GS - I PRELIMS QUESTIONS

UPSC - Prelims Topic Wise

Questions (From 2013 to 2019)
2013

1. Geography

1. Variations in the length of daytime and 4. Contour bunding is a method of soil

nighttime from season to season are due to conservation used in
(a) The earth’s rotation on its axis (a) Desert margins, liable to strong wind
(b) The earth’s revolution around the sun action
in an elliptical manner (b) Low flat plains, close to stream
(c) Latitudinal position of the place courses, liable to flooding
(d) Revolution of the earth on a tilted axis (c) Scrublands, liable to spread of weed
growth
Answer: (d) (d) None of the above

2. On the planet earth, most of the Answer: (d)

freshwater exists as ice caps and glaciers.
Out of the remaining freshwater, the 5. The annual range of temperature in the
largest proportion: interior of the continents is high as
(a) Is found in atmosphere as moisture compared to coastal areas. What is/are the
and clouds reason (s) ?
(b) Is found in freshwater lakes and rivers 1. Thermal difference between land and
(c) Exists as groundwater water
(d) Exists as soil moisture 2. Variation in altitude between
continents and oceans
Answer: (c) 3. Presence of strong winds in the
interior
3. Consider the following 4. Heavy rains in the interior as
1. Electromagnetic radiation compared to coasts
2. Geothermal energy Select the correct answer using the codes
3. Gravitational force given below.
4. Plate movements (a) 1 only
5. Rotation of the earth (b) 1 and 2 only
6. Revolution of the earth (c) 2 and 3 only
Which of the above are responsible for (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
bringing dynamic changes on the surface
of the earth? Answer: (a)
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1, 3, 5 and 6 only
(c) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Answer: (d)

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6. During the thunderstorm, the thunder in 2. Molasses can be used as one of the
the skies is produced by the feedstocks for the production of
1. meeting of cumulonimbus clouds in synthetic chemical fertilizers.
the sky 3. Molasses can be used for the
2. lightning that separates the nimbus production of ethanol.
clouds Select the correct answer using the codes
3. violent upward movement of air and given below
water particles (a) 1 only
Select the correct answer using the codes (b) 2 and 3 only
given below. (c) 1 and 3 only
(a) 1 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3 Answer: (c)
(d) None of the above produces the
thunder 10. Which one among the following industries
is the maximum consumer of water in
Answer: (d) India?
(a) Engineering
7. Which of the following statements (b) Paper and pulp
regarding laterite soils of India are (c) Textiles
correct? (d) Thermal power
1. They are generally red in colour,
2. They are rich in nitrogen and potash. Answer: (d)
3. They are well-developed in Rajasthan
and UP. 11. Which of the following is/are the
4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well characteristic/characteristics of Indian
on these soils coal?
Select the correct answer using the codes 1. High ash content
given below. 2. Low sulphur content
(a) 1, 2 and 3 3. Low ash fusion temperature
(b) 2, 3 and 4 Select the correct answer using the codes
(c) 1 and 4 given below.
(d) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
Answer: (c) (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
8. Consider the following crops:
1. Cotton Answer: (a)
2. Groundnut
3. Rice 12. Consider the following statements:
4. Wheat 1. Natural gas occurs in the Gondwana
Which of these are Kharif crops? belts.
(a) 1 and 4 2. Mica occurs in abundance in
(b) 2 and 3 only Kodarma.
(c) 1, 2 and 3 3. Dharwars are famous for petroleum.
(d) 2, 3 and 4 Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
Answer: (c) (a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
9. With reference to the usefulness of the by- (c) 2 and 3
products of the sugar industry which of (d) None
the following statements is/are correct?
1. Bagasse can be used as biomass fuel Answer: (b)
for the generation of energy.

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13. Consider the following pairs: 16. Which one of the following pairs is
correctly matched?
National Park River Flowing Geographical Region Feature
through the park (a) Abyssinian Plateau: Arabia
1. Corbett National Ganga (b) Atlas Mountains: NorthWestern
Park Africa
2. Kaziranga Manas (c) Guiana Highlands: SouthWestern
National Park Africa
3. Silent Valley Kaveri (d) Okavango Basin: Patagonia
National Park
Answer: (b)
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
matched? 17. The most important fishing grounds of the
(a) 1 and 2 world are found in the regions where
(b) 3 only (a) warm and cold atmospheric currents
(c) 1 and 3 meet
(d) None (b) rivers drain out large amounts of fresh
water into the sea
Answer: (d) (c) warm and cold oceanic currents meet
(d) continental shelf is undulating
14. The Narmada river flows to the west,
while most other large peninsular rivers Answer: (c)
flow to the east. Why?
1. It occupies a linear rift valley. 18. Which of the following is/are unique
2. It flows between the Vindhyas and the characteristics/characteristics of
Satpuras. equatorial forests?
3. The land slopes to the west from 1. Presence of tall, closely set trees with
Central India crowns forming a continuous canopy
Select the correct answer using the code 2. Coexistence of a large number of
given below. species
(a) 1 only 3. Presence of numerous varieties of
(b) 2 and 3 epiphytes
(c) 1 and 3 Select the correct answer using the code
(d) None given below:
(a) 1 only
Answer: (a) (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
15. Consider the following pairs: (d) 1, 2 and 3
1. Nokrek Biosphere reserve: Garo Hills
2. (Loktak) Lake: Barail Range Answer: (d)
3. Namdapha National Park: Dafla Hill
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly 19. "Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and
matched? the people used to be nomadic herders. "
(a) 1 only The above statement best describes which
(b) 2 and 3 only of the following regions?
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (a) African Savannah
(d) None (b) Central Asian Steppe
(c) North American Prairie
Answer: (a) (d) Siberian Tundra

Answer: (b)

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20. Consider the following pairs:

Tribe State
1. Limboo (Limbu) Sikkim
2. Karbi Himachal
Pradesh
3. Dongaria Odisha
4. Bonda Tamil Nadu

Which of the above pairs are correctly

matched?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)

2. History

1. Which of the following statements is/are Select the correct answer using the codes
applicable to Jain doctrine? given below.
1. The surest way of annihilating Karma (a) 1 only
is to practice penance (b) 2 and 3 only
2. Every object, even the smallest particle (c) 1 and 3 only
has a soul (d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Karma is the bane of the soul and
must be ended Answer: (b)
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below: 3. Which of the following characterizes/
(a) 1 only characterize the people of Indus
(b) 2 and 3 only Civilization?
(c) 1 and 3 only 1. They possessed great palaces and
(d) 1, 2 and 3 temples.
2. They worshipped both male and
Answer: (d) female deities.
3. They employed horse-drawn chariots
in warfare.
Select the correct statement/ statements
2. The Chinese traveler Yuan Chwang using the codes given below.
(Hiuen Tsang) who visited India recorded (a) 1 and 2 only
the general conditions and culture of India (b) 2 only
at that time. In this context, which of the (c) 1, 2 and 3
following statements is/are correct? (d) None of the statements given above is
1. The roads and river-routes were correct
completely immune from robbery.
2. As regards punishment for offences, Answer: (b)
ordeals by fire, water and poison were
the instruments for determining the
innocence or guilt of a person.
3. The tradesmen had to pay duties at
ferries and barrier stations.

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4. Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called (b) Facial expressions, hand gestures and
Chaityas, while the others are called make-up are combined to symbolize
Viharas. What is the difference between certain epic or historic characters
the two? (c) Movements of body, face and hands
(a) Vihara is a place of worship, while are used to express oneself or to tell a
Chaitya is the dwelling place of the story
monks (d) A little smile, slightly curved waist
(b) Chaitya is a place of worship, while and certain hand gestures are
Vihara is the dwelling place of the emphasized to express the feelings of
monks love or eroticism
(c) Chaitya is the stupa at the far end of Answer: (a)
the cave, while Vihara is the hall axial
to it 8. Consider the following Bhakti Saints:
(d) There is no material difference 1. Dadu Dayal
between the two 2. Guru Nanak
3. Tyagaraja
Answer: (b) Who among the above was/were
preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and
5. Which one of the following describes best Babur took over?
the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism? (a) 1 and 3
(a) The extinction of the flame of desire (b) 2 only
(b) The complete annihilation of self (c) 2 and 3
(c) A state of bliss and rest (d) 1 and 2
(d) A mental stage beyond all
comprehension Answer: (b)

Answer: (a) 9. Consider the following historical places:

1. Ajanta Caves
6. With reference to the history of Indian 2. Lepakshi Temple
rock-cut architecture, consider the 3. Sanchi Stupa
following statements: Which of the above places is/are also
1. The caves at Badami are the oldest known for mural paintings?
surviving rock-cut caves in India (a) 1 only
2. The Barabar rock-cut caves were (b) 1 and 2 only
originally made for Ajivikas by (c) 1, 2 and 3
Emperor Chandragupta Maurya (d) None
3. At Ellora, caves were made for
different faiths. Answer: (b)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? 10. With reference to the history of
(a) 1 only philosophical thought in India, consider
(b) 2 and 3 only the following statements regarding
(c) 3 only Sankhya school:
(d) 1, 2 and 3 1. Sankhya does not accept the theory of
rebirth or transmigration of soul.
Answer: (c) 2. Sankhya holds that it is the self-
knowledge that leads to liberation and
7. In the context of cultural history of India, a not any exterior influence or agent.
pose in dance and dramatics called Which of the statements given above
'Tribhanga' has been a favourite of Indian is/are correct?
artists from ancient times till today. Which (a) 1 only
one of the following statements best (b) 2 only
describes this pose? (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) One leg is bent and the body is (d) Neither 1 nor 2
slightly but oppositely curved at waist
and neck Answer: (b)

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11. The people of India agitated against the 3. once the President of the Indian
arrival of Simon Commission because National Congress.
(a) Indians never wanted the review of Select the correct statement/statements
the working of the Act of 1919 using the codes given below.
(b) Simon Commission recommended the (a) 1 only
abolition of Dyarchy (Diarchy) in the (b) 2 and 3 only
Provinces (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) there was no indian member in the (d) 1, 2 and 3
Simon Commission
(d) the Simon Commission suggested the Answer: (c)
partition of the country
15. The Ilbert Bill controversy was related
Answer: (c) to the
(a) imposition of certain restrictions to
12. Quit India Movement was launched in carry arms by the Indians
response to (b) imposition of restrictions en
(a) Cabinet Mission Plan newspapers and magazines published
(b) Cripps Proposals in Indian languages
(c) Simon Commission Report (c) removal of disqualifications imposed
(d) Wavell Plan on the Indian magistrates with regard
to the trial of the Europeans
Answer: (b) (d) removal of a duty on imported cotton
cloth
13. The demand for the Tebhaga Peasant
Movement in Bengal was for Answer: (c)
(a) the reduction of the share of the
landlords from one-half of the crop to 16. With reference to Indian History, the
one-third Members of the Constituent Assembly
(b) the grant of ownership of land to from the Provinces were
peasants as they were the actual a) Directly elected by the people of those
cultivators of the land Provinces
(c) the uprooting of Zamindari system b) Nominated by the Indian National
and the end of serfdom Congress and the Muslim League
(d) writing off all peasant debts c) Elected by the Provincial Legislative
Assemblies
Answer: (a) d) Selected by the Government for their
expertise in constitutional matters
14. Annie Besant was
1. responsible for starting the Home Rule Answer: (c)
Movement.
2. the founder of the Theosophical
Society.

3. Polity

1. Which one of the following statements is (c) No procedure has been laid down in
correct? the Constitution of India for the
(a) In India, the same person cannot be removal of a Governor from his/her
appointed as Governor for two or post.
more States at the same time. (d) In the case of a Union Territory having
(b) The Judges of the High Court of the a legislative setup, the Chief Minister
States in India are appointed by the is appointed by the Lt. Governor on
Governor of the State just as the the basis of majority support.
Judges of the Supreme Court are
appointed by the President. Answer: (c)

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2. Which of the following bodies does Select the correct answer using the codes
not/do not find mention in the given below
Constitution? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
1. National Development Council (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
2. Planning Commission (c) 2 and 4 only
3. Zonal Councils (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below Answer: (b)
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only 6. Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other
(c) 1 and 3 only Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be
the authority to initiate the process for
Answer: (d) determining the nature and extent of
individual or community forest rights or
3. The Government enacted the Panchayat both?
Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act (a) State Forest Department
in 1996. Which one of the following is not (b) District Collector/Deputy
identified as its objective? Commissioner
(a) To provide self-governance (c) Tahsildar/Block Development
(b) To recognize traditional rights Officer/Mandal Revenue Officer
(c) To create autonomous regions in tribal (d) Gram Sabha
areas
(d) To free tribal people from exploitation Answer: (d)

7. Consider the following statements:

Answer: (c) 1. An amendment to the Constitution of
India can be initiated by an
4. Consider the following statements: introduction of a bill in the Lok Sabha
1. The National Development Council is only.
an organ of the Planning Commission.
2. If such an amendment seeks to make
2. The Economic and Social Planning is changes in the federal character of the
kept in the Concurrent List in the
constitution, the amendment also
Constitution of India. requires to be ratified by the
3. The Constitution of India prescribes
legislature of all the states of India.
that Panchayats should be assigned Which of the statements given above
the task of preparation of plans for
is/are correct?
economic development and social (a) 1 only
justice. (b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above
(c) Both 1 and 2
is/are correct? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only Answer: (d)
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 8. 'Economic Justice' as one of the objectives
of the Indian Constitution has been
Answer: (b) provided in
(a) The Preamble and the Fundamental
5. Who among the following constitute the Rights
National Development Council? (b) The Preamble and the Directive
1. The Prime Minister Principles of State Policy
2. The Chairman, Finance Commission (c) The Fundamental Rights and the
3. Ministers of the Union Cabinet Directive Principles of State Policy
4. Chief Ministers of the States (d) None of the above

Answer: (b)

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9. According to the Constitution of India, 13. Consider the following statements:

which of the following are fundamental The Parliamentary Committee on Public
for the governance of the country? Accounts
(a) Fundamental Rights 1. consists of not more than 25 Members
(b) Fundamental Duties of the Lok Sabha
(c) Directive Principles of State Policy 2. scrutinizes appropriation and finance
(d) Fundamental Rights and Fundamental accounts of the Government
Duties 3. examines the report of the
Comptroller and Auditor General of
Answer: (c) India
Which of the statements given above
10. What will follow if a Money Bill is is/are correct?
substantially amended by the Rajya (a) 1 only
Sabha? (b) 2 and 3 only
(a) The Lok Sabha may still proceed with (c) 3 only
the Bill, accepting or not accepting the (d) 1, 2 and 3
recommendations of the Rajya Sabha
(b) The Lok Sabha cannot consider the Answer: (b)
Bill further
(c) The Lok Sabha may send the Bill to 14. In the context of India, which of the
the Rajya Sabha for reconsideration following principles is/are implied
(d) The President may call a joint sitting institutionally in the parliamentary
for passing the Bill government?
1. Members of the Cabinet are Members
Answer: (a) of the Parliament.
2. Ministers hold the office till they enjoy
11. Consider the following statements: confidence in the Parliament.
Attorney General of India can 3. The Cabinet is headed by the Head of
1. Take part in the proceedings of the the State.
Lok Sabha Select the correct answer using the codes
2. Be a member of a committee of the given below.
Lok Sabha (a) 1 and 2 only
3. Speak in the Lok Sabha (b) 3 only
4. Vote in the Lok Sabha (c) 2 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above (d) 1, 2 and 3
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only Answer: (a)
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 only 15. Consider the following statements:
(d) 1 and 3 only 1. The Council of Ministers in the Centre
shall be collectively responsible to the
Answer: (c) Parliament.
2. The Union Ministers shall hold the
12. The Parliament can make any law for office during the pleasure of the
whole or any part of India for President of India.
implementing international treaties 3. The Prime Minister shall communicate
(a) With the consent of all the States to the President about the proposals
(b) With the consent of the majority of for legislation.
States Which of the statements given above
(c) With the consent of the States is/are correct?
concerned (a) 1 only
(d) Without the consent of any State (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (d) (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

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16. Consider the following statements: 17. With reference to National Legal Services
1. The Chairman and the Deputy Authority, consider the following
Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not statements:
the members of that House. 1. Its objective is to provide free and
2. While the nominated members of the competent legal services to the weaker
two Houses of the Parliament have no sections of the society on the basis of
voting right in the presidential equal opportunity.
election, they have the right to vote in 2. It issues guidelines for the State Legal
the election of the Vice-President. Services Authorities to implement the
Which of the statements given above legal programmes and schemes
is/are correct? throughout the country.
(a) 1 only Which of the statements given above
(b) 2 only is/are correct?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) 1 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (b) (d) Neither I nor 2

Answer: (c)

4. Economy

1. Disguised unemployment generally 3. An increase in the Bank Rate generally

means indicates that the
(a) large number of people remain (a) Market rate of interest is likely to fall
unemployed (b) Central Bank is no longer making
(b) alternative employment is not loans to commercial banks
available (c) Central Bank is following an easy
(c) marginal productivity of labour is money policy
zero (d) Central Bank is following a tight
(d) productivity of workers is low money policy

Answer: (c) Answer: (d)

2. Which one of the following groups of 4. In India, deficit financing is used for
items is included in India's foreign- raising resources for
exchange reserves? (a) Economic development
(a) Foreign-currency assets, Special (b) Redemption of public debt
Drawing Rights (SDRs) and loans (c) Adjusting the balance of payments
from foreign countries (d) Reducing the foreign debt
(b) Foreign-currency assets, gold holdings
of the RBI and SDRs Answer: (a)
(c) Foreign-currency assets, loans from
the World Bank and SDRs 5. Priority Sector Lending by banks in India
(d) Foreign-currency assets, gold holdings constitutes the lending to
of the RBI and loans from the World (a) agriculture
Bank (b) micro and small enterprises
(c) weaker sections
Answer: (b) (d) All of the above

Answer: (d)

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6. A rise in general level of prices may be 10. Consider the following statements:
caused by 1. Inflation benefits the debtors.
1. an increase in the money supply 2. Inflation benefits the bondholders.
2. a decrease in the aggregate level of Which of the statements given above
output is/are correct?
3. an increase in the effective demand (a) 1 only
Select the correct answer using the codes (b) 2 only
given below. (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) 1 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only Answer: (a)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
11. Consider the following liquid assets:
Answer: (d) 1. Demand deposits with the banks
2. Time deposits with the banks
7. Which one of the following is likely to be 3. Savings deposits with the banks
the most inflationary in its effect? 4. Currency
(a) Repayment of public debt The correct sequence of these assets in the
(b) Borrowing from the public to finance decreasing order of liquidity is
a budget deficit (a) 1-4-3-2
(c) Borrowing from banks to finance a (b) 4-3-2-1
budget deficit (c) 2-3-1-4
(d) Creating new money to finance a (d) 4-1-3-2
budget deficit
Answer: (d)
Answer: (d)
12. The Reserve Bank of India regulates the
8. Supply of money remaining the same
commercial banks in matters of
when there is an increase in demand for
1. Liquidity of assets
money, there will be
2. Branch expansion
(a) a fall in the level of prices
3. Merger of banks
(b) an increase in the rate of interest
4. Winding-up of banks
(c) a decrease in the rate of interest
Select the correct answer using the codes
(d) an increase in the level of income and
given below:
employment
(a) 1 and 4 only
Answer: (b) (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 only
9. Which of the following grants/grant (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
direct credit assistance to rural
households? Answer: (d)
1. Regional Rural Banks
2. National Bank for Agriculture and 13. Which of the following constitute Capital
Rural Development Account?
3. Land Development Banks 1. Foreign Loans
Select the correct answer using below. 2. Foreign Direct Investment
(a) 1 and 2 only 3. Private Remittances
(b) 2 only 4. Portfolio Investment
(c) 1 and 3 only Select the correct answer using the codes
(d) 1, 2 and 3 given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) (b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 2, 3 and 4
(d) 1, 3 and 4

Answer: (b)

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14. In the context of Indian economy, 'Open (c) Reducing infant mortality rate
Market Operations' refers to (d) Privatization of higher education
(a) borrowing by scheduled banks from
the RBI Answer: (a)
(b) lending by commercial banks to
industry and trade 17. Economic growth in country X will occur
(c) purchase and sale of government if
securities by the RBI (a) there is technical progress in the
(d) None of the above world economy
(b) there is population growth in X
Answer: (c) (c) there is capital formation in X
(d) the volume of trade grows in the
15. The national income of a country for a world economy
given period is equal to the
(a) total value of goods and services Answer: (c)
produced by the nationals
(b) sum of total expenditure 18. The balance of payments of a country is a
(c) sum of personal income of all systematic record of
individuals (a) All import and export transactions of
(d) money value of final goods and a country during a given period of
services produced time, normally a year
(b) Goods exported from a country
Answer: (a) during a year
(c) Economic transaction between the
16. To obtain full benefits of demographic government of one country to another
dividend, what should India do? (d) Capital movements from one country
(a) Promoting skill development to another
(b) Introducing more social security Answer: (a)
schemes

5. Environment

1. Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other 3. With reference to food chains in
Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition ecosystems, consider the following
of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be statements:
the authority to initiate the process for 1. A food chain illustrates the order in
determining the nature and extent of which a chain of organisms feed upon
individual or community forest rights or each other
both? 2. Food chains are found within the
(a) State Forest Department populations of a species
(b) District Collector/Deputy 3. A food chain illustrates the numbers
Commissioner of each organism which are eaten by
(c) Tahsildar/Block Development others
Officer/Mandal Revenue Officer Which of the statements given above
(d) Gram Sabha is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
Answer: (d) (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
2. Acid rain is caused by the pollution of (d) None
environment by
(a) Carbon dioxide and nitrogen Answer: (a)
(b) Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
(c) Ozone and carbon dioxide
(d) Nitrous oxide and sulphur dioxide

Answer: (d)

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4. In which of the following States is lion- 8. Which of the following can be found as
tailed macaque found in its natural pollutants in the drinking water in some
habitat? parts of India?
1. Tamil Nadu 1. Arsenic
2. Kerala 2. Sorbitol
3. Karnataka 3. Fluoride
4. Andhra Pradesh 4. Formaldehyde
Select the correct answer using the codes 5. Uranium
given below: Select the correct answer using the codes
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only given below.
(b) 2 only (a) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1, 3 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: (a)
Answer: (c)
5. Which one of the following terms
describes not only the physical space 9. In the grasslands, trees do not replace the
occupied by an organism, but also its grasses as a part of an ecological
functional role in the community of succession because of
organisms? (a) Insects and fungi
(a) Ecotone (b) Limited sunlight and paucity of
(b) Ecological niche nutrients
(c) Habitat (c) Water limits and fire
(d) Home range (d) None of the above

Answer: (b) Answer: (c)

6. Photochemical smog is a resultant of the 10. Which one of the following is the correct
reaction among sequence of ecosystems in the order of
(a) NO2, O3 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in decreasing productivity?
the presence of sunlight (a) Oceans, lakes, grasslands, mangroves
(b) CO, O2 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in (b) Mangroves, oceans, grasslands, lakes
the presence of sunlight (c) Mangroves, grasslands, lakes, oceans
(c) CO, CO2 and NO2 at low temperature (d) Oceans, mangroves, lakes, grasslands
(d) High concentration of NO2, O3 and
CO in the evening Answer: (c)

Answer: (a) 11. Consider the following fauna of India:

1. Gharial
7. Consider the following: 2. Leatherback turtle
1. Star tortoise 3. Swamp deer
2. Monitor lizard Which of the above is/are endangered?
3. Pygmy hog (a) 1 and 2 only
4. Spider monkey (b) 3 only
Which of the above are naturally found in (c) 1, 2 and 3
India? (d) None
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only Answer: (c)
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)

12 | Prelims Questions
`

12. With reference to the food chains in Select the correct answer using the codes
ecosystems, which of the following kinds given below.
of organism is/are known as decomposer (a) 1 only
organism / organisms? (b) 2 and 3 only
1. Virus (c) 1 and 3 only
2. Fungi (d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Bacteria
Answer: (b)

6. Science & Technology

1. Which of the following adds/add nitrogen Select the correct answer using the codes
to the soil? given below:
1. Excretion of urea by animals (a) 1 only
2. Burning of coal by man (b) 2 and 3 only
3. Death of vegetation (c) 1 and 3 only
Select the correct answer using the codes (d) 1, 2 and 3
given below:
(a) 1 only Answer: (b)
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only 5. Consider the following organisms:
(d) 1, 2 and 3 1. Agaricus
2. Nostoc
Answer: (d)
3. Spirogyra
Which of the above is/are used as
2. Consider the following animals:
biofertilizer/biofertilizers?
1. Sea cow
(a) 1 and 2
2. Sea horse
(b) 2 only
3. Sea lion
(c) 2 and 3
Which of the above is/are
(d) 3 only
mammal/mammals?
(a) 1 only
Answer: (b)
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
6. Which of the following statements is/are
(d) 1, 2 and 3
correct
Answer: (b) 1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for
the generation of energy.
3. Improper handling and storage of cereal 2. Viruses can be cultured in any
grains and oilseeds result in the synthetic medium.
production of toxins known as aflatoxins 3. Viruses are transmitted from one
which are not generally destroyed by organism to another by biological
normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are vectors only.
produced by Select the correct answer using the codes
(a) Bacteria given below.
(b) Protozoa (a) 1 only
(c) Moulds (b) 2 and 3 only
(d) Viruses (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
Answer: (b)
4. Which of the following diseases can be
transmitted from one person to another
through tattooing?
1. Chikungunya
2. Hepatitis B
3. HIV-AIDS

13 | Prelims Questions
`

7. Consider the following minerals: 11. Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal

1. Calcium of old and used computers or their parts,
2. Iron which of the following are released into
3. Sodium the environment as e-waste?
Which of the minerals given above is/are 1. Beryllium
required by the human body for the 2. Cadmium
contraction of muscles? 3. Chromium
(a) 1 only 4. Heptachlor
(b) 2 and 3 only 5. Mercury
(c) 1 and 3 only 6. Lead
(d) 1, 2 and 3 7. Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes
Answer: (c)
given below:
(a) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
8. Fruits stored in a cold chamber exhibit
(b) 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only
longer storage life because
(c) 2, 4, 5 and 7 only
(a) exposure to sunlight is prevented
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
(b) concentration of carbon dioxide in the
environment is increased
Answer: (b)
(c) rate of respiration is decreased
(d) there is an increase in humidity
12. The efforts to detect the existence of Higgs
Answer: (c) boson particle have become frequent news
in the recent past. What is/are the
9. The known forces of nature can be divided importance (s) of discovering this particle?
into four classes, viz. gravity, 1. It will enable us to understand as to
electromagnetism, weak nuclear force and why elementary particles have mass.
strong nuclear force. With reference to 2. It will enable us in the near future to
them, which one of the following develop the technology of tranferring
statements is not correct? matter from one point to another
(a) Gravity is the strongest of the four without traversing the physical space
(b) Electromagnetism acts only on between them.
particles with an electric charge 3. It will enable us to create better fuels
(c) Weak nuclear force causes for nuclear fission.
radioactivity Select the correct answer using the codes
(d) Strong nuclear force holds protons given below.
and neutrons inside the nucleus of an (a) 1 only
atom (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (a)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
10. Consider the following phenomena:
1. Size of the sun at dusk
Answer: (a)
2. Colour of the sun at dawn
3. Moon being visible at dawn
13. Many transplanted seedlings do not grow
4. Twinkle of stars in the sky
because
5. Polestar being visible in the sky
(a) the new soil does not contain
Which of the above are optical illusions?
favourable minerals
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) most of the root hairs grip the new soil
(b) 3, 4 and 5 only
too hard
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) most of the root hairs are lost during
(d) 2, 3 and 5 only
transplantation
(d) leaves get damaged during
Answer: (c)
transplantation

Answer: (c)

14 | Prelims Questions
`

14. Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic (c) The effective area of contact between
Engineering) allows genes to be the wheel and axle is reduced
transferred (d) None of the above statements is
1. Across different species of plants correct
2. From animals to plants Answer: (c)
3. From microorganisms to higher
organisms 17. Consider the following phenomena:
Select the correct answer using the codes 1. Size of the sun at dusk
given below. 2. Colour of the sun at dawn
(a) 1 only 3. Moon being visible at dawn
(b) 2 and 3 only 4. Twinkle of stars in the sky
(c) 1 and 3 only 5. Polestar being visible in the sky
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Which of the above are optical illusions?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
(b) 3, 4 and 5
(c) 1, 2 and 4
15. Mycorrhizal biotechnology has been used
(d) 2, 3 and 5
in rehabilitating degraded sites because Answer: (c)
mycorrhiza enables the plants to
1. resist drought and increase absorptive
18. Rainbow is produced when sunlight falls
area on drops of rain. Which of the following
2. tolerate extremes of pH
physical phenomena are responsible for
3. resist disease infestation this?
Select the correct answer using the codes
1. Dispersion
given below. 2. Refraction
(a) 1 only
3. Internal reflection
(b) 2 and 3 only Select the correct answer using the codes
(c) 1 and 3 only given below.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (d)
(c) 1 and 3 only
16. Ball bearings are used in bicycles, cars, (d) 1, 2 and 3
etc., because
(a) The actual area of contact between the Answer: (d)
wheel and axle is increased
(b) The effective area of contact between
the wheel and axle is increased

7. Current Affairs

1. Consider the following: Which of the above are naturally found in

1. Star tortoise India?
2. Monitor lizard a) 1, 2 and 3 only
3. Pygmy hog b) 2 and 3 only
4. Spider monkey c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)

15 | Prelims Questions
`

2014

1. Geography

1. Which of the following phenomena might 5. What are the significances of a practical
have influenced the evolution of approach to sugarcane production known
organisms? as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'?
1. Continental drift 1. Seed cost is very low in this compared
2. Glacial cycles to the conventional method of
Select the correct answer using the codes cultivation.
given below 2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very
(a) 1 only effectively in this.
(b) 2 only 3. There is no application of chemical
(c) Both 1 and 2 inorganic fertilizers at all in this.
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 4. The scope for intercropping is more in
this compared to the conventional
Answer: (c) method of cultivation.
Select the correct answer using the code
2. In India, the problem of soil erosion is given below.
associated with which of the following? (a) 1 and 3 only
1. Terrace cultivation (b) 1, 2 and 4 only
2. Deforestation (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
3. Tropical climate (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below Answer: (b)
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only 6. Consider the following pairs
(c) 1 and 3 only Region Well-known for the production of
(d) 1, 2 and 3 1. Kinnaur: Areca nut
2. Mewat: Mango
Answer: (b) 3. Coromandel: Soya bean
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
3. The seasonal reversal of winds is the matched?
typical characteristic of (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) Equatorial climate (b) 3 only
(b) Mediterranean climate (c) 1, 2 and 3
(c) Monsoon climate (d) None
(d) All of the above climates
Answer: (d)
Answer: (c)

4. Consider the following statements:

1. Maize can be used for the production
of starch.
2. Oil extracted from maize can be a
feedstock for biodiesel.
3. Alcoholic beverages can be produced
by using maize.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

16 | Prelims Questions
`

7. Consider the following pairs: 10. Which one of the following pairs of
islands is separated from each other by the
Programme/Project Ministry 'Ten Degree Channel'?
1. Drought-Prone Ministry of (a) Andaman and Nicobar
Agriculture Area (b) Nicobar and Sumatra
2. Desert Ministry of (c) Maldives and Lakshadweep
Development Programme (d) Sumatra and Java
Environment
and Forests Answer: (a)
3. Ministry of Ministry of Rural
Programme 11. Consider the following pairs:
Environment 1. Dampa Tiger Reserve: Mizoram
and Forests 2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary: Sikkim
3. Saramati Park: Nagaland
Watershed Development project Which of the above paris is/are correctly
Development for Rainfed Areas Which of matched?
the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None
Answer: (c)
Answer: (d)
12. Which of the following have coral reefs?
8 Consider the following pairs: 1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
National Highway Cities connected 2. Gulf of Kachchh
1. NH4: Chennai and Hyderabad 3. Gulf of Mannar
2. NH 6: Mumbai and Kolkata 4. Sunderbans
3. NH 15: Ahmedabad and Jodhpur Select the correct answer using the code
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly given below.
matched? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 4 only
(b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(d) None
Answer: (a)
Answer: (d)
13. Consider the following rivers:
9. What are the benefits of implementing the 1. Barak
'Integrated Watershed Development 2. Lohit
Programme'? 3. Subansiri
1. Prevention of soil runoff Which of the above flows/flow through
2. Linking the country's perennial rivers Arunachal Pradesh?
with seasonal rivers (a) 1 only
3. Rainwater harvesting and recharge of (b) 2 and 3 only
groundwater table (c) 1 and 3 only
4. Regeneration of natural vegetation (d) 1, 2 and 3
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. Answer: (b)
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (c)

17 | Prelims Questions
`

14. Consider the following pairs: 17. Turkey is located between

Hills Region (a) Black Sea and Caspian Sea
1. Cardamom Hills: Coromandel Coast (b) Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea
2. Kaimur Hills: Konkan Coast (c) Gulf of Suez and Mediterranean Sea
3. Mahadeo Hills: Central India (d) Gulf of Aqaba and Dead Sea
4. Mikir Hills: North-East India
Which of the above pairs are correctly Answer: (b)
matched?
(a) 1 and 2 18. What is the correct sequence of occurrence
(b) 2 and 3 of the following cities in SouthEast Asia as
(c) 3 and 4 one proceeds from south to north?
(d) 2 and 4 1. Bangkok
2. Hanoi
Answer: (c) 3. Jakarta
4. Singapore
15. If you travel through the Himalayas, you Select the correct answer using the code
are likely to see which of the following given below.
plants naturally growing there? (a) 4213
1. Oak (b) 3241
2. Rhododendron (c) 3412
3. Sandalwood (d) 4321
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: Answer: (c)
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only 19. With reference to 'Changpa' community of
(c) 1 and 3 only India, consider the following statement:
(d) 1, 2 and 3 1. They live mainly in the State of
Uttarakhand.
Answer: (a) 2. They rear the Pashmina goats that
yield a fine wool.
16. In the context of food and nutritional 3. They are kept in the category of
security of India, enhancing the 'Seed Scheduled Tribes.
Replacement Rates' of various crops helps Which of the statements given above
in achieving the food production targets of is/are correct?
the future. But what is/are the (a) 1 only
constraint/constraints in its wider/greater (b) 2 and 3 only
implementation? (c) 3 only
1. There is no National Seeds Policy in (d) 1, 2 and 3
place.
2. There is no participation of private Answer: (b)
sector seed companies in the supply of
quality seeds of vegetables and 20. Consider the following towns of India:
planting materials of horticultural 1. Bhadrachalam
crops. 2. Chanderi
3. There is a demand supply gap 3. Kancheepuram
regarding quality seeds in case of low 4. Kamal
value and high volume crops. Which of the above are famous for the
Select the correct answer using the code production of traditional sarees/fabric?
given below. (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 2 and 3 (d) 1, 3 and 4
(d) None
Answer: (b)
Answer: (b)

18 | Prelims Questions
`

2. History

1. Which of the following Kingdoms were

associated with the life of the Buddha? 5. With reference to the Indian history of art
1. Avanti and culture, consider the following pairs:
2. Gandhara
3. Kosala
Famous work of Site
4. Magadha
sculpture
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: 1. A grand image of Ajanta
(a) 1, 2 and 3 Buddha's
(b) 2 and 4 Mahaparinirvana
(c) 3 and 4 only with numerous
(d) 1, 3 and 4 celestial
Answer: (c) musicians above
and the sorrowful
2. Which one of the following pairs does not figures of his
form part of the six systems of Indian followers below
Philosophy?
2 A huge image of Mount Abu
(a) Mimamsa and Vedanta
Varaha Avatar
(b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika
(boar incarnation)
(c) Lokayata and Kapalika
of Vishnu, as he
(d) Sankhya and Yoga
rescues Goddess
Answer: (c) Earth from the
deep and chaotic
3. Consider the following languages waters, sculpted
1. Gujarati on rock
2. Kannada
3. Telugu 3 “Arjuna's Mamalla-puram
Which of the above has/have been Penance”/
declared as 'Classical Language / “Descent of
Languages' by the Government? Ganga” sculpted
(a) 1 and 2 only on the surface of
(b) 3 only huge boulders
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Which of the pairs given above is/are
Answer: (c)
correctly matched?
4. With reference to the famous Sattriya (a) 1 and 2 only
dance, consider the following statements: (b) 3 only
1. Sattriya is a combination of music, (c) 1 and 3 only
dance and drama. (d) 1, 2 and 3
2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of
Answer: (c)
Vaishnavites of Assam.
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas
of devotional songs composed by
Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.
Which of the statements above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)

19 | Prelims Questions
`

6. With reference to India's culture and 9. A community of people called

tradition, what is `Kalaripayattu'? Manganiyars is well-known for their
(a) still prevalent in some parts of South (a) martial arts in North-East India
India (b) musical tradition in North-West India
(b) It is an ancient style bronze and brass (c) classical vocal music in South India
work still found in southern part of (d) pietra dura tradition in Central India
Coromandel area
(c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama Answer: (b)
and a living tradition in the northern
part of Malabar 10. With reference to the cultural history of
(d) It is an ancient martial art and a living India, the term 'Panchayatan' refers to
tradition in some parts of South India (a) an assembly of village elders
(b) a religious sect
Answer: (d) (c) a style of temple construction
7. Consider the following pairs: (d) an administrative functionary
1. Garba: Gujarat
2. Mohiniattam: Odisha Answer: (c)
3. Yakshagana: Karnataka
Which of the pairs given above is / are 11. Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was
correctly matched? (a) the mosque for the use of Royal
(a) 1 only Family
(b) 2 and 3 only (b) Akbar’s private prayer chamber
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) the hall in which Akbar held
(d) 1, 2 and 3 discussions with scholars of various
religions
Answer: (c) (d) the room in which the nobles
belonging to different religions
8. With reference to Buddhist history, gathered to discuss religious affairs
tradition and culture in India, consider the
following pairs: Answer: (c)

12. In medieval India, the designations

Famous shrine location
'Mahattara' and 'Pattakila' were used for
(a) military officers
1. Tabo Spiti Valley
(b) village headmen
monastery and
(c) specialists in Vedic rituals
temple
(d) chiefs of craft guilds
complex

2. Lhotsava Zanskar Valley Answer: (b)

Lhakhang
temple, Nako 13. The Partition of Bengal made by Lord
Curzon in 1905 lasted until
(a) the First World War when Indian
3. Alchi temple Ladakh troops were needed by the British and
complex the partition was ended.
(b) King George V abrogated Curzon’s
Act at the Royal Durbar in Delhi in
Which of the pairs given above is/are 1911.
correctly matched? (c) Gandhiji launched his Civil
(a) 1 only Disobedience Movement.
(b) 2 and 3 only (d) the Partition of India in 1947 when
(c) 1 and 3 only East Bengal became East Pakistan.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Answer: (c)

20 | Prelims Questions
`

14. The 1929 Session of Indian National

Congress is of significance in the history of 17. The Radcliffe Committee was appointed to
the Freedom Movement because the (a) solve the problem of minorities in
(a) attainment of Self-Government was India
declared as the objective of the (b) give effect to the Independence Bill
Congress (c) delimit the boundaries between India
(b) attainment of Poorna Swaraj was and Pakistan
adopted as the goal of the Congress (d) enquire into the riots in East Bengal
(c) Non-Cooperation Movement was Answer: (c)
launched
(d) decision to participate in the Round 18. Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on
Table Conference in London was the Saka Era corresponds to which one of
taken the following dates of the Gregorian
calendar in a normal year of 365 days?
Answer: (b) (a) 22 March (or 21st March)
(b) 15th May (or 16th May)
15. The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a (c) 31st March (or 30th March)
(a) revolutionary association of Indians (d) 21st April (or 20th April
with headquarters at San Francisco
(b) nationalist organization operating Answer: (a)
from Singapore
(c) militant organization with 19. Consider the following statements:
headquarters at Berlin 1. ‘Bijak’ is a composition of the
(d) communist movement for India’s teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal.
freedom with headquarters at 2. The Philosophy of PushtiMarg was
Tashkent propounded by Madhvacharya.
Which of the statements given above
Answer: (a) is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
16. What was/were the object/objects of (b) 2 only
Queen Victoria’s Proclamation (1858) ? (c) Both 1 and 2
1. To disclaim any intention to annex (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Indian States.
2. To place the Indian administration Answer: (d)
under the British Crown.
3. To regulate East India Company’s 20. The national motto of India, ‘Satyameva
trade with India. Jayate’ inscribed below the Emblem of
Select the correct answer using the code India is taken from
given below. (a) Katha Upanishad
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) Chandogya Upanishad
(b) 2 only (c) Aitareya Upanishad
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) Mundaka Upanishad
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Answer: (a)

3. Polity

1. With reference to Union Budget, which of Select the correct answer using the code
the following is/are covered under Non- given below.
Plan Expenditure? (a) 1 only
1. Defence expenditure (b) 2 and 3 only
2. Interest payments (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
3. Salaries and pensions (d) None
4. Subsidies
Answer: (c)

21 | Prelims Questions
`

2. Which one of the following Schedules of

the Constitution of India contains 6. Consider the following statements:
provisions regarding anti-defection? A Constitutional Government is one
(a) Second Schedule which
(b) Fifth Schedule 1. Places effective restrictions on
(c) Eighth Schedule individual liberty in the interest of
(d) Tenth Schedule State Authority.
2. Places effective restrictions on the
Answer: (d) Authority of the State in the interest of
individual liberty.
3. Which of the following are associated with Which of the statements given above
'Planning' in India? is/are correct?
1. The Finance Commission (a) 1 only
2. The National Development Council (b) 2 only
3. The Union Ministry of Rural (c) Both 1 and 2
Development (d) Neither 1 nor 2
4. The Union Ministry of Urban
Development Answer: (b)
5. The Parliament
7. Consider the following statements:
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: 1. The President shall make rules for the
more convenient transaction of the
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only business of the Government of India,
and for the allocation among Ministers
(c) 2 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the said business.
2. All executive actions of the
Answer: (c) Government of India shall be
expressed to be taken in the name of
the Prime Minister.
4. In the Constitution of India, promotion of
international peace and security is Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
included in the
(a) Preamble to the Constitution (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(b) Directive Principles of State Policy
(c) Fundamental Duties (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) Ninth Schedule
Answer: (a)
Answer: (b)
8. Consider the following statements
5. Which of the following are the regarding a No-Confidence Motion in
discretionary powers given to the India:
Governor of a State? 1. There is no mention of a No-
1. Sending a report to the President of Confidence Motion in the Constitution
India for imposing the President’s rule of India.
2. Appointing the Ministers 2. A Motion of No-Confidence can be
3. Reserving certain bills passed by the introduced in the Lok Sabha only.
State Legislature for consideration of Which of the statements given above is /
the President of India are correct?
4. Making the rules to conduct the (a) 1 only
business of the State Government (b) 2 only
Select the correct answer using the code (c) Both 1 and 2
given below. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only Answer: (c)
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b)

22 | Prelims Questions
`

9. Which one of the following is the largest (d) 1, 2 and 3

Committee of the Parliament?
(a) The Committee on Public Accounts Answer: (c)
(b) The Committee on Estimates
(c) The Committee on Public 11. The power of the Supreme Court of India
Undertakings to decide disputes between the Centre and
(d) The Committee on Petitions the States falls under its
(a) advisory jurisdiction
Answer: (b) (b) appellate jurisdiction
10. Which of the following is/are the (c) original jurisdiction
function/functions of the Cabinet (d) writ jurisdiction
Secretariat?
1. Preparation of agenda for Cabinet Answer: (c)
Meetings
2. Secretarial assistance to Cabinet 12. The power to increase the number of
Committees judges in the Supreme Court of India is
3. Allocation of financial resources to the vested in
Ministries (a) the President of India
Select the correct answer using the code (b) the Parliament
given below. (c) the Chief Justice of India
(a) 1 only (d) the Law Commission
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only Answer: (b)

4. Economy

1. In the context of food and nutritional 2. Which of the following organizations

security of India, enhancing the 'Seed brings out the publication known as
Replacement Rates' of various crops helps 'World Economic Outlook'?
in achieving the food production targets of (a) The International Monetary Fund
the future. But what is/are the constraint/ (b) The United Nations Development
constraints in its wider/greater Programme
implementation? (c) The World Economic Forum
1. There is no National Seeds Policy in (d) The World Bank
place. Answer: (a)
2. There is no participation of private
sector seed companies in the supply of 3. Which of the following are associated with
quality seeds of vegetables and 'Planning' in India?
planting materials of horticultural 1. The Finance Commission
crops. 2. The National Development Council
3. There is a demand-supply gap 3. The Union Ministry of Rural
regarding quality seeds in case of low Development
value and high volume crops. 4. The Union Ministry of Urban
Select the correct answer using the code Development
given below. 5. The parliament
(a) 1 and 2 Select the correct answer using the code
(b) 3 only given below.
(c) 2 and 3 (a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(d) None (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 5 only
Answer: (b) (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Answer: (c)

23 | Prelims Questions
`

4. The main objective of the 12th Five-Year 1. It enables the beneficiaries to draw
Plan is their subsidies and social security
(a) inclusive growth and poverty benefits in their villages.
reduction 2. It enables the beneficiaries in the rural
(b) inclusive growth and sustainable areas to make deposits and
growth withdrawals.
(c) sustainable and inclusive growth to Select the correct answer using the code
reduce unemployment given below.
(d) faster, sustainable and more inclusive (a) 1 only
growth (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (d) (d) Neither 1 nor 2

5. If the interest rate is decreased in an Answer: (c)

economy, it will 9. In the context of Indian economy, which of
(a) decrease the consumption expenditure the following is/are the
in the economy purpose/purposes of 'Statutory Reserve
(b) increase the tax collection of the Requirements'?
Government 1. To enable the Central Bank to control
(c) increase the investment expenditure in the amount of advances the banks can
the economy create
(d) increase the total savings in the 2. To make the people's deposits with
economy banks safe and liquid
3. To prevent the commercial banks from
Answer: (c) making excessive profits
4. To force the banks to have sufficient
6. What does venture capital mean? vault-cash to meet their day-to-day
(a) A short-term capital provided to requirements
industries Select the correct answer using the code
(b) A long-term start-up capital provided given below.
to new entrepreneurs (a) 1 only
(c) Funds provided to industries at times (b) 1 and 2 only
of incurring losses (c) 2 and 3 only
(d) Funds provided for replacement and (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
renovation of industries
Answer: (a)
Answer: (b)
10. The sales tax you pay while purchasing a
7. The terms 'Marginal Standing Facility toothpaste is a
Rate' and 'Net Demand and Time (a) tax imposed by the Central
Liabilities', sometimes appearing in news, Government
are used in relation to (b) tax imposed by the Central
(a) banking operations Government but collected by the State
(b) communication networking Government
(c) military strategies (c) tax imposed by the State Government
(d) supply and demand of agricultural but collected by the Central
products Government
(d) tax imposed and collected by the State
Answer: (a) Government

8. What is/are the facility/facilities the Answer: (d)

beneficiaries can get from the services of
Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in
branchless areas?

24 | Prelims Questions
`

11. With reference to Balance of Payments, Select the correct answer using the code
which of the following constitutes/ given below.
constitute the Current Account? (a) 1 only
1. Balance of trade (b) 2 and 3
2. Foreign assets (c) 1 and 3
3. Balance of invisibles (d) 1, 2 and 4
4. Special Drawing Rights
Answer: (c)

5. Environment

1. Consider the following international 3. If a wetland of international importance is

agreements brought under the ‘Montreux Record’,
1. The International Treaty on Plant what does it imply?
Genetic Resources for Food and (a) Changes in ecological character have
Agriculture occurred, are occurring or are likely to
2. The United Nations Convention to occur in the wetland as a result of
Combat Desertification human interference
3. The World Heritage Convention (b) The country in which the wetland is
Which of the above has/have a bearing on located should enact a law to prohibit
biodiversity? any human activity within five
(a) 1 and 2 only kilometres from the edge of the
(b) 3 only wetland
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) The survival of the wetland depends
(d) 1, 2 and 3 on the cultural practices and traditions
of certain communities living in its
Answer: (d) vicinity and therefore the cultural
diversity therein should not be
2. Consider the following statements destroyed
regarding ‘Earth Hour’: (d) It is given the status of ‘World
1. It is an initiative of UNEP and Heritage Site’
UNESCO.
2. It is a movement in which the Answer: (a)
participants switch off the lights for
one hour on a certain day every year. 4. With reference to Bombay Natural History
3. It is a movement to raise the Society (BNHS) , consider the following
awareness about climate change and statements:
the need to save the planet. 1. It is an autonomous organization
Which of the statements given above under the Ministry of Environment
is/are correct and Forests.
(a) 1 and 3 only 2. It strives to conserve nature through
(b) 2 only action-based research, education and
(c) 2 and 3 only public awareness.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 3. It organizes and conducts nature trails
and camps for the general public.
Answer: (c) Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)

25 | Prelims Questions
`

5. With reference to ‘Global Environment (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Facility’, which of the following
statements is/are correct? Answer: (c)
(a) It serves as financial mechanism for
‘Convention on Biological Diversity’ 8. Which of the following adds/add carbon
and ‘United Nations Framework dioxide to the carbon cycle on the planet
Convention on Climate Change’ Earth?
(b) It undertakes scientific research on 1. Volcanic action
environmental issues at global level 2. Respiration
(c) It is an agency under OECD to 3. Photosynthesis
facilitate the transfer of technology 4. Decay of organic matter
and funds to underdeveloped Select the correct answer using the code
countries with specific aim to protect given below.
their environment (a) 1 and 3 only
(d) Both (a) and (b) (b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
Answer: (a) (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

6. With reference to a conservation Answer: (c)

organization called ‘Wetlands
International’, which of the following 9. If you walk through the countryside, you
statements is/are correct? are likely to see some birds stalking
1. It is an intergovernmental alongside the cattle to seize the insects
organization formed by the countries disturbed by their movement through
which are signatories to Ramsar grasses. Which of the following is/are
Convention. such birds/birds?
2. It works at the field level to develop 1. Painted Stork
and mobilize knowledge, and use the 2. Common Myna
practical experience to advocate for 3. Black-necked Crane
better policies. Select the correct answer using the code
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
given below. (a) 1 and 2
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
Answer: (b)
10. With reference to Eco-Sensitive Zones’,
7. Other than poaching, what are the which of the following statements is/are
possible reasons for the decline in the correct?
population of Ganges River Dolphins? 1. Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that
1. Construction of dams and barrages on are declared under the Wildlife
rivers (Protection) Act, 1972.
2. Increase in the population of 2. The purpose of the declaration of Eco-
crocodiles in rivers Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds
3. Getting trapped in fishing nets of human activities in those zones
accidentally except agriculture.
4. U se of synthetic fertilizers and other Select the correct answer using the code
agricultural chemicals in crop-fields in given below.
the vicinity of rivers (a) 1 only
Select the correct answer using the code (b) 2 only
given below. (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) 1 and 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only Answer: (d)

26 | Prelims Questions
`

11. Consider the following statements: (b) botanical gardens

1. Animal Welfare Board of India is (c) national parks
established under the Environment (d) wildlife sanctuaries
(Protection) Act, 1986.
2. National Tiger Conservation Answer: (a)
Authority is a statutory body.
3. The National Ganga River Basin 14. The scientific view is that the increase in
Authority is chaired by the Prime global temperature should not exceed 2°C
Minister. above pre-industrial level. If the global
Which of the statements given above temperature increases beyond 3°C above
is/are correct? the pre-industrial level, what can be its
(a) 1 only possible impact/impacts on the world?
(b) 2 and 3 only 1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a
(c) 2 only net carbon source.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.
3. All the global wetlands will
Answer: (b) permanently disappear.
4. Cultivation of cereals will not be
12. Consider the following pairs possible anywhere in the world.
Select the correct answer using the code
Wetlands Confluence of rivers given below.
1. Harike Confluence of Beas (a) 1 only
Wetlands and Satluj/Sutlej (b) 1 and 2 only
2. Keoladeo Confluence of Banas (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
Ghana National and Chambal (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Park
3. Kolleru Lake Confluence of Musi Answer: (b)
and Krishna
15. Which of the following are some
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly important pollutants released by steel
matched? industry in India?
(a) 1 only 1. Oxides of sulphur
(b) 2 and 3 only 2. Oxides of nitrogen
(c) 1 and 3 only 3. Carbon monoxide
(d) 1, 2 and 3 4. Carbon dioxide
Select the correct answer using the code
Answer: (a) given below.
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only
13. The most important strategy for the (b) 2 and 3 only
conservation of biodiversity together with
(c) 1 and 4 only
traditional human life is the establishment (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
of
(a) biosphere reserves Answer: (d)

6. Science & Technology

1. Lichens, which are capable of initiating 2. Which one of the following is the process
ecological succession even on a bare rock, involved in photosynthesis?
are actually a symbiotic association of (a) Potential energy is released to form
(a) Algae and bacteria free energy
(b) Algae and fungi (b) Free energy is converted into potential
(c) Bacteria and fungi energy and stored
(d) Fungi and mosses (c) Food is oxidized to release carbon
dioxide and water
Answer: (b) (d) Oxygen is taken, and carbon dioxide
and water vapour are given out.
Answer: (b)

27 | Prelims Questions
`

3. Which of the following is/are the 6. Consider the following

example/examples of chemical change? techniques/phenomena:
1. Crystallization of sodium chloride 1. Budding and grafting in fruit plants
2. Melting of ice 2. Cytoplasmic male sterility
3. Souring of milk 3. Gene silencing
Select the correct answer using the code 4. Which of the above is/are used to
given below. create transgenic crops?
(a) 1 and 2 only (a) 1 only
(b) 3 only (b) 2 and 3
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3
(d) None (d) None

Answer: (b) Answer: (b)

4. Which of the following statements is/are
correct regarding vegetative propagation
of plants? 7. Among the following organisms, which
1. Vegetative propagation produces one does not belong to the class of other
clonal population. three?
2. Vegetative propagation helps in (a) Crab
eliminating the virus. (b) Mite
3. Vegetative propagation can be (c) Scorpion
practiced most of the year. (d) Spider
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. Answer: (a)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only 8. Consider the following diseases
(c) 1 and 3 only 1. Diphtheria
(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Chickenpox
3. Smallpox
Answer: (c) Which of the above diseases has/have
been eradicated in India?
5. Consider the following pairs: (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
Vitamin disease
(d) None
Deficiency

1. Vitamin C Scurvy Answer: (b)

2. Vitamin D Rickets 9. Consider the following:

1. Bats
3. Vitamin E Night blindness 2. . Bears
3. Rodents
The phenomenon of hibernation can be
Which of the pairs given above is/are observed in which of the above kinds of
correctly matched? animals?
(a) 1 and 2 only (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None (d) Hibernation cannot be observed in
any of the above
Answer: (a)
Answer: (c)

28 | Prelims Questions
`

10. Which of the following adds/add carbon 1. ‘Photovoltaics’ is a technology that

dioxide to the carbon cycle on the planet generates electricity by direction
Earth? conversion of light into electricity,
1. Volcanic action while ‘Solar Thermal’ is a technology
2. Respiration that utilizes the Sun’s rays to generate
3. Photosynthesis heat which is further used in the
4. Decay of organic matter electricity generation process.
Select the correct answer using the code 2. Photovoltaics generate Alternating
given below. Current (AC) , while solar Thermal
(a) 1 and 3 only generates Direct Current (DC) .
(b) 2 only 3. India has a manufacturing base for
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only Solar Thermal technology, but not for
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Photovoltaics.
Which of the statement (s) given above
Answer: (c)
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
11. Which of the following pair (s) is/are
correctly matched? (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
Spacecraft Purpose (d) None
1. Cassini- Orbiting the Venus
Huygens and transmitting data to Answer: (a)
the Earth
2. Messenger Mapping and 14. Brominated flame retardants are used in
investigating the many household products like mattresses
Mercury and upholstery. Why is there some
3. Voyager 1 Exploring the outer solar concern about their use?
&2 system 1. They are highly resistant to
degradation in the environment.
Select the correct answer using the codes 2. They are able to accumulate in
given below. humans and animals.
(a) 1 only Select the correct answer using the code
(b) 2 and 3 only given below.
(c) 1 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 only
Answer: (b) (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
12. With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which Answer: (c)
of the following statement (s) is/are
correct? 15. There is some concern regarding the
1. It is a surface-to-surface missile. nanoparticles of some chemical elements
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only. that are used by the industry in the
3. It can deliver a one tonne nuclear manufacture of various products. Why?
warhead about 7500 km away. 1. They can accumulate in the
Select the correct answer using the codes environment, and contaminate water
given below. and soil.
(a) 1 only 2. They can enter the food chains.
(b) 2 and 3 only 3. They can trigger the production of free
(c) 1 and 3 only radicals.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Select the correct answer using the codes
Answer: (a) given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
13. With reference to technologies for solar (b) 3 only
power production, consider the following (c) 1 and 3 only
statements: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

29 | Prelims Questions
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16. In India, cluster bean (Guar) is 18. In addition to fingerprint scanning, which
traditionally used as a vegetable or animal of the following can be used in the
feed, but recently the cultivation of this biometric identification of a person?
has assumed significance. Which one of 1. Iris scanning
the following statements is correct in this 2. Retinal scanning
context? 3. Voice recognition
(a) The oil extracted from seeds is used in Select the correct answer using the code
the manufacture of biodegradable given below.
plastics (a) 1 only
(b) The gum made from its seeds is used (b) 2 and 3 only
in the extraction of shale gas (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) The leaf extract of this plant has the (d) 1, 2 and 3
properties of anti-histamines
(d) It is a source of high quality biodiesel Answer: (d)

Answer: (b) 19. With reference to Neem tree, consider the

following statements:
17. With reference to two non-conventional 1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to
energy sources called ‘coalbed methane’ control the proliferation of some
and ‘shale gas’, consider the following species of insects and mites.
statements: 2. Neem seeds are used in the
1. Coalbed methane is the pure methane manufacture of biofuels and hospital
gas extracted from coal seams, while detergents.
shale gas is a mixture of propane and 3. Neem oil has applications in the
butane only that can be extracted from pharmaceutical industry.
fine-grained sedimentary rocks. Which of the statements given above
2. In India, abundant coalbed methane is/are correct?
sources exist, but so far no shale gas (a) 1 and 2 only
sources have been found. (b) 3 only
Which of the statement (s) given above (c) 1 and 3 only
is/are correct? (d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only Answer: (c)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d)

7. Current Affairs

1. Which one of the following is the correct Which of the statements given above is /
sequence of a food chain? are correct?
(a) Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings (a) 1 only
(b) Crustaceans-Diatoms-Herrings (b) 2 only
(c) Diatoms-Herrings-Crustaceans (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Crustaceans-Herrings-Diatoms (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a) Answer: (b)

2. With reference to a grouping of countries

known as BRICS, consider the following
statements:
1. The First Summit of BRICS was held
in Rio de Janeiro in 2009.
2. South Africa was the last to join the
BRICS grouping.

30 | Prelims Questions
`

3. Every year, a month long ecologically 5. Consider the following countries:

important campaign/festival is held 1. Denmark
during which certain communities/ tribes 2. Japan
plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. 3. Russian Federation
Which of the following are such 4. United Kingdom
communities/tribes? 5. United States of America
(a) Bhutia and Lepcha Which of the above are the members of the
(b) Gond and Korku ‘Arctic Council ‘?
(c) lrula and Toda (a) 1, 2 and 3
(d) Sahariya and Agariya (b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 4 and 5
Answer: (b) (d) 1, 3 and 5

4. Recently, a series of uprisings of people Answer: (d)

referred to as ‘Arab Spring’ originally
started from 6. Consider the following pairs:
(a) Egypt Region often in news: Country
(b) Lebanon 1. Chechnya: Russian Federation
(c) Syria 2. Darfur: Mali
(d) Tunisia 3. Swat Valley: Iraq
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
Answer: (d) matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

31 | Prelims Questions
`

2015

1. Geography

1. Which one of the following countries of 3. Centrifugal force of the Earth

South-West Asia does not open out to the Select the correct answer using the codes
Mediterranean Sea? given below.
(a) Syria (a) 1 only
(b) Jordan (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) Lebanon (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) Israel (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b) Answer: (d)

2. “Each day is more or less the same, the 6. In the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, an
morning is clear and bright with a sea initiative of six countries, which of the
breeze; as the Sun climbs high in the sky, following is/are not a
heat mounts up, dark clouds form, then participant/participants?
rain comes with thunder and lightning. 1. Bangladesh
But rain is soon over”. Which of the 2. Cambodia
following regions is described in the above 3. China
passage? 4. Myanmar
(a) Savannah 5. Thailand
(b) Equatorial Select the correct answer using the code
(c) Monsoon given below.
(d) Mediterranean (a) 1 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b) (c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 5
3. In the South Atlantic and South-Eastern
Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, Answer: (c)
cyclone does not originate. What is the
reason? 7. Which one of the following pairs of States
(a) Sea surface temperatures are low of India indicates the easternmost and
(b) Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone westernmost State?
seldom occurs (a) Assam and Rajasthan
(c) Coriolis force is too weak (b) Arunachal Pradesh and Rajasthan
(d) Absence of land in those regions (c) Assam and Gujarat
(d) Arunachal Pradesh and Gujarat
Answer: (a)
Answer: (d)
4. What explains the eastward flow of the
equatorial counter-current? 8. Consider the following pairs:
(a) The Earth’s rotation on its axis Place of Pilgrimage Location
(b) Convergence of the two equatorial 1. Srisailam: Nallamala Hills
currents 2. Omkareshwar: Satmala Hills
(c) Difference in salinity of water 3. Pushkar: Mahadeo Hills
(d) Occurrence of the belt of calm near the Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
equator matched?
(a) 1 only
Answer: (b) (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
5. Tides occur in the oceans and seas due to (d) 1, 2 and 3
which among the following
1. Gravitational force of the Sun Answer: (a)
2. Gravitational force of the Moon

32 | Prelims Questions
`

9. Consider the following rivers: Which of the statements given above

1. Vamsadhara is/are correct?
2. Indravati (a) 1 only
3. Pranahita (b) 2 only
4. Pennar (c) Both 1 and 2
Which of the above are tributaries of (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Godavari?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (b)
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4 14. In India, in which one of the following
(d) 2 and 3 only types of forests is teak a dominant tree
species?
Answer: (d) (a) Tropical moist deciduous forest
(b) Tropical rain forest
10. Which one of the following regions of (c) Tropical thorn scrub forest
India has a combination of mangrove (d) Temperate forest with grasslands
forest, evergreen forest and deciduous
forest? Answer: (a)
(a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh
(b) South-West Bengal 15. Which one of the following regions of
(c) Southern Saurashtra India has a combination of mangrove
(d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands forest, evergreen forest and deciduous
forest?
Answer: (d) (a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh
(b) South-West Bengal
11. Which one of the following National Parks (c) Southern Saurashtra
has a climate that varies from tropical to (d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
subtropical, temperate and arcitc?
(a) Khangchendzonga National Park Answer: (d)
(b) Nadadevi National Park
(c) Neora Valley National Park 16. In India, the steel production industry
(d) Namdapha National Park requires the import of
Answer: (d) (a) saltpeter
(b) rock phosphate
12. Consider the following States: (c) coking coal
1. Arunachal Pradesh (d) All of the above
2. Himachal Pradesh
3. Mizoram Answer: (c)
In which of the above States do 'Tropical
Wet Evergreen Forests' occur? 17. "Each day is more or less the same, the
(a) 1 only morning is clear and bright with a sea
(b) 2 and 3 only breeze; as the Sun climbs high in the sky,
(c) 1 and 3 only heat mounts up, dark clouds form, then
(d) 1, 2 and 3 rain comes with thunder and lightning.
But rain is soon over. " Which of the
Answer: (a) following regions is described in the above
passage?
13. Consider the following statements: (a) Savannah
1. The winds which blow between 30°N (b) Equatorial
and 60°S latitude throughout the year (c) Monsoon
are known as westerlies. (d) Mediterranean
2. The moist air masses that cause winter
rains in North-Western region of India Answer: (b)
are part of westerlies.

33 | Prelims Questions
`

18. Which one of the following is the national 19. In a particular region in India, the local
aquatic animal of India? people train the roots of living tree into
(a) Saltwater crocodile robust bridges across streams. As the time
(b) Olive ridley turtle passes these bridges become stronger.
(c) Gangetic dolphin These unique ‘Living Root Bridges’ are
(d) Gharial found in
(a) Meghalaya
Answer: (c) (b) Himachal Pradesh
(c) Jharkhand
(d) Tamil Nadu

Answer: (a)

2. History

1. Which of the following kingdoms were 4. With reference to the art and
associated with the life of the Buddha? archaeological history of India, which one
1. Avanti among the following was made earliest?
2. Gandhara (a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
3. Kosala (b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
4. Magadha (c) Rock-cut Monuments at
Select the correct answer using the codes Mahabalipuram
given below. (d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only Answer: (b)
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 3 and 4 only 5. Which one of the following was given
classical language status recently?
Answer: (d) (a) Odia
(b) Konkani
2. Kalamkari painting refers to (c) Bhojpuri
(a) a hand-painted cotton textile in South (d) Assamese
India
(b) a handmade drawing on bamboo Answer: (a)
handicrafts in North-East India
(c) a block-painted woollen cloth in 6. Consider the following pairs:
Western Himalayan region of India Medieval Indian State Present Region
(d) a hand-painted decorative silk cloth in 1. Champaka: Central India
North-Western India 2. Durgara: Jammu
3. Kuluta: Malabar
Answer: (a) Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
matched?
3. Who of the following founded a new city (a) 1 and 2
on the south bank of a tributary to river (b) 2 only
Krishna and undertook to rule his new (c) 1 and 3
kingdom as the agent of a deity to whom (d) 3 only
all the land south of the river Krishna was
supposed to belong? Answer: (b)
(a) Amoghavarsha I
(b) Ballala II
(c) Harihara I
(d) Prataparudra II

Answer: (c)

34 | Prelims Questions
`

7. Consider the following: Answer: (b)

The arrival of Babur into India led to the
1. introduction of gunpowder in the 10. Who of the following was/were economic
subcontinent critic/critics of colonialism in India?
2. introduction of the arch and dome in 1. Dadabhai Naoroji
the region’s architecture 2. G. Subramania Iyer
3. establishment of Timurid dynasty in 3. R. C. Dutt
the region Select the correct answer using the code
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
given below: (a) 1 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Answer: (b)
11. With reference to Congress Socialist Party,
8. With reference to Indian history, which of consider the following statements:
the following is/are the essential 1. It advocated the boycott of British
element/elements of the feudal system? goods and evasion of taxes.
1. A very strong centralized political 2. It wanted to establish the dictatorship
authority and a very weak provincial of proletariat.
or local political authority 3. It advocated, separate electorate for
2. Emergence of administrative structure minorities and oppressed classes.
based on control and possession of Which of the statements given above
land is/are correct?
3. Creation of lord-vassal relationship (a) 1 and 2 only
between the feudal lord and his (b) 3 only
overlord (c) 1, 2 and 3
Select the correct answer using the code (d) None
given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only Answer: (d)
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only 12. The Government of India Act of 1919
(d) 1, 2 and 3 clearly defined
(a) the separation of power between the
Answer: (b) judiciary and the legislature
(b) the jurisdiction of the central and
9. With reference to Rowlatt Satyagraha, provincial governments
which of the following statements is/are (c) the powers of the Secretary of State for
correct? India and the Viceroy
1. The Rowlatt Act was based on the (d) None of the above
recommendations of the ‘Sedition
Committee’. Answer: (b)
2. In Rowlatt Satyagraha, Gandhiji tried
to Utilize the Home Rule League. 13. Who of the following organized a march
3. Demonstrations against the arrival of on the Tanjore coast to break the Salt Law
Simon Commission coincided with in April 1930?
Rowlatt Satyagraha. (a) V. O. Chidambaram Pillai
Select the correct answer using the code (b) C. Rajagopalachari
given below. (c) K. Kamaraj
(a) 1 only (d) Annie Besant
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only Answer: (b)
(d) 1, 2 and 3

35 | Prelims Questions
`

14. Consider the following statements 3. It provided for more Indians in the
1. The first woman President of the ICS.
Indian National Congress was Sarojini Select the correct answer using the code
Naidu. given below.
2. The first Muslim President of the (a) 1 only
Indian National Congress was (b) 2 and 3
Badruddin Tyabji. (c) 1 and 3
Which of the statements given above (d) None
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only Answer: (a)
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 16. Which one of the following movements
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 has contributed to a split in the Indian
National Congress resulting in the
Answer: (b) emergence of ‘moderates’ and
‘extremists’?
15. With reference to the Cabinet Mission, (a) Swadeshi Movement
which of the following statements is/are (b) Quit India Movement
correct? (c) Non-Cooperation Movement
1. It recommended a federal (d) Civil Disobedience Movement
government.
2. It enlarged the powers of the Indian Answer: (a)
courts.

3. Polity

1. The provisions in Fifth Schedule and Sixth 3. The ideal of 'Welfare State' in the Indian
Schedule in the Constitution of India are Constitution is enshrined in its
made in order to (a) Preamble
(a) protect the interests of Scheduled (b) Directive Principles of State Policy
Tribes (c) Fundamental Rights
(b) determine the boundaries between (d) Seventh Schedule
States
(c) determine the powers, authority and Answer: (b)
responsibilities of Panchayats
(d) protect the interests of all the border 4. Consider the following statements
States regarding the Directive Principles of State
Policy:
Answer: (a) 1. The Principles spell out the socio-
economic democracy in the country
2. The fundamental object of Panchayati Raj 2. The provisions contained in these
system is to ensure which among the Principles are not enforceable by any
following? court.
1. People’s participation in development Which of the statements given above
2. Political accountability is/are correct?
3. Democratic decentralisation (a) 1 only
4. Financial mobilisation (b) 2 only
Select the correct answer using the code (c) Both 1 and 2
given below: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only Answer: (c)
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (c)

36 | Prelims Questions
`

5 Consider the following statements: 9. Consider the following statements:

1. The Legislative Council of a State in 1. The Executive Power of the Union of
India can be larger in size than half of India is vested in the Prime Minister.
the Legislative Assembly of that 2. The Prime Minister is the ex-officio
particular State. Chairman of the Civil Services Board.
2. The Governor of a State nominates the Which of the statements given above
Chairman of Legislative Council of is/are correct?
that particular State. (a) 1 only
Which of the statements given above (b) 2 only
is/are correct? (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) 1 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 Answer: (d)
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
10. With reference to the Union Government,
Answer: (d) consider the following statements:
1. The Department of Revenue is
6. There is a Parliamentary System of responsible for the preparation of
Government in India because the Union Budget that is presented to the
(a) Lok Sabha is elected directly by the Parliament.
people 2. No amount can be withdrawn from
(b) Parliament can amend the the Consolidated Fund of India
Constitution without the authorization from the
(c) Rajya Sabha cannot be dissolved Parliament of India.
(d) Council of Ministers is responsible to 3. All the disbursements made from
the Lok Sabha Public Account also need the
authorization from the Parliament of
Answer: (d) India.
Which of the statements given above
7. Consider the following statements: is/are correct?
1. The Rajya Sabha has no power either (a) 1 and 2 only
to reject or to amend a Money Bill. (b) 2 and 3 only
2. The Rajya Sabha cannot vote on the (c) 2 only
Demands for Grants. (d) 1, 2 and 3
3. The Rajya Sabha cannot discuss the
Annual Financial Statement. Answer (c)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? 11. Who/Which of the following is the
(a) 1 only custodian of the Constitution of India?
(b) 1 and 2 only (a) The President of India
(c) 2 and 3 only (b) The Prime Minister of India
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) The Lok Sabha Secretariat
(d) The Supreme Court of India
Answer: (b)
Answer: (a)
8. When a bill is referred to a joint sitting of
both the Houses of the Parliament, it has 12. "To uphold and protect the Sovereignty,
to be passed by Unity and Integrity of India" is a provision
(a) a simple majority of members present made in the
and voting (a) Preamble of the Constitution
(b) three-fourths majority of members (b) Directive Principles of State Policy
present and voting (c) Fundamental Rights
(c) two-thirds majority of the Houses (d) Fundamental Duties
(d) absolute majority of the Houses
Answer: (a)
Answer: (a)

37 | Prelims Questions
`

4. Economy

1. The substitution of steel for wooden 5. Which of the following brings out the
ploughs in agricultural production is an 'Consumer Price Index Number for
example of Industrial Workers?
(a) labour-augmenting technological (a) The Reserve Bank of India
progress (b) The Department of Economic Affairs
(b) capital-augmenting technological (c) The Labour Bureau
progress (d) The Department of Personnel and
(c) capital-reducing technological Training
progress
(d) None of the above Answer: (c)

Answer: (b) 6. Which one of the following issues the

'Global Economic Prospects' report
2. Which one of the following best describes periodically?
the main objective of Seed Village
(a) The Asian Development Bank
Concept? (b) The European Bank for
(a) Encouraging the farmers to use their
Reconstruction and Development
own farm seeds and discouraging (c) The US Federal Reserve Bank
them to buy the seeds from others (d) The World Bank
(b) Involving the farmers for training in
quality seed production and thereby Answer: (d)
to make available quality seeds to
others at appropriate time and 7. The terms 'Agreement on Agriculture',
affordable cost 'Agreement on the Application of Sanitary
(c) Earmarking some villages exclusively and Phyto-sanitary Measures' and 'Peace
for the production of certified seeds Clause' appear in the news frequently in
(d) Identifying the entrepreneurs in the context of affairs of the
villages and providing them (a) Food and Agriculture Organization
technology and finance to set up seed (b) United Nations Framework
companies Conference on Climate Change
(c) World Trade Organization
Answer: (b) (d) United Nations Environment
Programme
3. The Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of
sugarcane is approved by the Answer: (c)
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic
Affairs 8 'Basel III Accord' or simply 'Basel III', often
(b) Commission for Agricultural Costs seen in the news, seeks to
and Prices (a) develop national strategies for the
(c) Directorate of Marketing and conservation and sustainable use of
Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture biological diversity
(d) Agricultural Produce Marketing (b) improve banking sector's ability to
Committee deal with financial and econo-mic
stress and improve risk management
Answer: (a)
(c) reduce the greenhouse gas emissions
but places a heavier burden on
4. In the 'Index of Eight Core Industries',
developed countries
which one of the following is given the
(d) transfer technology from developed
highest weight?
countries to poor countries to enable
(a) Coal production
them to replace the use of
(b) Electricity generation
chlorofluorocarbons in refrigeration
(c) Fertilizer production
with harmless chemicals
(d) Steel production
Answer: (b) Answer: (b)

38 | Prelims Questions
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9. Convertibility of rupee implies: 13. With reference to the Fourteenth Finance

(a) being able to convert rupee notes into Commission, which of the following
gold statements is/are correct?
(b) allowing the value of rupee to be 1. It has increased the share of States in
fixed by market forces the central divisible pool from 32
(c) freely permitting the conversion of percent to 42 percent.
rupee to other currencies and vice 2. It has made recommendations
versa concerning sector-specific grants.
(d) developing an international market Select the correct answer using the code
for currencies in India given below.
(a) 1 only
Answer: (c) (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
10. There has been a persistent deficit budget (d) Neither 1 nor 2
year after year. Which of the following Answer: (a)
actions can be taken by the government to
reduce the deficit? 14. With reference to Indian economy,
1. Reducing revenue expenditure consider the following statements:
2. Introducing new welfare schemes 1. The rate of growth of Real Gross
3. Rationalizing subsidies Domestic Product has steadily
4. Expanding industries increased in the last decade.
Select the correct answer using the code 2. The Gross Domestic Product at market
given below: prices (in rupees) has steadily
(a) 1 and 3 only increased in the last decade.
(b) 2 and 3 only Which of the statements given above
(c) 1 only is/are correct?
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
Answer: (a) (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither1 nor 2
11. With reference to inflation in India, which Answer: (b)
of the following statements is correct?
(a) Controlling the inflation in India is the 15. A decrease in tax to GDP ratio of a country
responsibility of the Government of indicates which of the following?
India only 1. Slowing economic growth rate
(b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role 2. Less equitable distribution of national
in controlling the inflation income
(c) Decreased money circulation helps in Select the correct answer using the code
controlling the inflation given below.
(d) Increased money circulation helps in (a) 1 only
controlling the inflation (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (c) (d) Neither1 nor 2
Answer: (d)
12. The problem of international liquidity is
related to the non-availability of 16. Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana’ has
(a) goods and services been launched for
(b) gold and silver (a) providing housing loan to poor people
(c) dollars and other hard currencies at cheaper interest rates
(d) exportable surplus (b) promoting women’s Self-Help Groups
in backward areas
Answer: (c) (c) promoting financial inclusion in the
country
(d) providing financial help to the
marginalized communities
Answer: (c)

39 | Prelims Questions
`

17. Consider the following statements: 21. With reference to Indian economy,
1. The Accelerated Irrigation Benefits consider the following:
Programme was launched during 1. Bank rate
1996-97 to provide loan assistance to 2. Open market operations
poor farmers. 3. Public debt
2. The Command Area Development 4. Public Revenue
Programme was launched in 1974-75 Which of the above is/are
for the development of water-use component/components of Monetary
efficiency, Policy?
Which of the statements given above is/ (a) 1 only
are correct? (b) 2, 3 and 4
(a) 1 only (c) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only (d) 1, 3 and 4
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: (c)
Answer: (b)
22. With reference to inflation in India, which
of the following statements is correct?
18. In India, markets in agricultural products (a) Controlling the inflation in India is the
are regulated under the
responsibility of the Government of
(a) Essential Commodities Act, 1955 India only
(b) Agricultural Produce Market
(b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role
Committee Act enacted by States in controlling the inflation
(c) Agricultural Produce (Grading and
(c) Decreased money circulation helps in
Marking) Act, 1937 controlling the inflation
(d) Food Products Order, 1956 and Meat
(d) Increased money circulation helps in
and Food Products Order, 1973 controlling the inflation
Answer: (b)
Answer: (c)
19. The Government of India has established
NITI Aayog to replace the 23. With reference to the Indian Renewable
(a) Human Rights Commission Energy Development Agency Limited
(b) Finance Commission (IREDA) , which of the following
(c) Law Commission statements is/are correct?
(d) Planning Commission 1. It is a Public Limited Government
Company.
Answer: (d) 2. It is a Non-Banking Financial
Company.
20. When the Reserve Bank of India reduces Select the correct answer using the code
the Statutory Liquidity Ratio by 50 basis
given below.
points which of the following is likely to (a) 1 only
happen?
(b) 2 only
(a) India's GDP growth rate increases (c) Both 1 and 2
drastically
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) Foreign Institutional Investors may
bring more capital into our country Answer: (c)
(c) Scheduled Commercial Banks may cut
their lending rates.
(d) It may drastically reduce the liquidity
to the banking system

Answer: (c)

40 | Prelims Questions
`

5. Environment

1. Which one of the following is the best 2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects
description of the term ‘ecosystem’? around the world to better manage
(a) A community of organisms interacting natural environments.
with one another 3. CITES is legally binding on the States
(b) That part of the Earth which is that have joined it, but this
inhabited by living organisms Convention does not take the place of
(c) A community of organisms together national laws.
with the environment in which they Select the correct answer using the code
live given below.
(d) The flora and fauna of a geographical (a) 1 only
area (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (c) (d) 1, 2 and 3

2. With reference to an organization known Answer: (b)

as 'BirdLife International', which of the
following statements is/are correct? 5. With reference to ‘dugong’, a mammal
1. It is a Global Partnership of found in India, which of the following
Conservation Organizations. statements is/are correct?
2. The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ 1. It is a herbivorous marine animal.
originated from this organization. 2. It is found along the entire coast of
3. It identifies the sites known/ referred India.
to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity 3. It is given legal protection under
Areas’. Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection)
Select the correct answer using the code Act; 1972.
given below. Select the correct answer using the code
(a) 1 only given below.
(b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 and 2
(c) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
Answer: (c)
Answer: (c)
3. Which of the following National Parks is
unique in being a swamp with floating 6. Which one of the following is the national
vegetation that supports a rich aquatic animal of India?
biodiversity? (a) Saltwater crocodile
(a) Bhitarkanika National Park (b) Olive ridley turtle
(b) Keibul Lamjao National Park (c) Gangetic dolphin
(c) Keoladeo Ghana National Park (d) Gharial
(d) Sultanpur National Park
Answer: (c)
Answer: (b)
7. Which one of the following is associated
4. With reference to the International Union with the issue of control and phasing out
for Conservation of Nature and Natural of the use of ozone-depleting substances?
Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on (a) Bretton Woods Conference
International Trade in Endangered Species (b) Montreal Protocol
of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) , which (c) Kyoto Protocol
of the following statements is/are correct? (d) Nagoya Protocol
1. IUCN is an organ of the United
Nations and CITES is an international Answer: (b)
agreement between governments.

41 | Prelims Questions
`

8. Which of the following statements 11. In a particular region in India, the local
regarding ‘Green Climate Fund’ is/are people train the roots of living trees into
correct? robust bridges across the streams. As the
1. It is intended to assist the developing time passes, these bridges become
countries in adaptation and mitigation stronger. These unique ‘living root
practices to counter climate change. bridges’ are found in
2. It is founded under the aegis of UNEP, (a) Meghalaya
OECD, Asian Development Bank and (b) Himachal Pradesh
World Bank. (c) Jharkhand
Select the correct answer using the code (d) Tamil Nadu
given below.
(a) 1 only Answer: (a)
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 12. With reference to ‘Forest Carbon
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Partnership Facility’, which of the
following statements is/are correct?
Answer: (a) 1. It is a global partnership of
governments, businesses, civil society
9. ‘BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable and indigenous peoples.
Forest Landscapes’ is managed by the 2. It provides financial aid to
(a) Asian Development Bank universities, individual scientists and
(b) International Monetary Fund institutions involved in scientific
(c) United Nations Environment forestry research to develop eco-
Programme friendly and climate adaptation
(d) World Bank technologies for sustainable forest
management.
Answer: (d) 3. It assists the countries in their ‘REDD+
(Reducing Emissions from
10. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Deforestation and Forest
Committee is constituted under the Degradation+) ’ efforts by providing
(a) Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 them with financial and technical
(b) Geographical Indications of Goods assistance
(Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 Select the correct answer using the code”
(c) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 given below.
(d) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (c) (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)

6. Science & Technology

1. With reference to ‘fly ash’ produced by the Select the correct answer using the code
power plants using coal as fuel, which of given below.
the following statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2
1. Fly ash can be used in the production (b) 2 only
of bricks for building construction. (c) 1 and 3
2. Fly ash can be used as a replacement (d) 3 only
for some of the Portland cement
contents of concrete. Answer: (a)
3. Fly ash is made up of silicon dioxide
and calcium oxide only, and does not
contain any toxic elements.

42 | Prelims Questions
`

2. In the context of modern scientific 1. Assessment of crop productivity

research, consider the following 2. Locating groundwater resources
statements about 'lceCube', a particle 3. Mineral exploration
detector located at South Pole, which was 4. Telecommunications
recently in the news: 5. Traffic studies
1. It is the world’s largest neutrino Select the correct answer using the codes
detector, encompassing a cubic given below.
kilometre of ice. (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
2. It is a powerful telescope to search for (b) 4 and 5 only
dark matter. (c) 1 and 2 only
3. It is buries deep in the ice. (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Which of the statements given above Answer: (a)
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only 6. With reference to the use of Nano-
(b) 2 and 3 only technology in health sector, which of the
(c) 1 and 3 only following statement (s) is/are correct?
(d) 1, 2 and 3 1. Targeted drug delivery is made
Answer: (d) possible by nanotechnology.
2. Nanotechnology can largely
3. The term 'Goldilocks Zone' is often seen contribute to gene therapy.
news in the context of Select the correct answer using the codes
(a) the limits of habitable zone above the given below.
surface of the Earth (a) 1 only
(b) regions inside the Earth where shale (b) 2 only
gas is available (c) Both 1 and 2
(c) search for the Earth-like planets in (d) Neither 1 nor 2
outer space Answer: (c)
(d) search for meteorites containing
precious metals 7. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the
news with reference to which one of the
Answer: (c)
following diseases?
(a) AIDS
4. With reference to ‘fuel cells’ in which
hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to (b) Bird flu
(c) Dengue
generate electricity, consider the following
statements: (d) Swine flu
1. If pure hydrogen is used as a fuel, the Answer: (d)
fuel cell emits heat and water as by-
products. 8. With reference to ‘Near Field
2. Fuel cells can be used for powering Communication (NFC) Technology’,
buildings and not for small devices which of the following is/are correct?
like laptop computers. 1. It is a contactless communication
3. Fuel cells produce electricity in the technology that uses electromagnetic
form of Alternating Current (AC) . radio fields.
Which of the statements given above 2. NFC is designed for use by devices
is/are correct? which can be at a distance of even a
(a) 1 only metre from each other.
(b) 2 and 3 only 3. NFC can use encryption when
(c) 1 and 3 only sending sensitive information.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Select the correct answer using the codes
given below.
Answer: (a) (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
5. In which of the following activities are (c) 1 and 3 only
Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites
(d) 1, 2 and 3
used? Answer: (c)

43 | Prelims Questions
`

7. Current Affairs

1. The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ Select the correct answer using the code
sometimes appears in the news in the given below.
context of the events related to: (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) Central Asia (b) 3 only
(b) Middle East (c) 1, 2, and 3
(c) South-East Asia (d) India is a member of none of them
(d) Central Africa
Answer: (b)
Answer: (b)
6. With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Rim
2. What is Rio+20 Conference, often Association for Regional Cooperation
mentioned in the news? (IORARC) ’, Consider the following
(a) It is the United nations Conference on statements:
Sustainable Development 1. It was established very recently in
(b) It is a Ministerial Meeting of the response to incidents of piracy and
World Trade Organization accidents of oil spills
(c) It is a Conference of the 2. It is an alliance meant for maritime
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate security only
Change Which of the following statements given
(d) It is a Conference of the Member above is/are correct?
Countries of the Convention on (a) 1 only
Biological Diversity (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (a) (d) Neither 1 nor 2

3. Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for Peace, Answer: (d)

Disarmament and Development for 2014
was given to which of the following? 7. The term ‘IndARC’ sometimes seen in the
(a) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre news, is the name of?
(b) Indian Institute of Science (a) an indigenously developed radar
(c) Indian Space Research Organization system inducted into Indian Defence
(d) Tata Institute of Fundamental (b) India’s satellite to provide services to
Research the countries of Indian Ocean Rim
(c) a scientific establishment set up by
Answer: (c) India in Antarctic region
(d) India’s underwater observatory to
4. Amnesty International is scientifically study the Arctic region
(a) an agency of the United Nations to
help refugees of civil wars Answer: (d)
(b) a global Human Rights Movement
(c) a non-governmental voluntary
organization to help very poor people
(d) an inter-governmental agency to cater
to medical emergencies in war-
ravaged regions

Answer: (b)

5. India is a member of which of the

following?
1. Asia-Pacific economic corporation.
2. Association of South-East Asian
Nations.
3. East Asia Summit

44 | Prelims Questions
`

8. ‘Beijing Declaration and Platform for 11. Which of the following has/have been
Action’ often seen in the news, is accorded ‘Geographical Indication’
(a) a strategy to tackle the regional status?
terrorism, an outcome of a meeting of 1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
the Shanghai Cooperation 2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
Organization. 3. Tirupathi Laddu
(b) a plan of action for sustainable Select the correct answer using the code
economic growth in the Asia-Pacific given below:
Region, an outcome of deliberations of (a) 1 only
the Asia-Pacific Economic Forum (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) an agenda for women’s (c) 1 only 3 only
empowerment, an outcome of a World (d) 1, 2 and 3
Conference convened by the United
Nations Answer: (c)
(d) a strategy to combat wildlife
trafficking, a declaration of the East 12. The ‘Fortaleza Declaration’ recently in the
Asia Summit news, is related to the affairs of:
(a) ASEAN
Answer: (c) (b) BRICS
(c) OECD
9. Consider the following countries (d) WTO
1. China
2. France Answer: (b)
3. India
4. Israel 13. Which of the following statements is/are
5. Pakistan correct regarding National Innovation
Which among the above are Nuclear Foundation-India (NIF) ?
Weapons States as recognized by the 1. NIF is an autonomous body of the
Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Department of Science and
Weapons, commonly known as Nuclear Technology under the Central
Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) ? Government
(a) 1 and 2 only 2. NIF is an initiative to strengthen the
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only highly advanced scientific research in
(c) 2, 4 and 5 only India’s premier scientific institutions
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 in collaboration with highly advanced
foreign scientific institutions.
Answer: (a) Select the correct answer using the code
given below.
10. With reference to bio-toilets used by the (a) 1 only
Indian Railways, consider the following (b) 2 only
statements: (c) Both 1 and 2
1. The decomposition of human waste in (d) Neither 1 nor 2
the bio-toilets is initiated by a fungal
inoculum. Answer: (a)
2. 2Ammonia and water vapour are the
only end products in this
decomposition which are released into
the atmosphere.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d)

45 | Prelims Questions
`

14. What can be the impact of excessive/ 15. Among the following which were
inappropriate use of nitrogenous frequently mentioned in the news for the
fertilizers in agriculture? outbreak of Ebola virus recently?
1. Proliferation of nitrogen-fixing (a) Syria and Jordan
microorganisms in soil can occur. (b) Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia
2. Increase in the acidity of soil can take (c) Philippines and Papua New Guinea
place (d) Jamaica, Haiti and Suriname
3. Leaching of nitrate to the ground-
water can occur. Answer: (b)
Select the correct answer using the code
given below.
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)

46 | Prelims Questions
`

2016

1. Geography

1. Why does the Government of India 4. Which of the following is/are

promote the use of 'Neem-coated Urea' in tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra?
agriculture? 1. Dibang
(a) Release of Neem oil in the soil 2. Kameng
increases nitrogen fixation by the soil 3. Lohit
microorganisms Select the correct answer using the code
(b) Neem coating slows down the rate of given below:
dissolution of urea in the soil (a) 1 only
(c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse (b) 2 and 3 only
gas, is not at all released into (c) 1 and 3 only
atmosphere by crop fields (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) It is a combination of a weedicide and Answer: (d)
a fertilizer for particular crops
Answer: (b) 5. With reference to 'Red Sanders',
sometimes seen in the news, consider the
2. Which of the following is/are the following statements:
1. It is a tree species found in a part of
advantage/advantages of practising drip
irrigation? South India.
2. It is one of the most important trees in
1. Reduction in weed
2. Reduction in soil salinity the tropical rain forest areas of South
3. Reduction in soil erosion India.
Which of the statements given above
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the above is an advantage of (d) Neither 1 nor 2
practising drip irrigation Answer: (a)

Answer: (c) 6. Consider the following pairs:

Famous Place Region
3. In which of the following regions of India 1. Bodhagaya: Baghelkhand
are shale gas resources found? 2. Khajuraho : Bundelkhand
1. Cambay Basin 3. Shirdi : Vidarbha
2. Cauvery Basin 4. Nasik (Nashik) : Malwa
3. Krishna-Godavari Basin 5. Tirupati : Rayalaseema
Select the correct answer using the code Which of the pairs given above are
given below. correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only (a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 3 only (b) 2, 3, 4 and 5
(c) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: (d) Answer: (c)

47 | Prelims Questions
`

2. History

1. In the context of the history of India, 5. With reference to the cultural history of
consider the following pairs: medieval India, consider the following
Term Description statements:
1. Eripatti Land, revenue from 1. Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were
which was set apart for monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
the maintenance of the 2. Lingayats of Kannada region
village tank questioned the theory of rebirth and
2. Taniyurs Villages donated to a rejected the caste hierarchy.
single Brahmin or a Which of the statements given above
group of Brahmins is/are correct?
3. Ghatikas Colleges generally (a) 1 only
attached to the temples (b) 2 only
Which of the pairs given above correctly (c) Both 1 and 2
matched? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only Answer: (c)
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3 6. With reference to the religious history of
India, consider the following statements:
Answer: (d) 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central
to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
2. With reference to the cultural history of 2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on
India, the memorizing of chronicles, his way to enlightenment.
dynastic histories and epic tales was the 3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own
profession of who of the following? salvation to help all sentient beings on
(a) Shramana their path to it.
(b) Parivrajaka Which of the statements given above
(c) Agrahaarika is/are correct?
(d) Maagadha (a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (d) (c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Who of the following had first deciphered
the edicts of Emperor Ashoka? Answer: (b)
(a) Georg Buhler
(b) James Prinsep 7. What is/are common to the two historical
(c) Max Muller places known as Ajanta and
(d) William Jones Mahabalipuram?
1. Both were built in the same period.
Answer: (b) 2. Both belong to the same religious
denomination.
4. Which one of the following books of 3. Both have rock-cut monuments.
ancient India has the love story of the son Select the correct answer using the code
of the founder of Sunga dynasty? given below.
(a) Swapnavasavadatta (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) Malavikagnimitra (b) 3 only
(c) Meghadoota (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) Ratnavali (d) None of the statements given above is
correct
Answer: (b)
Answer: (b)

48 | Prelims Questions
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8. With reference to the economic history of (d) a peasant movement in Punjab.

medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta’ refers
to Answer: (c)
(a) bonded labour 13. The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals
(b) land grants made to military officers were related to
(c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of (a) social reforms
land (b) educational reforms
(d) wasteland converted to cultivated (c) reforms in police administration
land (d) constitutional reforms
Answer: (c)
Answer: (d)
9. Regarding the taxation system of Krishna
14. Consider the following:
Deva, the ruler of Vijayanagar, consider
1. Calcutta Unitarian Committee
the following statements:
2. Tabernacle of New Dispensation
1. The tax rate on land was fixed
3. Indian Reform Association
depending on the quality of the land.
Keshab Chandra Sen is associated with the
2. Private owners of workshops paid an
establishment of which of the above?
industries tax.
(a) 1 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above
(b) 2 and 3 only
is/are correct?
(c) 3 only
(a) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (b)
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) 15. What was the main reason for the split in
the Indian National Congress at Surat in
10. Banjaras during the medieval period of 1907?
Indian history were generally (a) Introduction of communalism into
(a) agriculturists Indian politics by Lord Minto
(b) warriors (b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity
(c) weavers of the moderates to negotiate with the
(d) traders British Government
(c) Foundation of Muslim League
Answer: (d)
(d) Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be
elected as the President of the Indian
11. The 'Swadeshi' and 'Boycott' were adopted
National Congress
as methods of struggle for the first time
during the
Answer: (b)
(a) Agitation against the Partition of
Bengal
16. The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged
(b) Home Rule Movement
that after the Second World War
(c) Non-Cooperation Movement
(a) India should be granted complete
(d) Visit of the Simon Commission to
independence.
India
(b) India should be partitioned into two
Answer: (a) before granting independence.
(c) India should be made a republic with
12. Satya Shodhak Samaj organized the condition that she will join the
(a) a movement for upliftment of tribals Commonwealth.
in Bihar. (d) India should be given Dominion
(b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat. status.
(c) an anti-caste movement in
Maharashtra. Answer: (d)

49 | Prelims Questions
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3. Polity

1. Consider the following statements:

1. The minimum age prescribed for any 3. Consider the following statements:
person to be a member of Panchayat is 1. The Chief Secretary in a State is
25 years. appointed by the Governor of that
2. A Panchayat reconstituted after State.
premature dissolution continues only 2. The Chief Secretary in a State has a
for the remainder period. fixed tenure.
Which of the statements given above Which of the statements given above is /
is/are correct? are correct?
(a) 1 only (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (b) Answer: (a)

2. Which of the following statements is/are 4. The Parliament of India acquires the
correct? power to legislate on any item in the State
1. A Bill pending in the Lok Sabha lapses List in the national interest if a resolution
on its prorogation. to that effect is passed by the
2. A Bill pending in the Rajya Sabha, (a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its
which has not been passed by the Lok total membership
Sabha, shall not lapse on dissolution (b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less
of the Lok Sabha. than two-thirds of its total
Select the correct answer using the code membership
given below. (c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its
(a) 1 only total membership
(b) 2 only (d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less
(c) Both 1 and 2 than two-thirds of its members
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 present and voting

Answer: (b) Answer: (d)

4. Economy

1. With reference to `IFC Masala Bonds', 2. In the context of which of the following do
sometimes seen in the news, which of the you sometimes find the terms 'amber box,
statements given below is/are correct? blue box and green box' in the news?
1. The International Finance (a) WTO affairs
Corporation, which offers these (b) SAARC affairs
bonds, is an arm of the World Bank. (c) UNFCCC affairs
2. They are the rupee-denominated (d) India-EU negotiations on FTA
bonds and are a source of debt
Answer: (a)
financing for the public and private
sector.
3. Recently, which one of the following
Select the correct answer using the code
currencies has been proposed to be added
given below
to the basket of IMF's SDR?
(a) 1 only
(a) Rouble
(b) 2 only
(b) Rand
(c) Both 1 and 2
(c) Indian Rupee
(d) Neither1 nor 2
(d) Renminbi
Answer: (c) Answer: (d)

50 | Prelims Questions
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4. India's ranking in the 'Ease of Doing 8. Which of the following best describes the
Business Index' is sometimes seen in the term 'import cover', sometimes seen in the
news. Which of the following has declared news?
that ranking? (a) It is the ratio of value of imports to the
(a) Organization for Economic Gross Domestic Product of a country
Cooperation and Development (b) It is the total value of imports of a
(OECD) country in a year
(b) World Economic Forum (c) It is the ratio between the value of
(c) World Bank exports and that of imports between
(d) World Trade Organization (WTO) two countries
(d) It is the number of months of imports
Answer: (c) that could be paid for by a country's
international reserves
5. Consider the following statements:
1. New Development Bank has been set Answer: (d)
up by APEC.
2. The headquarters of New 9. With reference to 'Financial Stability and
Development Bank is in Shanghai. Development Council', consider the
Which of the statements given above is/ following statements:
are correct? 1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
(a) 1 only 2. It is headed by the Union Finance
(b) 2 only Minister
(c) Both 1 and 2 3. It monitors macro-prudential
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 supervision of the economy.
Which of the statements given above is/
Answer: (b)
are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
6. With reference to the International
Monetary and Financial Committee (b) 3 only
(IMFC) , consider the following (c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
statements:
1. IMFC discusses matters of concern
Answer: (c)
affecting the global economy, and
advises the International Monetary
10. 'The establishment of 'Payment Banks' is
Fund (IMF) on the direction of its
work. being allowed in India to promote
financial inclusion. Which of the following
2. The World Bank participates as
observer in MFC's meetings, statements is/are correct in this context?
Which of the statements given above 1. Mobile telephone companies and
supermarket chains that are owned
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only and controlled by residents are
eligible to be promoters of Payment
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 Banks.
2. Payment Banks can issue both credit
(d) Neither I nor 2
cards and debit cards.
Answer: (c) 3. Payment Banks cannot undertake
lending activities.
7. 'Global Financial Stability Report' is Select the correct answer using the code
prepared by the given below
(a) European Central Bank (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) International Monetary Fund (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) International Bank for Reconstruction (c) 2 only
and Development (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) Organization for Economic
Cooperation and Development Answer: (b)
Answer: (b)

51 | Prelims Questions
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11. What is/are the purpose/purposes of the 14. Which one of the following is a purpose of
'Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?
Rate (MCLR) ' announced by RBI? (a) Providing technical and financial
1. These guidelines help improve the assistance to start-up entre-preneurs
transparency in the methodology in the field of renewable sources of
followed by banks for determining the energy
interest rates on advances. (b) Providing electricity to every
2. These guidelines help ensure household iv the country by 2018
availability of bank credit at interest (c) Replacing the coal-based power plants
rates which are fair to the borrowers with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind
as well as the banks. and tidal power plants over a period
Select the correct answer using the code of time.
given below. (d) Providing for financial turnaround
(a) 1 only and revival of power distribution
(b) 2 only companies
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither I nor 2 Answer: (d)

Answer: (c) 15. With reference to ‘Stand Up India

Scheme’, which of the following
12. What is/are the purpose/purposes of statements is/are correct?
Government's 'Sovereign Gold Bond 1. Its purpose is to promote
Scheme' and 'Gold Monetization Scheme"? entrepreneurship among SC/ST and
1. To bring the idle gold lying with women entrepreneurs.
Indian households into the economy 2. It provides for refinance through
2. To promote FDI in the gold and SIDBI,
jewellery sector Select the correct answer using the code
3. To reduce India's dependence on gold given below.
imports (a) 1 only
Select the correct answer using the code (b) 2 only
given below. (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) 1 only (d) Neither1 nor 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only Answer: (c)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
16. ‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the
Answer: (c) Government of India, aims at
(a) promoting the Self Help Groups in
13. Which of the following is/are included in rural areas
the capital budget of the Government of (b) providing financial and technical
India? assistance to young start-up
1. Expenditure on acquisition of assets entrepreneurs
like roads, buildings, machinery, etc, (c) promoting the education and health of
2. Loans received from foreign adolescent girls
governments (d) providing affordable and quality
3. Loans and advances granted to the education to the citizens for free
States and Union Territories
Select the correct answer using the code Answer: (d)
given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

52 | Prelims Questions
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17.` Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed Select the correct answer using the code
at given below.
(a) ` bringing the small entrepreneurs into (a) 1 only
formal financial system (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) ` providing loans to poor farmers for (c) 1 and 3 only
cultivating particular crops (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(c) providing pensions to old and
Answer: (c)
destitute persons
(d) funding the voluntary organizations 21. With reference to 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal
involved in the promotion of skill Bima Yojana', consider the following
development and employment statements:
generation 1. Under this scheme, farmers will have
Answer: (a) to pay a uniform premium of two
percent for any crop they cultivate in
18. Regarding ‘Atal Pension Yojana’, which of any season of the year.
the following statements is/are correct? 2. This scheme covers post-harvest losses
1. It is a minimum guaranteed pension arising out of cyclones and unseasonal
scheme mainly targeted at rains.
unorganized sector workers. Which of the statements given above
2. Only one member of a family can join is/are correct?
the scheme. (a) 1 only
3. Same amount of pension is (b) 2 only
guaranteed for the spouse for life after (c) Both 1 and 2
subscriber’s death. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Select the correct answer using the code Answer: (b)
given below.
(a) 1 only 22. What is/are the purpose/purposes of
(b) 2 and 3 only 'District Mineral Foundations' in India?
(c) 1 and 3 only 1. Promoting mineral exploration
(d) 1, 2 and 3 activities in mineral-rich districts
Answer: (c) 2. Protecting the interests of the persons
affected by mining operations
19. The term ‘Base Erosion and Profit Shifting’ 3. Authorizing State Governments to
is sometimes seen in the news in the issue licences for mineral exploration
context of Select the correct answer using the code
(a) mining operation by multinational given below.
companies in resource-rich but (a) 1 and 2 only
backward areas (b) 2 only
(b) curbing of the tax evasion by (c) 1 and 3 only
multinational companies (d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) exploitation of genetic resources of a Answer: (b)
country by multinational companies
(d) lack of consideration of environmental 23. Which of the following is/are the
planning and developmental costs in indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to
the implementation of projects compute the Global Hunger Index Report?
Answer: (b) 1. Undernourishment
2. Child stunting
20. There has been a persistent deficit budget 3. Child mortality
year after year. Which action/actions of Select the correct answer using the code
the following can be taken by the given below.
Government to reduce the deficit? (a) 1 only
1. Reducing revenue expenditure (b) 2 and 3 only
2. Introducing new welfare schemes (c) 1, 2 and 3
3. Rationalizing subsidies (d) 1 and 3 only
4. Reducing import duty Answer: (c)
53 | Prelims Questions
`

5. Environment

1. The term ‘Intended Nationally Which of the pairs given above is / are
Determined Contributions’ is sometimes correctly matched?
seen in the news in the context of (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) pledges made by the European (b) 2 and 3 only
countries to rehabilitate refugees from (c) 3 only
the war-affected Middle East (d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) plan of action outlined by the
countries of the world to combat Answer: (c)
climate change
(c) capital contributed by the member 4. In which of the following regions of India
countries in the establishment of are you most likely to come across the
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural
(d) plan of action outlined by the habitat?
countries of the world regarding (a) Sand deserts of northwest India
Sustainable Development Goals (b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and
Kashmir
Answer: (b) (c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat
(d) Western Ghats
2. What is/are the importance/importances
of the ‘United Nations Convention to Answer: (d)
Combat Desertification’?
1. It aims to promote effective action 5. Which of the following best
through innovative national describes/describe the aim of ‘Green India
programmes and supportive Mission’ of the Government of India?
international partnerships. 1. Incorporating environmental benefits
2. It has a special/particular focus on and costs into the Union and State
South Asia and North Africa regions, Budgets thereby implementing the
and its Secretariat facilitates the ‘green accounting’
allocation of major portion of financial 2. Launching the second green
resources to these regions. revolution to enhance agricultural
3. It is committed to bottom-up output so as to ensure food security to
approach, encouraging the one and all in the future
participation of local people in 3. Restoring and enhancing forest cover
combating the desertification. and responding to climate change by a
Select the correct answer using the code combination of adaptation and
given below. mitigation measures
(a) 1 only Select the correct answer using the code
(b) 2 and 3 only given below.
(c) 1 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
Answer: (c)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Consider the following pairs Answer: (c)
Terms sometimes Their origin seen
in the news
1. Annex-I Cartagena Protocol
Countries
2. Certified Nagoya Protocol
Emissions
Reductions
3. Clean Kyoto Protocol
Development
Mechanism
54 | Prelims Questions
`

6. What is/are unique about 'Kharai camel' a 3. poverty reduction

breed found in India? Select the correct answer using the code
1. It is capable of swimming up to three given below.
kilometres in seawater. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. It survives by grazing on mangroves. (b) 3 only
3. It lives in the wild and cannot be (c) 2 and 3 only
domesticated. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. Answer: (d)
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only 10. What is Greenhouse Gas Protocol?
(c) 1 and 3 only (a) It is an international accounting tool
(d) 1, 2 and 3 for government and business leaders
Answer: (a) to understand, quantify and manage
7. Recently, our scientists have discovered a greenhouse gas emissions
new and distinct species of banana plant (b) It is an initiative of the United Nations
which attains a height of about 11 metres to offer financial incentives to
and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In developing countries to reduce
which part of India has it been greenhouse gas emissions and to
discovered? adopt eco-friendly technologies
(a) Andaman Islands (c) It is an inter-governmental agreement
(b) Anaimalai Forests ratified by all the member countries of
(c) Maikala Hills the United Nations to reduce
(d) Tropical rain forests of northeast greenhouse gas emissions to specified
levels by the year 2022
Answer: (a) (d) It is one of the multilateral REDD+
initiatives hosted by the World Bank
8. With reference to an initiative called "The
Answer: (a)
Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity
(TEEB) " which of the following
11. With reference to ‘Agenda 21’, sometimes
statements is/are correct?
1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF seen in the news, consider the following
statements:
and World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global initiative that focuses on 1. It is a global action plan for
sustainable development.
drawing attention to the economic
benefits of biodiversity. 2. It originated in the World Summit on
3. It presents an approach that can help Sustainable Development held in
Johannesburg in 2002.
decision-makers recognize,
demonstrate and capture the value of Which of the statements given above is /
are correct?
ecosystems and biodiversity.
Select the correct answer using the code (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (a)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
12. ‘Gadgil Committee Report’ and
Answer: (c)
‘Kasturirangam Committee Report’,
sometimes seen in the news, are related to
9. Which of the following statements is/are
(a) constitutional reforms
correct? Proper design and effective (b) Ganga Action Plan
implementation of UN REDD+
(c) linking of rivers
Programme can significantly contribute to (d) protection of Western Ghats
1. protection of biodiversity
2. resilience of forest ecosystems Answer: (d)
55 | Prelims Questions
`

13. On which of the following can you find developing countries to cope with
the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star climate change.
Label? Select the correct answer using the code
1. Ceiling fans given below.
2. Electric geysers (a) 1 and 3 only
3. Tubular fluorescent lamps (b) 2 only
Select the correct answer using the code (c) 2 and 3 only
given below. (d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only Answer: (b)
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 16. Consider the following statements:
1. The Sustainable Development Goals
Answer: (d) were first proposed in 1972 by a global
think tank called the ‘Club of Rome’.
14. Consider the following statements: 2. The Sustainable Development Goals
1. The International Solar Alliance was have to be achieved by 2030.
launched at the United Nations Which of the statements given above is /
Climate Change Conference in 2015. are correct?
2. The Alliance includes all the member (a) 1 only
countries of the United Nations. (b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above is (c) Both 1 and 2
/are correct? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only Answer: (b)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 17. In the cities of our country, which among
the following atmospheric gases are
Answer: (a) normally considered in calculating the
value of Air Quality Index?
15. With reference to the Agreement at the 1. Carbon dioxide
UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which 2. Carbon monoxide
of the following statements is/are correct? 3. Nitrogen dioxide
1. The Agreement was signed by all the 4. Sulfur dioxide
member countries of the UN and it 5. Methane
will go into effect in 2017. Select the correct answer using the code
2. The Agreement aims to limit the given below.
greenhouse gas emissions so that the (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
rise in average global temperature by (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
the end of this century does not (c) 1, 4 and 5 only
exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre- (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
industrial levels.
3. Developed countries acknowledged Answer: (b)
their historical responsibility in global
warming and committed to donate
$1000 billion a year from 2020 to help

6. Science & Technology

1. 'Project Loon', sometimes seen in the

news, is related to Answer: (b)
(a) waste management technology
(b) wireless communication technology
(c) solar power production technology
(d) water conservation technology

56 | Prelims Questions
`

2. Which of the following statements is/are (b) Nuclear-powered submarine

correct? (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
Viruses can infect (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
1. bacteria
2. fungi Answer: (c)
3. plants
Select the correct answer using the code 6. India is an important member of the
‘International Thermonuclear
given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment
(b) 3 only succeeds, what is the immediate
advantage of India?
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) It can use thorium in place of uranium
for power generation.
Answer: (d) (b) It can attain a global role in satellite
navigation
3. Consider the following statements: (c) It can drastically improve the
efficiency of its fission reactors in
The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO
1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission power generation
2. made India the second country to (d) It can build fusion reactors for power
generation
have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after
USA Answer: (d)
3. made India the only country to be
successful in making its spacecraft 7. In the context of the developments in
orbit the Mars in its very first attempt Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’,
Which of the statement (s) given above sometimes seen in the news, refers to
is/are correct? (a) a range of enzymes used in genome
(a) 1 only editing
(b) 2 and 3 only (b) the full range of mRNA molecules
(c) 1 and 3 only expressed by an organism
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) the description of the mechanism of
gene expression
Answer: (c)
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutation
4. With reference to ‘Astrosat’, the taking place in cells
astronomical observatory launched by Answer: (b)
India, which of the following statement (s)
is/are correct? 8. With reference to pre-packed items in
1. Other than USA and Russia, India is India, it is mandatory to the manufacturer
the only country to have launched a to put which of the following information
similar observatory into space. on the main label, as per the Food Safety
2. Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in and Standards (Packaging and Labelling)
an orbit at 1650 km above the surface Regulation, 2011?
of the Earth. 1. List of ingredients including additives
Select the correct answer using the codes 2. Nutrition information
given below. 3. Recommendations, if any, made by
(a) 1 only the medical profession about the
(b) 2 only possibility of any allergic reaction
(c) Both1 and 2 4. Vegetarian/non-vegetarian
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Select the correct answer using the codes
Answer: (d) given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
5. Which one of the following is the best (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
in the news recently? (d) 1 and 4 only
(a) Amphibious warfare ship Answer: (c)

57 | Prelims Questions
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9. With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the 11. What is ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10) ’,
news, which of the following statement (s) recently in the news?
is/are correct? (a) Electric plane tested by NASA
1. It uses light as the medium for high (b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft
speed data transmission. designed by Japan
2. It is a wireless technology and several (c) Space observatory launched by China
times faster than ‘WiFi’. (d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. Answer: (a)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 12. What is Medecins Sans Frontiers (MSF) ?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) An agency formed by the
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 International Olympic Committee
(IOC) to check misuse of drugs by
Answer: (c) sportspersons
(b) A non-governmental organization
10. With reference to ‘Bitcoins’, sometimes which specializes in international
seen in the news, which of the following humanitarian aid and emergency
statement (s) is/are correct? medical assistance
1. Bitcoins are tracked by the Central (c) An organization to develop
Banks of the countries. applications of nanotechnology in
2. Anyone with a Bitcoin address can medicine
send and receive Bitcoins from anyone (d) An organization of medical
else with a Bitcoin address. practitioners funded by the European
3. Online payments can be sent without Union which carries out reach against
either side knowing the identity of the spread of AIDS
other.
Select the correct answer using the codes Answer: (b)
given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

7. Current Affairs

1. ‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national 2. Consider the following pairs:

campaign to
(a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute Community sometimes In the affairs
persons and provide them with of mentioned in the news
suitable sources of livelihood 1. Kurd Bangladesh
(b) release the sex workers from their 2. Madhesi Nepal
practice and provide them with 3. Rohingya Myanmar
alternative sources of livelihood
(c) eradicate the practice of manual Which of the pairs given above is/are
scavenging and rehabilitate the correctly matched?
manual scavengers (a) 1 and 2
(d) release the bonded labourers from (b) 2 only
their bondage and rehabilitate them (c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only
Answer: (c)
Answer: (c)

58 | Prelims Questions
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3. With reference to ‘Organization for the biodiversity and knowledge systems

Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) of the local communities
’, consider the following statements: 3. To provide Geographical Indication
1. It is an organization of European status to all the varieties of
Union in working relation with NATO agricultural produce in such identified
and WHO. GIAHS
2. It monitors the chemical industry to Select the correct answer using the code
prevent new weapons from emerging. given below.
3. It provides assistance and protection (a) 1 and 3 only
to States (Parties) against chemical (b) 2 only
weapons threats. (c) 2 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above (d) 1, 2 and 3
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only Answer: (b)
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only 6. The term ‘Core Banking Solutions’ is
(d) 1, 2 and 3 sometimes seen in the news. Which of the
following statements best
Answer: (b) describes/describe this term?
1. It is a network of a bank’s branches
4. Which of the following are the key which enables customers to operate
features of ‘National Ganga River Basin their accounts from any branch of the
Authority (NGRBA) ? bank on its network regardless of
1. River basin is the unit of planning and where they open their accounts.
management. 2. It is an effort to increase RBI’s control
2. It spearheads the river conservation over commercial banks through
efforts at the national level. computerization.
3. One of the Chief Ministers of the 3. It is a detailed procedure by which a
States through which the Ganga flows bank with huge non- performing
becomes the Chairman of NGRBA on assets is taken over by another bank.
a rotation basis. Select the correct answer using the code
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
given Below. (a) 1 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (a)

Answer: (a) 7. ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the

Government of India pertains to
5. The FAO accords the status of ‘Globally (a) immunization of children and
Important Agricultural Heritage System pregnant women
(GIAHS) ’ to traditional agricultural (b) construction of smart cities across the
systems. What is the overall goal of this country
initiative? (c) India’s own search for the Earth-like
1. To provide modern technology, planets in outer space
training in modern farming methods (d) New Educational Policy
and financial support to local
communities of identified GIAHS so Answer: (a)
as to greatly enhance their agricultural
productivity
2. To identify and safeguard eco-friendly
traditional farm practices and their
associated landscapers, agricultural

59 | Prelims Questions
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8. ‘Net metering’ is sometimes seen in the (d) Neither 1 nor 2

news in the context of promoting the
(a) production and use of solar energy by Answer: (a)
the households/consumers
(b) use of piped natural gas in the 12. With reference to ‘Initiative for Nutritional
kitchens of households Security through Intensive Millets
(c) installation of CNG kits in motor-cars Promotion’, which of the following
(d) installation of water meters in urban statements is/are correct?
households 1. This initiative aims to demonstrate the
improved production and post-
Answer: (a) harvest technologies, and to
demonstrate value addition
9. With reference to the ‘Gram Nyayalaya techniques, in an integrated manner,
Act’, which of the following statements with a cluster approach.
is/are correct? 2. Poor, small, marginal and tribal
1. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can farmers have a larger stake in this
hear only civil cases and not criminal scheme.
cases. 3. An important objective of the scheme
2. The Act allows local social activists as is to encourage farmers of commercial
mediators/reconciliators. crops to shift to millet cultivation by
Select the correct answer using the code offering them free kits of critical
given below. inputs of nutrients and micro-
(a) 1 only irrigation equipment.
(b) 2 only Select the correct answer using the code
(c) Both 1 and 2 given below.
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (b) (c) 1 and 2 only
10. With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific (d) 1, 2 and 3
Partnership’, consider the following Answer: (c)
statements:
1. It is an agreement among all the 13. Recently, India’s first ‘National
Pacific Rim countries except China Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was
and Russia. proposed to be set up in
2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose (a) Andhra Pradesh
of maritime security only. (b) Gujarat
Which of the statements given above (c) Maharashtra
is/are correct? (d) Uttar Pradesh
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only Answer: (a)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 14. Which of the following is not a member of
`Gulf Cooperation Council’?
Answer: (d) (a) Iran
(b) Saudi Arabia
11. Consider the following statements: (c) Oman
The India-Africa Summit (d) Kuwait
1. held in 2015 was the third such Summit
2. was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Answer: (a)
Nehru in 1951
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2

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15. ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes 19. Recently, linking of which of the following
mentioned in the news in the context of rivers was undertaken?
the affairs of (a) Cauvery and Tungabhadra
(a) African Union (b) Godavari and Krishna
(b) Brazil (c) Mahanadi and Sone
(c) European Union (d) Narmada and Tapti
(d) China
Answer: (b)
Answer: (d)
20. Recently, for the first time in our country,
16. The term ‘Regional Comprehensive which of the following States has declared
Economic Partnership’ often appears in a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?
the news in the context of the affairs of a (a) Arunachal Pradesh
group of countries known as (b) Himachal Pradesh
(a) G20 (c) Karnataka
(b) ASEAN (d) Maharashtra
(c) SCO
(d) SAARC Answer: (d)

Answer: (b) 21. Recently, which of the following States has

explored the possibility of constructing an
17. ‘European Stability Mechanism’, artificial inland port to be connected to sea
sometimes seen in the news, is an by a long navigational channel?
(a) agency created by EU to deal with the (a) Andhra Pradesh
impact of millions of refugees arriving (b) Chhattisgarh
from Middle East (c) Karnataka
(b) agency of EU that provides financial (d) Rajasthan
assistance to eurozone countries
(c) agency of EU to deal with all the Answer: (d)
bilateral and multilateral agreements
on trade 22. A recent movie titled The Man Who Knew
(d) agency of EU to deal with the conflicts Infinity is based on the biography of
arising among the member countries (a) S. Ramanujan
(b) S. Chandrasekhar
Answer: (b) (c) S. N. Bose
18. Regarding DigiLocker’, sometimes seen in (d) C. V. Raman
the news, which of the following
statements is/are correct? Answer: (a)
1. It is a digital locker system offered by
the Government under Digital India
Programme.
2. It allows you to access your e-
documents irrespective of your
physical location.
Select the correct answer using the code
given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

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2017

1. Geography

1. The terms ‘Event Horizon’, ‘Singularity’, 5. Consider the following statements:

‘String Theory’ and ‘Standard Model’ are 1. In India, the Himalayas are spread
sometimes seen in the news in the context over five States only.
of 2. Western Ghats are spread over five
(a) Observation and understanding of States only.
the Universe 3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States
(b) Study of the solar and the lunar only.
eclipses Which of the statements given above
(c) Placing satellites in the orbit of the is/are correct?
Earth (a) 1 and 2 only
(d) Origin and evolution of living (b) 3 only
organisms on the Earth (c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (a)
Answer: (b)
2. Which of the following practices can help
in water conservation in agriculture? 6. With reference to 'Indian Ocean Dipole
1. Reduced or zero tillage of the land (IOD) ' sometimes mentioned in the news
2. Applying gypsum before irrigating while forecasting Indian monsoon, which
the field of the following statements is/are correct?
3. Allowing crop residue to remain in 1. IOD phenomenon is characterised by
the field a difference in sea surface temperature
Select the correct answer using the code between tropical Western Indian
given Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific
(a) 1 and 2 only Ocean.
(b) 3 only 2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an
(c) 1 and 3 only EI Nino's impact on the monsoon.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Select the correct answer using the code
given below:
Answer: (d) (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
3. Which of the following is geographically (c) Both 1 and 2
closest to Great Nicobar? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) Sumatra
(b) Borneo Answer: (b)
(c) Java
(d) Sri Lanka 7. At one of the places in India, if you stand
on the seashore and watch the sea, you
Answer: (a) will find that the sea water recedes from
the shore line a few kilometres and comes
4. If you travel by road from Kohima to back to the shore, twice a day, and you can
Kottayam, what is the minimum number actually walk on the sea floor when the
of States within India through which you water recedes. This unique phenomenon is
can travel, including the origin and the seen at
destination? (a) Bhavnagar
(a) 6 (b) Bheemunipatnam
(b) 7 (c) Chandipur
(c) 8 (d) Nagapattinam
(d) 9
Answer: (c)
Answer: (b)
62 | Prelims Questions
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8. Mediterranean Sea is a border of which of 9. With reference to river teesta, consider the
the following countries? following statements
1. Jordan 1. The source of river Teesta is the same
2. Iraq as that of Brahamputra but it flows
3. Lebanon through Sikkim
4. Syria 2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim
Select the correct answer using the code and it is a tributary of river Teesta.
given below: 3. River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only on the border of India and
(b) 2 and 3 only Bangladesh.
(c) 3 and 4 only Which of the statements given above
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (c) (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

2. History

1. With reference to the difference between Which of the statements given above
the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus is/are correct?
Valley people, which of the following (a) 1 only
statements is/are correct? (b) 2 only
1. Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail (c) Both 1 and 2
and helmet in warfare whereas the (d) Neither 1 nor 2
people of Indus Valley Civilization
did not leave any evidence of using Answer: (b)
them.
2. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver 3. Which one of the following was a very
and copper whereas Indus Valley important seaport in the Kakatiya
people knew only copper and iron. kingdom?
3. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the (a) Kakinada
horse whereas there is no evidence of (b) Motupalli
Indus Valley people having been (c) Machilipatnam (Masulipatnam)
aware of this animal. (d) Nelluru
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: Answer: (c)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only 4. The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is
(c) 1 and 3 only one of the most famous and oft-illustrated
(d) 1, 2 and 3 paintings at:
(a) Ajanta
Answer: (a) (b) Badami
(c) Bagh
2. With reference to the religious history of (d) Ellora
India, consider the following statements:
1. Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the Answer: (a)
sects of Jainism.
2. Sarvastivadin held that the
constituents of phenomena were not
wholly momentary, but existed
forever in a latent form.

63 | Prelims Questions
`

5. Which of the following is/are famous for (d) a system of tribunals and a ban on
Sun temples? strikes.
1. Arasavalli
2. Amarakantak Answer: (d)
3. Omkareshwar
Select the correct answer using the code 9. Consider the following statements:
given below: 1. The Factories Act, 1881 was passed
(a) 1 only with a view to fix the wages of
(b) 2 and 3 only industrial workers and to allow the
(c) 1 and 3 only workers to form trade unions.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. N.M. Lokhande was a pioneer in
organizing the labour movement in
Answer: (a) British India.
Which of the above statements is/are
6. With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, correct?
consider the following statements: (a) 1 only
1. It is a song and dance performance. (b) 2 only
2. Cymbals are the only musical (c) Both 1 and 2
instruments used in the performance. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
3. It is performed to narrate the life and
deeds of Lord Krishna. Answer: (b)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? 10. The object of the Butler Committee of 1927
(a) 1, 2 and 3 was to?
(b) 1 and 3 only (a) Define the jurisdiction of the Central
(c) 2 and 3 only and Provincial Governments.
(d) 1 only (b) Define the powers of the Secretary of
State for India.
Answer: (b) (c) Impose censorship on national press.
(d) Improve the relationship between the
7. Who among the following was/were Government of India and the Indian
associated with the introduction of States.
Ryotwari Settlement in India during the
British rule? Answer: (d)
1. Lord Cornwallis
2. Alexander Read 11. Consider the following pairs:
3. Thomas Munro 1. Radhakanta Deb — First President of
Select the correct answer using the code the British Indian Association
given below: 2. Gazulu Lakshmi Narasu Chetty —
(a) 1 only Founder of the Madras Mahajana
(b) 1 and 3 only Sabha
(c) 2 and 3 only 3. Surendranath Banerjee — Founder of
(d) 1, 2 and 3 the Indian Association
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
Answer: (c) matched?
(a) 1 only
8. The Trade Disputes Act of 1929 provided (b) 1 and 3 only
for (c) 2 and 3 only
(a) the participation of workers in the (d) 1, 2 and 3
management of industries.
(b) arbitrary powers to the management Answer: (b)
to quell industrial disputes.
(c) an intervention by the British Court in
the event of a trade dispute.

64 | Prelims Questions
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12. In the context of Indian history, the What is the correct chronological sequence
principle of `Dyarchy (diarchy) ’ refers to of the above events?
(a) Division of the central legislature into (a) 1-2-3
two houses. (b) 2-1-3
(b) Introduction of double government (c) 3-2-1
i.e., Central and State governments. (d) 3-1-2
(c) Having two sets of rulers; one in
London and another in Delhi. Answer: (c)
(d) Division of the subjects delegated to
the provinces into two categories. 14. Which one of the following was a very
important seaport in the Kakatiya
Answer: (d) kingdom?
(a) Kakinada
13. With reference to Indian freedom struggle, (b) Motupalli
consider the following events: (c) Machilipatnam (Masulipatnam)
1. Mutiny in Royal Indian Navy (d) Nelluru
2. Quit India Movement launched
3. Second Round Table Conference Answer: (b)

3. Polity

1. Consider the following statements: 3. Democracy’s superior virtue lies in the fact
1. The Election Commission of India is a that it calls into activity
five-member body. (a) the intelligence and character of
2. Union Ministry of Home Affairs ordinary men and women.
decides the election schedule for the (b) the methods for strengthening
conduct of both general elections and executive leadership.
bye-elections. (c) a superior individual with dynamism
3. Election Commission resolves the and vision.
disputes relating to splits/mergers of (d) a band of dedicated party workers.
recognised political parties.
Which of the statements given above Answer: (a)
is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only 4. Local self-government can be best
(b) 2 only explained as an exercise in
(c) 2 and 3 only (a) Federalism
(d) 3 only (b) Democratic decentralization
(c) Administrative delegation
Answer: (d) (d) Direct democracy

2. Which one of the following is not a feature Answer: (b)

of Indian federalism?
(a) There is an independent judiciary in
India.
(b) Powers have been clearly divided
between the Centre and the States,
(c) The federating units have been given
unequal representation in the Rajya
Sabha.
(d) It is the result of an agreement among
the federating units.

Answer: (d)

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5. Consider the following statements: 4. Prohibition of employment of children

A Constitutional Government is one in factories and mines
which Select the correct answer using the code
1. Places effective restrictions on given below:
individual liberty in the interest of (a) 1, 2 and 4 only
State Authority (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
2. Places effective restrictions on the (c) 1 and 4 only
Authority of the State in the interest of (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
individual liberty
Which of the statements given above Answer: (c)
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only 10. One of the implications of equality in
(b) 2 only society is the absence of
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) Privileges
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) Restraints
(c) Competition
Answer: : (b) (d) Ideology

6. Which one of the following objectives is Answer: (a)

not embodied in the Preamble to the
Constitution of India? 11. Which principle among the following was
(a) Liberty of thought added to the Directive Principles of State
(b) Economic liberty Policy by the 42nd Amendment to the
(c) Liberty of expression Constitution?
(d) Liberty of belief (a) Equal pay for equal work for both
men and women
Answer: (b) (b) Participation of workers in the
management of industries
7. The mind of the makers of the (c) Right to work, education and public
Constitution of India is reflected in which assistance
of the following? (d) Securing living wage and human
(a) The Preamble conditions of work to workers
(b) The Fundamental Rights
(c) The Directive Principles of State Policy Answer: (b)
(d) The Fundamental Duties
12. Which one of the following statements is
Answer: (a) correct?
(a) Rights are claims of the State against
8. Right to vote and to be elected in India is a the citizens.
(a) Fundamental Right (b) Rights are privileges which are
(b) Natural Right incorporated in the Constitution of a
(c) Constitutional Right State.
(d) Legal Right (c) Rights are claims of the citizens
against the State.
Answer: (c) (d) Rights are privileges of a few citizens
against the many.
9. Which of the following are envisaged by
the Right against Exploitation in the Answer: (c)
Constitution of India?
1. Prohibition of traffic in human beings
and forced labour
2. Abolition of untouchability
3. Protection of the interests of
minorities

66 | Prelims Questions
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13. Consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above
With reference to the Constitution of is/are correct?
India, the Directive Principles of State (a) 1 only
Policy constitute limitations upon (b) 2 only
1. legislative function (c) Both 1 and 2
2. executive function (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Which of the above statement (s) is/are
correct? Answer: (d)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 17. Which of the following are not necessarily
(c) Both 1 and 2 the consequences of the proclamation of
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 the President’s rule in a State?
1. Dissolution of the State Legislative
Answer: (d) Assembly
2. Removal of the Council of Ministers in
14. Which of the following statement (s) the State
is/are true of the Fundamental Duties of 3. Dissolution of the local bodies
an Indian citizen? Select the correct answer using the code
1. A legislative process has been below:
provided to enforce these duties. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. They are correlative to legal duties. (b) 1 and 3 only
Select the correct answer using the code (c) 2 and 3 only
given below: (d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only Answer: (b)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 18. Out of the following statements, choose
the one that brings out the principle
Answer: (c) underlying the Cabinet form of
Government:
15. In the context of India, which one of the (a) An arrangement for minimizing the
following is the correct relationship criticism against the Government
between Rights and Duties? whose responsibilities are complex
(a) Rights are correlative with Duties. and hard to carry out to the
(b) Rights are personal and hence satisfaction of all.
independent of society and Duties. (b) A mechanism for speeding up the
(c) Rights, not Duties, are important for activities of the Government whose
the advancement of the personality of responsibilities are increasing day by
the citizen. day.
(d) Duties, not Rights, are important for (c) A mechanism of parliamentary
the stability of the State. democracy for ensuring collective
responsibility of the Government to
Answer: (a) the people.
(d) A device for strengthening the hands
16. Consider the following statements: of the head of the Government whose
1. In the election for Lok Sabha or State hold over the people is in a state of
Assembly, the winning candidate decline.
must get at least 50 percent of the
votes polled, to be declared elected. Answer: (c)
2. According to the provisions laid down
in the Constitution of India, in Lok
Sabha, the Speaker’s post goes to the
majority party and the Deputy
Speaker’s to the Opposition.

67 | Prelims Questions
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19. For election to the Lok Sabha, a (d) the head of the government cannot be
nomination paper can be filed by changed without election.
(a) anyone residing in India.
(b) a resident of the constituency from Answer: (c)
which the election is to be contested.
(c) any citizen of India whose name 22. The Parliament of India exercises control
appears in the electoral roll of a over the functions of the Council of
constituency. Ministers through
(d) any citizen of India. 1. Adjournment motion
2. Question hour
Answer: (c) 3. Supplementary questions
Select the correct answer using the code
20. With reference to the Parliament of India, given below:
consider the following statements: (a) 1 only
1. A private member’s bill is a bill (b) 2 and 3 only
presented by a Member of Parliament (c) 1 and 3 only
who is not elected but only nominated (d) 1, 2 and 3
by the President of India.
2. Recently, a private member’s bill has Answer: (d)
been passed in the Parliament of India
for the first time in its history 23. In India, Judicial Review implies
Which of the statements given above (a) the power of the Judiciary to
is/are correct? pronounce upon the constitutionality
(a) 1 only of laws and executive orders.
(b) 2 only (b) the power of the Judiciary to question
(c) Both 1 and 2 the wisdom of the laws enacted by the
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Legislatures.
(c) the power of the Judiciary to review
Answer: (d) all the legislative enactments before
they are assented to by the President.
21. The main advantage of the parliamentary (d) the power of the Judiciary to review
form of government is that its own judgements given earlier in
(a) the executive and legislature work similar or different cases.
independently.
(b) it provides continuity of policy and is Answer: (a)
more efficient.
(c) the executive remains responsible to
the legislature.

4. Economy

1. What is/are the advantage/advantages of (d) Neither1 nor 2

implementing the 'National Agriculture
Market' scheme? Answer: (c)
1. It is a pan-India electronic trading
portal for agricultural commodities.
2. It provides the farmers access to
nationwide market, with prices
commensurate with the quality of
their produce.
Select the correct answer using the code
given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2

68 | Prelims Questions
`

2. Which of the following statements is/are Answer: (a)

correct regarding the Monetary Policy
Committee (MPC) ? 5. Consider the following statements:
1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest 1. Tax revenue as a percent of GDP of
rates, India has steadily increased in the last
2. It is a 12-member body including the decade.
Governor of RBI and is reconstituted 2. Fiscal deficit as a percent of GDP of
every year. India has steadily increased in the last
3. It functions under the chairmanship of decade.
the Union Finance Minister. Which of the statements given above
Select the correct answer using the code is/are correct?
given below: (a) 1 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(c) 3 only (d) Neither I nor 2
(d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (d)
Answer: (a)
6. Consider the following statements:
3. Consider the following statements: 1. The Standard Mark of Bureau of
1. National Payments Corporation of Indian Standards (BIS) is mandatory
India (NPCI) helps in promoting the for automotive tyres and tubes.
financial inclusion in the country 2. AGMARK is a quality Certification
2. NPCI has launched RuPay, a card Mark issued by the Food and
payment scheme. Agriculture Organisation (FAO) .
Which of the statements given above Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither1 nor 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c) Answer: (a)

4. What is/are the most likely advantages of 7. Which of the following has/have occurred
implementing ‘Goods and Services Tax in India after its liberalization of economic
(GST) ’? policies in 1991?
1. It will replace multiple taxes collected 1. Share of agriculture in GDP increased
by multiple authorities and will thus enormously.
create a single market in India. 2. Share of India’s exports in world trade
2. It will drastically reduce the ‘Current increased.
Account Deficit’ of India and will 3. FDI inflows increased.
enable it to increase its foreign 4. 4. India’s foreign exchange reserves
exchange reserves. increased enormously.
3. It will enormously increase the growth Select the correct answer using the codes
and size of economy of India and will given below:
enable it to overtake China in the near (a) 1 and 4 only
future. (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
Select the correct answer using the code (c) 2 and 3 only
given below: (d) 1, 2, 3
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only Answer: (b)
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

69 | Prelims Questions
`

8. Which of the following statements best 11. Which of the following is a most likely
describes the term ‘Scheme for Sustainable consequence of implementing the Unified
Structuring of Stressed Assets (S4A) ’, Payments Interface (UPI) ?
recently seen in the news? (a) Mobile wallets will not be necessary
(a) It is a procedure for considering for online payments.
ecological costs of developmental (b) Digital currency will totally replace
schemes formulated by the the physical currency in about two
Government. decades.
(b) It is a scheme of RBI for reworking the (c) FDI inflows will drastically increase.
financial structure of big corporate (d) Direct transfer of subsidies to poor
entities facing genuine difficulties. people will become very effective.
(c) It is a disinvestment plan of the
Government regarding Central Public Answer: (a)
Sector Undertakings.
(d) It is an important provision in The 12. What is the purpose of setting up of Small
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code’ Finance Banks (SFBs) in India?
recently implemented by the 1. To supply credit to small business
Government. units
2. To supply credit to small and
Answer: (b) marginal farmers
3. To encourage young entrepreneurs to
9. Consider the following statements: set up business particularly in rural
1. India has ratified the Trade areas.
Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO. Select the correct answer using the code
2. TFA is a part of WTO’s Bali given below:
Ministerial Package of 2013. (a) 1 and 2 only
3. TFA came into force in January 2016. (b) 2 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above (c) 1 and 3 only
is/are correct? (d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only Answer: (a)
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 13. With reference to the ‘Prohibition of
Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988
Answer: (a) (PBPT Act) , consider the following
statements:
10. With reference to the ‘National Intellectual 1. A property transaction is not treated
Property Rights Policy’, consider the as a benami transaction if the owner of
following statements: the property is not aware of the
1. It reiterates India’s commitment to the transaction.
Doha Development Agenda and the 2. Properties held benami are liable for
TRIPS Agreement. confiscation by the Government.
2. Department of Industrial Policy and 3. The Act provides for three authorities
Promotion is the nodal agency for for investigations but does not
regulating intellectual property rights provide for any appellate mechanism.
in India. Which of the statements .given above
Which of the above statements is/are is/are correct?
correct? (a) 1only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) 2 and 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
Answer: (c)

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14. ‘Broad-based Trade and Investment 18. What is the aim of the programme ‘Unnat
Agreement (BTIA) ’ is sometimes seen in Bharat Abhiyan’?
the news in the context of negotiations (a) Achieving 100% literacy by promoting
held between India and collaboration between voluntary
(a) European Union organizations and the government's
(b) Gulf Cooperation Council education system and local
(c) Organization for Economic communities.
Cooperation and Development (b) Connecting institutions of higher
(d) Shanghai Cooperation Organization education with local communities to
address development challenges
Answer: (a) through appropriate technologies.
(c) Strengthening India’s scientific
15. The term ‘Digital Single Market Strategy’ research institutions in order to make
seen in the news refers to India a scientific and technological
(a) ASEAN power.
(b) BRICS (d) Developing human capital by
(c) EU allocating special funds for health care
(d) G20 and education of rural and urban
poor, and organizing skill
Answer: (c) development programmes and
vocational training for them.
16. Consider the following statements:
1. India has ratified the Trade Answer: (b)
Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO.
2. TFA is a part of WTO’s Bali 19. The Global Infrastructure Facility is a/an
Ministerial Package of 2013. (a) ASEAN initiative to upgrade
3. TFA came into force in January 2016. infrastructure in Asia and financed by
Which of the statements given above credit from the Asian Development
is/are correct? Bank.
(a) 1 and 2only (b) World Bank collaboration that
(b) 1 and 3 only facilitates the preparation and
(c) 2 and 3 only structuring of complex infrastructure
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to
enable mobilization of private sector
Answer: (a) and institutional investor capital.
(c) Collaboration among the major banks
17. Consider the following in respect of of the world working with the OECD
‘National Career Service’: and focused on expanding the set of
1. National Career Service is an initiative infrastructure projects that have the
of the Department of Personnel and potential to mobilize private
Training, Government of India. investment.
2. National Career Service has been (d) UNCTAD funded initiative that seeks
launched in a Mission Mode to to finance and facilitate infrastructure
improve the employment development in the world.
opportunities to uneducated youth of
the country. Answer: (b)
Which of the above statements is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (b)

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20. With reference to ‘National Investment Select the correct answer using the code
and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the given below:
following statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only
1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog. (b) 1, 2 and 3 only
2. 2. It has a corpus of Rs. 4, 00,000 crore (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
at present. (d) 3 and 4 only
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: Answer: (a)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 22. What is the purpose of Vidyanjali Yojana’?
(c) Both 1 and 2 1. To enable the famous foreign
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 educational institutions to open their
campuses in India.
Answer: (d) 2. To increase the quality of education
provided in government schools by
21. Which of the following are the objectives taking help from the private sector
of ‘National Nutrition Mission’? and the community.
1. To create awareness relating to 3. To encourage voluntary monetary
malnutrition among pregnant women contributions from private individuals
and lactating mothers. and organizations so as to improve the
2. To reduce the incidence of anemia infrastructure facilities for primary
among young children, adolescent and secondary schools.
girls and women. Select the correct answer using the code
3. To promote the consumption of given below:
millets, coarse cereals and unpolished (a) 2 only
rice. (b) 3 only
4. To promote the consumption of (c) 1 and 2 only
poultry eggs. (d) 2 and 3 only

Answer: (a)

5. Environment

1. The term 'M-STRIPES' is sometimes seen (c) It is endemic to a particular region of

in the news in the context of India.
(a) Captive breeding of Wild Fauna (d) Both (b) and (c) stated above are
(b) Maintenance of Tiger Reserves correct in this context.
(c) Indigenous Satellite Navigation
System Answer: (a)
(d) Security of National Highways
3. Recently there was a proposal to
Answer: (b) translocate some of the lions from their
natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of
2. In India, if a species of tortoise is declared the following sites?
protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (a) Corbett National Park
(Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply? (b) Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary
(a) It enjoys the same level of protection (c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
as the tiger. (d) Sariska National Park
(b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few
individuals are under captive Answer: (b)
protection; and now it is impossible to
prevent its extinction.

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4. With reference to ‘Global Climate Change 7. If you want to see gharials in their natural
Alliance’, which of the following habitat, which one of the following is the
statements is/are correct? best place to visit?
1. It is an initiative of the European (a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves
Union. (b) Chambal River
2. It provides technical and financial (c) Pulicat Lake
support to targeted developing (d) Deepor Bed
countries to integrate climate change
into their development policies and Answer: (b)
budgets.
3. It is coordinated by World Resources 8. From the ecological point of view, which
Institute (WRI) and World Business one of the following assumes importance
Council for Sustainable Development in being a good link between the Eastern
(WBCSD) . Ghats and the Western Ghats?
Select the correct answer using the code (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
given below: (b) Nallamala Forest
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) Nagarhole National Park
(b) 3 only (d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and Answer: (a)

Answer: (a) 9. Consider the following statements in

respect of Trade Related Analysis of Fauna
5. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC) :
standard criterion for 1. TRAFFIC is a bureau under United
(a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood Nations Environment Programme
(b) Computing- oxygen levels in forest (UNEP) .
ecosystems 2. The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure
(c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems that trade in wild plants and animals
(d) Assessing oxygen levels in high is not a threat to the conservation of
altitude regions nature.
Which of the above statements is/are
Answer: (c) correct?
(a) 1 only
6. Consider the following statements: (b) 2 only
1. Climate and Clean Air Coalition (c) Both 1 and 2
(CCAC) to Reduce Short Lived (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Climate Pollutants is a unique
initiative of G20 group of countries. Answer: (b)
2. The CCAC focuses on methane, black
carbon and hydrofluorocarbons.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (b)

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10. In the context of solving pollution 1. Pollination of some plants could be

problems, what is/are the adversely affected.
advantage/advantages of bioremediation 2. There could be a drastic increase in
technique? the fungal infections of some
1. It is a technique for cleaning up cultivated plants.
pollution by enhancing the same 3. It could lead to a fall in the population
biodegradation process that occurs in of some species of wasps, spiders and
nature. birds.
2. Any contaminant with heavy metals Select the correct answer using the code
such as cadmium and lead can be given below:
readily and completely treated by (a) 1 only
bioremediation using microorganisms. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. Genetic engineering can be used to (c) 1 and 3 only
create microorganisms specifically (d) 1, 2 and 3
designed for bioremediation.
Select the correct answer using the code Answer: (c)
given below:
(a) 1 only 13. In the context of mitigating the impending
(b) 2 and 3 only global warming due to anthropogenic
(c) 1 and 3 only emissions of carbon dioxide, which of the
(d) 1, 2 and 3 following can be the potential sites for
carbon sequestration?
Answer: (c) 1. Abandoned and uneconomic coal
seams
11. It is possible to produce algae based 2. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs
biofuels, but what is/are the likely 3. Subterranean deep saline formations
limitation (s) of developing countries in Select the correct answer using the code
promoting this industry? given below:
1. Production of algae based biofuels is (a) 1 and 2 only
possible in seas only and not on (b) 3 only
continents. (c) 1 and 3 only
2. Setting up and engineering the algae (d) 1, 2 and 3
based biofuel production requires
high level of expertise/technology Answer: (d)
until the construction is completed.
3. Economically viable production 14. According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act,
necessitates the setting up of large 1972, which of the following animals
scale facilities which may raise cannot be hunted by any person except
ecological and social concerns. under some provisions provided by law?
Select the correct answer using the code 1. Gharial
given below: 2. Indian wild ass
(a) 1 and 2 only 3. Wild buffalo
(b) 2 and 3 only Select the correct answer using the code
(c) 3 only given below.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (b) (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
12. Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall
in the population of species of butterflies, Answer: (d)
what could be its likely
consequence/consequences?

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6. Science & Technology

1. Consider the following statements: 3. It can be used to decipher the host-

1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease pathogen relationships in crops
is transmitted by ‘the same mosquito Select the correct answer using the code
that transmits dengue. given below:
2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus (a) 1 only
disease is possible (b) 2 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above (c) 1 and 3 only
is/are correct? (d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only Answer: (d)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 5. In India, it is legally mandatory for which
of the following to report on cyber
Answer: (c) security incidents?
1. Service providers
2. What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser 2. Data centers
Interferometer Space Antenna’ (eLISA) 3. Body corporate
project? Select the correct answer using the codes
(a) To detect neutrinos given below:
(b) To detect gravitational waves (a) 1 only
(c) To detect the effectiveness of missile (b) 1 and 2 only
defence system (c) 3 only
(d) To study the effect of solar flares on (d) 1, 2 and 3
our communication systems
Answer: (d)
Answer: (b)
6. Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs)
3. What is the application of Somatic Cell are used to create digital displays in many
Nuclear Transfer Technology? devices. What are the advantages of OLED
(a) Production of biolarvicides displays over Liquid Crystal displays?
(b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics 1. OLED displays can be fabricated on
(c) Reproductive cloning of animals flexible plastic substrates.
(d) Production of organisms free of 2. Roll-up displays embedded in
diseases clothing can be made using OLEDs.
3. Transparent displays are possible
Answer: (c) using OLEDs.
Select the correct answer using the codes
4. With reference to agriculture in India, how given below:
can the technique of 'genome sequencing', (a) 1 and 3 only
often seen in the news, be used in the (b) 2 only
immediate future? (c) 1, 2 and 3
1. Genome sequencing can be used to (d) None of the above statement is correct
identify genetic markers for disease
resistance and drought tolerance in Answer: (c)
various crop plants.
2. This technique helps in reducing the
time required to develop new varieties
of crop plants.

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7. Current Affairs (15)

1. Consider the following pairs: 4. Which of the following statements is/are

correct regarding Smart India Hackathon
2017?
Traditions Communities 1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme for
developing every city of our country
1 Chaliha Sahib Sindhis into Smart Cities in a decade.
Festival 2. It is an initiative to identify new
digital technology innovations for
2 Nanda Raj Gonds solving the many problems faced by
Jaat Yatra our country.
3. It is a programme aimed at making all
the financial transactions in our
3 Wari-Warkari Santhals country completely digital in a
decade.
Select the correct answer using the code
Which of the pairs given above is/are
given below:
correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
(d) None of the above
Answer: (b)
Answer: (a)
5. The term ‘Domestic Content Requirement’
2. Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme’ is
is sometimes seen in the news with
sometimes mentioned in the news with
reference to
reference to
(a) Developing solar power production in
(a) Certifying the skills acquired by
our country
construction workers through
(b) Granting licences to foreign T.V.
traditional channels.
channels in our country
(b) Enrolling the persons in Universities
(c) Exporting our food products to other
for distance learning programmes.
countries
(c) Reserving some skilled jobs to rural
(d) Permitting foreign educational
and urban poor in some public sector
institutions to set up their campuses in
undertakings.
our country
(d) Certifying the skills acquired by
trainees under the National Skill
Answer: (a)
Development Programme.
6. Consider the following statements:
Answer: (a)
1. The Nuclear Security Summits are
periodically held under the aegis of
3. Which of the following gives ‘Global
the United Nations.
Gender Gap Index’ ranking to the
2. The International Panel on Fissile
countries of the world?
Materials is an organ of the
(a) World Economic Forum
International Atomic Energy Agency.
(b) UN Human Rights Council
Which of the statements given above
(c) UN Women
is/are correct?
(d) World Health Organization
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
Answer: (a)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d)

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7. Who among the following can join the 10. With reference to the role of UN-Habitat
National Pension System (NPS) ? in the United Nations programme
(a) Resident Indian citizens only working towards a better urban future,
(b) Persons of age from 21 to 55 only which of the statements is/are correct?
(c) All State Government employees 1. UN-Habitat has been mandated by the
joining the services after the date of United Nations General Assembly to
notification by the respective State promote socially and environmentally
Governments sustainable towns and cities to
(d) All Central Government employees provide adequate shelter for all.
including those of Armed Forces 2. Its partners are either governments or
joining the services on or after 1St local urban authorities only.
April, 2004 3. UN-Habitat contributes to the overall
objective of the United Nations system
Answer: (d) to reduce poverty and to promote
access to safe drinking water and basic
8. With reference to ‘Quality Council of India sanitation.
(QCI) ’, consider the following statements: Select the correct answer using the code
1. QCI was set up jointly by the given below:
Government of India and the Indian (a) 1, 2 and 3
Industry. (b) 1 and 3 only
2. Chairman of QCI is appointed by the (c) 2 and 3 only
Prime Minister on the (d) 1 only
recommendations of the industry to
the Government. Answer: (b)
Which of the above statements is/are
correct? 11. With reference to ‘National Skills
(a) 1 only Qualification Framework (NSQF) ’, which
(b) 2 only of the statements given below is/are
(c) Both 1 and 2 correct?
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 1. Under NSQF, a learner can acquire the
certification for competency only
Answer: (c) through formal learning.
2. An outcome expected from the
9. With reference to ‘Asia Pacific Ministerial implementation of NSQF is the
Conference on Housing and Urban mobility between vocational and
Development (APMCHUD) ’, consider the general education.
following statements: Select the correct answer using the code
1. The first APMCHUD was held in given below:
India in 2006 on the theme ‘Emerging (a) 1 only
Urban Forms — Policy Responses and (b) 2 only
Governance Structure’. (c) Both 1 and 2
2. India hosts all the Annual Ministerial (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Conferences in partnership with ADB,
APEC and ASEAN. Answer: (b)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d)

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12. Consider the following in respect of 14. Consider the following pairs:
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) : Commonly Unwanted or
1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in used/consumed controversial
2015 under the chairmanship of the materials chemicals likely to
Indian Navy. be found in them
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that 1. Lipstick Lead
seeks to increase maritime co- 2. Soft Drinks Brominated
operation among navies of the littoral vegetable oils
states of the Indian Ocean Region. 3. Chinese fast Monosodium
Which of the above statements is/are food glutamate
correct? Which of the pairs given above is/are
(a) 1 only correctly matched?
(b) 2 only (a) 1 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Answer: (d)
13. Consider the following statements: The
nation-wide ‘Soil Health Card Scheme’ 15. What is the importance of developing
aims at Chabahar Port by India?
1. expanding the cultivable area under (a) India’s trade with African countries will
irrigation. enormously increase.
2. enabling the banks to assess the (b) India’s relations with oil-producing Arab
quantum of loans to be granted to countries will be strengthened.
farmers on the basis of soil quality. (c) India will not depend on Pakistan for
3. checking the overuse of fertilizers in access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
farmlands. (d) Pakistan will facilitate and protect the
Which of the above statements is/are installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq
correct? and India.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only Answer: (c)
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

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2018

1. Geography

1. With references to organic farming in Which of the statements given above

India, consider the following statements: is/are correct?
1. 'The National Programme for Organic (a) 1 and 2 only
Production' (NPOP) is operated under (b) 3 only
the guidelines and directions of the (c) 1 and 3 only
Union Ministry of Rural (d) 1, 2 and 3
Development.
2. 'The Agricultural and Processed Food Answer: (b)
Products Export Development
Authority' (APEDA) functions as the 4. With reference to solar power production
Secretariat for the implementation of in India, consider the following
NPOP. statements:
3. Sikkim has become India's first fully 1. India is the third largest in the world
organic State. in the manufacture of silicon wafers
Which of the statements given above used in photovoltaic units.
is/are correct? 2. The solar power tariffs are determined
(a) 1 and 2 only by the Solar Energy Corporation of
(b) 2 and 3 only India.
(c) 3 only Which of the statements given above
(d) 1, 2 and 3 is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
Answer: (b) (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
2. Consider the following pairs: (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Regions Country Answer: (d)

sometimes mentioned in news
1. Catalonia Spain 5. As per the NSSO 70th Round "Situation
2. Crimea Hungary Assessment Survey of Agricultural
3. Mindanao Philippines Households", consider the following
4. Oromia Nigeria statements:
1. Rajasthan has the highest percentage
Which of the pairs given above are share of agricultural households
correctly matched? among its rural households.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 2. Out of the total agricultural
(b) 3 and 4 only households in the country, a little over
(c) 1 and 3 only 60 percent belong to OBCs.
(d) 2 and 4 only 3. In Kerala, a little over 60 percent of
agricultural households reported to
Answer: (c) have received maximum income from
sources other than agricultural
3. With reference to agricultural soils, activities.
consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above
1. A high content of organic matter in is/are correct?
soil drastically reduces its water (a) 2 and 3 only
holding capacity. (b) 2 only
2. Soil does not play any role in the (c) 1 and 3 only
sulphur cycle. (d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Irrigation over a period of time can
contribute to the salinization of some Answer: (c)
agricultural lands.
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6. Consider the following statements: 9. Consider the following statements:

1. In India, State Governments do not 1. The Barren Island volcano is an active
have the power to auction non-coal volcano located in the Indian territory.
mines. 2. Barren Island lies about 140 km east of
2. Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand do Great Nicobar.
not have gold mines. 3. The last time the Barren Island
3. Rajasthan has iron ore mines. volcano erupted was in 1991 and it has
Which of the statements given above remained inactive since then.
is/are correct? Which of the statements given above
(a) 1 and 2 only is/are correct?
(b) 2 only (a) 1 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only (c) 3 only
(d) 1 and 3
Answer: (d)
Answer: (a)
7. Among the following cities, which one lies
on a longitude closest to that of Delhi? 10. Consider the following statements:
(a) Bengaluru 1. The Earth’s magnetic field has
(b) Hyderabad reversed every few hundred thousand
(c) Nagpur years.
(d) Pune 2. When the Earth was created more
than 4000 million years ago, there was
Answer: (a) 54% oxygen and no carbon dioxide.
3. When living organisms orginated,
8. Which one of the following is an artificial they modified the early atmosphere of
lake? the Earth.
(a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu) Which of the statements given above
(b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh) is/are correct?
(c) Nainital (Uttarakhand) (a) 1 only
(d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (a) (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)

2. HISTORY

1. Consider the following events: (b) 3 - 2 - 1 - 4

1. The first democratically elected (c) 4 - 2 - 1 - 3
communist party government formed (d) 3 - 1 - 2 - 4
in a State in India.
2. India's then largest bank, 'Imperial Answer: (b)
Bank of India', was renamed 'State
Bank of India'. 2. In the Federation established by The
3. Air India was nationalised and Government of India Act of 1935,
became the national carrier. residuary powers were given to the
4. Goa became a part of independent (a) Federal Legislature
India. (b) Governor General
Which of the following is the correct (c) Provincial Legislature
chronological sequence of the above (d) Provincial Governors
events?
(a) 4 - 1 - 2 - 3 Answer: (b)

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3. Which of the following led to the 7. The staple commodities of export by the
introduction of English Education in English East India Company from Bengal
India? in the middle of the 18th century were:
1. Charter Act of 1813 (a) Raw cotton, oil-seeds and opium
2. General Committee of Public (b) Sugar, salt, zinc and lead
Instruction, 1823 (c) Copper, silver, gold, spices and tea
3. Orientalist and Anglicist Controversy (d) Cotton, silk, saltpetre and opium
Select the correct answer using the code
given below: Answer: (d)
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only 8. Which one of the following is a very
(c) 1 and 3 only significant aspect of the Champaran
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Satyagraha?
(a) Active all-India participation of
Answer: (d) lawyers, students and women in the
National Movement
4. In 1920, which of the following changed (b) Active involvement of Dalit and Tribal
its name to "Swarajya Sabha"? communities of India in the National
(a) All India Home Rule League Movement
(b) Hindu Mahasabha (c) Joining of peasant unrest to India's
(c) South Indian Liberal Federation National Movement
(d) The Servants of India Society (d) Drastic decrease in the cultivation of
plantation crops and commercial
Answer: (a)
crops
5. Which among the following events
Answer: (c)
happened earliest?
(a) Swami Dayanand established Arya 9. Who among the following were the
Samaj.
founders of the "Hind Mazdoor Sabha"
(b) Dinabandhu Mitra wrote Neel Darpan established in 1948?
(c) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
(a) B. Krishna Pillai, E.M.S.
wrote Anandmath. Namboodiripad and K.C. George
(d) Satyendranath Tagore became the first
(b) Jayaprakash Narayan, Deen Dayal
Indian to succeed in the Indian Civil Upadhyay and M.N. Roy
Services Examination.
(c) C.P. Ramaswamy Iyer, K. Kamaraj
Answer: (b) and Veeresalingam Pantulu
(d) Ashok Mehta, T.S. Ramanujam and
6. With reference to educational institutions G.G. Mehta
during colonial rule in India, consider the Answer: (d)
following pairs:
10. Which one of the following statements
Institution Founder does not apply to the system of Subsidiary
1. Sanskrit College William Jones Alliance introduced by Lord Wellesley?
at Benaras (a) To maintain a large standing army at
2. Calcutta Madarsa Warren Hastings others expense
3. Fort William Arthur Wellesley (b) To keep India safe from Napoleonic
College danger
(c) To secure a fixed income for the
Which of the pairs given above is/are
Company
correct?
(d) To establish British paramountcy over
(a) 1 and 2
the Indian States
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 Answer: (c)
(d) 3 only

Answer: (b)
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11. After the Santhal Uprising subsided, what 15. Consider the following pairs:
was/were the measure/measures taken
by the colonial government? Tradition State
1. The territories called ‘Santhal 1. Chapchar Kut Festival Mizoram
Parganas’ were created. 2. Khongjom Parba ballad Manipur
2. It became illegal for a Santhal to 3. Thang-Ta Dance Sikkim
transfer land to a non-Santhal.
Select the correct answer using the code Which of the pairs given above is/are
given below: correct?
(a) 1 only (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (b) 1 and 2
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) 2 and 3

Answer: (c) Answer: (b)

12. Economically one of the results of the 16. With reference to culture history of
British rule in India in the 19th century India,consider the following statements:
was the 1. Most of the Tyagaraja Kritis are
(a) increase in the export of Indian devotional songs in praise of Lord
handicrafts Krishna.
(b) growth in the number of Indian 2. Tyagaraja created several new ragas.
owned factories 3. Annamacharya and Tyagaraja are
(c) commercialization of Indian contemporaries.
agriculture 4. Annamacharya kirtnas are devotional
(d) rapid increase in the urban population songs in praise of Lord Venketshwara.
Which of the statement is given above are
Answer: (c)
correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
13. Regarding Wood's Dispatch, which of the
(b) 2 and 4 only
following statements are true?
(c) 1, 2 and 3
1. Grants-in-Aid system was introduced.
(d) 2, 3 and 4
2. Establishment of universities was
recommended.
Answer: (b)
3. English as a medium of instruction at
all levels of education was
17. With reference to the cultural history of
recommended.
India, consider the following statements:
Select the correct answer using the code
1. White marble was used in making
given below:
Buland Darwaza and Khankah at
(a) 1 and 2 only
Fatehpur Sikri.
(b) 2 and 3 only
2. Red Sandstone and marble were used
(c) 1 and 3 only
in making Bara Imambara and Rumi
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Darwaza in Lucknow.
Answer: (a) Which of the following statements given
above is/are correct?
14. He wrote biographies of Mazzini, (a) 1 only
Garibaldi, Shivaji and Shrikrishna ; stayed (b) 2 only
in America for some time; and was also (c) Both 1 and 2
elected to the Central Assembly. He was (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) Aurobindo Ghosh
(b) Bipin Chandra Pal Answer: (d)
(c) Lala Lajpat Rai
(d) Motilal Nehru

Answer: (c)
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18. With reference to the Indian History, who 20. With reference to the religious practices in
among the following is a future Buddha, India, the "Sthanakvasi" sect belongs to
yet to come to save the world? (a) Buddhism
(a) Avalokiteshvara (b) Jainism
(b) Lokesvara (c) Vaishnavism
(c) Maitreya (d) Shaivism
(d) Padmapani
Answer: (b)
Answer: (c)
21. Which one of the following foreign
19. The well-known painting "Bani Thani" travellers elaborately discussed diamonds
belongs to the and diamond mines of India?
(a) Bundi school (a) Francois Bernier
(b) Jaipur school (b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier
(c) Kangra school (c) Jean de Thevenot
(d) Kishangarh school (d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre

Answer: (d) Answer: (b)

3. Polity

1. Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic (d) A Money Bill deals with the
part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. regulation of borrowing of money or
Which of the following in the Constitution giving of any guarantee by the
of India correctly and appropriately imply Government of India.
the above statement?
(a) Article 14 and the provisions under Answer: (c)
the 42nd Amendment to the
Constitution. 3. With reference to the election of the
(b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles President of India, consider the following
of State Policy in Part IV. statements:
(c) Article 21 and the freedoms 1. The value of the vote of each MLA
guaranteed in Part III. varies from State to State.
(d) Article 24 and the provisions under 2. The value of the vote of MPs of the
the 44th Amendment to the Lok Sabha is more than the value of
Constitution. the vote of MPs of the Rajya Sabha.
Which of the statements given above
Answer: (c) is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
2. Regarding Money Bill, which of the (b) 2 only
following statements is not correct? (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) A bill shall be deemed to be a Money (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Bill if it contains only provisions
relating to imposition, abolition, Answer: (a)
remission, alteration or regulation of
any tax.
(b) A Money Bill has provisions for the
custody of the Consolidated Fund of
India or the Contingency Fund of
India.
(c) A Money Bill is concerned with the
appropriation of moneys out of the
Contingency Fund of India.

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4. Consider the following statements: Select the correct answer using the code
1. The Speaker of the Legislative given below:
Assembly shall vacate his/her office if (a) 1 and 3 only
he/she ceases to be a member of the (b) 2 and 4 only
Assembly. (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
2. Whenever the Legislative Assembly is (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
dissolved, the Speaker shall vacate
his/her office immediately. Answer: (c)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? 8. If the President of India exercises his
(a) 1 only power as provided under Article 356 of
(b) 2 only the Constitution in respect of a particular
(c) Both 1 and 2 State, then
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) the Assembly of the State is
automatically dissolved.
Answer: (a) (b) the powers of the Legislature of that
State shall be exercisable by or under
5. Which one of the following reflects the the authority of the Parliament.
most appropriate relationship between (c) Article 19 is suspended in that State.
law and liberty? (d) the President can make laws relating
(a) If there are more laws, there is less to that State.
liberty.
(b) If there are no laws, there is no liberty. Answer: (b)
(c) If there is liberty, laws have to be
made by the people. 9. With reference to the Parliament of India,
(d) If laws are changed too often, liberty is which of the following Parliamentary
in danger. Committees scrutinizes and reports to the
House whether the powers to make
Answer: (b) regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc.
conferred by the Constitution or delegated
6. Consider the following statements: by the Parliament are being properly
1. No criminal proceedings shall be exercised by the Executive within the
instituted against the Governor of a scope of such delegation?
State in any court during his term of (a) Committee on Government
office. Assurances
2. The emoluments and allowances of (b) Committee on Subordinate Legislation
the Governor of a State shall not be (c) Rules Committee
diminished during his term of office. (d) Business Advisory Committee
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Answer: (b)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

7. Which of the following are regarded as the

main features of the "Rule of Law"?
1. Limitation of powers
2. Equality before law
3. People's responsibility to the
Government
4. Liberty and civil rights

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10. Consider the following statements: leader cannot be recognised as the

1. As per the Right to Education (RTE) Leader of the Opposition.
Act, to be eligible for appointment as a Which of the statements given above
teacher in a State, a person would be is/are correct?
required to possess the minimum (a) 1 and 3 only
qualification laid down by the (b) 2 only
concerned State Council of Teacher (c) 2 and 3 only
Education. (d) 1, 2 and 3
2. As per the RTE Act, for teaching
Answer: (b)
primary classes, a candidate is
required to pass a Teacher Eligibility 12. Consider the following statements:
Test conducted in a accordance with
1. The Parliament of India can place a
the National Council of Teacher particular law in the Ninth Schedule
Education guidelines.
of the Constitution of India.
3. In India, more than 90% of teacher 2. The validity of a law placed in the
education institutions are directly
Ninth Schedule cannot be examined
under the State Governments. by any court and no judgement can be
Which of the statements given above
made on it.
is/are correct? Which of the statements given above
(a) 1 and 2 is/are correct?
(b) 2 only
(a) 1 only
(c) 1 and 3 (b) 2 only
(d) 3 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (b) (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a)
11. Consider the following statements:
1. In the first Lok Sabha, the single 13. "Rule of Law Index" is released by which
largest party in the opposition was the of the following?
Swatantra Party. (a) Amnesty International
2. In the Lok Sabha, a "Leader of the (b) International Court of Justice
Opposition" was recognised for the (c) The office of UN Commissioner for
first time in 1969. Human Rights
3. In the Lok Sabha, if a party does not (d) World Justice Project
have a minimum of 75 members, its
Answer: (d)

4. ECONOMY

1. Consider the following: 2. With reference to the governance of public

sector banking in India, consider the
1. Areca nut 2. Barley following statements:
3. Coffee 4. Finger millet 1. Capital infusion into public sector
5. Groundnut 6. Sesamum banks by the Government of India has
7. Turmeric steadily increased in the last decade.
2. To put the public sector banks in
The Cabinet Committee on Economic order, the merger of associate banks
Affairs has announced the Minimum with the parent State Bank of India has
Support Price for which of the above? been affected.
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 7 only
Which of the statements given above
(b) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only is/are correct?
(c) 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 only
(a) 1 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Answer: (b) (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
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3. Consider the following items: 6. With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal

1. Cereal grains hulled Vikas Yojana, consider the following
2. Chicken eggs cooked statements:
3. Fish processed and canned 1. It is the flagship scheme of the
4. Newspapers containing advertising Ministry of Labour and Employment.
material 2. It, among other things will also impart
Which of the above items is/are exempted training in soft skills,
under GST (Good and Services Tax) ? entrepreneurship, financial and digital
(a) 1 only literacy.
(b) 2 and 3 only 3. It aims to align the competencies of
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only the unregulated workforce of the
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 country to the National Skill
Qualification Framework.
Answer: (c) Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
4. Consider the following countries: (a) 1 and 3 only
1. Australia (b) 2 only
2. Canada (c) 2 and 3 only
3. China (d) 1, 2, and 3
4. India
5. Japan Answer: (c)
6. USA
Which of the above are among the 'free- 7. The Partnership for Action on Green
trade partners' of ASEAN? Economy (PAGE) , a UN mechanism to
(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 assist countries transition towards greener
(b) 3, 4, 5 and 6 and more inclusive economies, emerged at
(c) 1, 3, 4 and 5 (a) The Earth Summit on Sustainable
(d) 2, 3, 4 and 6 Development 2002, Johannesburg.
(b) The United Nations Conference on
Answer: (c) Sustainable Development 2012, Rio de
Janeiro.
5. Which of the following is/are the (c) The United Nations Framework
aim/aims of "Digital India" Plan of the Convention on Climate Change 2015,
Government of India? Paris.
1. Formation of India's own Internet (d) The World Sustainable Development
companies like China did. Summit 2016, New Delhi.
2. Establish a policy framework to
encourage overseas multinational Answer: (b)
corporations that collect Big Data to
build their large data centres within 8. Which one of the following statements
our national geographical boundaries. correctly describes the meaning of legal
3. Connect many of our villages to the tender money?
Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of (a) The money which is tendered in
our schools, public places and major courts of law to defray the fee of legal
tourist centres. cases
Select the correct answer using the code (b) The money which a creditor is under
given below: compulsion to accept in settlement of
(a) 1 and 2 only his claims
(b) 3 only (c) The bank money in the form of
(c) 2 and 3 only cheques, drafts, bills of exchange, etc.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) The metallic money in circulation in a
country
Answer: (b)
Answer: (b)

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9. If a commodity is provided free to the 13. Consider the following statements:

public by the Government, then 1. The Reserve Bank of India manages
(a) the opportunity cost is zero. and services Government of India
(b) the opportunity cost is ignored. Securities but not any State
(c) the opportunity cost is transferred Government Securities.
from the consumers of the product to 2. Treasury bills are issued by the
the tax-paying public. Government of India and there are no
(d) the opportunity cost is transferred treasury bills issued by the State
from the consumers of the product to Governments.
the Government. 3. Treasury bills offer are issued at a
discount from the par value.
Answer: (c) Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
10. Increase in absolute and per capita real (a) 1 and 2 only
GNP do not connote a higher level of (b) 3 only
economic development, if (c) 2 and 3 only
(a) industrial output fails to keep pace (d) 1, 2 and 3
with agricultural output.
(b) agricultural output fails to keep pace Answer: (c)
with industrial output.
(c) poverty and unemployment increase. 14. Consider the following statements:
(d) imports grow faster than exports. 1. Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) is the
amount that banks have to maintain in
Answer: (c) the form of their own funds to offset
any loss that banks incur if the
11. Consider the following statements: account-holders fail to repay dues.
Human capital formation as a concept is 2. CAR is decided by each individual
better explained in terms of a process bank.
which enables Which of the statements given above
1. Individuals of a country to accumulate is/are correct?
more capital. (a) 1 only
2. Increasing the knowledge, skill levels (b) 2 only
and capacities of the people of the (c) Both 1 and 2
country. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
3. Accumulation of tangible wealth.
4. Accumulation of intangible wealth Answer: (a)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? 15. Consider the following statements:
(a) 1 and 2 1. The Food Safety and Standards Act,
(b) 2 only 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food
(c) 2 and 4 Adulteration Act, 1954.
(d) 1, 3 and 4 2. The Food Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI) is under
Answer: (c) the charge of Director General of
Health Services in the Union Ministry
12. Despite being a high saving economy, of Health and Family Welfare.
capital formation may not result in Which of the statements given above
significant increase in output due to is/are correct?
(a) weak administrative machinery (a) 1 only
(b) illiteracy (b) 2 only
(c) high population density (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) high capital-output ratio (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d) Answer: (a)

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16. With reference to the provisions made Select the correct answer using the code
under the National Food Security Act, given below:
2013, consider the following statements: (a) 1 only
1. The families coming under the (b) 2 only
category of 'below poverty line (BPL) ' (c) Both 1 and 2
only are eligible to receive subsidised (d) Neither 1 nor 2
food grains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of Answer: (d)
age 18 years or above, shall be the
head of the household for the purpose 19. Consider the following statements:
of issuance of a ration card. 1. The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget
3. Pregnant women and lactating Management (FRBM) Review
mothers are entitled to a 'take-home Committee Report has recommended
ration' of 1600 calories per day during a debt to GDP ratio of 60% for the
pregnancy and for six months general (combined) government by
thereafter. 2023, comprising 40% for the Central
Which of the statements given above Government and 20% for the State
is/are correct? Governments.
(a) 1 and 2 only 2. The Central Government has domestic
(b) 2 only liabilities of 21% of GDP as compared
(c) 1 and 3 only to that of 49% of GDP of the State
(d) 3 only Governments.
3. As per the Constitution of India, it is
Answer: (b) mandatory for a State to take the
Central Government's consent for
17. With reference to digital payments, raising any loan if the former owes
consider the following statements: any outstanding liabilities to the latter.
1. BHIM app allows the user to transfer Which of the statements given above
money to anyone with a UPI-enabled is/are correct?
bank account. (a) 1 only
2. While a chip-pin debit card has four (b) 2 and 3 only
factors of authentication, BHIM app (c) 1 and 3 only
has only two factors of authentication. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Answer: (c)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 20. Consider the following statements:
(c) Both 1 and 2 1. The quantity of imported edible oils is
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 more than the domestic production of
edible oils in the last five years.
Answer: (a) 2. The Government does not impose any
customs duty on all the imported
18. With reference to India's decision to levy edible oils as a special case.
an equalization tax of 6% on online Which of the statements given above
advertisement services offered by non- is/are correct?
resident entities, which of the following (a) 1 only
statements is/are correct? (b) 2 only
1. It is introduced as a part of the Income (c) Both 1 and 2
Tax Act. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
2. Non-resident entities that offer
advertisement services in India can Answer: (a)
claim a tax credit in their home
country under the "Double Taxation
Avoidance Agreements".

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21. Which one of the following links all the 23. Which one of the following best describes
ATMs in India? the term “Merchant Discount Rate”
(a) Indian Banks' Association sometimes seen in the news?
(b) National Securities Depository (a) The incentive given by a bank to a
Limited merchant for accepting payments
(c) National Payments Corporation of through debit cards pertaining to that
India bank.
(d) Reserve Bank of India (b) The amount paid back by banks to
their customers when they use debit
Answer: (c) cards for financial transactions for
purchasing goods or services.
22. Consider the following statements: (c) The charge to a merchant by a bank
1. Aadhaar card can be used as a proof for accepting payments from his
of citizenship or domicile. customers through the bank’s debit
2. Once issued, Aadhaar number cannot card.
be deactivated or omitted by the (d) The incentive given by the
Issuing Authority. Government to merchants for
Which of the statements given above promoting digital payments by their
is/are correct? customers through Point of sale (PoS)
(a) 1 only machines and debit cards
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 Answer: (c)
(d) Neither1 nor 2

Answer: (d)

5. Environment

1. In which one of the following States is 3. Which of the following is/are the possible
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located? consequence/s of heavy sand mining in
(a) Arunachal Pradesh riverbeds?
(b) Manipur 1. Decreased salinity in the river
(c) Meghalaya 2. Pollution of groundwater
(d) Nagaland 3. Lowering of the water-table
Select the correct answer using the code
Answer: (a) given below.
(a) 1 only
2. Consider the following statements: (b) 2 and 3 only
1. The definition of "Critical Wildlife
(c) 1 and 3 only
Habitat" is incorporated in the Forest (d) 1, 2 and 3
Rights Act, 2006.
2. For the first time in India, Baigas have
Answer: (b)
been given Habitat Rights.
3. Union Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change officially
decides and declares Habitat Rights
for Primitive and Vulnerable Tribal
Groups in any part of India.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

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4. Consider the following statements: 3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation

1. Most of the world's coral reefs are in crops
tropical waters. 4. Using crop residues to cover soil
2. More than one-third of the world's surface
coral reefs are located in the territories 5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop
of Australia, Indonesia and sequencing/crop rotations
Philippines. Select the correct answer using the code
3. Coral reefs host far more number of given below:
animal phyla than those hosted by (a) 1, 3 and 4
tropical rainforests. (b) 2,3,4 and 5
Which of the statements given above (c) 2, 4 and 5
is/are correct? (d) 1,2,3 and 5
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only Answer: (c)
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 8. Which of the following leaf modifications
occur (s) in the desert areas to inhibit
Answer: (d) water loss?
1. Hard and waxy leaves
5. "Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral 2. Tiny leaves
Now" is an initiative launched by 3. Thorns instead of leaves
(a) The Intergovernmental Panel on Select the correct answer using the code
Climate Change given below:
(b) The UNEP Secretariat (a) 2 and 3 only
(c) The UNFCCC Secretariat (b) 2 only
(d) The World Meterological Organisation (c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
Answer: (d)
6. Which of the following statements best
describes "carbon fertilization"? 9. How is the National Green Tribunal
(a) Increased plant growth due to (NGT) different from the Central Pollution
increased concentration of carbon Control Board (CPCB) ?
dioxide in the atmosphere. 1. The NGT has been established by an
(b) Increased temperature of Earth due to Act whereas the CPCB has been
increased concentration of carbon created by an executive order of the
dioxide in the atmosphere. Government.
(c) Increased acidity of oceans as a result 2. The NGT provides environmental
of increased concentration of carbon justice and helps reduce the burden of
dioxide in the atmosphere. litigation in the higher courts whereas
(d) Adaptation of all living beings on the CPCB promotes cleanliness of
Earth to the climate change brought streams and wells, and aims to
about by the increased concentration improve the quality of air in the
of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. country.
Which of the statements given above
Answer: (a) is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
7. With reference to the circumstances in (b) 2 only
Indian agriculture, the concept of (c) Both 1 and 2
“Conservation Agriculture” assume (d) Neither 1 nor 2
significance. Which of the following fall
under the Conservation Agriculture? Answer: (b)
1. Avoiding monoculture practices
2. Adopting minimum tillage

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10. Which of the following has/have shrunk result in the loss of good native
immensely/dried up in the recent past ecosystems.
due to human activities? (b) Fears of a possible collision of
1. Aral Sea meteorite with the Earth in the near
2. Black Sea future in the manner it happened 65
3. Lake Baikal million years ago that caused the mass
Select the correct answer using the code extinction of many species including
given below: those of dinosaurs.
(a) 1 only (c) Large scale cultivation of genetically
(b) 2 and 3 only modified crops in many parts of the
(c) 2 only world and promoting their cultivation
(d) 1 and 3 only in other parts of the world which may
cause the disappearance of good
Answer: (a) native crop plants and the loss of food
biodiversity.
11. The term “sixth mass extinction/ sixth (d) Mankind’s over-exploitation/misuse
extinction “is often mentioned in the news of natural resources,
in the context of the discussion of fragmentation/loss of natural
(a) Widespread monoculture practices in habitats, destruction of ecosystems,
agriculture and large-scale pollution and global climate change.
commercial farming with
indiscriminate use of chemicals in Answer: (d)
many parts of the world that may

6. Science & Technology

1. With reference to India's satellite launch 2. Consider the following:

vehicles, consider the following 1. Birds
statements: 2. Dust blowing
1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for 3. Rain
Earth resources monitoring whereas 4. Wind blowing
GSLVs are designed mainly to launch Which of the above spread plant diseases?
communication satellites. (a) 1 and 3 only
2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to (b) 3 and 4 only
remain permanently fixed in the same (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
position in the sky, as viewed from a (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
particular location on Earth.
3. GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch Answer: (d)
vehicle with the first and third stages
using solid rocket motors; and the 3. What is "Terminal High Altitude Area
second and fourth stages using liquid Defense (THAAD) ", sometimes seen in
rocket engines. the news?
Which of the statements given above (a) An Israeli radar system
is/are correct? (b) India's indigenous anti-missile
programme
(c) An American anti-missile system
(a) 1 only (d) A defence collaboration between
(b) 2 and 3 Japan and South Korea.
(c) 1 and 2
(d) 3 only Answer: (c)

Answer: (a)

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4. "3D printing" has applications in which of 7. With reference to the Genetically Modified
the following? mustard (GM mustard) developed in
1. Preparation of confectionery items India, consider the following statements:
2. Manufacture of bionic ears 1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil
3. Automotive industry bacterium that give the plant the
4. Reconstructive surgeries property of pest-resistance to a wide
5. Data processing technologies variety of pests.
Select the correct answer using the code 2. GM mustard has the genes that allow
given below. the plant cross-pollination and
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only hybridization.
(b) 2, 3 and 5 only 3. GM mustard has been developed
(c) 1 and 4 only jointly by the IARI and Punjab
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Agricultural University.
Which of the statements given above
Answer: (d) is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
5. With reference to the Indian Regional (b) 2 only
Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) , (c) 2 and 3 only
consider the following statements: (d) 1, 2 and 3
1. IRNSS has three satellites in
geostationary and four satellites in Answer: (b)
geosynchronous orbits.
2. IRNSS covers entire India and about 8. Consider the following pairs:
5500 sq. km beyond its borders.
3. India will have its own satellite Terms sometimes Context/Topic
navigation system with full global seen in news
coverage by the middle of 2019. 1. Belle II Artificial Intelligence
Which of the statements given above experiment
is/are correct? 2. Blockchain Digital/Cryptocurrency
(a) 1 only technology
(b) 1 and 2 only 3. CRISPR – Cas9 Particle Physics
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) None Which of the pairs given above is/are
correctly matched?
Answer: (a) (a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
6. Consider the following statements: (c) 2 and 3 only
1. Light is affected by gravity. (d) 1, 2 and 3
2. The Universe is constantly expanding.
3. Matter warps its surrounding space- Answer: (b)
time.
Which of the above is/are the
prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein's
General Theory of Relativity, often
discussed in media?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

92 | Prelims Questions
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9. When the alarm of your smartphone rings

in the morning, you wake up and tap it to 12. The identity platform ‘Aadhaar’ provides
stop the alarm which causes your geyser open “Application Programming
to be switched on automatically. The Interfaces (APIs) ”. What does it imply?
smart mirror in your bathroom shows the 1. It can be integrated into any electronic
day's weather and also indicates the level device.
of water in your overhead tank. After you 2. Online authentication using iris is
take some groceries from your refrigerator possible.
for making breakfast, it recognises the Which of the statements given above
shortage of stock in it and places an order is/are correct?
for the supply of fresh grocery items. (a) 1 only
When you step out of your house and lock (b) 2 only
the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC (c) Both 1 and 2
machines get switched off automatically. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
On your way to office, your car warns you
about traffic congestion ahead and Answer: (c)
suggests an alternative route, and if you
are late for a meeting, it sends a message 13. India enacted the Geographical
to your office accordingly. Indications of Goods (Registration and
In the context of emerging communication Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply
technologies, which one of the following with the obligations to
terms best applies to the above scenario? (a) ILO
(a) Border Gateway Protocol (b) IMF
(b) Internet of Things (c) UNCTAD
(c) Internet Protocol (d) WTO
(d) Virtual Private Network
Answer: (d)
Answer: (b)
14. What is/are the
10. In which of the following areas can GPS consequence/consequences of a country
technology be used? becoming the member of the 'Nuclear
1. Mobile phone operations Suppliers Group'?
2. Banking operations 1. It will have access to the latest and
3. Controlling the power grids most efficient nuclear technologies.
Select the correct answer using the code 2. It automatically becomes a member of
given below: "The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation
(a) 1 only of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) ".
(b) 2 and 3 only Which of the statements given above
(c) 1 and 3 only is/are correct?
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
Answer: (d) (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
11. The terms 'WannaCry, Petya and Eternal
Blue' sometimes mentioned in the news Answer: (a)
recently are related to
(a) Exoplanets
(b) Cryptocurrency
(c) Cyber attacks
(d) Mini satellites

Answer: (c)

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7. Current affairs

1. Very recently, in which of the following 5. With reference to the ‘Global Alliance for
countries have lakhs of people either Climate-Smart Agriculture (GACSA) ;
suffered from severe famine/acute which of the following statements is/are
malnutrition or died due to starvation correct?
caused by war/ethnic conflicts? 1. GACSA is an outcome of the Climate
(a) Angola and Zambia Summit held in Paris in 2015.
(b) Morocco and Tunisia 2. Membership of GACSA does not
(c) Venezuela and Colombia create any binding obligations.
(d) Yemen and South Sudan 3. India was instrumental in the creation
of GACSA.
Answer: (d) Select the correct answer using the code
given below:
2. The term “Two-State Solution” is (a) 1 and 3 only
sometimes mentioned in the news in the (b) 2 only
context of the affairs of (c) 2 and 3 only
a) China (d) 1, 2 and 3
b) Israel
c) Iraq Answer: (b)
d) Yemen
6. Consider the following pairs: Towns
Answer: (b) sometimes mentioned in news Country
1. Aleppo - Syria
3. International Labour Organization’s 2. Kirkuk - Yemen
Conventions 138 and 182 are related to 3. Mosul - Palestine
a) Child labour 4. Mazar-i-sharif - Afghanistan
b) Adaptation of agricultural practices to Which of the pairs given above are
global climate change correctly matched?
c) Regulation of food prices and food (a) 1 and 2
security (b) 1 and 4
d) Gender parity at the workplace (c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Answer: (b)
4. In the Indian context, what is the
implication of ratifying the ‘Additional 7. Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora
Protocol’ with the ‘International Atomic often mentioned in the news?
Energy Agency (IAEA) ’? (a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics.
(a) The civilian nuclear reactors come (b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in
under IAEA safeguards. the area in which it grows.
(b) The military nuclear installations (c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of
come under the inspection of IAEA. pesticides.
(c) The country will have the privilege to (d) None of the above
buy uranium from the Nuclear
Suppliers Group (NSG) . Answer: (b)
(d) The country automatically becomes a
member of the NSG.

Answer: (a)

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2019

1. Geography

1. With reference to the management of 3. Consider the following pairs:

minor minerals in India, consider the
following statements: Famous Place River
1. Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to 1. Pandharpur Chandrabhaga
the prevailing law in the country. 2. Tiruchirappalli Cauvery
2. State Governments have the power to 3. Hampi Malaprabha
grant mining leases of minor minerals,
but the powers regarding the Which of the pairs given above are
formation of rules related to the grant correctly matched?
of minor minerals lie with the Central (a) 1 and 2 only
Government. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. The State Government has the power (c) 1 and 3 only
to frame rules to prevent illegal (d) 1, 2 and 3
mining of minor minerals.
Which of the statements given above Answer: (a)
is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only 4. On 21st June, the Sun
(b) 2 and 3 only (a) Does not set below the horizon at the
(c) 3 only Arctic Circle
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) Does not set below the horizon at
Antarctic Circle
Answer: (a) (c) Shines vertically overhead at noon on
the Equator
2. With reference to the cultivation of Kharif (d) Shines vertically overhead at the
crops in which in the last five years Tropic of Capricorn
consider the following statements:
1. Area under rice cultivation is the Answer: (a)
highest.
2. Area under the cultivation of jowar is 5. What is common to the places known as
more than that of oilseeds. Aliyar, Isapur and Kangsabati?
3. Area of cotton cultivation is more than (a) Recently discovered uranium deposits
that of sugarcane. (b) Tropical rain forests
4. Area under sugarcane cultivation has (c) Underground cave systems
steadily decreased. (d) Water reservoirs
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Answer: (d)
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only 6. Why are dewdrops not formed on a
(c) 2 and 4 only cloudy night?
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (a) Clouds absorb the radiation released
from the Earth’s surface.
Answer: (a) (b) Clouds reflect back the Earth’s
radiation.
(c) The Earth’s surface would have low
temperature on cloudy nights.
(d) Clouds deflect the blowing wind to
ground level.

Answer: (b)

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7. Consider the following pairs: 8. Consider the following pairs:

Sea Bordering Glacier River

country 1. Bandarpunch Yamuna
1. Adriatic Sea Albania 2. Bara Shigri Chenab
2. Black Sea Croatia 3. Milam Mandakini
3. Caspian Sea Kazakhstan 4. Siachen Nubra
4. Mediterranean Sea Morocco 5. Zemu Manas
5. Red Sea Syria
Which of the pairs given above are
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
correctly matched? (a) 1, 2 and 4
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 1, 3 and 4
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 5
(c) 2 and 5 only (d) 3 and 5
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: (a)
Answer: (b)

2. History

1. With reference to Mughal India, what Which of the statements given above are
is/are the difference/differences between correct?
Jagirdar and Zamindar? (a) 1 and 2 only
1. Jagirdars were holders or land (b) 2 and 3 only
assignments in lieu of judicial and (c) 1 and 3 only
police duties, whereas Zamindars (d) 1, 2 and 3
were holders of revenue rights
without obligation to perform any Answer: (a)
duty other than revenue collection.
2. Land assignments to Jagirdars were 3. With reference to Swadeshi Movement
hereditary and revenue rights or consider the following statements:
Zamindars were not hereditary. 1. It contributed to the revival of the
Select the correct answer using the code indigenous artisan crafts and
given below. industries.
(a) 1 only 2. The National Council of Education
(b) 2 only was established as a part of the
(c) Both 1 and 2 Swadeshi Movement. Which of the
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
Answer: (d) (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 1
2. Consider the following statements about (d) Neither 1 nor 2
‘the Charter Act of 1813’:
1. It ended the trade monopoly of the Answer: (c)
East India Company in India except
for trade in tea and trade with China.
2. It asserted the sovereignty of the
British Crown over the Indian
territories held by the Company.
3. The revenues of India were now
controlled by the British Parliament.

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4. Consider the following pairs: 8. With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in

India during the Gupta period, which one
Movement/Organization Leader of the following statements is correct?
1. All India Anti - Mahatma (a) It was considered a source of income
Untouchability Gandhi for the State, a sort of tax paid by the
League people.
2. All India Kisan Swami (b) It was totally absent in the Madhya
Sabha Sahajanand Pradesh and Kathiawar region of the
Saraswati Gupta Empire.
3. Self -Respect E. V. (c) The forced labourer was entitled to
Movement Ramaswami weekly wages.
Naicker (d) The eldest son of the labourer was
sent as the forced labourer
Which of the pairs given above is/are
correctly matched? Answer: (a)
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only 9. Which one of the following groups of
(c) 2 and 3 only plants was domesticated in the ‘New
(d) 1, 2 and 3 World’ and introduced into the ‘Old
World’?
Answer: (d) (a) Tobacco, cocoa and rubber
(b) Tobacco, cotton and rubber
5. Which one of the following is not a (c) Cotton, coffee and sugarcane
Harappan site? (d) Rubber, coffee and wheat
(a) Chanhudaro
(b) Kot Diji Answer: (a)
(c) Sohgaura
(d) Desalpur 10. Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a
notable feature in the temple construction
Answer: (c) in the kingdom of
(a) Chalukya
6 In which of the following relief sculpture (b) Chandela
inscriptions is ‘Ranyo Ashoka’ (King (c) Rashtrakuta
Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone (d) Vijayanagara
portrait of Ashoka?
(a) Kanganahalli Answer: (d)
(b) Sanchi
(c) Shahbazgarhi 11. Consider the following statements:
(d) Sohgaura 1. In the revenue administration of Delhi
Sultanate, the in-charge of revenue
Answer: (a) collection was known as ‘Amil’.
2. The Iqta system of Sultans of Delhi
7. Consider the following statements: was an ancient indigenous institution.
1. Deification of the Buddha 3. The office of ‘Mir Bakshi’ came into
2. Trading the path of Bodhisattvas existence during the reign of Khalji
3. Image worship and rituals Sultans of Delhi. Which of the
Which of the above is/are the statements given above is/are correct?
feature/features of Mahayana Buddhism? (a) 1 only
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only (c) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Answer: (d)

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12 Consider the following statements: 14. With reference to Indian National

1. Saint Nimbarka was a contemporary Movement, consider the following pairs:
of Akbar.
2. Saint Kabir was greatly influenced by Person Position held
Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi. 1. Sir Tej Bahadur President, All India
Which of the statements given above Sapru Liberal Federation
is/are correct? 2. K. C. Neogy Member, The
(a) 1 only Constituent
(b) 2 only Assembly
(c) Both 1 and 2 3. P. C. Joshi General Secretary,
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Communist Party
of India
Answer: (b)
Which of the pairs given above is/are
13. With reference to the British colonial rule correctly matched?
in India, consider the following (a) 1 only
statements: (b) 1 and 2 only
1. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in (c) 3 only
the abolition of the system of (d) 1, 2 and 3
‘indentured labour’.
2. In Lord Chelmsford’s War Answer: (d)
Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not
support the resolution on recruiting 15. With reference to Mian Tansen, which one
Indians for World War. of the following statements is not correct?
3. Consequent upon the breaking of Salt (a) Tansen was the title given to him by
Law by Indian people, the Indian Emperor Akbar.
National Congress was declared (b) Tansen composed Dhrupada on
illegal by the colonial rulers. Hindu gods and goddesses.
Which of the statements given above are (c) Tansen composed songs on his
correct? patrons.
(a) 1 and 2 only (d) Tansen invented many Ragas
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only Answer: (a)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
16. Who among the following Mughal
Answer: (b) Emperors shifted emphasis from
illustrated manuscripts to album and
individual portrait?
(a) Humayun
(b) Akbar
(c) Jahangir
(d) Shah Jahan

Answer: (c)

3. Polity

1. Which one of the following suggested that (b) Rajamannar Committee (1969)
the Governor should be an imminent (c) Sarkaria Commission (1983)
person from outside the State and should (d) National Commission to Review the
be a detached figure without intense Working of the Constitution (2000)
political links or should not have taken
part in politics in the recent past? Answer: (c)
(a) First Administrative Reforms
Commission (1966)

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2. In India, which of the following review the 5. With reference to the Constitution of
independent regulators in sectors like India, prohibition or limitations or
telecommunications, insurance electricity, provisions contained in ordinary laws
etc.? cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on
1. Ad Hoc Committee set up by the the constitutional powers under Article
Parliament. 142. It could mean which one of the
2. Parliamentary Department Related following?
Standing Committee (a) The decisions taken by the Election
3. Finance Commission Commission of India while
4. Financial Sector Legislative Reforms discharging its duties cannot be
Commission challenged in any court of law.
5. NITI Aayog (b) The Supreme Court of India is not
Select the correct answer using the code constrained in the exercise of its
given below. powers by laws made by the
(a) 1 and 2 Parliament.
(b) 1, 3 and 4 (c) In the event of a grave financial crisis
(c) 3, 4 and 5 in the country, the President of India
(d) 2 and 5 can declare a Financial Emergency
without the counsel from the Cabinet.
Answer: (a) (d) State Legislatures cannot make laws
on certain matters without the
3. With reference to the Constitution of concurrence of Union Legislature.
India, consider the following statements:
1. No High Court shall have the Answer: (b)
jurisdiction to declare any central law
to be constitutionally invalid. 6. With reference to the Legislative
2. An amendment to the Constitution of Assembly of a State in India, consider the
India cannot be called into question by following statements:
the Supreme Court of India. 1. The Governor makes a customary
Which of the statements given above address to Members of the House at
is/are correct? the commencement of the first session
(a) 1 only of the year.
(b) 2 only 2. When a State Legislature does not
(c) Both 1 and 2 have a rule on a particular matter, it
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 follows the Lok Sabha rule on that
matter.
Answer: (d) Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
4. In the context of polity, which one of the (a) 1 only
following would you accept as the most (b) 2 only
appropriate definition of liberty? (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) Protection against the tyranny of (d) Neither 1 nor 2
political rulers
(b) Absence of restraint Answer: (a)
(c) Opportunity to do whatever one likes
(d) Opportunity to develop oneself fully 7. Which Article of the Constitution of India
safeguards one’s right to marry the person
Answer: (d) of one’s choice?
(a) Article 19
(b) Article 21
(c) Article 25
(d) Article 29

Answer: (b)

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

1. The 44th Amendment to the (c) 3 and 4 only
Constitution of India introduced an (d) 1, 3 and 4
Article placing the election of the
Prime Minister beyond judicial review Answer: (c)
2. The Supreme Court of India struck
down the 99th Amendment to the 10. The Ninth Schedule was introduced in the
Constitution of India as being Constitution of India during the prime
violative of the independence of the ministership of
judiciary. (a) Jawaharlal Nehru
Which of the statements given above (b) Lal Bahadur Shastri
is/are correct? (c) Indira Gandhi
(a) 1 only (d) Morarji Desai
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 Answer: (a)
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
11. Consider the following statements:
Answer: (b) 1. The Parliament (Prevention of
Disqualification) Act, 1959 exempts
9. Consider the following statements: several posts from disqualification on
1. The motion to impeach a Judge of the the grounds of ‘Office of Profit’.
Supreme Court of Indian cannot be 2. The above-mentioned Act was
rejected by the Speaker of the Lok amended five times.
Sabha as per the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 3. The term ‘Office of Profit’ is well-
1968. defined in the Constitution of India.
2. The Constitution of India defines and Which of the statements given above
gives details of what constitutes is/are correct?
‘incapacity and proved misbehaviour’ (a) 1 and 2 only
of the Judges of the Supreme Court of (b) 3 only
India. (c) 2 and 3 only
3. The details of the process of (d) 1, 2 and 3
impeachment of the Judges of the
Supreme Court of India are given in Answer: (a)
the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
4. If the motion for the impeachment of a 12. Under which Schedule of the Constitution
Judge is taken up for voting, the law of India can the transfer of tribal land to
requires the motion to be backed by private parties for mining be declared null
each House of the Parliament and and void?
supported by a majority of total (a) Third Schedule
membership of that House and by not (b) Fifth Schedule
less than two thirds of total members (c) Ninth Schedule
of that House present and voting (d) Twelfth Schedule
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Answer: (b)
(a) 1 and 2

4. Economy

1. The economic cost of food grains to the (c) procurement incidentals and
Food Corporation of India is Minimum distribution cost
Support Price and bonus (if any) paid to (d) procurement incidentals and charges
the farmers plus for godowns
(a) transportation cost only
(b) interest cost only Answer: (c)

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2. In the context of any country, which one of 6. In the context of India, which of the
the following would be considered as part following factors is/are contributor/
of its social capital? contributors to reducing the risk of a
(a) The proportion of literates in the currency crisis?
population 1. The foreign currency earnings of
(b) The stock of its buildings, other India’s IT sector
infrastructure and machines 2. Increasing the government
(c) The size of population in the working expenditure
are group 3. Remittances from Indians abroad
(d) The level of mutual trust and Select the correct answer using the code
harmony in the society given below.
(a) 1 only
Answer: (d) (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
3. The Service Area Approach was (d) 1, 2 and 3
implemented under the purview of
(a) Integrated Rural Development Answer: (b)
Programme
(b) Lead Bank Scheme 7. Which of the following is issued by
(c) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural registered foreign portfolio investors to
Employment Guarantee Scheme overseas investors who want to be part of
(d) National Skill Development Mission Indian stock market without registering
themselves directly?
Answer: (b) (a) Certificate of Deposits
(b) Commercial Paper
4. Consider the following statements: (c) Promissory Note
1. Most of India’s external debt is owed (d) Participatory Note
by governmental entities.
2. All of India’s external debt is Answer: (d)
denominated in US dollars.
Which of the statements given above 8. With reference to India’s Five -Year Plans,
is/are correct? which of the following statements is/are
(a) 1 only correct?
(b) 2 only 1. From the Second Five -Year Plan,
(c) Both 1 and 2 there was a determined thrust
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 towards substitution of basic and
capital good industries
Answer: (d) 2. The Fourth Five -Year Plan adopted
the objective of correcting the earlier
5. Which of the following is not included in trend of increased concentration of
the assets of a commercial bank in India? wealth and economic power.
(a) Advances 3. In the Fifth Five -Year Plan, for the
(b) Deposits first time, the financial sector was
(c) Investments included as an integral part of the
(d) Money at call and short notice Plan.
Select the correct answer using the code
Answer: (b) given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

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9. Consider the following statements: 13. With reference to land reforms in

1. Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) independent India, which one of the
exchange rates are calculated by following statements is correct?
comparing the prices of the same (a) The ceiling laws were aimed at family
basket of goods and services in holdings and not individual holdings.
different countries (b) The major aim of land reforms was
2. In terms of PPP dollars, India is the providing agricultural land to all the
sixth largest economy in the world. landless.
Which of the statement given above is/are (c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops
correct? as a predominant form of cultivation.
(a) 1 only (d) Land reforms permitted no
(b) 2 only exemptions to the ceiling limits.
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: (b)

Answer: (a) 14. In a given year in India, official poverty

lines are higher in some States than in
10. Among the agricultural commodities others because
imported by India, which one of the (a) poverty rates vary from State to State
following accounts for the highest imports (b) price levels vary from State to State
in terms of value in the last five years? (c) Gross State Product varies from State
(a) Spices to State
(b) Fresh fruits (d) quality of public distribution varies
(c) Pulses from State to State
(d) Vegetable oils
Answer: (b)
Answer: (d)
15. Consider the following statements:
11. Which one of the following is not the most 1. Coal sector was nationalized by the
likely measure the Government/ RBI Government of India under Indira
takes to stop the slide of Indian rupee? Gandhi.
(a) Curbing imports of nonessential 2. Now, coal blocks are allocated on
goods-and promoting exports lottery basis.
(b) Encouraging Indian borrowers to 3. Till recently, India imported coal to
issue rupee denominated Masala meet the shortages of domestic
Bonds supply, but now India is self -
(c) Easing conditions relating to external sufficient in coal product.
commercial borrowing Which of the statements given above
(d) Following an expansionary monetary is/are correct?
policy (a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (d) (c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
12. The money multiplier in an economy
increases with which one of the following? Answer: (a)
(a) Increase in the cash reserve ratio
(b) Increase in the banking habit of the 16. Among the following, which one is the
population largest exporter of rice in the world in the
(c) Increase in the statutory liquidity ratio last five years?
(d) Increase in the population of the (a) China
country (b) India
(c) Myanmar
Answer: (b) (d) Vietnam

Answer: (b)

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5. Environment

1. In India, ‘extended producer Which of the statements given above

responsibility’ was introduced as an is/are correct?
important feature in which of the (a) 1 and 2 only
following? (b) 2 and 3 only
(a) The Bio -medical Waste (Management (c) 3 only
and Handling) Rules, 1998 (d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) The Recycled Plastic (Manufacturing
and Usage) Rules, 1999 Answer: (b)
(c) The e -Waste (Management and
Handling) Rules, 2011 4. Consider the following statements: The
(d) The Food Safety and Standard Environment Protection Act, 1986
Regulations, 2011 empowers the Government of India to
1. State the requirement of public
Answer: (c) participation in the process of
environmental protection, and the
2. Consider the following statements: procedure and manner in which it is
1. As per law, the Compensatory sought
Afforestation Fund Management and 2. lay down the standards for emission
Planning Authority exists at both or discharge of environmental
National and State levels. pollutants from various sources
2. People’s participation is mandatory in Which of the statements given above
the compensatory afforestation is/are correct?
programmes carried out under the (a) 1 only
Compensatory Afforestation Fund (b) 2 only
Act, 2016. (c) Both 1 and 2
Which of the statements given above (d) Neither 1 nor 2
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only Answer: (c)
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 5. As per the Solid Waste Management
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the
following statements is correct?
Answer: (a) (a) Waste generators have to segregate
waste into five categories.
3. Consider the following statements: (b) The Rules are applicable to notified
1. As per recent amendment to the urban local bodies, notified towns and
Indian Forest Act, 1927, forest all industrial townships only.
dwellers have the right to fell the (c) The Rules provide for exact and
bamboos grown on forest areas. elaborate criteria for the identification
2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and of sites for landfills and waste
Other Traditional Forest Dwellers processing facilities.
(Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, (d) It is mandatory the part of waste
2006, bamboo is a minor forest generator that the waste generated in
produce. one district cannot be moved to
3. The Scheduled Tribes and Other another district
Traditional Forest Dwellers
(Recognition of Forests Rights) Act, Answer: (c)
2006 allows ownership of minor forest
produce to forest dwellers.

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6. Consider the following statements: 10. Consider the following statements:

1. Asiatic lions are naturally found in 1. Some species of turtles are herbivores.
India only. 2. Some species of fish are herbivores.
2. Double-humped camels are naturally 3. Some species of marine mammals are
found in India only. herbivores.
3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally 4. Some species of snakes are viviparous.
found in India only. Which of the statements given above are
Which of the statements given above correct?
is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 only (c) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Answer: (a)
11. Consider the following pairs:
7. In the context of which of the following do Wildlife Naturally found in
some scientists suggest the use of cirrus 1. Blue-finned Mahseer: Cauvery River
cloud thinning technique and the injection 2. Irrawaddy Dolphin: Chambal River
of sulphate aerosol into the stratosphere? 3. Rusty-spotted Cat: Eastern Ghats
(a) Creating the artificial rains in some Which of the pairs given above are
regions correctly matched?
(b) Reducing the frequency and intensity (a) 1 and 2 only
of tropical cyclones (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar (c) 1 and 3 only
wind on the Earth (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) Reducing the global warming
Answer: (c)
Answer: (d)
12. Why is there a great concern about the
8. In the context of which one of the
‘microbeads’ that are released into the
following are the terms ‘pyrolysis and environment?
plasma gasification’ mentioned?
(a) They are considered harmful to
(a) Extraction of rare earth elements marine ecosystems.
(b) Natural gas extraction technologies
(b) They are considered to cause skin
(c) Hydrogen fuel-based automobiles cancer in children.
(d) Waste-to-energy technologies (c) They are small enough to be absorbed
Answer: (d) by crop plants in irrigated fields.
(d) They are often found to be used as
9. Which of the following are in food adulterants.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve?
(a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Answer: (a)
Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad
Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve 13. Which one of the following National Parks
(b) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and lies completely in the temperate alpine
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries; and (a) Manas National Park
Silent Valley National Park (b) Namdapha National Park
(c) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahmeswaram (c) Neora Valley National Park
and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; (d) Valley of Flowers National Park
and Mukurthi National Park
(d) Kawal and Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Answer: (d)
Sanctuaries; and Nagarjunasagar -
Srisailam Tiger Reserve

Answer: (a)

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14. Consider the following statements: 17. Which of the following statements are
1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen correct about the deposits of ‘methane
oxides into the environment. hydrate?
2. Cattle release ammonia into the 1. Global warming might trigger the
environment. release of methane gas from these
3. Poultry industry releases reactive deposits.
nitrogen compounds into the 2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’
environment. are found in Arctic Tundra and under
Which of the statements given above the seafloor.
is/are correct? 3. Methane in the atmosphere oxidizes to
(a) 1 and 3 only carbon dioxide after a decade or two.
(b) 2 and 3 only Select the correct answer using the code
(c) 2 only given below.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (d) (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
15. In the context of proposals to the use of
hydrogen - enriched CNG (H -CNG) as Answer: (d)
fuel for buses in public transport, consider
the following statements: 18. Consider the following:
1. The main advantage of the use of H - 1. Carbon monoxide
CNG is the elimination of carbon 2. Methane
monoxide emissions 3. Ozone
2. H -CNG as fuel reduces carbon 4. Sulphur dioxide
dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions. Which of the above are released into the
3. Hydrogen up to one -fifth by volume atmosphere due to the burning of
can be blended with CNG as fuel for crop/biomass residue?
buses. (a) 1 and 2 only
4. H -CNG makes the fuel less expensive (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
than CNG. (c) 1 and 4 only
Which of the statements given above (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only Answer: (d)
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 4 only 19. In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 parathion, phorate and triazophos is
viewed with apprehension. These
Answer: (b) chemicals are used as
(a) pesticides in agriculture
16. Consider the following states: (b) preservatives in processed foods
1. Chhattisgarh
(c) fruit-ripening agents
2. Madhya Pradesh (d) moisturizing agents in cosmetics
3. Maharashtra
4. Odisha Answer: (a)
With reference to the States mentioned
above, in terms of percentage of forest
cover to the total area of State, which one
of the following is the correct ascending
order?
(a) 2-3-1-4
(b) 2-3-4-1
(c) 3-2-4-1
(d) 3-2-1-4

Answer: (c)
105 | Prelims Questions
`

20. Consider the following statements: encompass the drainage area or

1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is catchment regions of the wetlands as
mandatory on the part of the determined by the authority.
Government of India to protect and Which of the statements given above
conserve all the wetlands in the is/are correct?
territory of India. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. The Wetlands (Conservation and (b) 2 and 3 only
Management) Rules, 2010 were (c) 3 only
framed by the Government of India (d) 1, 2 and 3
based on the recommendation of
Ramsar Convention. Answer: (b)
3. The Wetlands (Conservation and
Management) Rules, 2010 also

6. Science & Technology

1. With reference to communications 1. In Augmented Reality (AR) , a

technologies, what is/are the simulated environment is created and
difference/differences between LTE the physical world is completely shut
(Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice out.
over Long-Term Evolution) ? 2. In Virtual Reality (VR) , images
1. LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and generated from a computer are
VoLTE is commonly marketed as projected onto real -life objects or
advanced 3G. surroundings.
2. LTE is data-only technology and 3. AR allows individuals to be present in
VoLTE is voice-only technology. the world and improves the
Select the correct answer using the code experience using the camera of smart -
given below. phones or PCs.
(a) 1 only 4. VR closes the world, and transposes
(b) 2 only an individual, providing complete
(c) Both 1 and 2 immersion experience. Which of the
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
Answer: (d) (b) 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 3
2. Consider the following statements: (d) 4 only
1. According to the Indian Patents Act, a
biological process to create a seed can Answer: (b)
be patented in India.
2. In India, there is no Intellectual 4. With reference to the recent developments
Property Appellate Board. in science, which one of the following
3. Plant varieties are not eligible to be statements is not correct?
patented in India. (a) Functional chromosomes can be
Which of the statements given above created by joining segments of DNA
is/are correct? taken from cells of different species.
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can
(b) 2 and 3 only be created in laboratories.
(c) 3 only (c) A piece of DNA taken out from an
(d) 1, 2 and 3 animal cell can be made to replicate
outside a living cell in a laboratory.
Answer: (c) (d) Cells taken out from plants and
animals can be made to undergo cell
3. In the context of digital technologies for division in laboratory petri dishes.
entertainment, consider the following
statements: Answer: (a)

106 | Prelims Questions

`

5. Consider the following statements: A 8. Recently, scientists observed the merger of

digital signature is giant ‘blackholes’ billions of lightyears
1. an electronic record that identifies the away from the Earth. What is the
certifying authority issuing it significance of this observation?
2. used to serve as a proof of identity of (a) ‘Higgs boson particles’ were detected.
an individual to access information or (b) ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected.
serve on Internet 3. an electronic (c) Possibility of intergalactic space travel
method of signing an electronic through ‘wormhole’ was confirmed.
document and ensuring that the (d) It enabled the scientists to understand
original content is unchanged ‘singularity
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Answer: (b)
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only 9. Which of the following are the reasons for
(c) 3 only the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in
(d) 1, 2 and 3 microbial pathogens in India?
1. Genetic predisposition of some people
Answer: (d) 2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to
cure diseases
6. In the context of wearable technology, 3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
which of the following tasks is/are 4. Multiple chronic diseases in some
accomplished by wearable devices? people
1. Location identification of a person Select the correct answer using the code
2. Sleep monitoring of a person given below.
3. Assisting the hearing impaired person (a) 1 and 2
Select the correct answer using the code (b) 2 and 3 only
given below. (c) 1, 3 and 4
(a) 1 only (d) 2, 3 and 4
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only Answer: (b)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
10. What is Cas9 protein that is often
Answer: (d) mentioned in the news?
(a) A molecular scissors used in targeted
7. ‘RNA interference (RNAi) ’ technology gene editing
has gained popularity in the last few (b) A biosensor used in the accurate
years. Why? detection of pathogens in patients
1. It is used in developing gene silencing (c) A gene that makes plants pest-
therapies. resistant
2. It can be used in developing therapies (d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in
for the treatment of cancer. genetically
3. It can be used to develop hormone
replacement therapies. Answer: (a)
4. It can be used to produce crop plants
that are resistant to viral pathogens.
Select the correct answer using the code
given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1 and 4 only

Answer: (a)

107 | Prelims Questions

`

11. Which one of the following statements is 12. For the measurement/ estimation of
not correct? which of the following are satellite
(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much images/remote sensing data used?
like HIV. 1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation
(b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does of a specific location
not have a vaccine. 2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice
(c) Globally, the number of people paddies of a specific location
infected with Hepatitis B and C 3. Land surface temperatures of a
viruses are several times more than specific location
those infected with HIV. Select the correct answer using the code
(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis given below.
B and C viruses do not show the (a) 1 only
symptoms for many years. (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
Answer: (b) (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

7. Current Affairs

1. With reference to Asian Infrastructure 3. The Chairman of public sector banks are
Investment Bank (AIIB) , consider the selected by the
following statements: (a) Banks Board Bureau
1. AIIB has more than 80 member (b) Reserve Bank of India
nations. (c) Union Ministry of Finance
2. India is the largest shareholder in (d) Management of concerned bank
AIIB.
3. AIIB does not have any members from Answer: (a)
outside Asia.
Which of the statements given above 4. Consider the following statements:
is/are correct? 1. Petroleum and Natural Gas
(a) 1 only Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is the first
(b) 2 and 3 only regulatory body set up by the
(c) 1 and 3 only Government of India.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 2. One of the tasks of PNGRB is to
ensure competitive markets for gas.
Answer: (a) 3. Appeals against the decisions of
PNGRB go before the Appellate
2. What was the purpose of the Inter- Tribunals for Electricity. Which of the
Creditor Agreement signed by Indian statements given above are correct?
banks and financial institutions recently? (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) To lessen the Government of India’s (b) 2 and 3 only
perennial burden of fiscal deficit and (c) 1 and 3 only
current account deficit. (d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) To support the infrastructure projects
of Central and State Governments Answer: (b)
(c) To act as independent regulator in
case of application for loans of Rs. 50
core or more
(d) To aim at faster resolution of stressed
assets of Rs. 50 crore or more which
are under consortium lending

Answer: (d)

108 | Prelims Questions

`

5. Which of the following statements is/are 8. Which of the following adopted a law on
correct regarding the Maternity Benefit data protection and privacy for its citizens
Amendment Act, 2017? known as ‘General Data Protection
1. Pregnant women are entitled for three Regulation’ in April 2016 and started
months pre-delivery and three months implementation of its from 25th May,
post-delivery paid leave. 2018?
2. Enterprises with creches must allow (a) Australia
the mother minimum six creche visits (b) Canada
daily. (c) The European Union
3. Women with two children get reduced (d) The United States of America
entitlements.
Select the correct answer using the code Answer: (c)
given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only 9. Recently, India signed a deal known as
(b) 2 only ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and
(c) 3 only Implementation of Cooperation Areas in
(d) 1, 2 and 3 the Nuclear Field’ with which of the
following countries?
Answer: (c) (a) Japan
(b) Russia
6. Which one of the following is not a sub- (c) The United Kingdom
index of the World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing (d) The United States of America
Business Index’?
(a) Maintenance of law and order Answer: (b)
(b) Paying taxes
(c) Registering property 10. Consider the following statements about
(d) Dealing with construction permits Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
(PVTGs) in India:
Answer: (a) 1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one
Union Territory.
7. Consider the following statements: The 2. A stagnant or declining population is
Reserve Bank of India’s recent directives one of the criteria for determining
relating to ‘Storage of Payment System PVTG status.
Data’, popularly known as data diktat, 3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified
command the payment system providers in the country so far.
that 4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are
1. they shall ensure that entire data included in the list of PVTGs.
relating to payment systems operated Which of the statements given above are
by them are store in a system only in correct?
India (a) 1, 2 and 3
2. they shall ensure that the systems are (b) 2, 3 and 4
owned and operated by public sector (c) 1, 2 and 4
enterprises. (d) 1, 3 and 4
3. they shall submit the consolidated
system audit report to the Comptroller Answer: (c)
and Auditor General of India by the
end of the calendar year
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

109 | Prelims Questions

`

11. Consider the following statements: 13. The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes
1. The United Nations Convention mentioned in media in reference to
against Corruption (UNCAC) has a (a) fossils of a kind of dinosaurs
‘Protocol against the Smuggling of (b) an early human species
Migrants by Land, Sea and Air’. (c) a cave system found in North -East
2. The UNCAC is the ever - first legally India
binding global anti -corruption (d) a geological period in the history of
instrument. Indian subcontinent
3. A highlight of the United Nations
Convention against Transnational Answer: (b)
Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the
inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at 14. The Global Competitiveness Report is
returning assets to their rightful published by the
owners from whom they had been (a) International Monetary Fund
taken illicitly. (b) United Nations Conference on Trade
4. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Development
and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by (c) World Economic Forum
its member States to assist in the (d) World Bank
implementation of both UNCAC and
UNTOC. Answer: (c)
Which of the statements given above are
correct? 15. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under
(a) 1 and 3 only the
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only (a) Department of Science and
(c) 2 and 4 only Technology
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (b) Ministry of Labour and Employment
(c) NITI Aayog
Answer: (c) (d) Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship
12. Consider the following statements: As per
the Industrial Employment (Standing Answer: (c)
Orders) Central (Amendment) Rules, 2018
1. if rules for fixed -term employment 16. Recently, there was a growing awareness
are implemented, it becomes easier for in our country about the importance of
the firms/companies to lay off Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia)
workers because it is found to be a sustainable
2. no notice of termination of source of
employment shall be necessary in the (a) anti -malarial drug
case of temporary workman Which of (b) biodiesel
the statements given above is/are (c) pulp for paper industry
correct? (d) textile fibre
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only Answer: (d)
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

110 | Prelims Questions

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