PTS 2026 | Test Code : 311213 |

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T.B.C. : FIAS-PTS26 Test Booklet Series
Serial No.

A
TEST BOOKLET
GENERAL STUDIES
Paper – 1

Maximum Marks: 200 Time Allowed: TWO HOURS

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 PTS 2026 | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.1) With reference to India, consider the a) Greater Himalayas – Karakoram – Zaskar –
following statements: Shiwalik
Statement-I: 82°30′ E longitude has been b) Karakoram – Zaskar – Shiwalik – Greater
designated as the Standard Meridian of India. Himalayas
Statement-II: 82°30′ E longitude passes through c) Karakoram – Greater Himalayas – Zaskar –
the exact geographical center of India. Shiwalik
Which one of the following is correct in respect d) Karakoram – Zaskar – Greater Himalayas –
of the above statements? Shiwalik
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
correct and Statement II explains Statement I Q.5) Which of the following organizations
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are recently released ‘The Future of Jobs Report
correct but Statement II does not explain 2025’?
Statement I a) United Nations Economic and Social Council
c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is b) World Bank
incorrect c) World Economic Forum
d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is d) International Monetary Fund
correct
Q.6) With reference to the Western Ghats of
Q.2) Consider the following Indian states: India, consider the following statements:
1. Arunachal Pradesh 1. Their elevation generally increases from
2. Sikkim north to south.
3. Uttarakhand 2. Anaimudi is the highest peak of this region.
4. Tripura 3. They are spread across six states.
5. Nagaland Which of the above given statements are
6. Mizoram correct?
How many of the above given states share an a) 1 and 2 only
international border with more than one b) 2 and 3 only
neighbouring country? c) 1 and 3 only
a) Only three d) 1, 2 and 3
b) Only four
c) Only five Q.7) With reference to Indian geography,
d) All six consider the following statements:
Statement-I: The western coast of India is more
Q.3) The Tropic of Cancer passes through which favorable for the formation of ports than the
of the following states in India? eastern coast.
1. Rajasthan Statement-II: The western coast is a type of
2. Chhattisgarh submerged coast and is narrower than the
3. Manipur eastern coast.
4. Bihar Which one of the following is correct in respect
5. Gujarat of the above statements?
Select the correct answer using the code given a) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is
below: incorrect
a) 2 and 5 only b) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is
b) 1, 3 and 4 only correct
c) 1, 2 and 5 only c) Both Statement I and Statement II are
d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 correct, and Statement II is the correct
explanation for Statement I
Q.4) Which of the following is the correct d) Both Statement I and Statement II are
sequence of the mountain ranges of India when correct and Statement II is not the correct
arranged from north to south? explanation for Statement I

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Q.8) With reference to Andaman and Nicobar Major mountain peaks Located in
Islands, consider the following statements: 1. Kamet Uttarakhand
1. Andaman Islands are separated from the 2. Annapurna Himachal Pradesh
Nicobar Islands by a waterbody known as the 3. Makalu Sikkim
Ten Degree Channel. How many of the above given pairs are correctly
2. Most of the islands in the Andaman and matched?
Nicobar are coral islands. a) Only one
3. Barren island, the only active volcano in India b) Only two
is located in the Nicobar group of Islands. c) All three
4. Saddle peak and Mount Diavolo are d) None
important peaks located in the Andaman and
Nicobar Islands. Q.12) Consider the following coastal states of
How many of the above given statements are India:
correct? 1. Andhra Pradesh
a) Only one 2. West Bengal
b) Only two 3. Tamil Nadu
c) Only three 4. Karnataka
d) All four Which of the following is the correct increasing
order of the above given states based on the
Q.9) Consider the following pairs: length of their coastline?
River Tributary a) 2 - 1 - 4 – 3
b) 4 - 2 - 1 - 3
1. Krishna Koyna c) 2 - 4 - 1 - 3
d) 4 - 2 - 3 - 1
2. Bhavani Luni
Q.13) Consider the following rivers of India:
3. Mahanadi Seonath 1. Mahi
2. Pennar
4. Narmada Hiran 3. Sabarmati
How many of the above given pairs are correctly 4. Barak
matched? 5. Periyar
a) Only one How many of the above rivers drain into the
b) Only two Arabean Sea?
c) Only three a) Only two
d) All four b) Only three
c) Only four
Q.10) Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), d) All five
recently seen in news, is associated with:
a) Neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s Q.14) Consider the following rivers:
disease. 1. Indus
b) Respiratory infections, including conditions 2. Sutlej
like pneumonia and asthma flare-ups. 3. Brahmaputra
c) Vector-borne diseases like malaria and 4. Shyok
dengue. 5. Hunza
d) Gastrointestinal diseases such as cholera and How many of the above rivers originate in the
typhoid. Kailash mountain range?
a) Only two
Q.11) With reference to Himalayan Mountain b) Only three
ranges, consider the following pairs: c) Only four
d) All five

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Q.15) Consider the following statements about c) 1 – 3 – 2 – 4

Miyawaki technique: d) 1– 3 – 4 – 2
1. It is an afforestation technique for cultivating
fast growing groves of native plants. Q.19) With reference to tributaries of river
2. Under this technique, the trees are planted at Brahmaputra , consider the following rivers:
a wide distance from each other in order to 1. Burhi Dihing
accelerate their growth. 2. Dhansari
Which of the above given statements is/are 3. Subansiri
correct?: 4. Teesta
a) 1 only 5. Manas
b) 2 only How many of the above are right bank
c) Both 1 and 2 tributaries of Brahmaputra?
d) Neither 1 nor 2 a) Only two
b) Only three
Q.16) If you travel by road from Dehradun to c) Only four
Chennai, what is the minimum number of States d) All five
within India through which you can travel,
including the origin and destination? Q.20) Torrijos-Carter Treaties was recently in
a) Five States the news in context of which of the following?
b) Six States a) U.S.-Canada shared responsibility for
c) Seven States managing the Great Lakes.
d) Eight States b) Transfer of control of the Panama Canal from
the USA to Panama, ensuring its use for
Q.17) Consider the following statements: global trade under conditions of neutrality.
Statement-I: Nearly three-fourth of the c) Collaborative management of the Rio Grande
drainage area in India is oriented towards the River by the United States and Mexico to
Bay of Bengal. prevent flooding.
Statement-II: The Indian Peninsula and the d) Joint administration of the Guantanamo
Indo-Gangetic Plain both generally slope Naval Base by the United States and Cuba.
eastwards.
Which one of the following is correct in respect Q.21) Consider the following statements:
of the above statements? Statement-I: The Kaveri river carries water
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are throughout the year with comparatively less
correct, and Statement II is the correct seasonal fluctuation than most other Peninsular
explanation for Statement I rivers.
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are Statement-II: Kaveri river’s upper catchment
correct and Statement II is not the correct receives rainfall from the southwest monsoon
explanation for Statement I (summer), while its lower catchment receives
c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is rainfall from the northeast monsoon (winter).
incorrect Which one of the following is correct in respect
d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is of the above statements?
correct a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
correct, and Statement II explains
Q.18) Consider the following hills of India: Statement I
1. Garhjat Hills b) Both Statement I and Statement II are
2. Ramgarh Hills correct, but Statement II does not explain
3. Mahadeo Hills Statement I
4. Satmala Hills c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is
Which of the following is the correct order of incorrect
above given hills from east to west? d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is
a) 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 correct
b) 2 – 1 – 3 – 4

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Q.22) "It rises from a spring at Verinag, located Q.25) With reference to Sultanpur National Park,
at the foot of the Pir Panjal range in the union consider the following statements:
territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It flows 1. It is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
through the Wular Lake, the largest freshwater 2. It is a regular sighting location for migratory
lake in India, and passes through Srinagar before species such as the Siberian Crane and
entering Pakistan." Northern Pintail.
Which of the following rivers is being described 3. It primarily supports evergreen vegetation,
in the above given passage? which provides an ideal condition for
a) Ravi birdwatching.
b) Chenab Which of the statements given above is/are
c) Beas correct?
d) Jhelum a) 1 only
b) 2 only
Q.23) Consider the following pairs of major c) 3 only
dams/projects and the rivers they are built on: d) 2 and 3
Dam/Project River
1. Bhakra Nangal : Sutlej Q.26) With reference to the Godavari River,
2. Sardar Sarovar : Tapi consider the following statements:
3. Nagarjuna Sagar : Krishna 1. It originates from the Nashik district in
4. Hirakud : Mahanadi Maharashtra.
How many of the above pairs are matched 2. The Pranhita and Indravati are tributaries of
correctly? the Godavari River.
a) Only one 3. It is the second longest river in India after
b) Only two the Ganga.
c) Only three Which of the statements given above is/are
d) All four correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
Q.24) With reference to the phenomenon of b) 2 and 3 only
Break in the Indian Monsoon, consider the c) 1 and 3 only
following statements: d) 1, 2 and 3
1. Break in Indian monsoon is a period of
reduced rainfall over the main monsoon Q.27) When you travel in the Himalayas, you will
areas caused by the monsoon trough shifting see which of the following?
northwards. 1. V shaped Valleys
2. The formation of low-pressure systems over 2. Hanging valleys
the Bay of Bengal typically causes the break 3. Levees
phase. 4. Interlocking spurs
3. During the break period, rainfall is more Select the correct answer using the code given
likely to occur over parts of the Himalayan below:
foothills and Tamil Nadu. a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above are b) 1, 2 and 4 only
correct? c) 2, 3 and 4 only
a) 1 and 2 only d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

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Q.28) Consider the following pairs of mountain Q.32) Consider the following statements
passes of India and the states in which they are regarding Karewas:
located: 1. Karewas are thick glacial deposits of clay, silt,
Mountain passes States and sand, often containing embedded
1. Nathu La Sikkim moraines.
2. Niti Uttarakhand 2. They are found in the Kashmir Valley.
3. Khardung la Arunachal Pradesh 3. These deposits are ideal for cultivation of
4. Banihal Himachal Pradesh saffron, apples, walnuts and almonds.
Which of the statements given above are
How many of the pairs given above are correctly
correct?
matched?
a) 1 and 3 only
a) Only one
b) 1 and 2 only
b) Only two
c) 2 and 3 only
c) Only three
d) 1, 2 and 3
d) All four

Q.33) Pindari Glacier is located in which of the

Q.29) Consider the following pairs of hills of
following Himalayan sub-ranges?
India and the states in which they are located:
a) Garhwal Himalayas
Hills Located in state
b) Kumaon Himalayas
1. Dafla Hills Arunachal Pradesh c) Sikkim Himalayas
2. Lushai Hills Assam d) Assam Himalayas
3. Mikir Hills Mizoram
4. Garo Hills Meghalaya Q.34) Consider the following statements about
How many of the pairs given above are correctly alluvial soils in the Indo-Gangetic plains:
matched? I. Bhangar is composed of newer alluvium,
a) Only one while Khadar is made up of older deposits.
b) Only two II. Khadar contains kankar (lime nodules), while
c) Only three Bhangar is free from such deposits.
d) All four Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
Q.30) With reference to the Tobacco Board of a) I only
India, consider the following statements: b) II only
1. It recommends the Minimum Support Price c) Both I and II
(MSP) for tobacco crops in India. d) Neither I nor II
2. It functions under the Ministry of Agriculture
and Farmers’ Welfare. Q.35) With reference to nitrate contamination in
3. The headquarters of the Tobacco Board is groundwater in India, as highlighted recently by
located in Bengaluru, Karnataka. the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) report,
Which of the statements given above is/are consider the following statements:
correct? 1. Overuse of subsidised synthetic fertilizers is
a) 1 only the primary cause of nitrate contamination of
b) 2 only groundwater in India.
c) 2 and 3 only 2. More than half of the total districts in India
d) None of the above are affected by excessive nitrate
contamination of groundwater.
Q.31) What are the Bugyals, commonly found in Which of the statements given above is/are
the Himalayan region? correct?
a) Glacial lakes formed by melting snow a) 1 only
b) High-altitude grasslands b) 2 only
c) Sacred groves located near Himalayan c) Both 1 and 2
temples d) Neither 1 nor 2
d) Rocky outcrops found near river valleys

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Q.36) What is common among the places 1. It is a statutory body created to address
Sambhar, Degana, and Kuchaman in Rajasthan? inter-regulatory coordination and ensure
a) They are known for gypsum mining. financial stability in India.
b) They are saline lake regions. 2. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor
c) They have large copper and zinc deposits. chairs the Sub-Committee of the Financial
d) They are major thermal power hubs. Stability and Development Council (FSDC).
Which of the statements given above is/are
Q.37) Which of the following describes the term correct?
“chars” in the context of Indian geography? a) 1 only
a) Sand dunes formed in the Thar Desert region b) 2 only
due to wind deposition c) Both 1 and 2
b) Black soil mounds found in the Deccan d) Neither 1 nor 2
Plateau
c) Riverine islands formed by fluvial deposition Q.41) With reference to Indian geography,
in the Brahmaputra and Ganga rivers consider the following islands:
d) Tidal mudflats along the Sundarbans delta 1. Sagar Island
2. Aminidivi Island
Q.38) This central Indian plateau is triangular in 3. Canannore Island
shape, based on the Vindhyan hills, and bounded 4. Shaheed Dweep island
by the Aravalli range in the west. It has a steep How many of the above given islands are located
eastern scarp overlooking Bundelkhand, and its in the Bay of Bengal?
northern edge is marked by Chambal Ravines. a) Only one
The region features rolling plains with flat- b) Only two
topped forested hills. c) Only three
Which of the following plateaus is described in d) All four
the above passage?
a) Bundelkhand Plateau Q.42) With reference to drainage system in
b) Malwa Plateau India, consider the following rivers:
c) Chotanagpur Plateau 1. Bhima
d) Baghelkhand Plateau 2. Tungabhadra
3. Palar
Q.39) With reference to physical geography of Which of the following is the correct sequence
India, consider the following pairs: of these rivers from north to south?
Major mountain Highest peak a) 2 – 3 – 1
ranges b) 1 – 2– 3
c) 1 – 3 – 2
1. Satpura range Dhoopgarh
d) 2 – 1 – 3
2. Aravalli range Guru Shikhar
3. Eastern Ghats Dodabetta
Q.43) The Amarkantak Hills are at the
How many of the above given pairs are correctly
matched? confluence of which of the following mountain
a) Only one ranges?
a) Maikal and Kaimur Ranges
b) Only two
b) Vindhya and Satpura Ranges
c) All three
c) Mahedeo and Chotanagpur Ranges
d) None
d) Vindhya and the Ajanta Ranges
Q.40) With reference to the Financial Stability
and Development Council (FSDC), consider the
following statements:

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Q.44) Consider the following statements: a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
Statement-I: Winter monsoons do not cause correct and Statement-II is the correct
rainfall in most parts of India . explanation for Statement-I
Statement-II: There is presence of anti cyclonic b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
circulation on land. correct but Statement-II is not the correct
Statement-III: North east trade winds have little explanation for Statement-I
humidity. c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is
Which one of the following is correct in respect incorrect
of the above statements? d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is
a) Both Statement-II and Statement-III are correct
correct, and both of them explain
Statement-I. Q.47) With reference to the El Niño and LA Nina
b) Both Statement-II and Statement-III are phenomenon and the Indian summer monsoon,
correct, but only one of them explains consider the following statements:
Statement-I. 1. El nino is characterized by warm ocean
c) Only one of the Statement-II and Statement- temperature in the equatorial Indian Ocean.
III is correct and that explains the 2. La Nina has an adverse effect on the south
Statement-I. west monsoon of India.
d) Neither Statement-II nor Statement-III is Which of the statements given above is/are
correct. correct?
a) 1 only
Q.45) With reference to Project VISTAAR, b) 2 only
sometimes seen in news, consider the following c) Both 1 and 2
statements: d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. It is a Digital Public Infrastructure aimed at
digitising the agrarian extension services. Q.48) With reference to the Indian climate ,
2. It is an initiative of the Ministry of which of the following are reasons for the
Electronics and Information Technology, excessive cold in North India during winter?
Government of India. 1. Continental climate due to distance from the
Select the correct answer using the code given sea.
below: 2. Snowfall in the nearby Himalayan ranges.
a) 1 only 3. Cold winds from the Caspian Sea and
b) 2 only Turkmenistan.
c) Both 1 and 2 4. Sudden shift in Inter-Tropical Convergence
d) Neither 1 nor 2 Zone (ITCZ) to northern latitudes.
Select the answer using code given below:
Q.46) Consider the following statements: a) 1 and 2 only
Statement-I: Agra and Darjeeling are located on b) 1, 2 and 3 only
the same latitude, but Darjeeling is much cooler c) 2, 3 and 4 only
than Agra during winters. d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Statement-II: Temperature decreases with

altitude because of the presence of dense air at
height.
Which one of the following is correct in respect
of the above statements?

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Q.49) With reference to the local storms during Which one of the following is correct in respect
the hot weather season in India, consider the of the above statements?
following pairs: a) Both Statement II and Statement III are
correct and both of them explain Statement I
Local storms Region
b) Both Statement II and Statement III are
1. Mango Shower Kerala and coastal correct but only one of them explains
areas of Karnataka Statement I
c) Only one of the Statement II and Statement
2. Blossom Shower Bengal and Assam III is correct and that explains Statement I
d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is
3. Nor'westers Coffee-growing correct
regions of Kerala
Q.52) With reference to Himalayas, ”Main Frontal
4. Loo Eastern Rajasthan,
Thrust (MFT) is located-
Punjab, Haryana and
a) between the Lesser Himalayas and the
Uttar Pradesh
Shiwalik Himalayas.
How many of the above pairs are correctly b) between the Shiwalik Himalayas and the
matched? Indo-Gangetic Plain.
a) Only two c) between the Greater Himalayas and the
b) Only three Lesser Himalayas.
c) All four d) along the Indus–Tsangpo Suture Zone.
d) Only one
Q.53) With reference to Eastern Ghats ,consider
Q.50) Ramesh Chand panel, recently seen in the following statements :
news, was set up by the government in relation 1. Unlike the Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats
to: have river valleys such as those of the
a) delimitation exercise. Godavari and Krishna cutting across them,
b) subcategorization of Other Backward leading to lower elevation and discontinuity.
Classes. 2. The Eastern Ghats are geologically older than
c) One nation One Election. the Western Ghats and form part of the
d) update the base year of Wholesale Price Archaean rock system.
Index. 3. The Eastern Ghats influence orographic
rainfall significantly on the windward side in
Q.51) Consider the following statements: Tamil Nadu during the southwest monsoon.
Statement-I: The Tamil Nadu coast remains Which of the above given statements is/are
mostly dry during the Southwest Monsoon correct ?
season. a) 1 only
Statement-II: The Tamil Nadu coast lies in the b) 1 and 2 only
rain-shadow region of the Arabian Sea branch of c) 1 and 3 only
South West monsoon. d) None of the above
Statement-III: The Tamil Nadu coast is situated
parallel to the Bay of Bengal branch of
southwest monsoon.

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Q.54) With reference to Aravalli Mountain Range, between the tropical western and eastern
consider the following statements: Indian Ocean.
1. The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest fold 2. A positive IOD phase generally enhances the
mountain ranges in India, formed during the southwest monsoon over India by increasing
Precambrian era and is no longer tectonically rainfall.
active. 3. A negative IOD phase is typically associated
2. The Aravallis act as a water divide between with La Niña conditions in the Pacific Ocean.
the drainage flowing towards the Arabian Sea a) 1 and 2 only
and the Bay of Bengal. b) 2 and 3 only
3. The Banas, Sabarmati, and Luni rivers c) 1 and 3 only
originate in or near the Aravalli hills and flow d) 1, 2 and 3
eastward into the Bay of Bengal.
Which of the statements given above is/are Q.58) Which of the following statements best
incorrect? describe the phenomenon of “Madden Julian
a) 1 only Oscillation (MJO)”:
b) 2 only a) A large-scale eastward-moving disturbance
c) 3 only of clouds, rainfall, winds, and pressure that
d) None of the above traverses the tropical belt every 30 to 60
days.
Q.55) The ‘Moidams’, recently mentioned in the b) An intra-seasonal atmospheric phenomenon
news, are related to which of the following? influencing tropical convection and
a) Heritage sites of the Ahom Dynasty modulating monsoonal activity over the
b) Mughal forts in Rajasthan Indian and Pacific Oceans only.
c) Early Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas c) A transient equatorial convective pulse that
d) Historic palaces of the Maratha Empire propagates westward and significantly
affects global weather and climate variability.
Q.56) Consider the following statements: d) A periodic tropical westward or eastward
Statement-I: In June–July, the southeast trade moving weather system characterized by
winds of the Southern Hemisphere cross the organized convection and circulation
equator and transform into southwest monsoon anomalies, impacting rainfall distribution.
winds over the Indian subcontinent.
Statement-II: In July, the Inter-Tropical Q.59) Consider the following statements
Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is located over the regarding the Southwest Monsoon in India :
Gangetic Plain. Statement-I: The duration of the Southwest
Which one of the following is correct in respect monsoon decreases from southern India to
to the above statements ? northern India.
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are Statement-II: The southwest monsoon enters
correct and Statement II explains Statement I the southern peninsula earlier compared to
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are northern India due to its proximity to the
correct but Statement II does not explain equator and withdraws later than the northern
Statement I India.
c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is Which one of the following is correct in respect
incorrect of the above statements?
d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
correct correct and Statement II explains Statement I
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are
Q.57) Consider the following statements correct but Statement II does not explain
regarding the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and its Statement I
impact on the Indian monsoon: c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is
1. The Indian Ocean Dipole refers to a periodic incorrect
fluctuation of sea surface temperatures d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is
correct

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Q.60) The In-flight internet service for onboard Q.64) As the Shiwalik Hills formed after the main
passengers in an aircraft is powered by which of Himalayas, they obstructed rivers descending
the following technologies? from higher elevations, creating temporary
a) Infrared radiations lakes. Over time, these lakes were filled with
b) Satellite connectivity sediments, and when rivers cut through the
c) Bluetooth Shiwaliks, flat valleys were left behind. In the
d) Li-Fi western Himalayas, these are called duns or
doons. What are they called in the eastern
Q.61) With reference to Western Disturbances, Himalayas?
consider the following statements: a) Tarai
1. They originate over the Mediterranean Sea b) Duars
region and travel eastward. c) Doab
2. They are responsible for causing snowfall in d) Chos
the western Himalayas during winter.
3. They cause significant rainfall in southern Q.65) Consider the following pairs:
India during the winter season.
Wildlife sanctuary State
Which of the statements given above are
correct? 1. Shendurney Wildlife sanctuary Tamil Nadu
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1, 2 and 3 2. Tipeshawar Wildlife sanctuary Maharashtra
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 2 and 3 only 3. Kabini Wildlife sanctuary Karnataka

How many of the pairs given above are correctly

Q.62) In the context of Indian geography, ‘Rohi’
matched?
refers to which of the following?
a) Only one
a) A traditional irrigation system in the Deccan
b) Only two
plateau
c) All three
b) Fertile patches formed by seasonal streams
d) None
from the Aravalli Range
c) A floodplain region in the Indo-Gangetic
Q.66) Consider the following statements
basin
regarding the Bhabar zone of the Northern
d) A wetland ecosystem found in the Western
Plains of India:
Ghats
1. This region has a luxurious growth of natural
vegetation and houses a varied wildlife.
Q.63) In the context of Indian geography,
2. Rivers disappear underground in this region
arrange the following Rock Systems in the
due to coarse alluvium.
correct chronological order of their formation
Which of the statements given above is/are
from oldest to latest:
incorrect?
1. Dharwar
a) 1 only
2. Cuddapah
b) 2 only
3. Archaean
c) Both 1 and 2
4. Vindhyan
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Select the correct answer using the code given
below:
a) 1 - 3 - 4 - 2
b) 3 - 1 - 2 - 4
c) 2 - 3 - 4 - 1
d) 3 - 2 - 1 - 4

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Q.67) Consider the following statements Q.70) With reference to Cowpea, consider the
regarding the Meghalaya Plateau: following statements:
1. It is an eastern extension of the Indian 1. India is the largest producer of cowpea
Peninsular Plateau. globally.
2. This plateau is separated from the main 2. It is best suited to cold weather conditions,
Deccan Plateau by the Malda Gap. thriving at temperatures below 20 degrees
3. It is rich in deposits of natural gas and crude Celsius.
oil. Which of the statements given above is/are
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
correct? a) 1 only
a) 1 only b) 2 only
b) 1 and 2 only c) Both 1 and 2
c) 2 and 3 only d) Neither 1 nor 2
d) 1, 2 and 3
Q.71) Shola forests, a type of montane forest, are
Q.68) With reference to Moist Deciduous found in which of the following hill ranges of
Forests in India, consider the following India?
statements: 1. Nilgiri Hills
1. They are found in areas receiving rainfall 2. Anaimalai Hills
between 100–200 cm annually. 3. Barail Hills
2. The trees in this forest completely shed their 4. Palani Hills
leaves in the beginning of the dry season and Select the correct answer using the codes given
the forest appears like a vast grassland. below:
3. Important tree species of these forests a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
include shisham and sandalwood. b) 1 and 2 only
4. These forests are primarily found in eastern c) 1, 2 and 4 only
parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. d) 3 and 4 only
Which of the statements given above are
correct? Q.72) With reference to the Western Ghats of
a) 1 and 3 only India, consider the following statements:
b) 1, 2 and 3 only Statement-I: The western slopes of the Western
c) 2 and 4 only Ghats are covered with denser forests compared
d) 1, 3 and 4 only to the eastern slopes.
Statement-II: The western slopes of Western
Q.69) With reference to the Teak trees in India, Ghats have richer soil fertility due to
consider the following statements: accumulated organic matter over time.
1. It is a deciduous hardwood tree known for its Which one of the following is correct in respect
durability and high oil content. of the above statements?
2. It is primarily found in moist deciduous a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
forests in India. correct, and Statement II explains
3. The felling and transportation of teak is Statement I
completely banned in India. b) Both Statement I and Statement II are
How many of the above statements are correct? correct, but Statement II does not explain
a) All three Statement I
b) Only one c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is
c) Only two incorrect
d) None d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is
correct

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Q.73) Consider the following pairs: d) Trees existing in natural forests and
Medicinal Plant Property plantations of the Forest Department only.
Helps reduce the risk of
1. Arjun
heart diseases Q.77) Which of the following best describes the E
Helps in curing digestive Horizon in a soil profile?
2. Kachnar a) Horizon characterised by an accumulation of
problems
Helps in treatment of silicate clays, iron and aluminium oxides,
3. Sarpagandha gypsum and calcium carbonate.
blood pressure
How many of the above pairs are correctly b) The mineral horizon leached of clay,
matched? minerals, and organic matter, leaving a
a) Only one concentration of sand and silt particles of
b) Only two quartz or other resistant materials.
c) All three c) The mineral horizon in which there is the
d) None loss of sand and silt particles leaving a
concentration of granite, basalt, quartzite,
Q.74) Aconite and Datura are primarily the limestone or sandstone that forms the parent
examples of- material for some soils.
a) Spices d) The organic horizon formed from the organic
b) Medicinal herbs litter derived from plants and animals and
c) Toxic plants fresh or partially decomposed organic
d) Aquatic ferns material.

Q.75) Consider the following forest products: Q.78) With reference to soil management,
1. Bamboo consider the following practices:
2. Tendu or Kendu Leaves 1. Application of gypsum
3. Lac (Stick Lac) 2. Addition of organic matter
4. Cocoon 3. Liming of soil
5. Timber 4. Ensuring good drainage
How many of the above are classified as Minor How many of the above practices may help in
Forest Produce (MFP) under the Scheduled reducing soil alkalinity?
Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers a) Only One
(Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006? b) Only Two
a) Only two c) Only Three
b) Only three d) All Four
c) Only four
d) All five Q.79) With reference to Alluvial Soils in India,
consider the following statements:
Q.76) Which of the following best describes the 1. These are the most widely spread soils in
definition of Tree Cover as per the Ministry of India.
Environment, Forest & Climate Change? 2. Alluvial soils as a whole are very fertile.
a) Trees existing outside the recorded forest 3. These soils contain an adequate proportion
area in the form of block, linear & scattered of potash, phosphoric acid and lime.
size of patches. Which of the statements given above are
b) Tree patches outside recorded forest areas correct?
exclusive of forest cover and less than the a) 1 and 2 only
mappable area of one hectare. b) 2 only
c) All lands, more than one hectare in area with c) 1 and 3 only
a tree canopy density of more than 10%. d) 1, 2 and 3

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Q.80) With reference to red soils in Which of the following soil types matches the
India,consider the following statements: above given description?
1. Red soils are rich in iron but deficient in a) Alluvial Soil
nitrogen, phosphorus, and humus. b) Red Soil
2. With proper fertilization and irrigation, these c) Laterite soil
soils are ideal for growing crops like cotton, d) Black soil
groundnut, and pulses.
3. These soils commonly develop over Q.83) With reference to Forest Soil in India,
weathered material derived from Archean consider the following statements:
granite and gneiss. 1. These soils are heterogeneous in nature,
How many of the above given statements are varying with altitude, climate, and vegetation
correct? cover.
a) Only one 2. They are generally fertile and suitable for
b) Only two cultivation of plantation crops like tea,
c) All three coffee, and spices on hill slopes.
d) None Which of the statements given above is /are
correct ?
Q.81) Consider the following statements : a) 1 only
Statement-I: Laterite soils are poor in most of b) 2 only
the plant nutrients. c) Both 1 and 2
Statement-II: Lateraite soils are formed under d) Neither 1 nor 2
conditions of high temperature and heavy
rainfall. Q.84) Consider the following statements with
Which one of the following is correct in respect regard to soil degradation:
of the above statements? Statement-I: Intensive farming practices like
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are excessive irrigation can turn rich, fertile alluvial
correct and Statement ॥ explains Statement I soils into saline soils.
b) Both Statement I andStatement II are correct Statement-II: Excessive irrigation causes the
but Statement ॥ does not explain Statement I water table to rise, bringing salts to the surface
c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is through capillary action, leading to soil
incorrect salinization.
d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is Which one of the following is correct with
correct respect to the above statements?
a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
Q.82) With reference to a soil type, consider the correct and Statement-II is the correct
following statements : explanation for Statement-I.
1. This soil type shows high cation exchange b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
capacity and can retain nutrients for long correct and Statement-II is not the correct
durations. explanation for Statement-I.
2. It undergoes swelling and shrinking based on c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is
moisture availability, affecting building incorrect.
foundations in rural areas. d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is
3. It supports crops like cotton, soybean, and correct
pulses without frequent irrigation due to its
water retentive nature.
4. Despite its fertility, this soil is often difficult
to till when wet due to its sticky nature.

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Q.85) With reference to soil types in India, Thur, Q.88) Which of the following statements best
Kakar, and Chopan are different local names for describes a thirst wave?
which of the following soil types? a) A heat-driven event marked by high
a) Mountain Soil temperatures and low pressure over several
b) Alluvial Soil days.
c) Saline Soil b) A multi-day spell of high atmospheric
d) Laterite Soil evaporative demand due to heat, humidity,
wind, and radiation.
Q.86) Consider the following statements : c) A prolonged rise in ground-level ozone
Statement-I: River deltas are not formed along caused by sunlight and stagnant air.
the western coast of India. d) A dry period from failed pre-monsoon rains
Statement-II: The western coastal rivers flow causing soil moisture loss and crop stress.
swiftly through short courses and drain directly
into the Arabian Sea. Q.89) Consider the following statements
Which one of the following is correct in respect regarding Andhis, a type of seasonal local wind
of the above statements? in India:
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are 1. They are violent, dry dust storms caused by
correct and Statement II explains Statement I intense surface heating and convection.
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are 2. They primarily occur in the northwestern
correct but Statement II does not explain plains of India.
Statement I 3. They are observed during the post-monsoon
c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is months of October–November.
incorrect Which of the above statements are correct?
d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is a) 1 and 2 only
correct b) 1, 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3 only
Q.87) Consider the following statements : d) 2 and 3 only
Statement-I: Rajasthan state receives little
rainfall during the Southwest Monsoon. Q.90) Consider the following statements:
Statement-II: The Aravalli Hills are oriented Statement-I: The frequency of tropical cyclones
roughly parallel to the direction of the Arabian is higher in the Arabian Sea than in the Bay of
Sea branch of the Southwest monsoon. Bengal.
Which one of the following is correct in respect Statement-II: The Bay of Bengal has warmer sea
of the above statements? surface temperatures and lower salinity, which
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are enhance convection.
correct but Statement II does not explain Which one of the following is correct in respect
Statement I of the above statements?
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
correct and Statement II explains Statement I correct and Statement II explains Statement I
c) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is b) Both Statement I and Statement II are
correct correct but Statement II does not explain
d) Statement I is correct but Statement II is Statement I
incorrect c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is
incorrect
d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is
correct

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Q.91) Consider the following statements about 3. It changes color, appearing blue, grey-green,
Bamboo in India: and red at varied points in time of a day.
1. Bamboo grows naturally in almost all parts of Which of the statements given above are
India except in the Kashmir region. correct?
2. Madhya Pradesh has the largest bamboo- a) 1 and 3 only
bearing area among Indian states. b) 1 and 2 only
3. The Indian Forest (Amendment) Act, 2017 c) 2 and 3 only
removed bamboo grown in non-forest areas d) 1, 2 and 3
from the category of trees to ease cultivation
and transport. Q.95) Consider the following statements
Which of the above statements are correct? regarding the Peninsular Plateau of India:
a) 1 and 2 only 1. It is the oldest and most stable landmass of
b) 2 and 3 only the Indian subcontinent.
c) 1 and 3 only 2. It contains over 90% of India's known
d) 1, 2 and 3 Gondwana coal reserves.
3. The Peninsular Plateau is devoid of any
Q.92) Consider the following states: uranium reserves.
1. Orissa Which of the statements given above are
2. Jharkhand correct?
3. Rajasthan a) 1 and 3 only
4. Bihar b) 1 and 2 only
5. Gujarat c) 2 and 3 only
How many of the above given states share a d) 1, 2 and 3
boundary with the state of Madhya Pradesh?
a) Only two Q.96) Potwar Plateau acts as a water divide
b) Only three between which of the following river systems?
c) Only four a) Ganga and Indus
d) All five b) Mahanadi and Narmada
c) Ganga and Yamuna
Q.93) Consider the following pairs: d) Indus and Brahmaputra
Crater Lakes in India Location
1. Lonar Crater Maharashtra Q.97) With reference to Indian geography,
2. Dhala Crater Jharkhand consider the following statements regarding the
3. Ramgarh Crater Rajasthan Siachen Glacier:
How many of the above given pairs are correctly 1. Siachen Glacier is located in the Karakoram
matched? mountain range.
a) Only one 2. The Nubra River originates from the Siachen
b) Only two glacier.
c) All three Which of the statements given above is/are
d) None correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
Q.94) With reference to Pangong Tso Lake,
c) Both 1 and 2
consider the following statements:
d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. It is a saline water endorheic lake.
2. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) between
India and China passes through this lake.

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Q.98) Which of the following evidence supports

the fact that the Himalayas are geologically
young and are still rising?
1. Frequent occurrence of seismic activity in
the Himalayan region
2. Dissection of the lakes in Tibetan region
3. Presence of river terraces along the valley
sides in the Himalayas
Select the correct answer using the code given
below:
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.99) Amarnath Yatra route in the Himalayas

passes through which of the following mountain
passes?
a) Nathu La Pass
b) Shipki La Pass
c) Mahagunas Pass
d) Banihal Pass

Q.100) If you travel through the shola forests of

western Ghats, you are likely to see which of the
following features?
1. Epiphytic mosses
2. Lichens
3. Rhododendrons
4. Deodar trees
Select the correct answer using the code given
below:
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 3 and 4 only
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.1)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
A Standard Meridian is used to calculate the official time for a country. Since the Earth rotates 360 degrees in 24 hours,
every 15 degrees of longitude equals a 1-hour time difference. Many countries adopt meridians in multiples of 7°30′ to
align with global time zones.
India, having a wide east-west expanse, uses a single standard time for administrative convenience. This is known as
Indian Standard Time (IST), based on 82°30′ E longitude.
Statement I is correct: India has officially adopted 82°30′ E longitude as the Standard Meridian, which runs near
Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh. It ensures uniform time across the country and keeps IST (Indian Standard Time) at UTC +5:30
(Universal Time Coordinated +5:30), providing a reasonable balance between the eastern and western parts of India.
Statement II is incorrect: 82°30′ E longitude was not chosen because it passes through the exact geographic center of
India. The real reason lies in the global convention of using multiples of 7°30′ for standard meridians. India selected
82°30′ E longitude because it matches this convention and offers administrative efficiency, not because of geographic
centrality.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=1-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Location
Subtopic:)

Q.2)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.

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[1]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Option 1 is correct: Arunachal Pradesh shares international borders with three countries – China, Bhutan and
Myanmar.
Option 2 is correct: Sikkim borders China, Bhutan, and Nepal.
Option 3 is correct: Uttarakhand shares international boundaries with Nepal and China.
Option 4 is incorrect: Tripura shares its international border only with Bangladesh. It does not share borders with any
other country.
Option 5 is incorrect: Nagaland shares a border only with Myanmar. It does not share an international boundary with
any other country.
Option 6 is correct: Mizoram shares international borders with both Bangladesh and Myanmar.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=1-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Location
Subtopic:)

Q.3)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.

The Tropic of Cancer, located at approximately 23.5°N latitude, is an imaginary line that passes through eight Indian
states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram. It plays a
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[2]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

significant geographical role by dividing the country into two distinct climatic zones: the tropical zone to the south and
the subtropical zone to the north. This division influences variations in temperature, rainfall, and vegetation patterns
across India. The Tropic’s passage marks a transition zone, shaping India’s agro-climatic diversity and monsoon behavior.
Its location is crucial for understanding India’s solar exposure, day length variation, and seasonal shifts.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=1-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Location
Subtopic:)

Q.4)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.

1. Karakoram Range
● The Karakoram Range lies to the extreme north of the Himalayas, primarily in Ladakh, extending into China.
● It contains K2, the world’s second-highest peak.

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[3]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
2. Zaskar Range
● Lies in eastern Ladakh, forming the inner part of the Trans-Himalayas.
● Located south of Karakoram but still north of the main Greater Himalayas.
3. Greater Himalayas
● Home to some of the highest peaks in the world like Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.
● Lies south of Zaskar and is the core of the Himalayan range system.
4. Shiwalik Range
● Also called Outer Himalayas, they are the youngest and lowest range in elevation.
● Lies south of the Greater Himalayas and extends from Jammu & Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=2-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.5)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Recently, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has released ‘The Future of Jobs Report 2025’.
Option c is correct. The World Economic Forum released the fourth edition of ‘ The Future of Jobs Report.’ It is a bi-
annual publication.
Key findings of the report-
1. 170 million new jobs will be created by 2030, while 92 million are projected to be displaced.
2. The sectors that will witness the largest number of new jobs include AI and machine learning specialists, big data
experts, FinTech engineers, and farmworkers.
3. Clerical jobs like data entry clerks are expected to see the largest decline in jobs, largely due to automation.
4. The report emphasises that nearly 59% of the global workforce will require upskilling or reskilling by 2030 to
remain competitive.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/jobs/78-million-new-jobs-to-be-created-in-2025-world-economic-forum-
report-9767373/
https://forumias.com/blog/future-of-jobs-report-2025/
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) The Future of Jobs Report 2025
Subtopic:)

Q.6)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Hills, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight hottest
biodiversity hotspots in the world. Stretching over 1,600 km across six states, they influence monsoon patterns, house
rich flora and fauna, and support major river systems in peninsular India.
Statement 1 is Correct: The Western Ghats begin in the northwest from Gujarat and Maharashtra and extend
southward through Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
● The elevation increases as one moves southward, with higher peaks located in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Statement 2 is Correct: Anaimudi (2,695 metres), located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is not only the highest peak in
the Western Ghats but also the highest point in peninsular India.It is part of the Eravikulam National Park.
Statement 3 is Correct: The Western Ghats run parallel to the western coast of India and pass through the following six
states:

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[4]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

1. Gujarat
2. Maharashtra
3. Goa
4. Karnataka
5. Kerala
6. Tamil Nadu
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=2-7
https://indianculture.gov.in/unesco/heritage-sites/western-ghats
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.7)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Statement I is correct: The submerged western coast is a narrow coastal strip, which provides ideal natural conditions
for the development of ports and harbours. As a result, several major natural ports such as Kandla, Mazagaon, Jawaharlal
Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva), Marmagao, Mangalore, and Cochin have developed along the western coast. In contrast, the
eastern coastal plain is broader and formed through depositional processes.
Statement II is correct: The western coastal plains of India are classified as a submerged coastal plain. It is believed
that the ancient city of Dwaraka, which was once part of the Indian mainland along the west coast, is now submerged
under the sea.
Due to its emergent nature and shallow continental shelf (extending up to 500 km into the sea), the eastern coast is
less suitable for natural port development, resulting in fewer natural harbors.
The western coast of India is a submerged and narrower coastal plain compared to the broader, emergent eastern coast
which creates the favourable conditions for the formation of natural harbours along the west coast. Hence, Option (c) is
correct: Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, and Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy102.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.8)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Andaman and Nicobar Island are groups of islands located in the Bay of Bengal side
of India. It consists of about 572 islands/islets situated roughly between 6°°N-14°°N
and 92°°E -94°°E. The two principal groups of islets include the Ritchie’s archipelago
and the Labrynth island. The entire group of islands is divided into two broad
categories – the Andaman in the north and the Nicobar in the south.
Statement 1 is correct: Andaman Islands in the north and the Nicobar Islands in
the south, which are separated by the Ten Degree Channel, a narrow stretch of sea
located near 10°N latitude.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Andaman and Nicobar Islands are believed to be elevated
portions of submerged submarine mountain ranges, while a few of the smaller
islands are of volcanic origin. While coral reefs and coral fringes are present along
the coasts of some islands, the dominant geological origin is volcanic, especially in

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[5]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

the Andaman group.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Barren Island is India's only active volcano and is
situated in the Andaman Islands, not in the Nicobar group. It lies about 135 km
northeast of Port Blair, in the eastern part of the Andaman Sea.
Statement 4 is correct: Saddle Peak, rising to 738 meters, is the highest
point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is located in North Andaman,
while Mount Diavolo(515m), is situated in the Middle Andaman region.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy102.pdf
https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/hehd102.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.9)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is correct.The Krishna River in the Deccan plateau is the third-longest in India, after the Ganga and Godavari. It is
also the fourth-largest in terms of water inflows and river basin area in India, after the Ganga, Indus and Godavari.The
Koyna River is a tributary of the Krishna River. It originates in the Western Ghats near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra and
flows south to join the Krishna River in Karad.
Pair 2 is incorrect. Luni River is not a tributary of the Bhavani River. The Luni River flows through Rajasthan and into the
Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, while the Bhavani River is a tributary of the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu.
Pair 3 is correct.The Seonath River is a tributary of the Mahanadi River. Specifically, it is the longest tributary of the
Mahanadi. It joins the Mahanadi in the Janjgir-Champa district of Chhattisgarh.
Pair 4 is correct.The Hiran River is a tributary of the Narmada River. It flows through Madhya Pradesh and is one of the
major tributaries on the right bank of the Narmada.
Knowledge Base :.1 Tributaries of Krishna river:
a)Left-bank tributaries: Bhima, Dindi, Musi, Paleru, Peddavagu
b)Right-bank tributaries:Koyna, Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, Tungabhadra, Venna, Agrani
2.Tributaries of Bhavani river:Moyar, Kunda, Siruvani, and Coonoor rivers
3 .Tributaries of Mahanadi river.
a)left-bank tributaries : Seonath, Hasdeo, Mand, and Ib rivers.
b) right bank tributaries: Ong, Tel, and Jonk rivers
4. Tributaries of Narmada.
a)Left bank tributaries : Burner, Banjar, Sher, Shakkar, Dudhi, Tawa, Ganjal, Chhota Tawa, Kundi, Goi, and Karjan.
b) Right bank tributaries : Barna, Hiran, Tendoni, Choral, Kolar, Man, Uri, Hatni, and Orsang
Source: Geography of India by Majid Hussain.
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.10)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
HMPV is a respiratory virus that primarily causes upper respiratory infections, similar to the common cold.It can also
lead to lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, and complications in individuals
with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
● First Identification:
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[6]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

o HMPV was first identified in 2001 and is a member of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
● Transmission:
o The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces.
● Symptoms:
o Mild symptoms: Fever, cough, runny nose, and shortness of breath.
o Severe symptoms: Pneumonia and asthma-related complications in high-risk groups.
● Risk Factors:
o Children under 5 years.
o Adults over 65 years.
o Individuals with weakened immune systems.
● Treatment:
o Currently, there are no vaccines or antiviral medications for HMPV. Treatment focuses on managing
symptoms.
Source: https://forumias.com/blog/human-metapneumovirus-hmpv/
https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON550
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
Subtopic:)

Q.11)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is correct: Kamet (7755 metres) is located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand as part of the Great
Himalayan Range.
Pair 2 is incorrect: Annapurna lies entirely in central Nepal as part of the Greater Himalayan range but not located in
any Indian state.
Pair 3 is incorrect: Makalu (8485 m) lies on the Nepal–Tibet border and not in Sikkim.

Knowledge Base:
● The Himalayan Mountain system, one of the youngest and highest in the world, consists of a series of parallel
mountain ranges. Among these, the most prominent is the Greater Himalayan range, which includes the Great
Himalayas (Himadri) and the Shiwalik ranges.
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[7]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
● The Great Himalayas form the loftiest and most continuous range, housing many of the world’s tallest peaks, most of
which remain perpetually snow-covered.
● Several peaks in this range rise above 8,000 metres in elevation such as Mt. Everest (8,850 m), Kanchenjunga (8,550
m), Nanda Devi (7,817 m), Kamet (7,755 m), and Trisul (7,120 m) etc.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy102.pdf
https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/102606/1/Block-3.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.12)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
India has a coastline of 7,516.6 km (as per 1970 data), encompassing both the mainland coast and the island territories
along the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea. However, with the adoption of a revised methodology for
measuring the coastline, the total length has been recalculated to 11,098.81 km. The new data is based on data
computed by the National Hydrographic Organization (NHO) using modern geospatial techniques and high-resolution
charts.
The country’s coastline spans across nine coastal states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu,
Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal and four coastal Union Territories such as Daman & Diu, Lakshadweep,
Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Hence option b is the correct increasing order of the length of coastline of the given states: 4 – 2 – 1 – 3 i.e. Karnataka
(343.30 km) < West Bengal (721.02 km) < Andhra Pradesh (1,053.07 km) < Tamil Nadu (1,068.69 km)
Source: https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/AnnualReport_27122024.pdf
https://shipmin.gov.in/sites/default/files/Length%20of%20Indias%20Coastline%20Circular_0.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Location
Subtopic:)

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[8]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.13)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option 1 is correct: Mahi River originates in Madhya Pradesh, flows northward briefly through Rajasthan, then southwest
through Gujarat, and finally drains into the Arabian Sea. It is one of the few rivers that flow across the Tropic of Cancer
twice.
Option 2 is incorrect: Pennar River originates in the Nandi Hills of Karnataka and flows through Andhra Pradesh before
draining into the Bay of Bengal.
Option 3 is correct: Sabarmati River originates in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, flows through Gujarat, and empties into
the Arabian Sea near the Gulf of Khambhat.
Option 4 is incorrect: Barak River originates in Manipur, flows eastward into Bangladesh where it joins the Surma and
Meghna rivers and ultimately drains into the Bay of Bengal.
Option 5 is correct: Periyar River: It is the longest river in Kerala, originating in the Western Ghats and flowing
westward into the Arabian Sea. It is known as the "Lifeline of Kerala.”

Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=3-7 INDIA : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT>Pg.no 24

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/1234567
89/80896/3/Unit-
3.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwikieedk7uOAxXpzDgGHVlsPaMQFnoECBwQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1LdIP7SJ21S6Zf7YUef1Yb Drainage
>Pg.no,53/54
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)
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[9]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.14)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option 1 is correct: The Indus River originates from a glacier near Bokhar Chu in the Tibetan region at an altitude of 4,164
m in the Kailash Mountain range.In Tibet, it is known as ‘Singi Khamban; or Lion’s mouth.It flows in the between the
Ladakh and Zaskar ranges, it passes through Ladakh and Baltistan. It cuts across the Ladakh range, forming a spectacular
gorge near Gilgit in Ladakh. It enters Pakistan near Chilas in the Dardistan region.
Option 2 is correct: The Sutlej rises from Rakas Lake , situated west of Lake Manasarovar, near Mount Kailash in
Tibet,where it is known as Langchen Khambab.It flows in a northwest direction, entering India through the Shipki La
pass in Himachal Pradesh.
Option 3 is correct:The Brahmaputra has its origin in the Chemayungdung glacier of the Kailash range in the
Mansarovar region of southern Tibet, and is known there as the Tsangpo River. The river flows eastward in Tibet, makes a
sharp U-turn at Namcha Barwa, and enters Arunachal Pradesh in India as the Siang/Dihang before flowing into Assam
and finally into Bangladesh.
Option 4 is incorrect:
The Shyok River originates from the Rimo Glacier, which lies in the Karakoram Range of eastern Ladakh, not near the
Kailash mountains. It flows parallel to the Indus River for some distance before merging with it near Skardu.
Option 5 is incorrect:The Hunza River is formed by the confluence of the Khunjerab and Hispar rivers, both of which
originate from glaciers in the Karakoram mountain range, particularly in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. It flows through the
scenic Hunza Valley and ultimately joins the Gilgit River, which merges into the Indus.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-history/kailash-mansarovar-yatra-resumes-after-
five-years-history-of-a-storied-pilgrimage-10121108/
https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=3-7 >DRAINAGE SYSTEM > Pg.no.21/22
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.15)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Miyawaki technique was developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s to create dense forests in limited
spaces
Statement 1 is correct. It is an afforestation technique for cultivating fast growing groves of native plants to create a
natural forest. Natural forests created using this technique absorb more carbon, grow faster and support richer
biodiversity as compared to traditional forests.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Also referred to as pot plantation method as Miyawaki Technique involves planting trees and
shrubs close to each other to accelerate their growth.
Source: https://forumias.com/blog/miyawaki-technique/
Press Release:Press Information Bureau
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Miyawaki Technique
Subtopic:)

Q.16)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.

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[10]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

If you travel by road from Dehradun to Chennai, the minimum number of Indian states you would pass through,
including the starting point and the destination, is six. Starting from Uttarakhand, you first enter Uttar Pradesh, and
then proceed southward into Madhya Pradesh. Continuing the journey, you travel through Maharashtra, and from there,
the most direct route enters Andhra Pradesh, which leads into Tamil Nadu, where Chennai is located. This route follows
the most efficient national highways and avoids states like Telangana or Chhattisgarh.
Source: NCERT Class XI: India Physical Environment, Chapter 1
Oxford Student Atlas for India
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Location
Subtopic:)

Q.17)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Statement-I is correct:India has two major drainage systems—one flowing into the Bay of Bengal and the other into the
Arabian Sea. Out of the total drainage area, approximately 77% drains eastward into the Bay of Bengal, including rivers
like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery. These rivers are typically longer and have larger
catchment areas compared to west-flowing rivers.
Statement-II is correct:The Indian Peninsula and the Indo-Gangetic Plain have a general eastward slope, due to the
elevation being higher in the west and decreasing towards the east. This natural gradient influences the direction of
river flow, especially in the Peninsular region where the Western Ghats act as a water divide.
Statement-II explains Statement-I: The eastward slope of the landmass directly leads to the majority of rivers draining
into the Bay of Bengal, accounting for 77% of India's drainage area. Therefore, Statement-II provides the geographic
basis for the fact mentioned in Statement-I.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=3-7 DRAINAGE SYSTEM >Pg.no.19.
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.18)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The correct order of the given hills from east to west is 1-2-3-4 i.e. Garhjat Hills-Ramgarh Hills-Mahadeo Hills-
Satmala Hills.
Option 1: Garhjat Hills, located along the eastern margins of the Chhota Nagpur Plateau in Odisha, represent rugged
and dissected terrain of the Eastern Highlands.
Option 2: Moving west, the Ramgarh Hills lie in the eastern part of the Peninsular Plateau, forming part of the Chhota
Nagpur Plateau in Jharkhand-Chhattisgarh region.
Option 3: Further west are the Mahadeo Hills, a prominent part of the Satpura Range in central Madhya Pradesh,
representing the structural remnants of the old fold mountains in Peninsular India.
Option 4: The Satmala Hills, located in northwestern Maharashtra, are part of the Deccan volcanic uplands and lie
furthest west.
Therefore, the correct sequence is 1 – 2 – 3 – 4.

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[11]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=2-7>
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

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[12]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.19)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
The Brahmaputra River system is one of the largest and most significant river systems in Asia. It originates in the Kailash
ranges of the Himalayas, flows through Tibet (where it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo), enters India through Arunachal
Pradesh (where it's called Siang/Dihang), flows through Assam, and then enters Bangladesh (where it's known as the
Jamuna) before joining the Ganges and emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
Statements 1 and 2 are incorrect. Burhi Dihing, Dhansari, Lohit, Kopili etc. are major left bank tributaries of
Brahmaputra.
Statements 3,4 and 5 are correct. Subansiri, Teesta, Manas and Sankosh.are major right bank tributaries of Brahmputra.
The Subansiri which has its origin in Tibet, is an antecedent river. The Brahmaputra enters into Bangladesh near Dhubri
and flows southward. In Bangladesh, the Tista joins it on its right bank from where the river is known as the Jamuna. It
finally merges with the river Padma, which falls in the Bay of Bengal.

Source: NCERT ,INDIA : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ,CH Drainage System.

Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.20)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.

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[13]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

The Torrijos-Carter Treaties, signed on September 7, 1977, between the United States and Panama, comprised two key
agreements:
1. Panama Canal Treaty:
a. It provided for joint control of the Panama Canal by the U.S. and Panama until December 31, 1999.
b. After this date, Panama assumed full control of the canal's operations and defense.
c. This marked the end of U.S. sovereignty over the canal zone, which it had held since the canal's opening
in 1914.
2. Permanent Neutrality Treaty:
a. This treaty declared that the canal would remain open to vessels of all nations, ensuring its use for global
trade under conditions of neutrality.
b. It allowed the United States to defend the canal's neutrality and gave it priority passage rights during
military emergencies.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/why-has-trump-called-the-panama-treaty-foolish-
explained/article69055122.ece
https://forumias.com/blog/torrijos-carter-treaties/
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Torrijos-Carter Treaties
Subtopic:)

Q.21)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The Kaveri (Cauvery) River system is a major river system in South India, flowing eastward through Karnataka and Tamil
Nadu before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. It's known for its fertile delta, significant irrigation potential, and religious
importance. The river originates in Talakaveri, Karnataka, and is approximately 800 km long.
Statement I is correct.Unlike many seasonal Peninsular rivers, Kaveri has a more stable and perennial flow, although it's
not fully perennial like Himalayan rivers.
Statement II is correct.Upper basin of Kveri River (Karnataka, Western Ghats) receives heavy rainfall during the
southwest monsoon (June–Sept). The lower basin (Tamil Nadu) gets significant rainfall during the northeast monsoon
(Oct–Dec).
This dual monsoon influence leads to better year-round flow, with less fluctuation than rivers like Godavari, Krishna, or
Pennar, which mostly depend on a single monsoon season.
So both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I.
Source: NCERT ,INDIA : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ,CH Drainage System.
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.22)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Option a is incorrect.Ravi River Origin: Near Kullu hills in Himachal PradeshFlows through: Chamba valley and enters
Pakistan near LahoreDoes not pass through: Verinag, Wular Lake, or Srinagar.
Option b is incorrect. Chenab River, formed by: Confluence of Chandra and Bhaga rivers at Tandi (Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal
Pradesh).Major flow through: Jammu region
Option c is incorrect.Beas River ,Source: Beas Kund near Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh.Flows south and west through
Kullu Valley and joins Sutlej.Not connected to Kashmir or Wular Lake

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[14]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Option d is correct.The Jhelum River is a major river in northwestern India and northern Pakistan, and is a tributary of
the Indus River. It originates from the Verinag spring in the Pir Panjal Range in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The river flows
through the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar and Wular Lake, before entering Pakistan-administered Kashmir and
eventually joining the Chenab River near Trimmu in Pakistan.
Source: NCERT ,INDIA : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT .Ch Drainage System.
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.23)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Dams in India are vital for irrigation, hydroelectricity, flood control, and water supply, especially in a monsoon-dependent
country. Post-independence, large multipurpose projects like Bhakra Nangal (Sutlej) and Hirakud (Mahanadi) were
developed to boost agriculture and industry. India now has over 5,000 large dams, making it the third-largest dam-
building nation globally. Major rivers like the Krishna, Narmada, Godavari, and Ganga host critical projects that are often
asked in exams due to their national importance.
Pair 1 is correctly matched: The Bhakra Nangal Project is one of the earliest and most significant multipurpose river
valley projects in India. It is constructed on the Sutlej River, which is a major tributary of the Indus. The Bhakra Dam is
located in Himachal Pradesh, while the Nangal Dam lies downstream in Punjab. The project includes the massive Gobind
Sagar Reservoir, and is primarily used for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. It played a pivotal
role in the Green Revolution by ensuring year-round irrigation in the states of Punjab and Haryana.
Pair 2 is incorrectly matched: The Sardar Sarovar Project is built on the Narmada River, not the Tapi. Located near
Navagam in Gujarat, the dam is part of the larger Narmada Valley Development Project and is one of the largest concrete
gravity dams in the world. The project was envisioned to provide water for irrigation and drinking purposes to drought-
prone areas of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. It also contributes significantly to power
generation. The Tapi River, although a west-flowing river like the Narmada, is unrelated to this dam
Pair 3 is correctly matched: The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is constructed across the Krishna River, straddling the border of
Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the largest masonry dams in the world and was completed in the 1960s. The
dam was a major step in post-independence India’s river valley development programs and serves primarily for irrigation
and hydroelectric power generation. It also created one of the largest artificial lakes in the country. The project is named
after the famous Buddhist scholar Acharya Nagarjuna.
Pair 4 is correctly matched: The Hirakud Dam is built on the Mahanadi River in the Sambalpur district of Odisha.
Completed in 1957, it is one of the world’s longest earthen dams, extending over 25 kilometers including dykes. It was
among the first major multipurpose river valley projects undertaken after independence and serves multiple purposes—
irrigation, flood control in the delta region, and hydroelectric power generation. The dam also helps in checking the
seasonal flooding that the Mahanadi is prone to.
Hence only pairs 1,3,4 are correctly matched.
Source: NCERT Class 10 – Contemporary India – II-Chapter 3: Water Resources
India Year Book -https://www.publicationsdivision.nic.in/
https://indiawris.gov.in/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.24)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
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[15]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
The break in the Indian monsoon refers to a temporary weakening or cessation of rainfall over the core monsoon regions
such as central India, the Western Ghats, and parts of the Indo-Gangetic plain.
Statement 1 is correct:Break in Indian Monsoon typically happens when the monsoon trough, which normally lies close
to the Gangetic plains, shifts northwards toward the Himalayan foothills. As a result, the organized rain-bearing systems
over mainland India weaken, leading to a sharp decline in rainfall for several days. This is a well-documented feature of
the Indian monsoon system and is observed particularly during July and August.
Statement 2 is incorrect:The formation of low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal actually strengthens the
monsoon by enhancing the flow of moisture-laden winds and triggering widespread rainfall across central and northern
India. A break in the monsoon generally occurs when such low-pressure systems fail to form or move inland, leading to a
lull in rainfall activity. Therefore, the absence, not the presence, of these systems is associated with the break phase.
Statement 3 is correct:While the core monsoon zones see suppressed rainfall during a break, rainfall activity often
continues or even intensifies along the Himalayan foothills, such as in Uttarakhand, Bihar, and West Bengal, due to the
northward displacement of the monsoon trough. Simultaneously, Tamil Nadu and some other southeastern regions may
receive rainfall from easterly winds, even though these areas typically lie in the rain-shadow of the southwest monsoon.
Hence, this statement is accurate and reflects the regional shift in rainfall patterns during a break.
Knowledge Base:
During break phases, rainfall patterns become regionally skewed. While most of central, northwestern, and peninsular
India experiences suppressed rainfall, increased precipitation is observed along the Himalayan foothills, particularly in
Uttarakhand, northern West Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar, and parts of northeastern India. Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra
Pradesh may also receive some rainfall due to the easterly wind influence, even though these regions typically lie in the
rain-shadow of the southwest monsoon. The duration and frequency of these breaks vary each year and are closely linked
to intra-seasonal oscillations and broader climate patterns like Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and ENSO (El Niño-
Southern Oscillation) events.
The break in monsoon has profound implications for Indian agriculture, especially in rain-fed areas that depend on a
timely and spatially even distribution of monsoon rainfall for Kharif crop cultivation. Prolonged breaks during critical
crop-growing stages can lead to agricultural drought, water stress, and delayed sowing. Historically, years with frequent
or extended break phases have correlated with drought years or deficient monsoon seasons. The India Meteorological
Department (IMD) actively monitors these breaks using satellite data and atmospheric models, as they play a key role in
monsoon forecasting, water resource management, and disaster preparedness.
Furthermore, breaks also influence hydropower generation, urban water supply, and reservoir levels in river basins like
the Ganga, Godavari, and Krishna. The understanding of monsoon breaks is not just meteorological but strategic—
integrated into agricultural advisories, irrigation scheduling, and food security planning.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=4-7
https://mausam.imd.gov.in/imd_latest/monsoonfaq.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.25)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is incorrect: Sultanpur National Park is located in the Gurugram district of Haryana (Not in Uttar Pradesh).
It is a well-known sanctuary for both resident and migratory birds, attracting bird enthusiasts from across the country.
Statement 2 is correct: The park is known for regular sightings of migratory species such as the Siberian Crane,
Northern Pintail, and Common Teal. These birds visit the park during the winter months, making it a hub for
birdwatchers.

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[16]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 3 is incorrect: The park primarily supports tropical dry deciduous vegetation, not evergreen vegetation.
Trees like neem, khair, and tendu dominate the park, providing habitats for birds. Evergreen vegetation is not a
characteristic feature of Sultanpur National Park.
Knowledge Base: Key Information About Sultanpur National Park:
● History:
o 1971: Declared a sanctuary under the Punjab Wildlife Preservation Act, 1959.
o 1991: Upgraded to a National Park under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
o 2021: Notified as a Ramsar site.
● Fauna:
o Resident Birds: Common Hoopoe, Black Francolin, Spot Billed Duck, Painted Stork.
o Migratory Birds: Common Teal, Siberian Cranes, Northern Pintail.
● Water Source: Sultanpur Jheel is a key feature of the park, attracting numerous bird species, particularly during
winter.
Source: https://forumias.com/blog/sultanpur-national-park/
https://www.downtoearth.org.in/wildlife-biodiversity/on-the-verge-of-vagrancy-what-rare-bird-sightings-mean
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Sultanpur National Park
Subtopic:)

Q.26)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer
The Godavari River, often referred to as the Dakshina Ganga (Ganges of the South), is the second longest river in India
after the Ganga. It has a length of about 1,465 km and traverses a major part of the peninsular India, draining into the Bay
of Bengal. The river basin supports agriculture, biodiversity, and human settlements across multiple states.

Statement 1 is correct: The Godavari originates at Trimbak, near Trimbakeshwar in the Nashik district of
Maharashtra, in the Western Ghats. The source lies at an elevation of around 1,067 meters, not far from the Arabian Sea.
However, unlike west-flowing rivers in the region, the Godavari flows eastward, eventually draining into the Bay of
Bengal. Trimbakeshwar is a significant religious site, home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This sacred
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[17]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
origin adds cultural and spiritual significance to the river. Its source in the Western Ghats places it among many major
rivers that begin in this biodiversity-rich range.
Statement 2 is correct: The Godavari river system has several major tributaries, of which the Pranhita and Indravati are
especially important. The Pranhita River is formed by the confluence of the Wainganga, Wardha, and Penganga rivers.
It is considered the largest tributary by discharge, contributing around 34% of the Godavari’s total flow. The Indravati
River, on the other hand, originates in Odisha and traverses Chhattisgarh before joining the Godavari in Telangana. These
tributaries drain vast areas, and their catchments are crucial for irrigation, hydropower projects, and the overall ecology
of the basin.
Statement 3 is correct: The Godavari River is indeed the second longest river in India, after the Ganga, which spans
over 2,500 km. The Godavari stretches approximately 1,465 km and is the longest river in peninsular India. Its drainage
basin covers around 3.12 lakh square kilometers, which is about 9.5% of India's geographical area. Owing to its extensive
reach, it supports many major urban centers like Nashik, Nanded, Rajahmundry, and Narsapur. The river is also integral
to various large-scale infrastructure projects, such as the Polavaram and Sriram Sagar Dams. Its length, volume, and
basin area make it second only to the Ganga in terms of national importance.
Hence, only three statements are correct.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=3-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.27)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
The Himalayas, being a young fold mountain system, are geologically active and experience intense erosion, weathering,
and fluvial as well as glacial action. The terrain is marked by steep gradients, deep valleys, and dynamic geomorphic
processes that give rise to distinctive features.
Option 1 is correct. V-shaped valleys are classic features of river erosion in youthful, mountainous regions like the
Himalayas. Rivers in the upper course cut down vertically into the terrain due to their high energy and steep gradients,
forming deep and narrow valleys that resemble the shape of the letter “V.”
Option 2 is correct. Hanging valleys are typically formed in glaciated mountain regions such as the Himalayas. They
occur where smaller tributary glaciers once joined a main glacier. As the main glacier erodes the valley floor much more
deeply than its tributaries, the valleys left behind by the tributaries are left “hanging” above the main valley. After the
glaciers retreat, these tributary valleys often become the site of waterfalls.
Option 3 is incorrect. Levees are embankment-like ridges formed along riverbanks in the floodplains due to repeated
flooding and sediment deposition. These features are characteristic of mature river systems in lowland areas, especially in
the Indo-Gangetic plains. They are not typically found in the steep, narrow valleys of the Himalayas where river flow is
swift and the terrain is not conducive to lateral deposition.
Option 4 is correct. Interlocking Spurs are landforms found in the upper course of rivers in mountainous regions where
the river winds around projections of hard rock. The river does not have the power to cut through these resistant rock
masses and instead erodes the softer rock around them, resulting in a series of alternate protruding ridges on either side
of the valley. These “spurs” interlock like the teeth of a zip and are commonly seen in young river valleys of the Himalayas,
particularly where river erosion dominates over glacial activity.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy102.pdf
https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy206.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

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[18]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.28)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Mountain passes are natural routes or gaps through mountain ranges that have historically played a crucial role in trade,
military movement, cultural exchange, and strategic connectivity.
Pair 1 is correct. Nathu La is a major mountain pass located in the state of Sikkim. It connects Sikkim with the Tibet
Autonomous Region of China and is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China. Historically, it
was part of the ancient Silk Route.
Pair 2 is correct. The Niti Pass is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Tibetan border. It is a
high-altitude pass that was historically used by local traders and pilgrims moving between India and Tibet.
Pair 3 is incorrect. Khardung La is not located in Arunachal Pradesh but in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Situated north
of Leh, it lies on the caravan route that once connected Leh to Kashgar in Central Asia. It is a strategically important pass,
giving access to the Siachen Glacier and maintaining vital military supply lines.
Pair 4 is incorrect. Banihal Pass is located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, not Himachal Pradesh. It lies
in the Pir Panjal Range and connects the Kashmir Valley with the outer Himalayas and the Jammu region.
Source: NCERT- India Physical Geography-chapter 2 Physiography.
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.29)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is correct. The Dafla Hills are located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh, along the border with Bhutan.
These hills are inhabited by the Dafla tribe and form a part of the Eastern Himalayas. The terrain is rugged, and the region
is known for its dense forests and rich biodiversity.
Pair 2 is incorrect. The Lushai Hills are not in Assam; they are located primarily in Mizoram. In fact, "Lushai" is an older
name for the Mizo Hills, named after the Lushai (or Mizo) people. These hills are characterized by rolling mountain ranges
and dense forests, forming part of the Patkai range in the northeastern region of India.
Pair 3 is incorrect. The Mikir Hills are located in the state of Assam, not Mizoram. They lie to the south of the Kaziranga
National Park and are considered geologically older than the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The Mikir Hills are isolated
and of volcanic origin, forming an important ecological zone.
Pair 4 is correct. The Garo Hills are situated in the western part of Meghalaya. They are named after the Garo tribe and
are known for their scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and dense forests. The Garo Hills are one of the three major hill ranges
of Meghalaya, the others being the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
Source: https://www.egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/101152/1/Block-1.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.30)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Tobacco Board does not recommend a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for tobacco crops.
Moreover, Tobacco has not been covered under the list of crops under MSP in India since 2008-09. Instead, it ensures
fair and remunerative prices for farmers through a transparent auction system. This system eliminates intermediaries and
facilitates price discovery.

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[19]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 2 is incorrect: The Tobacco Board functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, not the Ministry
of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. It is responsible for regulating tobacco production, research, and marketing, with a
focus on export promotion and price stability.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The headquarters of the Tobacco Board is located in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, not Bengaluru,
Karnataka. Guntur is strategically chosen as it is a key tobacco-growing region in India, facilitating closer engagement
with stakeholders.
Knowledge Base: Key Information About Tobacco Board of India:
● Functions:
o Monitoring the Virginia tobacco market for fair pricing.
o Establishing transparent electronic auction platforms.
o Supporting research for sustainable cultivation and export promotion.
o Providing financial relief to farmers during crises.
● Recent Achievement: The earnings of Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco farmers increased from ₹124 per kg
(2019-20) to ₹279.54 per kg (2023-24) due to improved auction systems and export promotion activities.
Source: https://forumias.com/blog/tobacco-board-of-india/
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Tobacco Board of India
Subtopic:)

Q.31)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Bugyals are high-altitude alpine meadows or grasslands used for grazing and found mainly in Uttarakhand between
3,000 to 4,500 meters above sea level. It is known as "nature’s own gardens”. They are snow-covered in winter and bloom
with grasses and flowers in summer. Bugyals play a crucial role in the Himalayan ecosystem. They are classified into three
types: dry meadows in Ladakh, lush meadows in the western Himalayas (Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, J&K), and shrub-
dominated meadows in the eastern Himalayas (Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh).
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/iess305.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.32)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
The Karewas are a unique geological and agricultural feature of the Kashmir Valley in India. These elevated terraces
represent ancient lake-bed deposits.
Statement 1 is correct. Karewas are made of layers of fine materials like clay, silt, and sand, which were deposited by
melting glaciers and flowing rivers a long time ago. They also include moraines, which are rocky and muddy materials
left behind by glaciers as they melted. This mix of materials makes Karewas a result of both glacial and river activity.
Statement 2 is correct. Karewas are found in the Kashmir Valley, mainly between the Pir Panjal and Zanskar mountain
ranges. They are common in areas like Pulwama, Budgam, and Pampore.
Statement 3 is correct. The soil of Karewas is very fertile and rich in minerals, which makes it perfect for growing crops.
The famous Kashmiri saffron is grown mainly in Karewas. They are also great for apple orchards and dry fruits like
walnuts and almonds, which are important for the local economy
Source: https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/41343/1/Unit-1.pdf
Subject:) Geography

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[20]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
Topic:) Physiography/ Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.33)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option b is correct: Pindari Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in India and a source of the Pindar River, a
tributary of the Alaknanda River (which eventually joins the Ganga).
● It is located in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, which falls under the Kumaon Himalayas, a sub-division of
the greater Himalayas stretching across eastern Uttarakhand.
● The glacier lies between the Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot peaks and is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Oct/25/global-warming-plays-truant-pindari-glacier-
melts
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/pindari-glacier-trek-one-of-ukhands-popular-adventure-spots-
to-open-on-april-15/articleshow/120288436.cms
https://kumaon.gov.in/pages/display/77-pindari-glacier
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.34)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement I is incorrect: Bhangar is the older alluvium, deposited much earlier and found on higher terraces away from
the active floodplains.
● Khadar is the newer alluvium, deposited every year during floods along the riverbanks.
● Khadar is more fertile due to the regular supply of fresh silt, whereas Bhangar’s fertility is relatively reduced due to
aging and weathering.
Statement II is incorrect:Bhangar often contains kankar (calcareous concretions), which can reduce soil permeability
and fertility.
● Khadar, being fresh silt, is generally free from kankar and thus more suitable for intensive agriculture (e.g., wheat,
sugarcane, rice).
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/jess101.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.35)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct: The CGWB report identifies the overuse of subsidised synthetic fertilizers as the primary cause
of nitrate contamination in groundwater. These fertilizers leach into the soil and groundwater, contributing to the
problem.
Statement 2 is correct: The CGWB report highlights that 56% of India’s districts are affected by excessive nitrate
contamination in groundwater, indicating that over half of the country’s districts face this issue.
Knowledge Base: Key Findings from the CGWB Report:

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[21]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

● Extent of Contamination: Excessive nitrates in groundwater are observed in 56% of India’s districts, with
concentrations exceeding the safe threshold of 45 mg per litre in 19.8% of tested samples.
● Geographical Spread: The problem is severe in Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, with rising cases in
Maharashtra, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh.
● Primary Cause: The main contributor to nitrate contamination is the overuse of subsidised synthetic
nitrogenous fertilizers, which leach nitrates into the groundwater.
● Other Pollutants: Groundwater is also affected by contaminants such as fluoride and uranium, as identified in
the report.
Source:
https://forumias.com/blog/nitrate-contamination-of-groundwater/
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Nitrate Contamination in Groundwater in India
Subtopic:)

Q.36)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option b is correct:
Sambhar
● Located in Jaipur and Nagaur districts, Sambhar Lake is India’s largest inland saline lake.
● It is a Ramsar Site and a major source of salt production, with government-controlled and cooperative salt
extraction.
● The lake lies in an arid area with an inland drainage system, where evaporation exceeds rainfall, leading to salt
concentration.
Degana
● Located in Nagaur district, Degana is primarily known for tungsten reserves, but also has smaller saline depressions
and brine-based salt extraction zones.
● These shallow depressions form minor seasonal salt pans, especially active during post-monsoon evaporation.
Kuchaman
● Also in Nagaur district, Kuchaman is surrounded by small saline lakes and pans used by local communities for
traditional salt farming.
● The region is known for its dry climate and internal drainage, making it ideal for the formation of saline basins.
Source: https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/content/dam/rajasthantourism/english/pdf/lakes-
rivers/Sambhar_Lake_Broucher_2019.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.37)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Chars are riverine landforms, commonly described as sandbars or islands that are temporarily or seasonally formed by
fluvial (river) deposition.They are most notably found in the braided channels of the Brahmaputra River in Assam and
also in parts of West Bengal and Bihar in the Ganga basin.
Geographical Features:
● Formed by deposition: When River velocity decreases, it deposits silt and sand, creating islands.
● Dynamic in nature: These chars are often reshaped or eroded during the monsoon floods.
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9311740400, 9311740900 | https://academy.forumias.com | admissions@forumias.academy | helpdesk@forumias.academy

[22]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

● Unstable terrain: Not permanently fixed; many chars disappear or migrate due to river action.
Location in India:
● Assam: In districts like Dhubri, Barpeta, and Morigaon, chars are common in the Brahmaputra.
● West Bengal & Bihar: Found along Ganga and its distributaries.
● Inhabitants: Home to millions, including marginal communities like the Char dwellers (Char dwellers are known as
‘Charwasis’ in Assam) who depend on farming and fishing.
Vulnerabilities:
● Floods and Erosion: Most chars are highly flood-prone and suffer annual displacement.
● Lack of legal land rights: Many char settlers lack formal land titles, leading to poor access to welfare schemes.
● Socio-economic exclusion: Limited infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Source: https://dircad.assam.gov.in/about-us/history-0
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.38)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option a is incorrect: Bundelkhand plateau is located east of Malwa Plateau, spread across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya
Pradesh.
● Rocky and rugged terrain, composed of granite and gneiss rocks.
● Drained by rivers like Betwa, Dhasan, and Ken.
● Lacks features like Chambal Ravines, Aravalli boundary, or rolling plains.
● Not triangular in shape and not bounded by Vindhyas
Option b is correct: Malwa Plateau has a triangular shape with its base resting on the Vindhyan Hills.It is bounded by
the Aravalli range in the west, providing a natural western edge.
● To the east, it has a sharp scarp overlooking Bundelkhand, marking a distinct physiographic boundary.
● The northern edge is marked by Chambal Ravines, which carve deep gullies and ravines into the landscape.
● The plateau features a broken terrain, with rolling plains and flat-topped forested hills, making it a prominent
region in central India.
Option c is incorrect: Chotanagpur Plateau is located in eastern India (mostly Jharkhand, with parts in Chhattisgarh,
Odisha, and West Bengal).
● Known as the “Ruhr of India” due to rich mineral resources (coal, iron ore, bauxite).
● Composed of Precambrian rocks and deeply dissected by rivers like Subarnarekha and Damodar.
● The terrain is undulating with numerous scarps and river valleys, but it does not have Chambal Ravines or Aravalli
influence.
Option d is incorrect: Baghelkhand Plateau lies southeast of Bundelkhand, spread across northeastern Madhya Pradesh
and northern Chhattisgarh.
● Bounded by Vindhyan ranges to the north, Satpuras to the south, and Son river system.
● The terrain is more dissected and less uniform than Malwa.
● No Aravalli or Chambal connection.
● Does not exhibit the forested flat-topped hills or distinct triangular formation of Malwa.
Source: Unit-2.pdfeGyanKoshhttps://egyankosh.ac.in › bitstream › Unit-2
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

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Boring Canal Road, Patna, Bihar 800001 | Hyderabad - 1st & 2nd Floor, SM Plaza, RTC X Rd, Indira Park Road, Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500020
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[23]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.39)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is correct: The Satpura Range comprises a series of scarped plateaus on its southern edge, generally rising to
elevations between 600 and 900 metres above mean sea level. It forms the northernmost boundary of the Deccan Plateau.
The highest peak in the Satpura Range is Dhoopgarh(1320m), located near Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh.
Pair 2 is correct: Aravallis is a mountain that rises from Gujarat through Rajasthan to Delhi. The highest peak of the
Aravalli hills is Gurushikhar (1722m) near Mt. Abu.
Pair 3 is incorrect: The Eastern Ghats are discontinuous low belts. Their average elevation is 600 m. They run parallel to
the east coast from the south of Mahanadi valley to the Nilgiri hills. The highest peak in this region is Mahendragiri (1501
m) and not Dodabetta.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy102.pdf
https://www.satpuratigerreserve.org/topography-and-geography
https://www.nios.ac.in/media/documents/316-New/Book-1/Ch-11.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.40)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) is a non-statutory body established in
2010 by the Government of India. It was created to address inter-regulatory coordination and ensure financial stability
in India.
Statement 2 is correct: The Sub-Committee of the FSDC is chaired by the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
This sub-committee deals with technical issues and regulatory coordination among financial sector regulators such as
RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, and PFRDA.
Knowledge Base: Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC)
● Purpose: The council addresses issues related to:
o Financial stability
o Development of the financial sector
o Financial literacy and inclusion
o Oversight of financial regulation and supervision
● Chairperson: The Union Finance Minister heads the FSDC.
● Members:
o Heads of key financial sector regulators: Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Securities and Exchange Board of
India (SEBI), Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority (IRDA), and Forward Markets Commission (FMC).
o Finance Secretary
o Chief Economic Advisor
o Other senior officials involved in financial policy and regulation.
Source: https://forumias.com/blog/financial-stability-report/
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC)
Subtopic:)

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Boring Canal Road, Patna, Bihar 800001 | Hyderabad - 1st & 2nd Floor, SM Plaza, RTC X Rd, Indira Park Road, Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500020
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[24]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.41)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option 1 is correct: Sagar Island, located approximately 120 km from Kolkata, is the largest island within the Sundarbans
archipelago. It is near this island that the River Ganga completes its journey and empties into the Bay of Bengal.
Option 2 is incorrect: Aminidivi Island is at a distance of 407 km (220 nautical miles) from Kochi in the Arabian sea and
located between Kavaratti Island in the south and Kadmat Island in the north.
Option 3 is incorrect: Cannanore Island is one of the three island subgroups that make up the Union Territory of
Lakshadweep, and not located in Bay of Bengal.
Option 4 is correct: Shaheed Dweep, formerly known as Neil Island, is a part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the
Bay of Bengal. It is situated about 36 km northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the Union Territory
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy103.pdf https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andaman-and-
nicobar-islands/port-blair-to-be-renamed-as-sri-vijaya-puram-says-amit-shah/article68638369.ece
https://lakshadweep.gov.in/islands/amini/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.42)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option 1: Bhima is one of the major tributaries of river Krishna River originating from Western Ghats at Bhima Shankar
near Karjat village in Maharashtra State. Sangam is the place where the Krishna and Bhima rivers merge, located near the
border of Karnataka
Option 2: The Tungabhadra River is formed by the confluence of two streams—the Tunga (about 147 km) and the Bhadra
(about 178 km)—both originating in the Western Ghats. After merging near Shimoga in Karnataka, the river flows for
approximately 531 km, eventually joining the Krishna River at Sangameshwaram in Andhra Pradesh.
Option 3: Palar River rises in the Nandi Hills (near Talagavare/Talagavare village) in Chikkaballapura–Kolar district,
Karnataka. It Forms a border with Andhra Pradesh and flows across several districts of Tamil nadu and discharges into the
Bay of Bengal near Vayalur
Hence the correct sequence is 1 – 2 – 3 i.e. Bhima- Tungabhadra- Palar.

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[25]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
Source:
https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy103.pdf
https://indiawris.gov.in/wiki/doku.php?id=bhima_lift_irrigation_project_ji02715
https://tbboard.gov.in/tungabhadra-river/
https://indiawris.gov.in/wiki/doku.php?id=palar
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.43)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Amarkantak hill located in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh, is situated in the Maikal Range, which acts as a
transitional zone linking the Vindhyachal to the north and Satpura to the south. It has an average elevation of 1048m
(3438ft) above mean sea level. The region is also an important watershed, giving rise to major rivers such as the Narmada,
Son, and Mahanadi.

Source: https://anuppur.nic.in/en/places-of-interest/
https://igntu.ac.in/MekalInsight/jan2020/5.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.44)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Statement-I is correct: During the winter season (northeast monsoon), most of India remains dry. This is because the
northeast monsoon winds are dry and originate from the continental interior, offering little moisture to produce
rainfall—except over Tamil Nadu(Coromondal) coast, which gets rain due to their moisture pick-up over the Bay of
Bengal.
Statement-II is correct: In winter, high-pressure systems (anti-cyclones) develop over the Indian landmass due to cold
and stable air. These anti-cyclones discourage vertical air movement, and hence inhibit cloud formation and rainfall—
supporting the dry conditions .
Statement-III is correct:The north-east trade winds blow from land to sea in winter (from the high-pressure landmass to
the low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal). Being continental in origin, these winds are dry, carrying very little
moisture, and hence do not bring rainfall to most parts of India.

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[26]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Both Statement-II and Statement-III explains Statement-I: Winter monsoons do not cause rainfall in most parts of India
because of two key reasons: the presence of anti-cyclonic circulation over the land, which suppresses cloud formation,
and the dry nature of north-east trade winds, which lack sufficient moisture. Both factors together explain the
widespread dry conditions during this season.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy104.pdf
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy104.
pdf&ved=2ahUKEwiCjs-E4L2OAxXGzzgGHYM9EXMQFnoECCYQAQ&usg=AOvVaw0Wcqn71IStKCBHoljj9cG1> CLIMATE
AND VEGETATION>Pg.no.33
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.45)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct. Project VISTAAR, is about Digitalization of the Agricultural Extension System. It has been
conceptualized with the goal to enhance and strengthen the agricultural extension system through the application of
digital technology. Digitalization of the existing extension system will expand its outreach substantially and enable every
farmer to access high-quality advisory services on crop production, marketing, value and supply chain management and
climate smart agricultural practices (CSA) etc.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Project VISTAAR is an initiative by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) in
collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India.
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Project VISTAAR
Subtopic:)

Q.46)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Statement-I is correct: Agra and Darjeeling lie on roughly the same latitude, meaning they receive similar solar
radiation. The temperature of January in Agra is 16°C whereas it is only 4°C in Darjiling.Thus, Darjeeling is much cooler,
especially in winter, due to its higher elevation.
Statement-II is incorrect: The reason temperature decreases with altitude is not because of dense air, but because air
becomes thinner (less dense) at higher elevations. As we go higher in the atmosphere, air becomes thinner (less dense)
and cannot retain heat effectively. According to the normal lapse rate, temperature decreases by about 6.5°C for every
1,000 metres of elevation gain. Also, thinner air at high altitudes absorbs and retains less solar heat compared to denser
air in the plains.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=4-7 >CLIMATE AND VEGETATION> Pg.no,29
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.47)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.

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[27]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 1 is incorrect : El Niño refers to the unusual warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern
equatorial Pacific Ocean, not the Indian Ocean. This warming affects atmospheric circulation patterns across the globe,
including weakening the Indian monsoon winds.

Statement 2 is incorrect: La Niña is associated with cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the central and
eastern Pacific Ocean. This typically strengthens the trade winds and enhances the southwest monsoon over India,
leading to more rainfall. La Niña usually supports a stronger and wetter monsoon.

Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=4-7 > Pg no 31.

Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)
Forum Learning Centre: Delhi - Plot No. 36, 4th Floor (Above Kalyan Jewellers) Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 | Patna - 2nd floor, AG Palace, E
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[28]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.48)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct: North Indian states like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan lie far from the sea and thus do not
benefit from the moderating influence of maritime winds. As a result, these areas experience a continental climate,
marked by extreme seasonal temperature variations, including severe cold during winter.
Statement 2 is correct: During winter, the Himalayan region receives heavy snowfall. The cold air masses generated over
these snow-covered ranges descend into the northern plains, leading to sharp drops in temperature and creating cold
wave conditions across states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab.
Statement 3 is correct: Around late January to February, cold winds from Central Asia, particularly from regions like
Turkmenistan and the Caspian Sea, blow into northwestern India. These winds are dry and icy, and when they interact
with existing conditions, they bring frost, dense fog, and cold wave conditions, particularly to Rajasthan, Punjab, and
Haryana.
Statement 4 is incorrect: The ITCZ is a low-pressure zone near the equator that shifts northward during the summer
monsoon. During winter, it stays well south of India, and hence, has no influence on winter weather patterns in North
India.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=4-7>> Pg no.33
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.49)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is correct: Mango showers are pre-monsoon showers occurring in March–April in southern India, especially in
Kerala and coastal Karnataka. They are important for the early ripening of mangoes, hence the name Mango Showers.
Pair 2 is Incorrect: Blossom showers are not associated with Bengal and Assam. They occur mainly in the coffee-growing
regions of Karnataka, particularly the Malnad region and Kerala and help coffee plants blossom.
Pair 3 is Incorrect:Nor Westers are dreaded evening thunderstorms in Bengal and Assam. Their notorious nature can be
understood from the local nomenclature of ‘Kalbaisakhi’, a calamity of the month of Baisakh.These showers are useful for
tea,jute and rice cultivation. In Assam,these storms are known as“Bardoisila”
Pair 4 is correct:The Loo is a hot, dry wind that blows during the peak summer months (May–June) over the northern
plains, including Eastern Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Bihar.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=4-7 Pg.no 35
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.50)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Option d is correct. Ramesh Chand panel was set up to update the base year of the Wholesale Price Index (WPI)
from 2011-12 to 2022-23.
Its key responsibilities include:
1. Proposing a revised commodity basket for both the WPI and Producer Price Index (PPI) based on the 2022-23 base
year.
2. Reviewing the existing price collection system and suggesting enhancements.
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[29]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
3. Determining the computational methodology for the WPI and PPI.
The panel comprises economists from the government, rating agencies, asset management firms, banks, and
representatives from the government and the Reserve Bank of India.
Source:)https://forumias.com/blog/ramesh-chand-panel/
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Ramesh Chand panel
Subtopic:)

Q.51)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Statement I is correct: Tamil Nadu receives only a small fraction of its annual rainfall (less than 35%) during the
Southwest Monsoon (June–September).In contrast to other Indian regions like the Western Ghats or northeastern states,
Tamil Nadu remains relatively dry in this period.Its main rainy season is during the Northeast Monsoon (October–
December).
Statement II is correct: The Southwest Monsoon winds come from the Arabian Sea, moving from southwest to
northeast.When these moisture-laden winds hit the Western Ghats on the windward side (western slope), they cause
orographic rainfall.By the time the winds cross over to the leeward side (eastern slope, including Tamil Nadu), they have
lost most of their moisture.This is called the rain-shadow effect, and it is a major reason for the dry conditions on the
Tamil Nadu coast during this season.
Statement III is correct: The Bay of Bengal branch of the SW monsoon travels along the eastern coast of India.As it
reaches Tamil Nadu, the orientation of the coast causes these winds to move parallel to it, offering little or no onshore
flow.This reduces the possibility of moisture-laden winds rising and causing rainfall (no uplift → no condensation → no
rain).
Hence both Statements both II and III are correct ,and explain Statement I.
Source: NCERT INDIA :Physical Environment ,Ch Climate
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.52)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option a is incorrect .The Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) is the geological fault that separates the Lesser Himalayas from
the Shivalik Hills. This thrust fault is a major feature within the Himalayan mountain range, marking the boundary
between these two distinct geological and geographical regions
Option b is correct.The Main Frontal Thrust (MFT), also known as the Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT) or Himalayan
Frontal Fault (HFF), is a major geological fault marking the boundary between the Himalayan foothills and the Indo-
Gangetic Plain. It's the youngest and southernmost thrust structure within the Himalayan deformation front, essentially
acting as the surface expression of the deeper Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT). This fault is a significant seismogenic plate
boundary and a major hazard
Option c is incorrect.The Main Central Thrust (MCT) is the geological fault that separates the Greater Himalayas from the
Lesser Himalayas. It's a major thrust fault running along the boundary between these two ranges. The MCT is a significant
geological feature, with ongoing tectonic activity and seismogenic significance.
Option d is incorrect.The Indus-Tsangpo Suture Zone (ITSZ), marking the collision boundary between the Indian and
Eurasian tectonic plates, is not a static zone but is tectonically active
Knowledge Base: Other Important Thrust in Himalayas:
1 .Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT):
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[30]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
This is a major detachment fault that underlies the entire Himalayan orogeny. It's where the Indian and Asian plates
converge and where the major thrusts like the MCT, MBT, and HFT are believed to merge at depth.
2.Southern Tibetan Detachment System (STDS):
This system plays a role in exhuming the high-grade metamorphic rocks of the Greater Himalayas by facilitating their
uplift and exposure.
3.Mahabharat Thrust (MT):
Located between the MCT and MBT, the MT is associated with the movement of the Bhimphedi Group over the Lesser
Himalayan rocks, contributing to the formation of Lesser Himalayan nappes.
Source: Geography of India by Majid Husain .Ch,Physiography
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.53)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
The Eastern Ghats is a mountain range that stretches 1,750 km along the eastern coast of the Indian peninsula. Covering
an area of 75,000 km², it traverses the states of Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Statement 1 is correct.The Eastern Ghats are highly eroded and discontinuous, mainly due to major east-flowing rivers
like Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Pennar etc that cut through them. This is a primary distinction from the Western Ghats,
which are more continuous and higher.
Statement 2 is correct.Geologically, the Eastern Ghats are older than the Western Ghats, composed mainly of Archaean
rocks which are some of the oldest rock formations on Earth. They include gneisses, charnockites, and khondalites.
Statement 3 is incorrect.The Eastern Ghats are not high enough to significantly influence orographic rainfall. Moreover,
Tamil Nadu lies in the rainshadow of the Western Ghats during the southwest monsoon, receiving most of its rain from
the northeast monsoon (Oct–Dec), not due to orographic lift from the Eastern Ghats.
Source: Geography of India by Majid Husain .Ch Physiography
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.54)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct.The Aravalli Range is among the oldest fold mountain systems in the world, dating back to the
Archaean and Proterozoic eras (more than 2.5 billion years ago). These mountains are geologically extinct, meaning they
are no longer tectonically active and have been heavily eroded over time.
Statement 2 is correct .The Aravallis serve as a watershed divide:Eastern rivers, like the Banas, ultimately join the
Chambal and then the Yamuna, draining into the Bay of Bengal.
Western rivers, like the Luni and Sabarmati, drain towards the Arabian Sea.
Hence, the Aravallis divide water flow into two opposite coasts.
Statement 3 is incorrect.While Banas, Sabarmati, and Luni do originate in or near the Aravallis, not all flow eastward or
drain into the Bay of Bengal.Banas flows eastward and joins the Chambal which eventually drains into Bay of
Bengal.Sabarmati and Luni flow westward — towards the Arabian Sea or inland .Luni ends in the Rann of Kutch, not Bay of
Bengal.
Source: Geography of India by Majid Husain
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
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[31]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.55)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The Moidams – The Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty, recently inscribed as India's 43rd entry in the UNESCO
World Heritage List, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Assam and India. These mound-burial sites are royal
necropolises created by the Tai-Ahom people between the 13th and 19th centuries, primarily located in Choraideo, Assam.
The Tai-Ahom, who believed their monarchs were divine, constructed the Moidams to serve as "homes-for-spirits" for
their deceased kings. These structures, initially made from wood and later using stone and brick, symbolize a unique
funerary tradition similar to the pyramids of Egypt. The international recognition of Moidams underscores their
Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) and highlights the efforts made by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the
Assam government in preserving these culturally significant sites.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/its-official-now-charaideo-moidams-inscribed-as-unesco-
world-heritage-site/articleshow/117275496.cms
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/mound-burial-system-of-ahom-dynasty-in-assam-included-in-unesco-
world-heritage-list/article68448746.ece
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Moidams of Aasam
Subtopic:)

Q.56)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
A monsoon is a seasonal wind system characterized by a dramatic change in wind direction and the associated shift in
precipitation patterns. These systems are most pronounced in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly near the
Indian Ocean.
Statement I is correct.In June–July, due to the intense heating of the Indian landmass, a low-pressure area develops. The
southeast trade winds cross the equator, and due to the Coriolis force, they are deflected to the right, becoming the
southwest monsoon winds which bring widespread rainfall to the Indian subcontinent.
Statement II is correct.It is true that in July, the ITCZ shifts northward and lies over or near the Gangetic Plain. The Inter
Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a low pressure zone located at the equator where trade winds converge, and so, it is
a zone where air tends to ascend. In July, the ITCZ is located around 20°°N-25°°N latitudes (over the Gangetic plain),
sometimes called the monsoon trough. This monsoon trough encourages the development of thermal low over north
and northwest India. Due to the shift of ITCZ, the trade winds of the southern hemisphere cross the equator between
40°° and 60°°E longitudes and start blowing from southwest to northeast due to the Coriolis force. It becomes
southwest monsoon. In winter, the ITCZ moves southward, and so the reversal of winds from northeast to south and
southwest, takes place. They are called northeast monsoons.
So, Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I.
Knowledge Base: The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and Monsoon :
The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the monsoon are closely related. The ITCZ is a low-pressure area near the
equator where the trade winds of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres converge, leading to rising air and significant
rainfall. The seasonal shift of the ITCZ plays a crucial role in driving monsoon patterns, particularly the Indian summer
monsoon.
ITCZ and its Seasonal Movement:
● The ITCZ is a belt of low pressure that encircles the Earth near the equator.
● It shifts north and south with the apparent movement of the sun, following the area of maximum solar heating.
● During the summer months, the ITCZ moves into the summer hemisphere, bringing with it increased rainfall.
ITCZ and the Indian Monsoon:

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[32]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

● The Indian summer monsoon is essentially a manifestation of the seasonal migration of the ITCZ.
● As the ITCZ shifts northward during the summer, it draws in moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean, leading to
the onset of the monsoon rains over India.
● This northward shift of the ITCZ is closely linked to the heating of the Tibetan Plateau, which creates a low-pressure
area, further influencing the monsoon winds.
● The ITCZ, when located over India during the summer, is sometimes referred to as the monsoon trough or the
Northern Intertropical Convergence Zone (NITCZ).
Source: NCERT Class 11, India Physical Environment .Ch Climate
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.57)
Ans) a
Exp) option a is the correct answer.
The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is a climate phenomenon marked by differences in sea surface temperatures between the
tropical western (off East Africa) and tropical eastern (near Indonesia) parts of the Indian Ocean. A positive IOD features
warmer waters in the west and cooler in the east, enhancing monsoon rainfall over India. In contrast, a negative IOD
brings warmer waters to the east, weakening the monsoon. Though separate from El Niño and La Niña, the IOD can
interact with them, influencing the strength and distribution of the Indian monsoon.
Statement 1 is correct: The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is a climate phenomenon characterized by a difference in sea
surface temperature between the western equatorial Indian Ocean (near the African coast) and the eastern equatorial
Indian Ocean (near Indonesia). During a positive IOD event, the western Indian Ocean becomes warmer than the eastern
part, while in a negative IOD, the eastern part is warmer. This oscillation influences atmospheric circulation and regional
weather patterns, including those affecting the Indian subcontinent.
Statement 2 is correct: A positive IOD tends to strengthen the southwest monsoon by increasing convection and
moisture transport towards the Indian subcontinent. The warmer waters in the western Indian Ocean boost cloud
formation and rainfall over India, often offsetting the adverse effects of El Niño, which otherwise suppresses monsoon
rainfall. Therefore, a positive IOD is usually beneficial for monsoonal performance.

Statement 3 is incorrect: While both the IOD and ENSO (El Niño–Southern Oscillation) phenomena influence the Indian
monsoon, they are independent systems. A negative IOD, characterized by warmer waters near Indonesia and cooler
waters near the African coast, can weaken the Indian monsoon. However, it is not necessarily associated with La Niña
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[33]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
conditions, which involve cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. There
can be instances where a negative IOD occurs alongside El Niño, La Niña, or even neutral ENSO phases.
Source: NCERT Class 11, Geography- Chapter 13,14
https://mausamjournal.imd.gov.in/index.php/MAUSAM/article/view/597
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.58)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The Madden-Julian Oscillation is an eastward-moving system of enhanced and suppressed tropical rainfall and winds that
travels along the equator. It influences large-scale atmospheric circulation, especially over the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
This phenomenon significantly affects monsoon dynamics, tropical cyclone formation, and global weather patterns.
Option a is correct: The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is a large-scale atmospheric phenomenon characterized by an
eastward-moving disturbance of clouds, rainfall, winds, and pressure that traverses the tropical belt approximately every
30 to 60 days. It is an intra-seasonal oscillation primarily observed over the Indian and Pacific Oceans, where it manifests
as organized convection and circulation anomalies. Unlike other tropical phenomena, the MJO moves eastward along the
equator, influencing weather patterns by modulating tropical convection on a global scale. Its periodic nature and large
spatial extent make it a key driver of variations in the Indian monsoon, tropical cyclogenesis, and the onset of phenomena
such as El Niño and La Niña. This distinguishes it from other weather patterns that may be localized or irregular in timing.
Therefore, the MJO is best described as a recurring, eastward-propagating pulse of atmospheric disturbances in the
tropics with a cycle of 30 to 60 days.
Option b is incorrect: As it refers to MJO as an intra-seasonal atmospheric phenomenon influencing tropical convection
and monsoonal activity, which is true, but it omits the essential feature of eastward propagation of the disturbance, as
well as the involvement of multiple atmospheric variables such as winds, pressure, and cloudiness. This eastward
movement along the equator is a distinctive signature that separates MJO from other intra-seasonal variation. Also MJO is
a global phenomenon and not limited to the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Option c is incorrect: Statement c describes the MJO as a transient equatorial convective pulse that affects global
weather, which is incorrect, as the term “transient” downplays the regular and periodic nature of the oscillation. Also MJO
is an eastward moving disturbance. Additionally, this option fails to emphasize the large-scale coupling between
convection and atmospheric circulation across a broad tropical belt
Option d is incorrect: As it characterizes the MJO as a periodic tropical weather system with organized convection and
circulation anomalies impacting rainfall, but it does not mention the directional eastward propagation, which is
fundamental to the MJO’s dynamics. It also lacks reference to the atmospheric variables beyond convection, such as
pressure and winds, that interact in the MJO system.
Source: https://www.climate.gov/news-features/blogs/enso/what-mjo-and-why-do-we-care
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.59)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The Indian monsoon is a seasonal wind system driven primarily by the differential heating of land and sea. The Southwest
Monsoon typically begins in early June in Kerala and gradually advances northward, covering the entire country by mid-
July. Its onset and withdrawal vary across regions, which affects the duration of the rainy season.

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[34]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement I is correct: The duration of the southwest monsoon indeed decreases from southern India to northern India.
Southern states like Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu receive monsoon rains from early June to October, resulting in
a relatively longer rainy season. In contrast, northern states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh witness the
monsoon's arrival by the end of June or early July, and it starts withdrawing by September, leading to a shorter duration.
This clear north-south gradient in the duration of the monsoon season is well documented in climatological records and
supports statement I.
Statement II is correct: The southwest monsoon enters the Indian subcontinent through Kerala around June 1,
primarily because southern India lies closer to the equator and is directly exposed to the moisture-laden winds from the
Indian Ocean. Additionally, due to the influence of surrounding water bodies and complex topography, the retreat of the
monsoon is slower in southern India than in northern India. Hence, the early onset and late withdrawal contribute to
the longer monsoon span in the south.
Statement II correctly explains Statement I: The temporal difference in both the onset and withdrawal of the monsoon
directly affects the overall duration in different parts of the country. Since the monsoon starts earlier and ends later in
the south, and both events occur later and end earlier in the north, the net result is a decreasing duration from south to
north. Thus, statement II provides a valid and scientifically accurate explanation for statement I.
Knowledge Base:
Indian Monsoon – Key Aspects:
The Indian Monsoon is a seasonal reversal of winds, primarily driven by differential heating of land and ocean, the ITCZ
(Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone) shift, and pressure gradients between the Indian Ocean and the subcontinent.
Types:
1. Southwest Monsoon (June–September) – Major rainy season; contributes ~75% of India’s annual rainfall.
2. Northeast Monsoon (October–December) – Affects southeastern India, especially Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra
Pradesh.
Onset & Withdrawal:
● Onset: Begins in Kerala around June 1 and progresses northward.
● Withdrawal: Starts from northwestern India in September and retreats by mid-October.
Key Influences:
● Jet streams, El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), and the Himalayas affect its
intensity and timing.
Significance:
● Crucial for agriculture, water resources, rural economy, and hydroelectricity.
● Monsoon variability can cause droughts or floods, impacting GDP and food security.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy104.pdf
NCERT Class XI – Geography: India – Physical Environment
Chapter 4: Climate
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.60)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Tata Group’s Air India has announced the rollout of free in-flight Internet services on board domestic and international
flights serviced by select aircraft in its fleet.
It is one of the technologies used for providing In-flight Wi-Fi services. It works as follows:
Multiple Wi-Fi antennas are there inside the aircraft cabin, which receive signals from passengers’ devices. Antenna is
then used to transmit signals to a satellite, which relays them to a ground station. In response, signals are sent from the

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[35]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
ground station to the satellite, which relays them to the aircraft. It offers wider coverage and seamless connectivity,
particularly when aircraft are flying over regions without ground towers.
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) In-flight Internet Services
Subtopic:)

Q.61)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Western Disturbances are extratropical storms that originate in the Mediterranean region and travel eastward, driven by
the westerly jet stream. They primarily affect the northwestern parts of India during the winter months, bringing rainfall
and snowfall, especially over the Western Himalayas. These disturbances are crucial for rabi crop irrigation, particularly
wheat.
Statement 1 is correct: Western Disturbances originate over the Mediterranean Sea region and adjacent areas. As low-
pressure systems, they are carried eastward by the subtropical westerly jet stream. These systems gradually move
across the Middle East, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan before entering northwestern India. This origin over the
Mediterranean region is a defining feature of Western Disturbances.
Statement 2 is correct: When Western Disturbances reach the Western Himalayas, they encounter colder temperatures
and orographic uplift, leading to snowfall in regions such as Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
This snowfall is crucial for glacial recharge and river systems like the Indus. The winter snow brought by these
disturbances is also essential for maintaining perennial Himalayan rivers.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Western Disturbances typically cause rainfall during the winter season, but their impact is
largely confined to Northwest India, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh, and northern Rajasthan.
They do not cause significant rainfall in southern India. Instead, South India’s winter rainfall is mainly due to the northeast
monsoon or cyclonic depressions in the Bay of Bengal.
Source: https://www.ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy104.pdf
NCERT Class XI – Geography: India – Physical Environment
Chapter 4: Climate
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.62)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
‘Rohi’ refers to the fertile patches found within the Rajasthan Bagar region, a semi-arid plain located in the eastern part
of the Thar Desert up to the Aravalli Range. These patches are formed by short, seasonal streams originating from the
Aravalli hills, which drain the area. Despite the harsh and arid conditions of the desert, the presence of these streams
creates pockets of cultivable land, showcasing the ecological diversity of the Thar Desert and its capacity to support
agriculture in challenging climatic conditions.
Source: https://www.haryana.gov.in/geography/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.63)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
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[36]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
India’s geological structure is one of the oldest and most complex in the world. It comprises a wide range of rock systems,
each representing different periods of Earth’s history.
The correct chronological order is- 3-1- 2-4.
Option 3. The Archaean rocks are the oldest known rocks on Earth and in India. These rocks date back to the early
Precambrian time and are about 4000 million years old. They primarily include igneous and metamorphic rocks, such as
granite, gneiss, and schist, and form the foundation of the Indian peninsula. These rocks lack fossils and are economically
important for minerals like iron, gold, and mica. They are extensively found in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh,
Odisha, and parts of the Chotanagpur Plateau.
Option 1. Named after the Dharwar region in Karnataka, the Dharwar rocks are the oldest sedimentary rocks in India
that were laid down over the Archaean base. These rocks are about 3100 to 2300 million years old. They are
metamorphosed sedimentary rocks and consist of shales, schists, quartzites, and limestones. These rocks are known for
their rich metallic mineral deposits, especially iron ore, manganese, copper, and gold. Major regions include Karnataka
(Kolar Gold Fields), parts of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
Option 2. The Cuddapah system is younger than the Dharwar and is named after the Cuddapah district in Andhra
Pradesh. These rocks are about 1400 to 600 million years old. These are mostly sedimentary rocks—like shale,
sandstone, limestone—that were deposited in shallow basins on the eroded surface of the Dharwar rocks. They are less
metamorphosed compared to Dharwar rocks. Cuddapah rocks are known for building stones.
Option 4. The Vindhyan system is one of the youngest among the ancient rock systems and spreads widely across
central India, especially the Vindhyan range, covering Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan.
These rocks are about 1300 to 600 million years old. Comprising sandstone, shale, and limestone, these rocks are
practically unfossiliferous (lacking fossils) but are important for cement and building materials. Important minerals like
sandstone and limestone are found here.
Source: Indian Geography- Khullar- chapter 2- page 41-44
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.64)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Option a is incorrect. The Tarai is a marshy region located south of the Bhabar zone in the foothills of the Himalayas,
especially in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Nepal. It is characterized by high water tables, thick forests, and swamps
due to the re-emergence of underground rivers. Though it is part of the Himalayan foothill system, it is not formed from
drained temporary lakes like duns or duars.
Option b is correct. The Shiwalik Hills (the outermost ranges of the Himalayas) played a crucial role in shaping the
landscape at the Himalayan foothills. Being geologically younger than the main Himalayas, these hills obstructed the
courses of rivers flowing down from the higher Himalayas. This led to the formation of temporary lakes behind the
obstructing ridges. Over time, the rivers eroded their way through these hills, draining the lakes and leaving behind flat
alluvial valleys filled with riverine debris.
These valleys are named differently in different parts of the Himalayas:
● In the western Himalayas, particularly in regions like Dehradun, these are known as "duns" or "doons."
● In the eastern Himalayas, such valleys are called "duars."
Option c is incorrect. Doab refers to the tract of land lying between two converging rivers,
particularly in the Punjab-Haryana plains, which are drained by five major rivers. These fertile interfluvial areas are named
based on the rivers they lie between. From south to north, the main doabs in this region include:
● Bist Doab, located between the Beas and Sutlej rivers,
● Bari Doab, between the Beas and Ravi rivers,
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[37]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

● Rachna Doab, between the Ravi and Chenab rivers,

● Chaj Doab, between the Chenab and Jhelum rivers, and
● Sind Sagar Doab, between the Jhelum and Indus rivers.
Option d is incorrect. Chos are seasonal streams commonly found in the Shiwalik Hills, especially across regions like
Punjab and parts of Himachal Pradesh. These streams are typically dry for most of the year but become active during
the monsoon, carrying torrential flows of rainwater. Due to their high velocity and volume during rains, Chos have a
strong erosive capacity, often cutting deep gullies into the landscape. This erosion is particularly severe on the southern
slopes of the Shiwaliks, where sparse vegetation fails to anchor the soil, leading to rapid land degradation and frequent
flash floods in adjoining plains.
Source: https://www.egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/102609/1/Unit-8.pdf
Indian Geography- Khullar- chapter 3- page 60
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.65)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is incorrect. Shendurney Wildlife sanctuary is a protected area in the southern part of the Western Ghats in the
Kollam district of Kerala. It forms part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. Its name is derived from an endemic plant
locally known as Chenkurinji. The vegetation is dominated by tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests and
moist deciduous forests. Elephants, tigers, leopards, barking deer, Indian Hornbill, Flycatchers, Raptors etc. are the major
fauna
Pair 2 is correct. It is nestled in the district of Yavatmal, Maharashtra. The climate at Tipeshwar is typically tropical,
marked by three distinct seasons: summer, winter, and monsoon. The sanctuary is draped in a carpet of rich vegetation.
Trees like Teak, Ain, Bija, and Dhawda form the primary canopy of this dry deciduous forest. It is home to a variety of
mammals like the famed Indian Bengal Tiger, the Indian Leopard, the Indian Bison or Gaur, Sambar deer, Sloth bears, and
the Four-Horned Antelope can be found in Tipeshwar. Over 180 species of birds, including the Peafowl, Grey Junglefowl,
and the Indian Pitta etc.
Pair 3 is correct. Kabini wildlife sanctuary is settled on the bank of the Kabini River in Karnataka. It has evergreen
vegetation as it forms a part of Western Ghats. The fauna consists of elephants and tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaurs,
deer, monkeys etc. Birds like ospreys, kingfishers, peacocks can be spotted here.
Source:
https://forumias.com/blog/shendurney-wildlife-sanctuary/
Team called in from Pune to catch elusive Tipeshwar tiger | Kolhapur News - The Times of India,
Faunal survey at Shendurney wildlife sanctuary enriches regional species checklist - The Hindu, Tipeshwar Wildlife
Sanctuary: A Guide to its Biodiverse Ecosystem - Wild Woyages - Wildlife, Nature and More,
Kabini National Park | Online Safari Booking for Kabini
Subject:) Current Affairs
Topic:) Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Subtopic:)

Q.66)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The Northern Plains of India are extensive alluvial formations created by the depositional activity. Geographically, the
plains are divided from north to south into three distinct zones: Bhabar, Tarai, and Alluvial Plains (further divided into
Bhangar and Khadar), each with unique physical characteristics and fertility levels.
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[38]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Bhabar region, lying at the foothills of the Shiwaliks, is a narrow belt about 8–10 km wide.
Due to the coarse nature of sediments like boulders and rocks deposited by streams descending from the mountains, the
soil here is highly porous. This porosity prevents water retention, making the land less fertile and unsuitable for
agriculture and growth of vegetation compared to the adjoining Tarai region, where rivers re-emerge and create
waterlogged, marshy, and more fertile conditions. The Terai region has a luxurious growth of natural vegetation and
houses a varied wildlife.
Statement 2 is correct. The Bhabar zone is formed at the break of slope at the base of the Himalayas, where rivers lose
their velocity and deposit heavy materials such as rocks and boulders. As a result, the rivers and streams often disappear
underground in this region, percolating through the coarse alluvial material. This hydrological feature distinguishes
Bhabar from the Tarai belt to its south, where the subsurface water re-emerges, forming swampy terrain.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy102.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.67)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
The Meghalaya Plateau is an important physiographic subdivision of India, forming part of the broader Peninsular Plateau
system. It lies in the northeastern region and displays distinct geological and geomorphological characteristics.
Statement 1 is correct. The Meghalaya Plateau is a prominent eastern extension of the Indian Peninsular Block, which
includes older crystalline and metamorphic rocks. This plateau region, located in northeast India, lies to the east of the
Chotanagpur plateau and shares the same geological foundation. It is geologically part of the Peninsular Plateau and
includes the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills, named after the tribal communities inhabiting them.
Statement 2 is correct. Geologically, the Meghalaya Plateau is separated from the Chotanagpur Plateau by a significant
tectonic feature known as the Malda Gap/fault (also referred to as the Rajmahal-Garo gap). This fault formed due to the
northeastward movement of the Indian plate during the formation of the Himalayas, which created a depression
between the Rajmahal Hills and the Meghalaya Plateau. This depression later filled up with riverine deposits, isolating the
Meghalaya Plateau from the main peninsular block
Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Meghalaya Plateau is rich in various mineral resources such as coal, iron ore,
sillimanite, limestone, and uranium, the natural gas and crude oil reserves in northeastern India are mostly concentrated
in Assam's Brahmaputra valley and not in Meghalaya Plateau.
Source: NCERT Indian Physical Geography- chapter 2 Physiography- page-8 and 13
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.68)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
The Moist deciduous forests are more pronounced in the regions which record rainfall between 100-200 cm. These
forests are found in the northeastern states along the foothills of Himalayas, eastern slopes of the Western Ghats and
Odisha. Teak, sal, shisham, hurra, mahua, amla, semul, kusum, and sandalwood etc. are the main species of these forests.
Statement 1 is correct: Moist deciduous forests grow in regions with annual rainfall between 100–200 cm.
Statement 2 is incorrect: It is dry deciduous forests (not moist deciduous) that shed all their leaves at the start of the
dry season As the dry season begins, the trees shed their leaves completely and the forest appears like a vast
grassland with naked trees all around.. The leaf-shedding in moist deciduous forests is more gradual and less complete.

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[39]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 3 is correct: Common tree species in moist deciduous forests include teak, sal, shisham, sandalwood, mahua,
amla, and hurra.
Statement 4 is incorrect: Moist deciduous forests are found in northeastern India, the Himalayan foothills, Odisha, and
eastern slopes of the Western Ghats — not primarily in Rajasthan or Gujarat, which are too dry for this type of vegetation.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=5-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.69)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Teak (Tectona grandis) is one of the most economically significant and widely used timber species in India. Known for its
exceptional durability, strength, and resistance to rot and termites, teak is highly valued in furniture-making,
construction, and shipbuilding.
Statement 1 is correct: Teak is a tropical hardwood tree that naturally sheds its leaves during the dry season, making it
deciduous. It is well-known for its durability, natural oils, and resistance to pests and moisture, which make it ideal for
long-lasting wood products.
Statement 2 is correct: Teak is predominantly found in moist deciduous forests, particularly in central and southern
India (e.g., Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu). These forests receive adequate rainfall to support teak
growth and are among the natural habitats for this species.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The felling and transportation of teak are not completely banned, but they are strictly
regulated under state forest laws and the Indian Forest Act, 1927. Permissions are required, especially for teak grown in
forest areas. However, teak from private plantations may be allowed with certain clearances, depending on state policies.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=5-7
Management of Natural Teak Forests
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.70)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is incorrect: India is not the largest producer of cowpea. The African continent dominates global
production, with countries like Nigeria leading the cultivation due to their suitable climate and high demand for the crop.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Cowpea is a warm-weather crop, thriving in semi-arid conditions with temperatures ranging
from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, not below 20 degrees Celsius.
Knowledge Base: Key Facts About Cowpea:
● News Context: ISRO’s PSLV-C60 POEM-4 Mission achieved a milestone by germinating cowpea seeds under
microgravity conditions within four days of the mission's launch.
● Uses: Multi-purpose crop used for food, animal feed, and soil fertility improvement due to its nitrogen-fixing
properties.
● Nutritional Value: A rich source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
● India’s Cultivation: Grown in states like Rajasthan, Karnataka, Punjab, Kerala, and Haryana, but India is not the
global leader in production.
Source: https://forumias.com/blog/cowpea/
Subject:) Current Affairs

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[40]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
Topic:) Cowpea
Subtopic:)

Q.71)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Shola forests are tropical montane forests found in the higher elevations (above 1500 meters) of the Western Ghats,
particularly in the southern part. These forests appear as patches embedded within rolling montane grasslands, forming a
distinctive "mosaic" ecosystem.
Option 1 is correct: The Nilgiri Hills, part of the Western Ghats, are one of the primary regions where Shola forests occur.
The Shola-grassland ecosystem here is well-documented and protected in places like the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Option 2 is correct: The Anaimalai Hills in Tamil Nadu and Kerala also host well-preserved Shola forests. These are often
found in valleys and sheltered folds, contributing significantly to the region’s biodiversity and water retention capacity.
Option 3 is incorrect: The Barail Hills are situated in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur. They are not home to
the Shola-grassland ecosystem, which is specific to the southern Western Ghats.
Option 4 is correct: The Palani Hills, located in Tamil Nadu, are another hotspot for Shola forests. These forests thrive in
the cooler, higher altitudes of the hills, such as in and around Kodaikanal.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=5-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.72)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Statement I is correct: The western slopes of the Western Ghats receive heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon
winds that strike the windward side. This high precipitation (often exceeding 200 cm annually) sustains lush, dense
tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. In contrast, the eastern slopes fall in the rain-shadow region and receive
comparatively less rainfall, supporting dry deciduous and scrub vegetation.
Statement II is correct: The western slopes, with abundant vegetation, experience more leaf litter and organic matter
accumulation over time. This results in relatively richer soil fertility due to decomposition, microbial activity, and humus
formation.
Statement II does not explain Statement I. While fertile soil supports vegetation, the primary reason for the dense
forests on the western slopes is the high rainfall, not soil fertility.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php?kegy1=5-7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.73)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Pair 1 is correctly matched: Arjuna, also known as the Arjun tree, is widely grown in India and is valued for its
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is particularly important in cardiac health as it helps
reduce the risk of heart diseases, strengthens and tones heart muscles, and ensures the proper functioning of the
heart.

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[41]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Pair 2 is correctly matched: Kachnar, also known as Mountain Ebony (scientific name: Bauhinia variegata), is used for
treating asthma, ulcers, and various digestive issues. The buds and roots are particularly beneficial for digestion.
Pair 3 is correctly matched: Sarpagandha, also known as Indian snakeroot, Chandrabhaga, or Chhota Chandis, is an
important medicinal plant distributed in the foothills of the Himalayan range. It is a medicinal plant found only in India.
It is primarily used to treat blood pressure.
Knowledge Base:
● Sarpagandha plant has long, snake-like roots that are a rich source of
reserpine alkaloids, which are used in the manufacture of anti-hypertensive
and sedative medicines.
o The roots are also utilized in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine to
treat a wide range of ailments such as hypertension, anxiety, and
insomnia.
o Traditionally, it is also used orally for snake bites, insect bites, fever,

constipation, and malaria, and is considered beneficial for liver

disease, rheumatoid arthritis, edema, and epilepsy.
● The Arjuna tree also exhibits a strong anti-hypertensive property,
helping to reduce high blood pressure.
o It helps control diarrhea, asthma, and cough. Externally, the
application of Arjuna bark is used to manage skin disorders such
as eczema, psoriasis, itching, and rashes.
o However, it is advised not to use Arjuna with anticoagulant
drugs due to its blood-thinning property.
● Kachnar leaves help in managing diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels
and improving the lipid profile. The stem may aid in weight management by
improving metabolism. In Ayurveda, Kachnar powder with honey or
lukewarm water is recommended for managing thyroid disorders due to its
Tridosha balancing and Deepan (appetizer) properties.
o Kachnar promotes wound healing by supporting the formation of
new skin cells, and its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
make it useful for managing skin problems like acne and pimples.
● Babool helps in managing diarrhea by decreasing intestinal motility
because of its Keshya property. It also provides relief from cold, cough,
and sore throat by promoting the removal of sputum and easing
breathing. Babool gum powder consumed with water can help relieve
joint pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
o According to Ayurveda, chewing small pieces of fresh Babool
bark is beneficial for oral health, as it strengthens gums and
teeth due to its astringent property.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/iess105.pdf
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/now-an-alternative-to-
the-depleting-drug-sarpagandha/article32876755.ece
https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/pcos-awareness-month-ayurvedic-practices-herbs-health-
manage-the-condition-7527487/
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2024/Feb/20/a-tree-that-gave-roots-to-a-place
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
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[42]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.74)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Aconite contains aconitine and related alkaloids that act as highly toxic cardiotoxins and neurotoxins. The wild plant,
especially its roots and root tubers, is extremely toxic and can cause severe poisoning if accidentally ingested or used in
herbal decoctions. In traditional Chinese medicine, aconite roots are processed by soaking and boiling, which hydrolyzes
the toxic alkaloids into less toxic forms.
Datura is a group of bushy annual herbs, commonly called thornapple, and is highly poisonous to humans and livestock.
The plants grow 30–60 cm tall (up to 1.5 m), have erect, trumpet-shaped flowers (white, pink, or purple), and produce a
globular, spiny fruit capsule filled with seeds. The large leaves have bluntly toothed margins and a strong unpleasant odor
when crushed.
Source: https://nre.tas.gov.au/invasive-species/weeds/weeds-index/declared-weedsindex/datura
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19514874/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.75)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Minor Forest Produce (MFP) under the the Scheduled Tribes And Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition Of
Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (Forest Rights Act 2006) refers to a range of non-timber forest products that are vital for the
livelihood and subsistence of tribal and other forest-dwelling communities. In India, about 300 million tribals and other
local people depend on forests, with an estimated diversity of 3,000 plant species supplying Non-Timber Forest Products
(NTFPs), generally termed as Minor Forest Produce.
● Section 2(i) of the Act defines the term “minor forest produce” to include “all non-timber produce of plant origin,
including bamboo, brush wood, stumps, cane, tussar, cocoons, honey, wax, lac, tendu or kendu leaves, medicinal
plants and herbs, roots, tubers, and the like”.
● Timber is not considered a Minor Forest Produce (MFP) under the Scheduled Tribes And Other Traditional Forest
Dwellers (Recognition Of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.
Source: https://tribal.nic.in/downloads/FRA/FRAActnRulesBook.pdf
https://trifed.tribal.gov.in/non/timber/msp-mfp
https://trifed.tribal.gov.in/program/non-timber
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.76)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
As per the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Tree Cover refers specifically to tree patches
outside the Recorded Forest Areas that are less than one hectare in size and are not included under Forest Cover.
These may occur in the form of scattered trees, small blocks, or linear formations (along roads, canals, etc.), but their size
makes them unmappable using standard satellite imagery (which typically has a resolution threshold of one hectare).
Forest cover: “All lands, more than one hectare in area with a tree canopy density of more than 10%”
Trees outside forest: “Trees existing outside the recorded forest area in the form of block, linear & scattered size of
patches”.

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[43]
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Source:) https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/economic-survey-of-delhi-forest-tree-cover-5603984/
https://fsi.nic.in/isfr2017/isfr-tree-cover-2017.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.77)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer .
In a Soil profile, different horizons or layers are identified by certain designations assigned after comparison of the
properties of the layer with those of the soil material.Horizons are the results of the fundamental soil forming processes,
viz. humification, eluviation and illuviation.The horizons and layers of soils are represented by the capital letters O, A, E,
B, C, and R. Here, O represents organic horizon at the surface; A, E, B, and C are the mineral horizons while the symbol R
is for the hard bedrock.
The E Horizon, also known as the eluviated horizon, is a mineral layer found typically beneath the A Horizon and above
the B Horizon. It is characterized by the leaching (or eluviation) of finer materials such as clay, iron, aluminium, and
organic compounds due to water percolation. As these materials are washed out, what remains is a concentration of
coarse particles like sand and silt, making the layer appear lighter in color and more ashy or bleached. This process
makes the E Horizon a zone of maximum removal.
‘O’ is the organic horizon formed from the organic litter derived from plants and animals and fresh or partially
decomposed organic material.
‘A’ is the mineral horizon consisting of organic matter accumulation and has lost clay, iron, or aluminium with
resultant concentration of quartz or other resistant minerals of sand or silt size.
‘B’ horizon is characterised by an accumulation of silicate clays, iron and aluminium oxides, gypsum and calcium
carbonate. These materials come from the upper layers or formed through a weathering process.
Source:) https://www.egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/13526/1/Unit-1.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.78)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Option 1 is correct: Gypsum (calcium sulfate) is one of the most effective soil amendments for reclaiming alkaline or
sodic soils. It provides calcium ions, which replace sodium ions on soil particles. The displaced sodium is then leached out
of the root zone through irrigation or rainfall.
Option 2 is correct: Organic matter such as compost or farmyard manure improves the chemical and biological
properties of the soil. During decomposition, it produces organic acids that help lower soil pH. Additionally, it enhances
microbial activity, improves soil texture, and increases water-holding capacity, all of which contribute to better leaching
of excess salts and reduction in alkalinity.
Option 3 is incorrect: Liming involves the addition of materials like calcium carbonate or dolomite to acidic soils to
raise their pH. However, applying lime to already alkaline soils is harmful, as it further increases soil pH and can worsen
nutrient deficiencies, especially of micronutrients like iron and zinc.
Option 4 is correct: Proper drainage is crucial in managing saline-alkaline soils, as it allows the movement and removal
of excess sodium and soluble salts from the root zone. Without adequate drainage, salts accumulate in the soil due to
evaporation and capillary rise, which increases alkalinity.

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[44]
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Source:) https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/82816/1/Unit-4.pdf
Soil Quality and Its Pollution > Pg.no. 85 and 86
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.79)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct :Alluvial soils are the largest soil group in India, covering approximately 45% of the total
geographical area. They are extensively found in the Indo-Gangetic-Brahmaputra plains, parts of the eastern coastal
plains, and river valleys.
Statement 2 is correct :Alluvial soils are generally loamy and rich in nutrients, making them highly fertile and suitable
for a wide range of crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane, and pulses.
Statement 3 is correct :Alluvial soils typically have good levels of potash and lime, which are essential for plant growth.
Though they may be moderately deficient in nitrogen at times, they contain adequate phosphoric acid, making them
favorable for cultivation without requiring excessive chemical inputs.
Source:) https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/jess101.pdf
RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT >Pg no.7
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.80)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Red soil covers approximately 10.6% of India's total land area, roughly 3.5 lakh sq km. It is primarily found in the eastern
and southern parts of the Deccan Plateau, including states like Tamil Nadu, parts of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha,
and Madhya Pradesh.

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 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 1 is correct.The red colour of soil comes from ferric oxide (iron oxide).These soils are chemically poor—lacking
essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus and organic content (humus).This makes fertilization necessary for
successful crop growth.
Statement 2 is correct.When supplemented with fertilizers and proper irrigation, red soils support:Cotton, groundnut,
pulses, millets, and even oilseeds. They are light-textured and well-drained, suitable for dryland crops.
Statement 3 is correct. Red soils in peninsular India originate from the weathering of ancient crystalline rocks, especially
Archean granites. These rocks are very old (Pre-Cambrian, Archean age) and widely distributed in southern and eastern
India. The low rainfall in these regions prevents excessive leaching, resulting in residual red soils.
Source:) Geography Of India by Majid Husain .Ch ,Soils
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.81)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Laterite soil is a type of soil that is reddish in color, rich in iron and aluminum oxides, and found in tropical and
subtropical regions with high rainfall and temperatures. It is formed through a process called laterization, which involves
the weathering and leaching of parent rock.
Statement I is correct. Laterite soils are infertile for most traditional crops because they are: 1.Highly leached – water
carries away soluble nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
2, Mostly consist of residual oxides of iron and aluminium.
As a result, laterite soils are acidic, low in fertility, and hard when dry. They require fertilizer application to support crops
like tea, coffee, cashew, and rubber.
Statement II is correct. Laterization is the soil-forming process behind laterite soils.It occurs under:
1.High temperature (tropical conditions),
2.Heavy monsoonal rainfall, leading to intense chemical weathering and leaching.
These climatic conditions dissolve and wash away base elements and silica, leaving behind iron and aluminium oxides
which give laterite its red to yellow colour.
Thus the process of intense leaching under high temperature and rainfall directly causes the loss of nutrients from the
soil profile, making the soil nutrient-poor .
Source:) Geography Of India by Majid Husain .Ch Soils
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.82)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Option a is incorrect .Alluvial soil has light to medium texture, high fertility, no shrink-swell, easy to till, lacks high clay
content.
Option b is incorrect. Red soil has a sandy to loamy texture, low nutrient retention, low water-holding capacity and is not
sticky.
Option c is incorrect. Laterite soil is acidic, poor in nutrients, low CEC, not suitable for cotton/soybean unless heavily
fertilized.
Option d is correct. The given statements describe Black soil .

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[46]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 1 : Cation Exchange Capacity CEC refers to the soil's ability to attract, hold, and exchange cations like calcium
(Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and potassium (K⁺)—essential plant nutrients.Black soil has fine clay particles, which gives it a
high surface area and thus high CEC.This helps the soil retain nutrients longer than other soils.
Statement 2 : Black soil contains montmorillonite clay, which is highly expansive.When wet, it swells and becomes sticky;
when dry, it shrinks and forms deep cracks.
Statement 3: Due to its high moisture retention, crops can grow even with limited rainfall.
Major crops:Cotton → Hence the term Black Cotton Soil..
Soybean, tur (pigeon pea), gram, wheat, jowar → grown in Rabi and Kharif seasons.
Statement 4 : The clayey texture causes Black soil to become very sticky when wet, making tillage difficult.In dry
conditions, it hardens and cracks, also complicating ploughing.
Knowledge Base: Black soil, also known as Regur soil or Black Cotton Soil, is a distinctive soil type characterized by its
dark color, high clay content, and excellent moisture retention properties. It is considered highly fertile and is crucial for
global food security, supporting the growth of a variety of crops.
Formation and characteristics:
1.Black soil formation: Black soils are primarily formed by the weathering and denudation of basaltic volcanic rocks,
particularly in the Deccan Plateau region of India. They are also called lava soils due to their volcanic origin.
2.Chemical composition: Black soils are rich in minerals like iron, lime, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. However,
they are typically deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter.
Distribution : In India, black soils are found covering approximately 15% of the total land area. They are predominantly
located in the Deccan Plateau, encompassing parts of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil
Nadu. Black soil can also be found in the river valleys of the Godavari, Krishna, Narmada, and Tapi
Source:) Geography of India by Majid Husain .Ch Soils
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.83)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Forest soils or the mountain soils are the soils found under forest vegetation and are characterized by their unique
properties shaped by factors like climate, parent material, and especially the influence of forest vegetation. They are
typically rich in organic matter due to the decomposition of leaves, branches, and other plant material, and play a crucial
role in regulating water and nutrient cycles within the forest ecosystem.
Statement 1 is correct: Forest soils or Mountain soils are not uniform across the country.
Instead, they are highly variable depending on:
1.Altitude – Higher elevations experience lower temperatures and slower organic matter decomposition, while lower
elevations are warmer and often more fertile.
2.Climate – Rainfall intensity and type of vegetation directly affect the chemical and organic profile of the soil.
3.Vegetation cover – Dense forest areas (especially coniferous or temperate forests) contribute leaf litter and humus,
while drier slopes have less vegetation and lower organic content. Thus forest soil is "heterogeneous".
Statement 2 is correct: In lower and mid-hill regions, with suitable climate, these soils support plantation crops like: Tea
(Assam, Darjeeling),Coffee (Karnataka, Kerala),Spices (Cardamom, pepper).
Knowledge Base: Forest soils are a broad category of soils found under forest cover in various regions of India.
Distribution:
1.Forest soils are predominantly found in the Himalayan region, Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and parts of northeastern
states like Assam, Nagaland, and Mizoram.
2.They are also present in tropical and subtropical areas, influenced by the specific type of vegetation and climate.
3.In the Himalayas, these soils are mostly found in valleys and on less steep, north-facing slopes.
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[47]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Characteristics:
1.Texture: Forest soils exhibit a range of textures, from sandy loam to clayey, depending on the mountain environment in
which they are formed.
1. In valley sides, they tend to be loamy and silty.
2. On upper slopes, they are coarser-grained or grainy.
3. At very high altitudes, they can be sandy-loam or sandy-silica.
Composition: Forest soils are typically rich in organic matter, including humus from decomposed plant material.
1. They are generally high in essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
2. However, some forest soils can be deficient in certain nutrients like potash, phosphorus, and lime.
Acidity: Forest soils in India tend to be slightly acidic to neutral.
● Moisture retention: Due to their high organic matter content, forest soils generally have good moisture retention
capacity.
Crops and vegetation:
● Forest soils support diverse vegetation, including tropical evergreen, deciduous, montane, and mangrove forests.
● In the Himalayan forest regions, crops like wheat, maize, barley, and temperate fruits are grown.
● In the peninsular forest region, plantations of tea, coffee, spices, and tropical fruits thrive in forest soils.
Source:) NCERT ,INDIA : Physical Environment .Ch Soils
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.84)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Soil degradation through salinization is a major issue in intensively irrigated agricultural regions of India. Excessive
irrigation without proper drainage raises the water table, causing salts to rise to the surface through capillary action. This
is especially seen in fertile alluvial soils of Punjab, Haryana, and western UP, where once-productive lands are turning
saline and less arable.
Statement I is correct: Alluvial soils, especially those found in the Indo-Gangetic plains, are among the most fertile in
India. However, under intensive agricultural practices particularly when irrigation is poorly managed, these soils can
undergo salinization. When water is applied excessively or without proper drainage, it tends to accumulate in the root
zone, causing the water table to rise. Over time, soluble salts from deeper soil layers or from the irrigation water itself
accumulate near the surface. This leads to a condition known as secondary salinization, where the soil loses its fertility
due to salt toxicity, adversely impacting crop yield. Therefore, the assertion that such practices can make fertile soil saline
is factually correct.
Statement II is correct: Excessive irrigation, especially in areas with poor drainage, leads to the rise of the groundwater
table. As this water rises closer to the surface, capillary action pulls it upward, carrying dissolved salts with it. When the
water evaporates from the soil surface, these salts are left behind, accumulating over time and resulting in soil
salinization. This is a well-established hydrological process, documented in both arid and semi-arid agricultural zones.
Hence, the Reason is scientifically accurate and independently valid.
Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I: Excessive irrigation under intensive farming can make fertile
alluvial soils saline because over-irrigation raises the groundwater table, and through capillary action, salts from deeper
layers are drawn to the surface. As the water evaporates, these salts accumulate in the topsoil, leading to salinization. This
process is especially common in poorly drained, canal-irrigated regions like Punjab and Haryana. Thus, the statement II is
both scientifically valid and directly explains how excessive irrigation degrades soil fertility, making it a correct
explanation of the Statement I.
Source:) NCERT Class XI – India: Physical Environment, Chapter 6: Soils

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[48]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
NCERT Class XI – Fundamentals of Physical Geography, Chapter 8: Soils
https://www.fao.org/global-soil-partnership/areas-of-work/soil-salinity/en/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.85)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
India’s major soils include Alluvial soil-fertile and widespread in river plains; Black soil-moisture-retentive and ideal for
cotton; Red and Yellow soils -low fertility soils in peninsular regions; Laterite soil-acidic, found in high rainfall areas; Arid
and Desert soils-dry and saline, common in Rajasthan; and Saline and Alkaline soils-found in poorly drained lands due to
salt accumulation. These soils reflect India’s varied climate and geography and support diverse agriculture.
Option a is incorrect: The major soils like Alluvial, Black, Red, and Laterite are mostly formed on plains, plateaus, or
lowlands due to long-term weathering, sedimentation, and climatic factors. In contrast, mountain soils develop
specifically in high-altitude, rugged terrains with steep slopes and cooler climates. Mountain soils are generally shallow,
less developed, and rich in organic matter due to dense forest cover and slower decomposition.
Option b is correct: Thur, Kakar, and Chopan are local names for saline and alkaline soils found mainly in arid and semi-
arid regions of India. These soils are infertile due to high concentrations of soluble salts and alkalis, which hinder water
absorption and nutrient uptake by plants. Saline soils contain salts like chlorides and sulfates, while alkaline (sodic) soils
have excess sodium, making them hard and reducing aeration. Their pH often exceeds 8.5, unfavorable for most crops.
These soils form due to poor drainage, high evaporation, and faulty irrigation, causing waterlogging and salt accumulation
through capillary action. They are common in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, western UP, and Gujarat, where irrigation
water may carry salts. The local names reflect regional awareness of these degraded soils. Reclaiming such soils requires
good drainage, flushing with clean water, and amendments like gypsum.
Option c is incorrect: Thur, Kakar, and Chopan refer to saline and alkaline soils, which are characterized by high salt
content and poor fertility. In contrast, alluvial soils are fertile soils deposited by rivers, rich in nutrients and ideal for
agriculture. Alluvial soils have good texture and drainage, while saline and alkaline soils suffer from salt accumulation that
hampers plant growth. Thus, because of their chemical properties and poor agricultural value, Thur, Kakar, and Chopan
soils cannot be classified as alluvial soils.
Option d is incorrect: laterite soils form in hot, humid, and high rainfall areas through intense leaching, resulting in iron
and aluminum-rich, acidic soils that are generally red or yellowish. Laterite soils are low in soluble salts and differ
chemically and climatically from saline and alkaline soils. Therefore, Thur, Kakar, and Chopan soils cannot be classified as
laterite soils.
Knowledge Base:

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[49]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Alluvial Soil: Alluvial soil is the most widespread and fertile soil in India, deposited by the rivers in the Indo-Gangetic
plains and river valleys such as the Brahmaputra basin. It is rich in potash, phosphoric acid, and lime but poor in nitrogen.
This soil has excellent water retention properties, making it highly suitable for intensive agriculture. Major crops grown in
alluvial soils include wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton, supporting a large part of India’s agricultural economy.
Black Soil: Also known as Regur or black cotton soil, this soil is clayey and has high moisture retention capacity. It is rich
in iron, magnesium, and alumina, giving it a characteristic dark color. Found mainly in the Deccan Plateau, Maharashtra,
Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and parts of Tamil Nadu, black soil is well-suited for growing cotton due to its ability to retain
moisture even during dry periods. Its tendency to crack during the dry season aids aeration of the soil.
Red and Yellow Soil: Derived from the weathering of ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks, red and yellow soils owe
their color to the presence of iron oxide. These soils are generally low in nitrogen, humus, and phosphates, and have
moderate fertility. They are found in the eastern and southern parts of the Deccan Plateau, including Odisha and
Chhattisgarh. The soil supports crops like millets, pulses, and oilseeds, commonly grown in these regions.
Laterite Soil: Laterite soils develop in areas with high temperatures and heavy rainfall, such as the Western Ghats, Assam,
Meghalaya, and parts of Odisha and Tamil Nadu. They are acidic, rich in iron and aluminum oxides, and poor in nitrogen
and organic matter due to intense leaching. Though less fertile, laterite soils are suitable for plantation crops like tea,
coffee, and rubber, which thrive in such acidic conditions.
Source:) Class 11 – India: Physical Environment, Chapter 6:Soils
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Soils
Subtopic:)

Q.86)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
A delta is a low-lying, fan- or triangular-shaped landform formed at the mouth of a river, where it
deposits its sediments as it slows down upon entering a standing water body like a sea or lake. Delta formation depends
on factors such as sediment load, river velocity, tidal currents, and gradient of the coastline.
Statement I is correct: The western coast of India (states like Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala) lacks prominent
deltas. This is primarily due to the geographical and hydrological conditions of the region. Rivers here are mostly
short, fast-flowing, and originate in the Western Ghats, which are close to the Arabian Sea. As a result, these rivers
have limited time and space to deposit sediments and form deltas.
Statement II is correct: Rivers on the western coast—such as the Mandovi, Periyar, and Sharavati—have steep gradients,
short lengths, and direct courses into the Arabian Sea. This reduces the opportunity for deposition of alluvium, a key
requirement for delta formation. Also, strong coastal currents further disperse sediments, preventing delta buildup.
Statement II correctly explains Statement I: Since the rivers on the western coast flow quickly through narrow coastal
plains and cover short distances, they do not slow down enough to deposit significant sediments. This, combined with
steep terrain and strong wave/tidal actions, prevents delta formation—unlike the eastern coast, where rivers like the
Ganga, Mahanadi, and Godavari form vast deltas. Hence, statement II correctly explains statement I.
Source:) https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/kegy103.pdf
NCERT Class 11 – India: Physical Environment
Chapter 3: Drainage System
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.87)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
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[50]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
The Southwest Monsoon is the dominant seasonal wind system in India, occurring from June to September. It brings
nearly 75%–80% of India’s annual rainfall, driven by the differential heating of land and sea and the shifting of the Inter-
Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Originating from the Indian Ocean, it splits into the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal
branches upon reaching the Indian subcontinent.
Statement I is correct: The states of Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat, particularly the western regions, receive very low
rainfall during the Southwest Monsoon season (June to September). This is primarily because they lie in the rain-shadow
zone and have arid to semi-arid climates. Rajasthan, in particular, has large desert areas where the monsoon currents fail
to penetrate deeply, leading to annual rainfall often below 250 mm in western Rajasthan.
Statement II is correct: The Aravalli Hills run in a southwest to northeast direction. This orientation is roughly parallel
to the flow of the Arabian Sea branch of the monsoon winds, which move from the southwest toward the northeast.
Because the hills are not perpendicular, they do not significantly orographically lift the moist air to cause precipitation.
As a result, very limited rainfall occurs on either side of the Aravallis.
Statement II correctly explains Statement I: Since the monsoon winds pass parallel to the Aravalli range, there is no
significant uplift of moist air, which is essential for rainfall formation. This geographical orientation fails to trigger
orographic rainfall, unlike the Western Ghats on the west coast, which are perpendicular to the monsoon winds and
receive heavy rain. Thus, statement II correctly explains statement I.
Source:) NCERT Class 11 – India: Physical Environment
Chapter 4: Climate
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.88)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
A Thirst Wave is a newly coined scientific term describing prolonged periods of extreme atmospheric evaporative
demand when the atmosphere “pulls” moisture aggressively from soil, plants, and water bodies. Unlike traditional
heatwaves, thirst waves are not driven by temperature alone but by a combination of four climatic factors:
● Temperature
● Humidity
● Solar radiation
● Wind speed
The term was introduced by researchers Meetpal Kukal and Mike Hobbins and has gained traction in climate studies to
describe intensifying atmospheric dryness during climate extremes.
● A Thirst Wave is declared when evaporative demand exceeds a critical threshold for three or more consecutive
days.
● It is measured using reference evapotranspiration (ET₀), a scientific metric used to estimate how much water the
atmosphere wants to extract from the environment under specific climatic conditions.
Source:) https://psl.noaa.gov/news/2025/thirstwaves.html
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.89)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.

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[51]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 1 is correct: Andhis are a type of local wind phenomenon common to northern and northwestern India. They
result from extreme surface heating during the late spring and early summer months, which causes strong upward
convection currents.
Statement 2 is correct: Andhis are geographically confined to northwestern parts of India, including: Rajasthan,
Western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Andhis typically occur in the pre-monsoon season, particularly between April and June. During
this time, the temperature gradient between the heated land and surrounding air mass leads to convection and
turbulence. The post-monsoon period (October–November) is relatively cooler, with stable atmospheric conditions, and
hence not conducive to the formation of Andhis.
Source:) https://mausamjournal.imd.gov.in/index.php/MAUSAM/article/view/3781
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

Q.90)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement I is incorrect: The Bay of Bengal witnesses more frequent and intense cyclones than the Arabian Sea.
● According to IMD and Indian Ocean climatology data, over 80% of tropical cyclones in the North Indian Ocean form
over the Bay of Bengal.
● This is due to:
o Warm sea surface temperatures (above 28°C).
o High humidity.
o Large riverine freshwater influx (like Ganga and Brahmaputra) which reduces salinity, enhancing
convection.
o A relatively still atmosphere, aiding cyclone consolidation.
o Eastern coast’s geography supports low vertical wind shear, favorable for cyclone growth.
Statement II is correct: This statement provides a scientific explanation for the higher cyclone frequency in the Bay of
Bengal.
Here's why:
● The sea surface temperature (SST) in the Bay of Bengal often exceeds 28°C, which is above the threshold needed for
cyclone formation (typically 26.5°C).
● The salinity of Bay of Bengal is lower than that of the Arabian Sea due to:
o High freshwater inflow from large rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Irrawaddy.
o Frequent rainfall and less evaporation compared to the Arabian Sea.
● Lower salinity leads to greater stratification (less mixing of ocean layers), which allows the top layer of the ocean to
stay warm — a key factor in driving strong convection, essential for cyclone formation.
Why d) is the correct answer:
Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
Source:) https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/cyclone-dana-why-bay-of-bengal-gets-more-deadlier-tropical-
cyclones-2622694-2024-10-24
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Climate
Subtopic:)

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[52]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.91)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct: Bamboo is a fast-growing woody grass that thrives in diverse ecological zones ranging from
tropical to subtropical and temperate regions. In India, it is found naturally across most states, especially:
● In the North-East (e.g., Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur),
● In Central India (e.g., Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh),
● Along the Western Ghats, and
● In Eastern and Southern India.
However, bamboo does not grow naturally in the cold temperate climate of the Kashmir region, where low
temperatures and snow cover are unsuitable for bamboo growth.
Statement 2 is correct: According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, published by the Forest Survey of India
(FSI), Madhya Pradesh has the highest bamboo-bearing area in the country.
● The total bamboo-bearing area in India is estimated at 1,54,670 square kilometres, and Madhya Pradesh contributes
the largest share, with approximately 20,421 square kilometres of bamboo-bearing land.
● It is followed by Arunachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha.
Statement 3 is correct: Earlier, bamboo was classified as a tree under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, making its harvesting
and transit subject to restrictive forest laws.
The Indian Forest (Amendment) Act, 2017 amended Section 2(7) to exclude bamboo grown on non-forest lands from the
definition of 'tree'.
This was done to promote bamboo cultivation by farmers and facilitate its use as an economic resource.
So, bamboo grown on private or non-forest land can now be freely harvested and transported without prior forest
clearance.
Source:) http://indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/files/Bamboo%20Agroforestry.pdf
https://fsi.nic.in/uploads/isfr2023/isfr_book_eng-vol-1_2023.pdf Page:17
https://www.downtoearth.org.in/forests/the-indian-forest-act-1927-amendment-will-create-new-markets-generate-
millions-of-jobs-for-poor-communities-59712
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Q.92)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Madhya Pradesh, located in central India, is a landlocked state. Due to its central location, it shares boundaries with
multiple states

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[53]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Option 1 is incorrect. Although Odisha lies to the southeast of Chhattisgarh and is relatively close to Madhya Pradesh,
there is no direct border sharing between the two.
Option 2 is incorrect. Jharkhand lies to the east of Madhya Pradesh, but Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh lie in between.
Therefore, there is no direct contact between Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand.
Option 3 is correct. Rajasthan lies to the northwest of Madhya Pradesh, and the two states share a long and direct
border.
Option 4 is incorrect. Bihar lies to the east of Madhya Pradesh but is separated by Uttar Pradesh. So, there is no direct
border between Madhya Pradesh and Bihar.
Option 5 is correct. Gujarat lies to the west of Madhya Pradesh, and the two states share a well-defined border.
Source:) https://knowindia.india.gov.in/states-uts/madhya-pradesh.php
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Location
Subtopic:)

Q.93)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
Over Earth's 4.5-billion-year history, numerous celestial objects have collided with its surface. While most meteors burn
up in the atmosphere, a few survive and impact Earth, creating massive scars called impact craters. Globally, around 190
such impact craters have been identified, and India hosts three known meteorite impact craters.
Pair 1 is correct. The Lonar Crater Lake, located in Buldhana district of Maharashtra, is India's most well-known meteor
impact crater. Formed around 35,000–50,000 years ago, it lies on the Deccan basaltic plain. Its most striking feature is
the coexistence of saline and alkaline water in the same lake. Scientific studies, including the discovery of maskelynite (a
natural glass formed only by high-velocity impacts), confirm its meteoritic origin.
Pair 2 is incorrect. The Dhala Crater is not located in Jharkhand, but in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh.
Estimated to be about 2.5 billion years old, it is the oldest and largest impact crater in India and among the largest in
Asia, spanning 11 km in diameter. It provides valuable geological evidence, including shock metamorphism, supporting its
impact origin.
Pair 3 is correct. The Ramgarh Crater, located about 110 km from Kota in Rajasthan, is a relatively lesser-known but
scientifically confirmed meteor impact crater. It was likely formed about 165 million years ago. The crater spans around
10 km in diameter and features a central uplift — a classic signature of high-velocity impacts.
Source:) https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/all-you-need-to-know-about-indias-three-meteor-
impact-craters/articleshow/95001701.cms
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.94)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Pangong Tso, meaning “High Grassland Lake” in Tibetan, is one of the most famous high-altitude lakes in the world,
located in the eastern Ladakh region of India, at an elevation of around 14,270 ft (4,350 m) above sea level.
Statement 1 is correct. Pangong Tso is a brackish (saline) water lake and an endorheic basin, which means it has no
external drainage into any sea or ocean. The lake retains water and allows evaporation, which results in high salinity over
time. Interestingly, despite being saline, the lake freezes completely in winter due to its high altitude and extremely cold
temperatures.

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[54]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Statement 2 is correct. The Line of Actual Control (LAC), which serves as the de facto border between India and China,
passes through Pangong Tso. The LAC divides the lake such that about one-third lies in India, and the remaining two-
thirds lies in China. The northern banks of the lake are marked by strategic spurs or ridges, known as Fingers 1 to 8,
which have become critical reference points in the India-China military dialogue.
Statement 3 is correct. Pangong Tso changes color multiple times during the day, ranging from deep blue to turquoise,
grey-green, and sometimes reddish hues. This optical effect is caused by a combination of factors, including sunlight
angle, mineral content, and the reflection of the sky and surrounding mountains. These color shifts add to the lake’s
tourist appeal.
Source:) https://leh.nic.in/tourist-place/pangong/
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-importance-of-pangongs-south-bank-6578044/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Drainage
Subtopic:)

Q.95)
Ans) b
Exp) Option b is the correct answer.
The Peninsular Plateau of India is one of the most significant physiographic divisions of the Indian subcontinent. It forms
the geological core of India and includes the Deccan Plateau, Central Highlands, and several smaller plateaus and hill
ranges.
Statement 1 is correct. The Peninsular Plateau is the oldest physical feature of the Indian landmass, formed during the
Precambrian era over 2.5 billion years ago. It is composed mainly of igneous and metamorphic rocks and forms part of
the Indian Shield, making it a geologically stable region. Unlike the Himalayas, which are still tectonically active, the
plateau has experienced no major folding or faulting in recent geological times.
Statement 2 is correct. The Peninsular Plateau contains almost all of India’s Gondwana coal reserves, which are
geologically located in river basins such as Damodar, Mahanadi, Godavari, Wardha, and Son. Over 95% of India’s total
coal production comes from these Gondwana deposits found in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya
Pradesh, and Maharashtra, all part of the Peninsular region.
Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Peninsular Plateau is not richly endowed with uranium, it is not completely devoid
of it. India’s largest uranium deposits are indeed located in the Telangana and Andhra Pradesh region, which lies within
the plateau.
Source:) NCERT class 11 – Indian geography- chapter 2 – page 12,
https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/69599/1/Unit-3.pdf
https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/legy205.pdf
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/Massive-uranium-deposits-found-in-Andhra-
Pradesh/article14953764.ece
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.96)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Geological evidence suggests that during the Miocene period, a mighty river called Shiwalik or Indo-Brahm once flowed
along the entire Himalayan arc—from Assam to Punjab—and drained into the Gulf of Sindh. Over time, due to the
upliftment of the Himalayas and the Potwar Plateau during the Pleistocene, this ancient river system disintegrated into
three major modern drainage systems:

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[55]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |
(i)Ganga and its tributaries in the central part,(ii)Brahmaputra and its tributaries in the eastern region, and(iii) Indus and
its tributaries in the west.
The Potwar Plateau contributed to the division between the Ganga and Indus river systems, acting as a water divide.
The upliftment of this plateau diverted river flows and created separate drainage basins.
Source: https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/80896/3/Unit-3.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.97)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer.
Siachen is the longest glacier in the Karakoram Range and also the second longest non-polar glacier in the world,
highlighting its strategic and geographical significance.
Statement 1 is correct: The Siachen Glacier is situated in the eastern Karakoram Range, which lies to the north of the
main Himalayan range in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Statement 2 is correct: Nubra River originates from the Siachen Glacier. It flows through the Nubra Valley in Ladakh and
joins the Shyok River, which is a tributary of the Indus River.

Source: https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/99184/3/Unit%2012.pdf
https://ciet.nic.in/moocspdf/Geography%2002/kegy_20302_e-text.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.98)
Ans) d
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
The Himalayas are among the youngest and most dynamic mountain ranges in the world and continue to rise at a rate of
about 5 to 10 mm per year. Their uplift is primarily driven by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This
collision, which began around 50 million years ago, is still active today.
Option 1 is correct: The Himalayan region experiences regular seismic activity, indicating that the region has not yet
reached isostatic equilibrium, and the Himalayas are still undergoing uplift.

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[56]
 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Option 2 is correct: Many Tibetan lakes have dried up or receded in recent or historical times, leaving behind sand and
gravel terraces at much higher levels. This elevation change points toward the recent tectonic uplift of the Tibetan
region.
Option 3 is correct: The Himalayan rivers are still in their youthful stage and have been rejuvenated in recent times.
This is another proof of the rising trend in the Himalayas. Terraces found at the valley sides suggest rejuvenation of the
valley region due to uplift.
Knowledge Base:
Another supporting evidence for rising Himalayas:
Some of the fossil formations found in the Shiwalik hills are also available in the Tibet plateau. It indicates that the past
climate of the Tibet plateau was somewhat similar to the climate of the Shiwalik hills and that the elevation of Tibet
plateau was almost the same as that of the present Shiwalik hills and the plateau has since risen to its present elevation.
Source: India- A comprehensive Geography by Khullar – Page no: 57
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

Q.99)
Ans) c
Exp) Option c is the correct answer
The Amarnath Cave Shrine is located in Jammu & Kashmir. The Shri Amarnath Yatra is a sacred annual pilgrimage that
takes place during a specific period each year, typically beginning on the auspicious day of Skandshasthi and concluding
on Shravan Purnima (Raksha Bandhan) in the month of July–August. The Yatra involves a challenging trek through the
southern Himalayas of Kashmir leading to the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnathji.
The Amarnath Yatra route, beginning from Pahalgam (96 km from Srinagar), passes through several key points of spiritual
and natural significance. From Pahalgam, it proceeds 16 km to Chandanwari. The trek then ascends to Pissu Top,
associated with a mythological battle. From there, pilgrims move 12 km to Sheshnag, known for its blue lake and seven
mountain peaks. The journey continues over Mahagunas Pass (4,276 m) to reach Panchtarni (3,657 m),

Source: https://shriamarnathjiyatra.org/route-map.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://ganderbal.nic.in/shri-amarnathji-cave/
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Physiography
Subtopic:)

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 PTS 2026 | Solution | Test Code : 311213 |

Q.100)
Ans) a
Exp) Option a is the correct answer.
Sholas are tropical montane forests nestled within rolling grasslands, predominantly found in the high-altitude regions of
the Anamalai, Nilgiri, and Palani hills within the Western Ghats’ phytogeographical zones.
With distinct climatic conditions that deviate from typical tropical regimes and a rich assemblage of Rare, Endemic, and
Threatened (RET) species, Shola forests are unique among the habitats of the Western Ghats.
Option 1, 2 and 3 are correct: Characterized by stunted, non-stratified trees with profusely branched, umbrella-shaped
canopies, these forests exhibit dense growths of epiphytic mosses, ferns, lichens, and orchids on their gnarled branches.
Notably, in the Shola forests of the Nilgiris, rhododendrons appear in dwarf forms with smaller leaves, adaptations that
help them withstand the intense winds on exposed mountain summits.
Option 4 is incorrect: However, Deodar is not native to the Western Ghats and is found in the Himalayan region in the
states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Source:) https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/fecu102.pdf
https://docs.kfri.res.in/evergreen1/evergreen-2015-2.pdf
Subject:) Geography
Topic:) Vegetation
Subtopic:)

Forum Learning Centre: Delhi - Plot No. 36, 4th Floor (Above Kalyan Jewellers) Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 | Patna - 2nd floor, AG Palace, E
Boring Canal Road, Patna, Bihar 800001 | Hyderabad - 1st & 2nd Floor, SM Plaza, RTC X Rd, Indira Park Road, Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500020
9311740400, 9311740900 | https://academy.forumias.com | admissions@forumias.academy | helpdesk@forumias.academy

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