environment 2. Keoladeo Ghana Confluence of Banas
(Protection) Act, 1986. National Park: and Chambal

2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is 3. Kolleru Lake : Confluence of Musi and

a statutory body. Krishna

3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
chaired by the Prime Minister. matched?

Which of the statements given above is/ are (a) 1 only

correct?
(b) 2 and 3 only
(a) 1 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 2 only
Ans. (a)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
78. If you travel through the Himalayas,
Ans. (b) you are likely to see which of the
following plants naturally growing there?
76. The most important strategy for the [2014]
conservation of biodiversity together with
traditional human life is the 1. Oak
establishment of [2014]
2. Rhododendron
(a) biosphere reserves
3. Sandalwood

21
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Select the correct answer using the code Ans. (b)

given below
80. With reference to Neem tree, consider
(a) 1 and 2 only the following statements: [2014]

(b) 3 only 1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to

control the proliferation of some species of
(c) 1 and 3 only insects and mites.

(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture

of biofuels and hospital detergents.
Ans. (a)
3. Neem oil has applications in
79. The scientific view is that the increase pharmaceutical industry.
in global temperature should not exceed 2
°C above preindustrial level. If the global Which of the statements given above is/are
temperature increases beyond 3 °C above correct?
the pre-industrial level, what can be its
possible impact/impacts on the world? (a) 1 and 2 only
[2014]
(b) 3 only
1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net
carbon source (c) 1 and 3 only

2. Widespread coral mortality will occur. (d) 1, 2 and 3

3. All the global wetlands will permanently Ans. (c)

disappear.
81. Which of the following are some
4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible important pollutants released by steel
anywhere in the world. industry in India? [2014]

Select the correct answer using the code 1. Oxides of sulphur

given below.
2. Oxides of nitrogen
(a) 1 only
3. Carbon monoxide
(b) 1and 2 only
4. Carbon dioxide
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
Select the correct answer using the code
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 given below.

22
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only 2. The United Nations Convention to

Combat Desertification
(b) 2 and 3 only
3. The World Heritage Convention
(c) 1 and 4 only
Which of the above has / have a bearing on
(d) 1,2,3 and 4 the biodiversity?

Ans. (d) (a) 1 and 2 only

82. Consider the statements regarding (b) 3 only

Earth Hour‘:[2014]
(c) 1 and 3 only
1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2. It is a movement in which the participants
switch off the lights for one hour on a Ans. (d)
certain day every year.
84. If a wetland of international
3. It is a movement to raise the awareness importance is brought under the
about the climate change and the need to Montreux Record‘, what does it imply?
save the planet. [2014]

Which of the statements given above is / are (a) Changes in ecological character have
correct? occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur
in the wetland as a result of human
(a) 1 and 3 only interference.

(b) 2 only (b) The country in which the wetland is

located should enact a law to prohibit any
(c) 2 and 3 only human activity within five kilo metres from
the edge of the wetland
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) The survival of the wetland depends on
Ans. (c) the cultural practices and traditions of
certain communities living in its vicinity and
83. Consider the following international therefore the cultural diversity therein
agreements : [2014] should not be destroyed

1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic (d) It is given the status of World Heritage
Resources for Food and Agriculture Site‘

Ans. (a)

23
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

85. Which one of the following is the (b) It undertakes scientific environmental
correct sequence of a food chain? [2014] issues at global level

(a) Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings (c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate

the transfer of technology and funds to
(b) Crustaceans-Diatoms-Herrings underdeveloped countries with specific aim
to protect their environment.
(c) Diatoms-Herrings-Crustaceans
(d) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Crustaceans-Herrings-Diatoms
Ans. (a)
Ans. (a)
88. Other than poaching, what are the
86. Consider the following pairs [2014] possible reasons for the decline in the
population of Ganges River Dolphins?
1. Dampa Tiger Reserve: Mizoram [2014]

2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary: Sikkim 1. Construction of dams and barrages on

rivers
3. Saramati Peak: Nagaland
2. Increase in the population of crocodiles in
Which of the above pairs is /are correctly rivers
matched?
3. Getting trapped in fishing nets
(a) 1 only accidentally

(b) 2 and 3 only 4. Use of synthetic fertilizers and other

agricultural chemicals in crop-fields in the
(c) 1 and 3 only vicinity of rivers

(d) 1, 2 and 3 Select the correct answer using the code

given below.
Ans. (c)
(a) 1 and 2 only
87. With reference to Global
Environment Facility‘, which of the (b) 2 and 3 only
following statements is/are correct?
[2014] (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(a) It serves as financial mechanism for (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Convention on Biological Diversity‘ and
United Nations Framework Convention on Ans. (c)
Climate Change‘

24
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

89. With reference to a conservation (b) 2 only

organization called Wetlands
International‘, which of the following (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
statements is/are correct? [2014]
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
1. It is an intergovernmental organization
formed by the countries which are Ans. (c)
signatories to Ramsar Convention.
91. Brominated flame retardants are used
2. It works at the field level to develop and in many household products like
mobilize knowledge, and use the practical mattresses and upholstery. Why is there
experience to advocate for better policies. some concern about their use? [2014]

Select the correct answer using the code 1. They are highly resistant to degradation in
given below. the environment.

(a) 1 only 2. They are able to accumulate in humans

and animals.
(b) 2 only
Select the correct answer using the code
(c) Both 1and 2 given below :

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1 only

Ans. (b) (b) 2 only

90. Which of the following adds/add (c) Both 1and 2

carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on the
planet Earth? [2014] (d) Neither 1 nor 2

1. Volcanic action Ans. (c)

2. Respiration 92. If you walk through countryside, you

are likely to see some birds stalking
3. Photosynthesis alongside the cattle to seize the insects,
disturbed by their movement through
4. Decay of organic matter grasses. Which of the following is/are
such bird/birds? [2014]
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. 1. Painted Stork

(a) 1 and 3 only 2. Common Myna

25
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

3. Black-necked Crane 4. Spider monkey

Select the correct answer using the code Which of the above found in India?
given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(d) 3 only
Ans. (a)
Ans. (b)
95. Which one of the following is the
93. Consider the following animals: [2014] correct sequence of ecosystems in the
order of decreasing productivity? [2013]
1. Sea cow
(a) Oceans, lakes, grasslands, mangroves
2. Sea horse
(b) Mangroves, oceans, grasslands, lakes
3. Sea lion
(c) Mangroves, grasslands, lakes, oceans
Which of the above is/are
mammal/mammals? (d) Oceans, mangroves, lakes, grasslands

(a) 1 only Ans. (c)

(b) 1and 3 only 96. Consider the following pairs: [2013]

(c) 2 and 3 only 1. Nokrek Biosphere Reserve: Garo Hills

(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Logtak (Loktak) Lake : Barail Range

Ans. (b) 3. Namdapha National Park: Dafla Hills

94. Consider the following: [2013] Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
matched?
1. Star tortoise
(a) 1 only
2. Monitor lizard
(b) 2 and 3 only
3. Pygmy hog

26
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(c) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1,2,3,5 and 6 only

(d) None (c) 2, 4, 5 and 7 only

Ans. (a) (d) 1,2,3,4,5,6 and 7

97. Acid rain is caused by the pollution of Ans. (b)

environment by [2013]
99. Consider the following organisms :
(a) carbon dioxide and nitrogen [2013]

(b) carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide 1. Agaricus

(c) ozone and carbon dioxide 2. Nostoc

(d) nitrous oxide and sulphur dioxide 3. Spirogyra

Ans. (d) Which of the above is / are used as

biofertilizer / biofertilizers
98. Due to improper / indiscriminate
disposal of old and used computers or (a) 1 and 2
their parts, which of the following are
released into the environment as ewaste? (b) 2 only
[2013]
(c) 2 and 3
1. Beryllium
(d) 3 only
2. Cadmium
Ans. (a)
3. Chromium
100. With reference to food chains in
4. Heptachlor ecosystems, consider the following
statements: [2013]
5. Mercury
1. A food chain illustrates the order in which
6. Lead a chain of organisms feed upon each other.

7. Plutonium 2. Food chains are found within the

populations of a species.
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below. 3. A food chain illustrates the numbers of
each organism which are eaten by others.
(a) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only

27
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Which of the statements given above is / are 2. Burning of coal by man

correct?
3. Death of vegetation
(a) 1 only
Select the correct answer using the codes
(b) 1and 2 only given below.

(c) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 only

(d) None (b) 2 and 3 only

Ans. (a) (c) 1 and 3 only

101. In which of the following States is (d) 1, 2 and 3

lion tailed macaque found in its natural
habitat? [2013] Ans. (c)

1. Tamil Nadu 103. Photochemical smog is a resultant of

the reaction among [2013]
2. Kerala
(a) presence NO2, of O sunlight 3 and
3. Karnataka peroxyacetyl nitrate in the

4. Andhra Pradesh (b) presence CO, of O sunlight 2 and

peroxyacetyl nitrate in the
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below. (c) (d) CO, High CO2 and NO2 at low
temperature evening concentration of NO2,
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only O3 and CO in the

(b) 2 only Ans. (a)

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only 104. Which one of the following terms

describes not only the physical space
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 occupied by an organism but also its
functional role in the community of
Ans. (a) organisms? [2013]

102. Which of the following adds / add (a) Ecotone

nitrogen to the soil? [2013]
(b) Ecological niche
1. Excretion of urea by animals
(c) Habitat

28
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(d) Home range (c) 1 and 3 only

Ans. (b) (d) 1, 2 and 3

105. Consider the following fauna of India Ans. (b)

: [2013]
107. In which one among the following
1. Gharial categories of protected areas in India are
local people not allowed to collect and use
2. Leatherback turtle the biomass? [2012]

3. Swamp deer (a) Biosphere reserves

Which of the above is/are endangered? (b) National parks

(a) 1 and 2 only (c) Wetlands declared under Ramsar

convention
(b) 3 only
(d) Wildlife sanctuaries
(c) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (b)
(d) None
108. Consider the following protected
Ans. (c) areas: [2012]

106. With reference to the food chains in 1. Bandipur

ecosystems, which of the following kinds
of organism is / are known as decomposer 2. Bhitarkanika
organism/organisms? [2013]
3. Manas
1. Virus
4. Sundarbans
2. Fungi
Which of the above are declared Tiger
3. Bacteria Reserves?

Select the correct answer using the codes (a) 1 and 2 only
given below.
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(a) 1 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

29
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Ans. (b) 2. Fragmentation of habitat

109. The Millenium Ecosystem 3. Invasion of alien species

Assessment describes the following major
categories of ecosystem 4. Promotion of vegetarianism
servicesprovisioning, supporting,
regulating, preserving and cultural. Select the correct answer using the codes
Which one of the following is supporting given below:
service? [2012]
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(a) Production of food and water
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) Control of climate and disease
(c) 1 and 4 only
(c) Nutrient Cycling and crop pollinator
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(d) Maintenance of diversity
Ans. (a)
Ans. (c)
112. What is the difference between the
110. Which one of the following groups of antelopes Oryx and Chiru? [2012]
animals belongs to the category of
endangered species? [2012] (a) Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid
areas whereas Chiru is adapted to live in
(a) Great Indian bustard, Musk Deer, Red steppes and semi-desert areas of cold high
Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass mountains

(b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetah, Blue Bull, Great (b) Oryx is poached for its antlers whereas
Indian Bustard Chiru is poached for its musk

(c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus (c) Oryx exists in western India only
Monkey, Saras (Crane) whereas Chiru exists in north east India
only.
(d) Lion Tailed Macaque, Blue Bull,
Hanuman Langur, Cheetah (d) None of the statements (a), (b) and (c)
given above is correct.
Ans. (a)
Ans. (a)
111. Which of the following can be threats
to the biodiversity of a geographical area? 113. Vultures used to be very common in
[2012] Indian countryside some years ago are
rarely seen nowadays. This is attributed
1. Global warming to [2012]

30
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(a) the destruction of their nesting sites by 2. The water requirements of coastal cities
new invasive species with inadequate alternative sources of water
will be met by adopting appropriate
(b) a drug used by cattle owners for treating technologies that allow for the use of ocean
their diseased cattle water.

(c) scarcity of food available to them 3. All the rivers of Himalayan origin will be
linked to the rivers of peninsular India.
(d) a widespread, persistant and fatal disease
among them 4. The expenses incurred by farmers for
digging bore wells and for installing motors
Ans. (b) and pump sets to draw groundwater will be
completely reimbursed by the Government.
114. Consider the following: [2012]
Select the correct answer using the codes
1. Black necked crane given below

2. Cheetah (a) 1 only

3. Flying squirrel (b) 1and 2 only

4. Snow leopard (c) 3 and 4 only

Which of the above are naturally found in (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

India?
Ans. (b)
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
116. How does National Biodiversity
(b) 1,3 and 4 only Authority (NBA) help in protecting the
Indian agriculture? [2012]
(c) 2 and 4 only
1. NBA checks the biopiracy and protects
(d) 1, 2,3 and 4 the indigenous and traditional genetic
resources.
Ans. (b)
2. NBA directly monitors and supervises the
115. If National Water Mission is scientific research on genetic modification
properly and completely implemented of crop plants.
how will it impact the country? [2012]
3. Applications for intellectual property
1. Part of the water needs of urban areas will rights related to genetic/biological resources
be met through recycling of waste water. cannot be made without the approval of
NBA.

31
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Which of the statements given above is/ are 2. in the production of tubeless tyres
correct?
3. In cleaning certain electronic components
(a) 1 only
4. As pressurizing agents in aerosol cans
(b) 2 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above is/are
(c) 1 and 3 only correct?

(d) 1,2 and 3 (a) 1,2 and 3 only

Ans. (c) (b) 4 only

117. With reference to the wetlands of (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

India, consider the following statements:
[2012] (d) 1, 2,3 and 4

1. The country‘s total geographical area Ans. (d)

under the category of wetlands is recorded
more in Gujarat as compared to other states. 119. Biodiversity forms the basis for
human existence in the following ways:
2. In India, the total geographical area of [2011]
coastal wetlands is larger than that of inland
wetlands. 1. Soil formation

Which of the statements given above is/are 2. Prevention of soil erosion

correct?
3. Recycling of waste
(a) 1 only
4. Pollination of crops
(b) 2 only
Select the correct answer using the codes
(c) Both 1and 2 given below :

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

Ans. (a) (b) 2,3 and 4 only

118. Consider the following statements: (c) 1 and 4 only

Chlorofluorocarbons, known as ozone
depleting substances are used [2012] (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only.

1. In the production of plastic foams Ans. (d)

32
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

120. Two important rivers- one with its (b) Presence of prominent polar front and
source in Jharkhand (and known by a stratospheric clouds; and inflow of
different name in Odisha), and another, chlorofluorocarbons.
with its source in Odishamerge at a place
only a short distance from the coast of (c) Absence of polar front and stratospheric
Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. clouds; and inflow of methane and
This is an important site of wildlife and chlorofluorocarbons.
biodiversity and a protected area.Which
one of the following could be this? [2011] (d) Increased temperature at polar region
due to global warming.
(a) Bhitarkanika
Ans. (b)
(b) Chandipur-on-sea
123. Consider the following: [2011]
(c) Gopalpur-on-sea
1. Carbon dioxide
(d) Simlipal
2. Oxides of nitrogen
Ans. (a)
3. Oxides of Sulphur
121. Which one of the following is not a
site for in-situ method of conservation of Which of the above is/are the
flora ? [2011] emission/emissions from coal combustion at
thermal power plants?
(a) Biosphere reserve
(a) 1 only
(b) Botanical garden
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) National park
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) Wildlife sanctuary.
(d) 1,2,and 3
Ans. (b)
Ans. (b)
122. The formation of ozone hole in the
Antarctic region has been a cause of 124. Regarding ―carbon credits‖, which
concern. What could be the reason for the one of the following statements is not
formation of this hole? [2011] correct? [2011]

(a) Presence of prominent tropo-spheric (a) The carbon credit system was ratified in
turbulence; and inflow of conjunction with the Kyoto protocol.
chlorofluorocarbons.

33
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(b) Carbon credits are awarded to countries (a) The mangrove swamps separate the
or groups that have reduced greenhouse human settlements from the sea by a wide
gases below their emission quota. zone in which people neither live nor
venture out.
(c) The goal of the carbon credit system is to
limit the increase of carbon dioxide (b) The mangroves provide both food and
emission. medicines which people are in need of after
any natural disaster.
(d) Carbon credits are traded at a price fixed
from time to time by the United Nations (c) The mangrove trees are tall with dense
environment programs. canopies and serve as an excellent shelter
during a cyclone or Tsunami.
Ans. (d)
(d) The mangrove trees do not get uprooted
125. Consider the following: [2011] by storms and tides because of their
extensive roots.
1. Photosynthesis
Ans. (d)
2. Respiration
127. A sandy and saline area is the
3. Decay of organic matter natural habitat of an Indian animal
species. The animal has no predators in
4. Volcanic action. that area but its existence is threatened
due to the destruction of its habitat.
Which of the above add carbon dioxide to Which one of the following could be that
the carbon cycle on earth? animal? [2011]

(a) 1 and 4 only (a) Indian wild buffalo

(b) 2 and 3 only (b) Indian wild ass

(c) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) Indian wild boar

(d) 1,2,3 and 4 (d) Indian gazelle

Ans. (c) Ans. (b)

126. The 2004 Tsunami made people 128. Three of the following criteria have
realize that mangroves can serve as a contributed to the recognition of Western
reliable safety hedge against coastal Ghats , Sri Lanka and Indo-Burma
calamities. How do mangroves function as regions as hotspots of biodiversity : [2011]
a safety hedge? [2011]
1. Species richness

34
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

2. Vegetation density (c) 2 and 3

3. Endemism (d) 3 only

4. Ethno-botanical importance Ans. (b)

5. Threat perception 129. The ―Red Books‖ published by the

International Union for Conservation of
6. Adaption of flora and fauna to warm and Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN)
humid conditions contain lists of ? [2011]

Which three of the above are correct criteria 1. Endemic plant and animal species present
in this context? in the biodiversity hotspots.

(a) 1,2, and 6. 2. Threatened plant and animal species.

(b) 2,4 and 6. 3. Protected sites for conservation of nature

and natural resources in various countries.
(c) 1,3 and 5
Select the correct answer using the codes
. (d) 3,4 and 6. given below:

Ans. (c) (a) 1 and 3

129. The ―Red Books‖ published by the (b) 2 only

International Union for Conservation of
Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) (c) 2 and 3
contain lists of ? [2011]
(d) 3 only
1. Endemic plant and animal species present
in the biodiversity hotspots. Ans. (b)

2. Threatened plant and animal species. 130. If a tropical rain forest is removed, it
does not regenerate quickly as compared
3. Protected sites for conservation of nature to a tropical deciduous forest. This is
and natural resources in various countries. because [2011]

Select the correct answer using the codes (a) The soil of rain forest is deficient in
given below: nutrients.

(a) 1 and 3 (b) Propagules of the trees in a rain forest

have poor viability.
(b) 2 only

35
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(c) The rain forest species are slow-growing. 4. Indian Forest Act, 1927.

(d) Exotic species invade the fertile soil of Which of the above acts have relevance
rain forest. to/bearing on the biodiversity conservation
in the country?
Ans. (a)
(a) 1 and 3 only
131. Human activities in the recent past
have caused the increased concentration (b) 2,3 and 4 only
of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, but
a lot of it does not remain in the lower (c) 1,2,3 and 4
atmosphere because of [2011]
(d) None of the above acts
1. Its escape into the outer stratosphere.
Ans. (c)
2. The photosynthesis by phytoplankton in
the oceans. 133. The Himalayan Range is very rich in
species diversity. Which one among the
3. The trapping of air in the polarice caps. following is the most appropriate reason
for this phenomenon? [2011]
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct? (a) It has a high rainfall that supports
luxuriant vegetative growth.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) It is a confluence of different bio-
(b) 2 only geographical zones.

(c) 2 and 3 (c) Exotic and invasive species have not

been invasive species have not been
(d) 3 only introduced in this region

Ans. (b) (d) It has less human interference.

132. With reference to India, consider the Ans. (b)

following Central Acts: [2011]
134. In the context of ecosystem
1 Import and Export (Control) Act, 1947. productivity, marine upwelling zones are
important as they increase the marine
2. Mining, and Mineral Development productivity by bringing the [2011]
(Regulation) Act, 1957.
1. Decomposer microorganisms to the
3. Customs Act, 1962. surface.

36
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

2. Nutrients to the surface. 136. Consider the following statements :

[2011]
3. Bottom-dwelling organisms to the
surface. 1. The boundaries of a National Park are
defined by legislation.
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct? 2. A Biosphere Reserve is declared to
conserve a few specific species of flora and
(a) 1 and 2 fauna.

(b) 2 only 3. In a Wildlife Sanctuary, limited biotic

interference is permitted.
(c) 2 and 3
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) 3 only. correct?

Ans. (c) (a) 1 only

135. Consider the following statements : (b) 3 only

[2011]
(c) 1 and 3 only
1. Biodiversity is normally greater in the
lower latitudes as compared to higher (d) 1, 2 and 3
latitudes
Ans. (b)
2. Along the mountain gradients,
biodiversity is normally greater in the lower 137. Consider the following statements :
altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes. [2010]

Which of the statements given above is/are 1. Biodiversity hotspots are located only in
correct? tropical regions.

(a) 1 only 2. India has four biodiversity hotspots i.e.,

Eastern Himalayas, Western Himalayas,
(b) 2 only Western Ghats and Andaman and Nicobar
Islands.
(c) Both 1and 2
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2. correct?

Ans. (c) (a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

37
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(c) Both 1and 2 (c) World Summit on Sustainable

Development, Johannesburg, 2002
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) UN Climate Copenhagen, 2009
Ans. (d)
Ans. (b)
138. India is a party to the Ramsar
Convention and has declared many areas 140. Due to their extensive rice
as Ramsar Sites. Which of the following cultivation, some regions may be
statements best describes as to how we contributing to global warming. To what
should maintain these sites in the context possible reason/reasons is this
of this Convention ? [2010] attributable? [2010]

(a) Keep all the sites completely inaccessible 1. The anaerobic conditions associated with
to man so that they will not be exploited rice cultivation cause the emission of
methane.
(b) Conserve all the sites through ecosystem
approach and permit tourism and recreation 2. When nitrogen based fertilizers are used,
only nitrous oxide is emitted from the cultivated
soil.
(c) Conserve all the sites through ecosystem
approach for a period without any Which of the statements given above is/are
exploitation, with specific criteria and correct?
specific period for each site, and then allow
sustainable use of them by future (a) 1 only
generations
(b) 2 only
(d) Conserve all the sites through ecosystem
approach and allow their simultaneous (c) Both 1and 2
sustainable use.
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (c)
Ans. (c)
139. The United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change 141. Other than Jatropha curcas, why is
(UNFCCC) is an international treaty Pongamia pinnata also considered a good
drawn at [2010] option for the production of bio- diesel in
India? [2010]
(a) United Nations Conference on the
Human Environment, Stockholm, 1972 1. Pongamia pinnata grows naturally in most
of the arid regions of India.
(b) UN Conference on Environment
Development, Rio de Janeiro, 1992

38
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

2. The seeds of Pongamia pinnata are rich in (a) Jatropha

lipid content of which nearly half is oleic
acid. (b) Maize

Which of the statements given above is /are (c) Pongamia

correct?
(d) Sunflower
(a) 1 only
Ans. (b)
(b) 2 only
144. What are the possible limitations of
(c) Both 1and 2 India in mitigating the global warming at
present and in the immediate future?
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 [2010]

Ans. (c) 1. Appropriate alternate technologies are not

sufficiently available.
142. Consider the following pairs :
Protected area Well known for [2010] 2. India cannot invest huge funds in research
and development.
1. Bhiterkanika, Water Crocodile Orissa Salt
3. Many developed countries- have already
2. Desert National Park, Rajasthan Great set up their polluting industries in India.
Indian Bustard
Which of the statements given above is/are
3. Eravikulam, Kerala Hoolock Gibbon correct?

Which of the pairs given above is/are (a) 1 and 2 only

correctly matched ?
(b) 2 only
(a) 1 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 2 only
Ans. (a)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
145. Consider the following statements :
Ans. (b) [2010]

143. Given below are the names of four 1. The Taxus tree naturally found in the
energy crops. Which one of them can be Himalayas.
cultivated for ethanol? [2010]

39
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

2. The Taxus tree is listed in the Red Data 147. The marine animal called dugong
Book. which is vulnerable to extinction is :[2009]

3. A drug called ―taxol‖ is obtained from (a) Amphibian

Taxus tree is effective against, Parkinson‘s
disease. (b) Bony fish

Which of the statements given above is/are (c) Shark

correct?
(d) Mammal
(a) 1 only
Ans. (d)
(b) 1and 2 only
148. Which one of the following Union
(c) 2 and 3 only Ministries implements the Cartagena
Protocol on Biosafety? [2009]
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) Ministry of Science and Technology
Ans. (b)
(b) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
146. Consider the following which can be
found in the ambient atmosphere : [2010] (c) Ministry of Environment and Forests

1. Soot (d) Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

2. Sulphur hexafluoride Ans. (c)

3. Water vapour 149. In India, which one of the following

States has the largest inland saline
Which of the above contribute to the wetland? [2009]
warming up of the atmosphere?
(a) Gujarat
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) Haryana
(b) 3 only
(c) Madhya Pradesh
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) Rajasthan
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (d)
Ans. (d)
150. Consider the following regions :
[2009]

40
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

1. Eastern Himalayas Ans. (a)

2 Eastern Mediterranean region 153. In the context of CO2 emission and

Global Warming, what is the name of a
3. North-western Australia market driven device under the UNFCCF
that allows developing countries to get
Which of the above is/are Biodiversity funds/incentives from the developed
Hotspot (s)? countries to adopt better technologies that
reduce greenhouse gas emissions? [2009]
(a) 1 only
(a) Carbon Footprint
(b) 1and 2 only
(b) Carbon Credit Rating
(c) 2 and 3 only
(c) Clean Development Mechanism
(d) 1,2 and 3
(d) Emission Reduction Norm
Ans. (b)
Ans. (c)
151. In the contest of Indian wild life, the
flying fox is a: [2009] 154. The concept of carbon credit
originated from which one of the
(a) Bat following? [2009]

(b) Kite (a) Earth Summit, Rio de Janeiro

(c) Stork (b) Kyoto Protocol

(d) Vulture (c) Montreal Protocol

Ans. (a) (d) G-8 Summit, Heiligendamm

152. The Panda belongs to the same Ans. (b)

family as that of [2009]
155. Among the following, which one is
(a) Bear not an ape? [2008]

(b) Cat (a) Gibbon

(c) Dog (b) Gorilla

(d) Rabbit (c) Langur

41
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(d) Orangutan 158. Where was the World Summit on

Sustainable Devlopment (Rio+10) held?
Ans. (c) [2008]

156. Which one among the following has (a) Davos

the maximum number of National Parks?
[2008] (b) Nova Scotia

(a) Andaman and Nicobar Islands (c) Johannesburg

(b) Arunachal Pradesh (d) Shanghai

(c) Assam Ans. (c)

(d) Meghalaya 159. Consider the following statements :

[2008]
Ans. (a)
1. Salt-water crocodile is found in the
157. Consider the following statements : Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
[2008]
2. Shrew and papir are found in the Western
1. Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Ghats of the Malabar region.
in respect of carbon credits in one of the
Kyoto Protocol Mechanisms. Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
2. Under the CDM, the projects handled
pertain only to the Annex-I countries. (a) 1 only

Which of the statements given above is/are (b) 2 only

correct?
(c) Both 1and 2
(a) 1 Only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 2 Only
Ans. (a)
(c) Both 1and 2
160. Out of all the Biosphere Reserves in
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 India. Four have recognized on the World
Networkby UNESCO. Which one of the
Ans. (c) following is not one of them? [2008]

(a) Gulf of Mannar

42
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(b) Kanggchenjunga Ans. (b)

(c) Nanda Devi 163. Consider the following statements :

[2007]
(d) Sundarbans
1. In India, Red Panda is naturally found in
Ans. (b) the Western Himalayas only.

161. Consider the following: [2008] 2. In India, Slow Loris lives in the dense
forests of the North East.
1. Rice fields
Which of the statements given above is/are
2. Coal mining correct?

3. Domestic animals (a) 1 only

4. Wetlands (b) 2 only

Which of the above are sources of methane, (c) Both 1and 2

a major greenhouse gas ?
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 and 4 only
Ans. (b)
(b) 2 and 3 only
164. Which one of the following is also
(c) 1,2 and 3 only known as Top Slip? [2007]

(d) 1,2,3 and 4 (a) Simlipal National Park

Ans. (d) (b) Periyar Wilddlife Sanctuary

162. Which one of the following is not (c) Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
essentially a species of the Himalayan
vegetation? [2008] (d) Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and
National Park
(a) Juniper
Ans. (d)
(b) Mahogany
165. Which one of the following is located
(c) Silver fir is in the Bastar region? [2007]

(d) Spruce (a) Bandhavgarh National Park

43
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(b) Dandeli Sanctuary (c) 4251

(c) Rajaji National Park (d) 5132

(d) Indravati National Park Ans. (c)

Ans. (d) 168. Consider the following statements :

[2005]
166. Which one of the following countries
is the first country in the world to propose 1. Kyoto Protocol came into force in the
a carbon tax for its people to the address year 2005
global warming? [2006]
2. Kyoto Protocol deals primarily with the
(a) Australia depletion of the Ozone layer.

(b) Germany 3. Methane as a greenhouse gas is more

harmful than carbon dioxide
(c) Japan
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) New Zealand correct?

Ans. (d) (a) 1 and 2

167. Match List I with List II and select (b) 1and 3

the correct answer using the code given
below the lists : List-II [2006] (c) 1 Only

List-I (National Park List-II(Nearby (d) 3 Only

Sanctuary)
Ans. (c)
A. Chandra Prabha 1.Jaipur
169. Which one of the following is not a
B. Karera 2. Jhansi Biosphere Reserve? [2005]

C. Jaisamand 3. Agra (a) Agasthyamalai

D. Nahargarh 4. Varanasi (b) Nallamala

5. Udaipur A B C D (c) Nilgiri

(a) 4152 (d) Panchmarhi

(b) 523 1 Ans. (b)

44
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

170. Where is Bundala Biosphere Reserve 172. Which one of the following
which has been recently added to the statements is correct? [2005]
UNESCO‘s Man and Biosphere (MAB)
network, located? [2006] (A) The First Meeting of the Parties (MOP
1) to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
(a) Russia was held in Philippines in the year 2004.

(b) India (B) India is not a signatory to the Biosafety

Protocol/ Convention on Biological
(c) Sri Lanka Diversity.

(d) Bangladesh (C) The Biosafety Protocol deals with

genetically modified organisms.
Ans. (c)
(D) The United States of America is member
171. Match List-I with List-II and select of the Biosafety Protocol/ Convention on
the correct answer using the codes given Biological Diversity
below the lists : [2005]
.(a) Only A
List I (National Park/Wild-life Sanctuary) :
List II (State) (b) Only A and B

(a) Bondia Wildlife Sanctuary : 1. Orissa (c) Only C

(b) Kangerghat National Park: 2. Assam (d) All of the above

(c) Orang Sanctuary : 3. Chhattisgarh Ans. (c)

(d) Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary : 4. Goa 173. Consider the following statements :
[2005]
ABCD
1. Silent Valley National Park is in the
(a) 2153 Nallamala range.

(b) 4321 2. Pathrakkadavu Hydroelectric Project is

proposed to be built near the Silent Valley
(c) 2351 National Park.

(d) 412 3 3. The Kunthi river originates in Silent

Valley‘s rainforests.
Ans. (b)
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?

45
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

(a) 1 and 3 175. A class of animals known as

Marsupials is a characteristic feature of
(b) 2 only [2001]

(c) 2 and 3 (a) Africa

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) Australia

Ans. (c) (c) South America

174. Consider the following statements (d) South-East Asia

regarding environment issues of India :
[2001] Ans. (b)

I. Gulf of Mannar is one of the biosphere 176. Within biological communities, some
reserves. species are important in determining the
ability of a large number of other species
II. The Ganga Action Plan, phase II has been to persist in the community. Such species
merged with the National River are called [2000]
Conservation Plan.
(a) Keystone species
III. The National Museum of Natural
History at New Delhi imparts non- formal (b) Allopatric species
education in environment and conservation.
(c) Sympatric species
IV. Environmental Information System
(ENVIS) acts as a decentralised information (d) Threatened species
network for environmental information.
Ans. (a)
Which of these statements are correct?
177. ―India has the largest population of
(a) I, II and IV the Asian X. Today, there are just about
20,000 to 25,000 X in their natural habitat
(b) I, II, III and IV spreading across the evergreen forests,
dry thorn forests, swamps and grasslands.
(c) II and III Their prime habitats are, however, the
moist deciduous forests. The X population
(d) I, III and IV in India ranges from North-West India
where they are found in the forest
Ans. (b) divisions of Dehradun, Bijnor and
Nainital districts of UP to the Western
Ghats in the states of Karnataka and
Kerala and in Tamil Nadu. In Central

46
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

India, their population is distributed in Ans. (c)

southern Bihar and Odisha. In the East,
they are seen in North-Bengal, Assam and 180. Which one of the following regions of
a few other states.‖ The animal X‘ India is now regarded as an ecological hot
referred to in this quotation is [2000] spot‘? [1996]

(a) Lion (a) Western Himalayas

(b) Elephant (b) Eastern Himalayas

(c) Tiger (c) Western ghats

(d) One-horned rhinoceros (d) Eastern ghats

Ans. (b) Ans. (c)

178. The minimum land area 181. The first marine sanctuary in India,
recommended for forest cover to maintain having within its bounds coral reefs,
proper ecological balance in India is mollusca, dolphins, tortoises and various
[1999] kinds of sea birds, has been established in
[1999]
(a) 25%
(a) Sundarbans
(b) 33%
(b) Gahirmatha marine sanctuary
(c) 43%
(c) Gulf of Kachch
(d) 53%
(d) Lakshadweep
Ans. (b)
Ans. (b)
179. Which one of the following
legislations does not deal with the 182. Indonesian forest fire in 1997 was
protection of environment?[1999] caused by [1998]

(a) The Water (Cess) Act, 1977 (a) greenhouse effect

(b) The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (b) depletion of ozone layer

(c) The Public Liability Insurance Act,1991 (c) El Nino effect

(d) The Port Laws Amendment Act, 1997 (d) None of the above

47
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Ans. (d) 4. Promotion of wide use of insecticides and

pesticides to restrict the loss of forest area
183. A tree species in Mauritius failed to from degradation caused by pests and
reproduce because of the extinction of a insects. The National Forest Policy of 1988
fruit eating bird. Which one of the includes
following was that bird [1998]
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(a) Dove
(b) 2 and 4
(b) Dodo
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(c) Condor
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) SkuaAns.
Ans. (d)
ans (b)
186. Consider the following statements:
184. World Environment Conference to Most international agencies which fund
discuss global warming was held in 1997 development programmes in India on
in [1998] intergovernmental bilateral agreements,
mainly provide [1996]
(a) Stockholm
1. Technical assistance.
(b) Rio de Janeiro
2. Soft loans which are required to be paid
(c) Paris back with interest.

(d) Kyoto 3. Grants, not required to be paid back.

Ans. (d) 4. Food assistance to alleviate poverty.

185. Consider the following programmes: Of these statements

[1996]
(a) 2 and 4 are correct
1. Afforestation and development of
wastelands. (b) 1, 2 and 3 are correct

2. Reforestation and replantation in existing (c) 1, 2 and 4 are correct

forests.
(d) 3 and 4 are correct
3. Encouraging the wood substitutes
supplying other types of fuel. Ans. (b)

48
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

187. The greatest diversity of animal and d) make nitrate unavailable to water plants
plant species occurs in [1996]
Ans. (c)
(a) temperate deciduous forests
190. Acid precipitation is now regarded as
(b) tropical moist forests a serious problem in some European and
Asian countries. Its major cause or source
(c) heavily polluted rivers is [1994]

(d) deserts and savannas (a) discharge of acidic effluents onto neutral
or slightly alkaline land where the acidic
Ans. (b) components precipitate

188. In recent years, there has been some (b) emissions of sulphur oxides and nitrogen
concern over the threat posed by the oxides from thermal power plants and
Mathura Oil Refinery and the thermal burning of fossil fuels; these oxides dissolve
power plants to the TajMahal in Agra. in atmospheric water vapour and fall back
The scientific basis of any possible on earth as acid rain
damage to the Taj is mainly [1995]
(c) natural carbon dioxide released during
(a) stratospheric ozone and respiration of livingorganisms dissolves in
chlorofluorocarbons which destroy it water,forming carbonic acid which is the
chief contributor to acidity in rain water
(b) acid precipitation and tropospheric ozone
(d) chloro-fluoro-carbons readily react with
(c) increasing levels of atmospheric CO2 various chemicals near the earth‘s surface,
which produce the greenhouse effect producing acidic intermediates which cause
acid precipitation.
(d) ultraviolet radiation (240-260
nanometers wavelength) and the fumes from Ans. (b)
the heavily polluted Yamuna river
191. Which of the following strongly
Ans. (b) threatens biodiversity? [1994]

189. If water pollution continues at its (a) Fragile ecosystems such as mangroves
present rate, it will eventually [1995] and wetlands

(a) stop water cycle (b) Inaccessible habitats in Himalayas

(b) prevent precipitation (c) Destruction of natural habitats and

vegetation and shifting cultivation
(c) make oxygen molecules unavailable to
water plants (d) Creation of biosphere reserves

49
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

Ans. (c) 194. Why DDT is banned in western

countries? [1989]
192. Which one of the following does
provide the best estimate of world‘s (a) It remains in environment for a long time
biological diversity? [1994]
(b) The insects are immunised
(a) Of about ten million species probably
alive today, some 20 species are lost (c) It is a highly poisonous insecticide
everyday, most of them unknown because
no more than half a million have yet been (d) None of the above
actually identified by scientists.
Ans. (c)
(b) Of about thirty million living species,
some 50 are lost everyday, most of them 195. Which one of the following chemicals
unknown because no more than one million is responsible for the depletion of ozone
have been actually identified. layer in the atmosphere? [1993]

(c) Of about forty five million living species, (a) Chlorofluorocarbons

some 100 are lest every day, most of them
unknown because no more than 1.5 million (b) Nitrous oxide
have been actually identified.
(c) Sulphur dioxide
(d) Of about seventy five million living
species, some 500 are lost every day, most (d) Carbon dioxide
of them unknown because no more than 3
million have been actually identified. Ans. (a)

Ans. (d) 196. Within biological communities, some

species are important in determining the
193. What proportion of geographical ability of a large number of other species
land area is under actual forest cover in to persist in the community. Such species
India? [1993] are called [1992]

(a) One-fifth (a) Keystone species

(b) One-fourth (b) Allopatric species

(c) One-third (c) Sympatric species

(d) Two-fifths (d) Threatened species

Ans. (a) Ans. (a)

50
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

197. Of the various wildlife and forest 199. Match the columns: [1988]
observation schemes undertaken with
world aid funds in India, which one has A. Kaziranga National Park: 1. Gujarat
been the most successful project? [1991]
B. Gir National Park: 2. Madhya Pradesh
(a) Project Tiger
C. Bandipur National Park: 3. Assam
(b) Mangroves arid land development
D. Kanha National Park: 4. Karnataka
(c) Development of national parks
Select the correct answer from the codes
(d) protection/conservation of forests in given below: A B C D
Terai region
(a) 1342
Ans. (a)
(b) 3 142
198. Which of the following
parks/sanctuaries is/are correctly (c) 4 213
matched with their location: [1988]
(d) 4231
1. Ghana—Assam
Ans. (b)
2. Gir—Rajasthan
200. Which one of the following plants is
3. Manas—Assam effective in reducing water pollution and
is also useful for producing
4. Corbett—M.P. biogas? [1987]

5. Periyar—Kerala (a) Eucalyptus

6. Dudwa—U.P. (b) Water hyacinth

Codes: (c) Salvinia

(a) 1only (d) Lotus

(b) All of the above Ans. (c)

(c) 5 and 4 only 201. Consider the following statements

regarding biomedication‘. It involves the
(d) 3 and 5 only use of bacteria and fungi to [1987]

Ans. (d) 1. Clean up aquifers.

51
 ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY QUESTIONS FOR IAS PRELIMS EXAM (1979 -2019)

2. Clean up toxic dumps

3. Clean up oil spills

4. Cure bacterial and fungal disease

Of these statements:

(a) 1 and 2 are correct

(b) 1and 3 are correct

(c) 1, 2 and 3 are correct

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 are correct

Ans. (c)

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