UPSC CSE Prelims 2016 · GS Paper 1

Prelims 2016 questions with answer key

102 questions, grouped by subject (not in the exam booklet's order). Attempt each one before tapping "Show answer".

Ancient India
Q1
With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorising of chronicles, dynasty histories, and epic tales was the profession of who of the following?
1. (a) Shramana
2. (b) Parivraajaka
3. (c) Agrahaarika
4. (d) Magadha
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Answer: (d) Magadha
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Q2
Who of the following had first deciphered the edicts of Emperor Ashoka?
1. (a) Georg Buhler
2. (b) James Prinsep
3. (c) Max Muller
4. (d) William Jones
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Answer: (b) James Prinsep
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Q3
With the reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statement:
- 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
- 2. Bodhisattva is the compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.
- 3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 2 only
4. (d) 1, 2, and 3
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Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
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In the context of the history of India, consider the following pairs:

Term	Description
1. Eripatti	Land, revenue from which was set apart for the maintenance of the village tank
2. Taniyurs	Villages donated to a single Brahmin or a group of Brahmins
3. Ghatikas	Colleges generally attached to the temples

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

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

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Answer: (d) 1 and 3

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Medieval India
Q5
Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were
1. (a) Agriculture
2. (b) Warriors
3. (c) Weavers
4. (d) Traders
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Answer: (d) Traders
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Q6
With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta’ refers to
1. (a) bonded labor
2. (b) land grants made to military officers
3. (c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of land
4. (d) wasteland converted to cultivated land
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Answer: (c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of land
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Q7
Regarding the taxation systems of Krishna Deva, the ruler of Vijayanagar, consider the following statements:
- 1. The tax rate of land was fixed depending on the quality of the land.
- 2. Private owners of workshops paid an industry tax.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q8
With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements:
- 1. Siddhas (sittars) of the Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
- 2. Lingayats of the Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Modern India
Q9
Satya Shodhak Samaj organised:
1. (a) a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar
2. (b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat
3. (c) an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra
4. (d) a peasant movement in Punjab
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Answer: (c) an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra
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Q10
Consider the following:
- 1. Calcutta Unitarian Committee
- 2. Tabernacle of New Dispensation
- 3. Indian Reform Association Keshab Chandra Sen is associated with the establishment of which of the above?
1. (a) 1 and 3 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
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Q11
What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?
1. (a) Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto.
2. (b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government.
3. (c) Foundation of Muslim League.
4. (d) Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the president of the Indian National Congress.
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Answer: (b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government.
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Q12
The ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the
1. (a) Agitation against the partition of Bengal
2. (b) Home Rule Movement
3. (c) Non-Cooperation Movement
4. (d) Visit of Simon Commission to India
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Answer: (a) Agitation against the partition of Bengal
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Q13
The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to
1. (a) Social reforms
2. (b) Education reforms
3. (c) Reforms in public administration
4. (d) Constitutional reforms
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Answer: (d) Constitutional reforms
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Q14
The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War:
1. (a) India should be granted complete independence
2. (b) India should be partitioned into two before granting independence
3. (c) India should be made a republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth
4. (d) India should be given Dominion status
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Answer: (d) India should be given Dominion status
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Art & Culture
Q15
What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram?
- 1. Both were built in the same period
- 2. Both belong to the same religious denomination
- 3. Both have rock-cut monuments
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) None of the statements given above is correct
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Answer: (b) 3 only
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Q16
Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of Sunga dynasty?
1. (a) Swapnavasavadatta
2. (b) Malavikagnimitra
3. (c) Meghadoota
4. (d) Ratnavati
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Answer: (b) Malavikagnimitra
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Q17
Consider the following pairs:
Famous place Region
1. Bodhgaya Baghelkhand
2. Khajuraho Bundelkhand
3. Shirdi Vidarbha
4. Nasik (Nashik) Malwa
5. Tirupati Rayalaseema
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. (a) 1, 2 and 4 only
2. (b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
3. (c) 2 and 5 only
4. (d) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
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Answer: (c) 2 and 5 only
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Indian Geography
Q18
Which of the following is/are tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra?
- 1. Dibang
- 2. Kameng
- 3. Lohit
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Q19
In which of the following regions of India are shale gas resources found?
- 1. Cambay Basin
- 2. Cauvery Basin
- 3. Krishna-Godavari Basin
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Polity & Governance
Q20
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. A bill pending in the Lok Sabha lapses on its prorogation.
- 2. A bill pending in the Rajya Sabha, which has not been passed by the Lok Sabha, shall not lapse on the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q21
The Parliament of India acquires the powers to legislate on any items in the State List in the national interest if the resolution to that effect has been passed by the
1. (a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
2. (b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership
3. (c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
4. (d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two- thirds of its members present and voting
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Answer: (d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two- thirds of its members present and voting
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Q22
Consider the following statements:
- 1. The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State.
- 2. The Chief Secretary in a state has a fixed tenure.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Q23
Consider the following statements:
- 1. The minimum age prescribed for any person to be a member of a panchayat is 25 years.
- 2. A panchayat reconstituted after premature dissolution continues only for the remainder period.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q24
With reference to “Gram Nyayalayas Acts”, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
- 2. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/conciliators.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (b) 2 only
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International Relations
Q25
‘Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of:
1. (a) African Union
2. (b) Brazil
3. (c) European Union
4. (d) China
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Answer: (d) China
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Economy
Q26
The Term ‘Core Banking Solutions’ is sometimes seen in the news.
Which of the following statements best describes/describe this term?
- 1. It is the networking of a bank’s branches which enable customers to operate their accounts from any branch of the bank on its network regardless of where they open their accounts.
- 2. It is an effort to increase RBI’s control over commercial banks through computerization.
- 3. It is a detailed procedure by which a bank with huge non-performing assets is taken over by another bank.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (a) 1 only
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Q27
With reference to ‘Bitcoins’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. Bitcoins are tracked by the Central Banks of the countries.
- 2. Anyone with a Bitcoin address can send and receive Bitcoins from anyone else with a Bitcoin address.
- 3. Online payments can be sent without either side knowing the identity of the other.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
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Q28
What is/are the purpose/purposes of ‘Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR)’ announced by the RBI?
- 1. These guidelines help improve the transparency in the methodology followed by the banks for determining the interest rates on advances.
- 2. These guidelines help ensure the availability of bank credit at interest rates which are fair to the borrowers as well as the banks.
Select the correct answers using the code given below:
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q29
The establishment of ‘Payment Banks’ is being allowed in India to promote financial inclusion. Which of the following statements is/are correct in this context?
- 1. Mobile telephone companies and supermarket chains that are owned and controlled by residents are eligible to be promoters of Payment Banks.
- 2. Payment Banks can issue both credit cards and debit cards.
- 3. Payment Banks cannot undertake lending activities.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 1 and 3 only
3. (c) 2 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only
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Q30
With reference to ‘IFC Masala Bonds’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the statements given below is/are correct?
- 1. The International Finance Corporation, which offers these bonds, is an arm of the World Bank.
- 2. They are the rupee-denominated bonds and are a source of debt financing for the public and private sectors.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q31
With reference to ‘Financial Stability and Development Council’, consider the following statements:
- 1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
- 2. It is headed by the Union Finance Minister.
- 3. It monitors macroprudential supervision of the economy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only
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Q32
Regarding ‘Atal Pension Yojana’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It is a minimum guaranteed pension scheme mainly targeted at unorganized sector workers.
- 2. Only one member of a family can join the scheme.
- 3. Same amount of pension is guaranteed for the spouse for life after subscriber’s death.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q33
Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at
1. (a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system
2. (b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops
3. (c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons
4. (d) funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation
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Answer: (a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system
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Q34
With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’, consider the following statements:
- 1. Under this scheme, farmers will have to pay a uniform premium of two percent for any crop they cultivate in any season of the year.
- 2. This scheme covers post-harvest losses arising out of cyclones and unseasonal rains.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q35
Which of the following is/are included in the capital budget of the Government of India?
- 1. Expenditure on acquisition of assets like roads, buildings, machinery, etc.
- 2. Loans received from foreign governments.
- 3. Loans and advances granted to the States and Union Territories.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Q36
There has been a persistent deficit budget year after year. Which action/actions of the following can be taken by the government to reduce the deficit?
- 1. Reducing revenue expenditure
- 2. Introducing new welfare scheme
- 3. Rationalizing subsidies
- 4. Reducing import duty
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
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Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q37
What is/are the purpose/purposes of the Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?
- 1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy
- 2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector
- 3. To reduce Indian’s dependence on gold imports
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q38
Recently, which one of the following currencies has been proposed to be added to the basket of IMF’s SDR?
1. (a) Rouble
2. (b) Rand
3. (c) Indian Rupee
4. (d) Renminbi
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Answer: (d) Renminbi
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Q39
Which of the following best describes the term ‘import cover’, sometimes seen in the news?
1. (a) It is the ratio of value of imports to the Gross Domestic Product of a country.
2. (b) It is the total value of imports of a country in a year.
3. (c) It is the ratio between the value of exports and that of imports between two countries.
4. (d) It is the number of months of imports that could be paid for by a country’s international reserves.
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Answer: (d) It is the number of months of imports that could be paid for by a country’s international reserves.
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Q40
Find correct statement(s):
- 1. New Development Bank has been set up by APEC.
- 2. The headquarters of New Development Bank is in Shanghai.
Answer Codes:
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q41
With reference to the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), consider the following statements:
- 1. IMFC discusses matters of concern affecting the global economy and advises the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the direction of its work.
- 2. The World Bank participates as an observer in IMFC’s meetings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q42
‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is prepared by the
1. (a) European Central Bank
2. (b) International Monetary Fund
3. (c) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
4. (d) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
Show answer
Answer: (b) International Monetary Fund
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Q43
In the context of which of the following do you sometimes find the terms amber box, blue box, and green box in the news?
1. (a) WTO affairs
2. (b) SAARC affairs
3. (c) UNFCCC affairs
4. (d) India-EU negotiations on FTA
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Answer: (a) WTO affairs
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Q44
Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of practising drip irrigation?
- 1. Reduction in weed
- 2. Reduction in soil salinity
- 3. Reduction in soil erosion
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) None of the above is an advantage of practising drip irrigation
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Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q45
Which one of the following is the purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?
1. (a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy
2. (b) Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018
3. (c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time
4. (d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies
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Answer: (d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies
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Q46
What is/are the purpose/purposes of District Mineral Foundations in India?
- 1. Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts
- 2. Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations
- 3. Authorising State Governments to issue licences for mineral exploration
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q47
Which of the following is/are the indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report?
- 1. Under nourishment
- 2. Child stunting
- 3. Child mortality
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1, 2 and 3
4. (d) 1 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3
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Q48
‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at
1. (a) promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas
2. (b) providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs
3. (c) promoting the education and health of adolescent girls
4. (d) providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free
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Answer: (d) providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free
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Environment & Ecology
Q49
In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of the Air Quality Index?
- 1. Carbon dioxide
- 2. Carbon monoxide
- 3. Nitrogen dioxide
- 4. Sulphur dioxide
- 5. Methane
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
2. (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
3. (c) 1, 4 and 5 only
4. (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
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Q50
In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?
1. (a) Sand deserts of northwest India
2. (b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir
3. (c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat
4. (d) Western Ghats
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Answer: (d) Western Ghats
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Q51
What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?
- 1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometers in seawater.
- 2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.
- 3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
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Q52
The FAO accords the status of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) to traditional agricultural systems.
What is the overall goal of this initiative?
- 1. To provide modern technology, training in modern farming methods and financial support to local communities of identified GIAHS so as to greatly enhance their agricultural productivity.
- 2. To identify and safeguard eco-friendly traditional farm practices and their associated landscapes, agricultural biodiversity, and knowledge systems of the local communities.
- 3. To provide Geographical Indication status to all the varieties of agricultural produce in such identifies GIAHS.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 3 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q53
With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
- 2. It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
- 3. It presents an approach that can help decision makers recognize, demonstrate, and capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only
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Q54
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Proper design and effective implementation of UNREDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to
- 1. Protection of biodiversity
- 2. Resilience of forest ecosystems
- 3. Poverty reduction
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Q55
What is/are the importance/importances of the ‘United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification’?
- 1. It aims to promote effective action through innovative national programmes and supportive international partnerships.
- 2. It has a special/particular focus on South Asia and North Africa regions, and its Secretariat facilitates the allocation of major portions of financial resources to these regions.
- 3. It is committed to a bottom-up approach, encouraging the participation of local people in combating desertification.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q56
With reference to ‘Red Sanders’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements:
- 1. It is a tree species found in a part of South India.
- 2. It is one of the most important trees in the tropical rainforest areas of South India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
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Q57
‘Gadgil Committee Report’ and ‘Kasturirangan Committee Report’, sometimes seen in the news, are related to
1. (a) Constitutional reforms
2. (b) Ganga Action Plan
3. (c) Linking of rivers
4. (d) Protection of Western Ghats
Show answer
Answer: (d) Protection of Western Ghats
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Q58
The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of
1. (a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East
2. (b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change
3. (c) capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
4. (d) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals
Show answer
Answer: (b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change
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Q59
Consider the following pairs:
Terms sometimes seen in the news Their origin
- 1. Annex-I Countries: Cartagena Protocol
- 2. Certified Emissions Reductions: Nagoya Protocol
- 3. Clean Development Mechanisms: Kyoto Protocol
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 3 only
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Q60
Which of the following best describes the aim of the ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government of India?
- 1. Incorporating environmental benefits and costs into the Union and State Budgets thereby implementing the ‘green accounting’.
- 2. Launching the second green revolution to enhance agricultural output so as to ensure food security to one and all in the future.
- 3. Restoring and enhancing forest cover and responding to climate change by a combination of adaptation and mitigation measures.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 3 only
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Q61
What is the ‘Greenhouse Gas Protocol’?
1. (a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions.
2. (b) It is an initiative of the United Nations to offer financial incentives to developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adopt eco-friendly technologies
3. (c) It is an intergovernmental agreement ratified by all the member countries of the United Nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to specified levels by the year 2022
4. (d) It is one of the multilateral REDD+ initiatives hosted by the World Bank
Show answer
Answer: (a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions.
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Q62
With reference to the agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. The agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN, and it will go into effect in 2017.
- 2. The agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2 o C or even 1.5 o C above pre-industrial levels.
- 3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 3 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q63
Consider the following statements:
- 1. The Sustainable Development Goals were first proposed in 1972 by a global think tank called the ‘Club of Rome’.
- 2. The Sustainable Development Goals have to be achieved by 2030.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q64
With reference to ‘Agenda 21’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements:
- 1. It is a global action plan for sustainable development.
- 2. It originated in the World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg in 2002.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
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Science & Technology
Q65
In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to
1. (a) A range of enzymes used in genome editing
2. (b) The full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
3. (c) The description of the mechanism of gene expression
4. (d) A mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
Show answer
Answer: (b) The full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
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Q66
With reference to ‘AstroSat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. Other than the USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.
- 2. AstroSat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Report an error
Q67
Consider the following statements:
The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO
- 1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
- 2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
- 3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q68
With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission.
- 2. It is wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q69
India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?
1. (a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation
2. (b) It can attain a global role in satellite navigation
3. (c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation
4. (d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation
Show answer
Answer: (d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation
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Q70
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Viruses can infect
- 1. bacteria
- 2. fungi
- 3. plants
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Current Affairs & GK
Q71
Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?
1. (a) Andaman Islands
2. (b) Anaimalai Forests
3. (c) Maikal Hills
4. (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast
Show answer
Answer: (a) Andaman Islands
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Q72
Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?
1. (a) Amphibious warfare ship
2. (b) Nuclear-powered submarine
3. (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
4. (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Show answer
Answer: (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
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Q73
What is ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’, recently in the news?
1. (a) Electric plane tested by NASA
2. (b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan
3. (c) Space observatory launched by China
4. (d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO
Show answer
Answer: (a) Electric plane tested by NASA
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Q74
‘Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres)’, often in the news, is:
1. (a) A division of World Health Organisation
2. (b) A non-governmental international organisation
3. (c) An inter-governmental agency sponsored by European Union
4. (d) A specialised agency of the United Nations
Show answer
Answer: (b) A non-governmental international organisation
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Q75
The term ‘Base Erosion and Profit Shifting’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
1. (a) mining operation by multinational companies in resource- rich but backward areas
2. (b) curbing of the tax evasion by multinational companies
3. (c) exploitation of genetic resources of a country by multinational companies
4. (d) lack of consideration of environmental costs in the planning and implementation of developmental projects
Show answer
Answer: (b) curbing of the tax evasion by multinational companies
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Q76
Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?
- 1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
- 2. Rajasthani Dal-Bati-Churma
- 3. Tirupati Laddu
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
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Q77
Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan is a national campaign to:
1. (a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood.
2. (b) release the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of livelihood.
3. (c) eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers.
4. (d) release the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them.
Show answer
Answer: (c) eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers.
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Q78
On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
- 1. Ceiling fans
- 2. Electric geysers
- 3. Tubular fluorescent lamps
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 3 only
3. (c) 2 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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Q79
Regarding DigiLocker, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under Digital India Programme.
- 2. It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q80
Recently, linking of which of the following rivers was undertaken?
1. (a) Cauvery and Tungabhadra
2. (b) Godavari and Krishna
3. (c) Mahanadi and Son
4. (d) Narmada and Tapti
Show answer
Answer: (b) Godavari and Krishna
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Q81
Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?
1. (a) Arunachal Pradesh
2. (b) Himachal Pradesh
3. (c) Karnataka
4. (d) Maharashtra
Show answer
Answer: (d) Maharashtra
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Q82
Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?
1. (a) Andhra Pradesh
2. (b) Chhattisgarh
3. (c) Karnataka
4. (d) Rajasthan
Show answer
Answer: (d) Rajasthan
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Q83
Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)’?
- 1. River basin is the unit of planning and management.
- 2. It spearheads the river conservation efforts at the national level.
- 3. One of the Chief Ministers of the States through which the Ganga flows becomes the Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 and 2 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
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Q84
Why does the Government of India promote the use of ‘Neem Coated Urea’ in agriculture?
1. (a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms.
2. (b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil.
3. (c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into the atmosphere by crop fields.
4. (d) It is a combination of a weedicide and a fertiliser for particular crops.
Show answer
Answer: (b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil.
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Q85
With reference to ‘Stand Up India Scheme’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs.
- 2. It provides for refinancing through SIDBI.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
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Q86
‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to:
1. (a) Immunisation of children and pregnant women
2. (b) Construction of smart cities across the country
3. (c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
4. (d) New Educational Policy
Show answer
Answer: (a) Immunisation of children and pregnant women
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Q87
‘Net metering’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of promoting the:
1. (a) production and use of solar energy by the households/ consumers
2. (b) use of piped natural gas in the kitchens of households
3. (c) installation of CNG kits in motorcars
4. (d) installation of water meters in urban households
Show answer
Answer: (a) production and use of solar energy by the households/ consumers
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Q88
With reference to ‘Initiative for Nutritional Security through Intensive Millets Promotion’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. This initiative aims to demonstrate the improved production and post-harvest technologies, and to demonstrate value addition techniques, in an integrated manner, with cluster approach.
- 2. Poor, small, marginal and tribal farmers have a larger stake in this scheme.
- 3. An important objective of the scheme is to encourage farmers of commercial crops to shift to millet cultivation by offering them free kits of critical inputs of nutrients and micro irrigation equipment.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 2 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only
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Q89
Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in:
1. (a) Andhra Pradesh
2. (b) Gujarat
3. (c) Maharashtra
4. (d) Uttar Pradesh
Show answer
Answer: (a) Andhra Pradesh
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Q90
With reference to pre-packaged items in India, is it mandatory to the manufacturer to put the following information on the main label, as per the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, 2011?
- 1. List of ingredients including additives
- 2. Nutrition information
- 3. Recommendations, if any, made by the medical profession about the possibility of any allergic reactions
- 4. Vegetarian/non-vegetarian
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. (a) 1, 2 and 3
2. (b) 2, 3 and 4
3. (c) 1, 2 and 4
4. (d) 1 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4
Report an error
Q91
The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as:
1. (a) G20
2. (b) ASEAN
3. (c) SCO
4. (d) SAARC
Show answer
Answer: (b) ASEAN
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Q92
Consider the following statements:
- 1. The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015.
- 2. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
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Q93
‘European Stability Mechanism’, sometimes seen in the news, is an:
1. (a) Agency created by the EU to deal with the impact of millions of refugees arriving from the Middle East.
2. (b) Agency of the EU that provides financial assistance to eurozone countries.
3. (c) Agency of the EU to deal with all the bilateral and multilateral agreements on trade.
4. (d) Agency of the EU to deal with the conflicts arising among the member countries.
Show answer
Answer: (b) Agency of the EU that provides financial assistance to eurozone countries.
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Q94
Consider the following pairs:
Community sometimes In the affairs of mentioned in the news:
1. Kurd Bangladesh
2. Madhesi Nepal
3. Rohingya Myanmar
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
1. (a) 1 and 2
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) 2 and 3
4. (d) 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3
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Q95
With reference to ‘Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:
- 1. It is an organisation of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
- 2. It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
- 3. It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 and 3 only
3. (c) 1 and 3 only
4. (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
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Q96
With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements:
- 1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.
- 2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Report an error
Q97
Consider the following statements:
The India-Africa Summit
- 1. held in 2015 was the third such Summit.
- 2. was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
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Q98
Consider the following statements:
- 1. The New Development Bank has been set up by Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).
- 2. The headquarters of New Development Bank is in Shanghai.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. (a) 1 only
2. (b) 2 only
3. (c) Both 1 and 2
4. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
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Q99
Which of the following is not a member of ‘Gulf Cooperation Council’?
1. (a) Iran
2. (b) Saudi Arabia
3. (c) Oman
4. (d) Kuwait
Show answer
Answer: (a) Iran
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Q100
A recent movie titled The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on the biography of:
1. (a) S. Ramanujan
2. (b) S. Chandrasekhar
3. (c) S. N. Bose
4. (d) C. V. Raman
Show answer
Answer: (a) S. Ramanujan
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Q101
H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases?
1. (a) AIDS
2. (b) Bird flu
3. (c) Dengue
4. (d) Swine flu
Show answer
Answer: (d) Swine flu
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Q102
‘Project Loon’, sometimes seen in the news, is related to:
1. (a) Waste management technology
2. (b) wireless communication technology
3. (c) solar power production technology
4. (d) water conservation technology
Show answer
Answer: (b) wireless communication technology
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Other years

Prelims 2026 Prelims 2025 Prelims 2024 Prelims 2023 Prelims 2022 Prelims 2021 Prelims 2020 Prelims 2019 Prelims 2018 Prelims 2017 Prelims 2015 Prelims 2014 Prelims 2013

Famous place	Region
1. Bodhgaya	Baghelkhand
2. Khajuraho	Bundelkhand
3. Shirdi	Vidarbha
4. Nasik (Nashik)	Malwa
5. Tirupati	Rayalaseema

1. Kurd	Bangladesh
2. Madhesi	Nepal
3. Rohingya	Myanmar

Prelims 2016 questions with answer key

Ancient India

Medieval India

Modern India

Art & Culture

Indian Geography

Polity & Governance

International Relations

Economy

Environment & Ecology

Science & Technology

Current Affairs & GK

Other years