UPSC Prelims 2016 Question Paper (Solved)

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UPSC Prelims 2016 Question SET A

1. 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 dissolution of the Lok Sabha.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (b)

Statement 1: A Bill pending in the Lok Sabha does not lapse on its prorogation. Prorogation is the period between two sessions of Parliament when the President issues a notification to end the current session. It has no effect on the life of a bill pending before the houses.

Statement 2: A Bill pending in the Rajya Sabha, which has not been passed by the Lok Sabha, shall not lapse on dissolution of the Lok Sabha. This is because a Bill pending in the Rajya Sabha can be taken up for consideration by the Lok Sabha in the next session.

Prorogation	Dissolution
Refers to the end of a session of Parliament.	Refers to the end of the term of the current Lok Sabha.
Can be initiated by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.	Can be initiated by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister or when the term of the current Lok Sabha expires.
Marks the end of a session, and no further sitting is held until the next session is summoned.	Dissolves the Lok Sabha and calls for fresh elections to be held within 6 months.
Does not affect the term of the Lok Sabha.	Ends the term of the Lok Sabha and requires the formation of a new government.
Bills pending in the Parliament are carried forward to the next session.	All pending bills lapse, and new bills need to be introduced after the formation of the new government.

2. Which of the following is/are the indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report?

1. Undernourishment
2. Child stunting
3. Child mortality

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

Ans: (c)

Solution: The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is an annual report published by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) to measure and track hunger worldwide. All three indicators are used to compute the ranking.

3. 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 schemes
3. Rationalizing subsidies
4. Reducing import duty

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, 3 and 4

Ans: (c)

Solution:

Reducing revenue expenditure: By cutting down on unnecessary expenses and reducing the size of the government bureaucracy, the government can reduce its revenue expenditure.

Rationalizing Subsidies: The government can review and eliminate inefficient subsidies that do not serve their intended purpose or benefit a limited number of people. This will help reduce the budget deficit.

Introducing new welfare schemes and reducing import duty may not help reduce the budget deficit and could potentially worsen the situation. Introducing new welfare schemes will increase the government’s expenditure, and reducing import duty could lead to lower revenue collection.

4. 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.

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

Ans: (b)

Solution:

1. Mobile telephone companies and supermarket chains that are owned and controlled by residents are eligible to be promoters of Payment Banks: This statement is correct. According to the guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), eligible entities to set up Payment Banks include non-bank prepaid payment instrument issuers, non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), corporate BCs, mobile telephone companies, supermarket chains, and companies engaged in the supply of goods and services.
2. Payment Banks can issue both credit cards and debit cards: This statement is incorrect. Payment Banks can issue only debit cards, not credit cards. Payment Banks cannot issue credit cards, and they cannot undertake lending activities.
3. Payment Banks cannot undertake lending activities: This statement is correct. Payment Banks are not allowed to undertake lending activities. They can accept deposits up to a certain limit, issue debit cards, and offer other payment and remittance services. They can also distribute mutual funds and insurance products, but they cannot engage in any form of lending

5. With reference to ‘Li-Fi’, 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 a wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (c)

Solution: Li-Fi is a wireless optical networking technology that uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission. It is a faster and more secure alternative to traditional Wi-Fi networks. Li-Fi is capable of transmitting data at several gigabits per second, which is several times faster than traditional Wi-Fi.

6. The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of

(a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East
(b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change
(c) capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
(d) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals

Ans: (b)

Solution: Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) is a term used in the context of climate change negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It refers to the plan of action outlined by countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Each country’s INDC outlines its proposed contributions towards achieving the global target of limiting the rise in average global temperatures to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. INDCs are submitted by each country in the lead-up to the UNFCCC’s Conference of Parties (COP) meetings.

7. Which one of the following is a purpose of `UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?

(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy
(b) Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018
(c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time
(d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies

Ans: (d)

8. 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 sector.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(h) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (c)

9. Regarding the taxation system of Krishna Deva, the ruler of Vijayanagar, consider the following statements :

1. The tax rate on land was fixed depending on the quality of the land.
2. Private owners of workshops paid an industries tax.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (c)

Solution: The Vijayanagara Empire had a well-organized taxation system that helped finance the empire’s administration and military campaigns. The main sources of revenue were agriculture, trade, and mining.

The empire’s taxation system was based on land revenue, which was collected by officials known as the Amara-nayakas. The land revenue was usually calculated as a percentage of the crop produce, which varied depending on the fertility of the land and the crops grown. The assessment of land revenue was periodically reviewed to ensure fairness and accuracy.

In addition to land revenue, the empire also imposed taxes on goods and services. There were taxes on commodities such as salt, pepper, and betel nut, as well as taxes on professions such as blacksmiths, carpenters, and goldsmiths. There was also a customs duty on goods that were imported or exported through the empire’s ports.

Another important source of revenue for the Vijayanagara Empire was the revenue from mines. The empire had extensive mining operations, especially in the Kolar and Bellary districts, which produced gold, silver, copper, and iron. The revenue from mining was a significant contributor to the empire’s finances.

Overall, the taxation system of the Vijayanagara Empire was well-organized and efficient, which helped to finance the empire’s administration, military campaigns, and construction projects.

10. Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of Sunga dynasty?

(a) Swapnavasavadatta
(b) Malavikagnirnitra
(c) Meghadoota
(d) Ratnavali

Ans: (b)

Solution: Malavikagnimitra is a Sanskrit play written by Kalidasa, a renowned playwright in ancient India. The play is set in the court of the Sunga dynasty, and it tells the story of King Agnimitra, who falls in love with Malavika, a beautiful maiden. The play is known for its portrayal of love and court intrigue, and it is considered to be one of Kalidasa’s most popular works.

11. In the context of which of the following do you sometimes find the terms `amber box, blue box and green box’ in the news?

(a) WTO affairs
(b) SAARC affairs
(c) UNFCCC affairs
(d) India-EU negotiations on FTA

Ans: (a)

Solution: The terms “amber box,” “blue box,” and “green box” are often used in the news in the context of World Trade Organization (WTO) affairs. These terms refer to different types of domestic support that countries provide to their agricultural sectors. The amber box refers to domestic support that has the potential to distort trade and production, while the blue box refers to support that is less trade-distorting. The green box refers to support that has minimal or no trade-distorting effects and is therefore allowed under WTO rules. These terms are often used in discussions about agricultural trade negotiations and policies at the WTO.

12. 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.

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

Ans: (d)

Solution: The capital budget of the Government of India is a part of the annual budget presented by the Finance Minister to the Parliament of India. It includes the government’s expenditure and receipts related to long-term assets and investments.

The capital budget includes expenditures on the acquisition of capital assets such as roads, bridges, buildings, machinery, and equipment. These expenditures are meant to create long-term assets for the government, which will have a useful life beyond the current fiscal year. The capital budget also includes loans and advances granted to the states and union territories, as these are considered to be investments in the development of these regions.

On the receipts side, the capital budget includes proceeds from the sale of capital assets, such as land or buildings, and capital receipts from borrowing, including domestic and external borrowings.

The capital budget is an important tool for the government to finance its long-term investments and create infrastructure for the country’s development. It is also used to address regional imbalances and to promote social and economic welfare programs.

13. 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 inter-national partnerships.
2. It has a special/particular focus on South Asia and North Africa regions, and its Secretariat facilitates the allocation of major portion of financial resources to these regions.
3. It is committed to bottom-up approach, encouraging the participation of local people in combating the desertification.

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

14. Recently, which one of the following currencies has been proposed to be added to the basket of IMF’s SDR?

(a) Rouble
(b) Rand
(c) Indian Rupee
(d) Renminbi

15. With reference to the International Monetary and Financial Cornmittee (IMFC), consider the following statements :
16. 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 observer in IMFC’s meetings.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

16. Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national campaign to

(a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood
(b) release the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of livelihood
(c) eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers
(d) release the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them

17. With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements :
18. Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
    2. Lingayats of Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

18. Which of the following best describes the term ‘import cover’, sometimes seen in the news?

(a) It is the ratio of value of imports to the Gross Domestic Product of a country
(b) It is the total value of imports of a country in a year
(c) It is the ratio between the value of exports and that of imports between two countries
(d) It is the number of months of imports that could be paid for by a country’s international reserves

19. 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?

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

20. With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements :
21. It is an organization of European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
    2. It monitors 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?

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

21. With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’, consider the following statements:
22. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

22. In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the `Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?

(a) Sand deserts of northwest India
(b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir
(c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat
(d) Western Ghats

23. Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)?
24. 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.

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

24. Why does the Government of India promote the use of Neem-coated Urea’ in agriculture?

(a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms
(b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil
(c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into atmosphere by crop fields
(d) It is a combination of a weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops

25. Consider the following statements :
26. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

26. With reference to ‘stand up india scheme’, which of the following statement is/are correct?
27. Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs.
    2. It provides for refinance through SIDBI.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

27. The FAO accords the status of ‘Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)’ to traditional agricultural systems. What is the overall goal of this initiative?
28. 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 landscapers, agricultural biodiversity and knowledge systems of the local communities
    3. To provide Geographical Indication status to all the varieties of agricultural produce in such identified GIAHS

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

28. Which of the following is/are tributary tributaries of Brahmaputra?
29. Dibang
    2. Kameng
    3. Lohit

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

29. The term ‘Core Banking Solutions’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statements best describes/describe this term?
30. It is a networking of a bank’s branches which enables 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.

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

30. Consider the following pairs :

Terms sometimes seen in the news : Their origin
1. Annex-I Countries : Cartagena Protocol
2. Certified Emissions : Nagoya Protocol Reductions
3. Clean Development : Kyoto Protocol Mechanism

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

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

31. In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to

(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing
(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells

32. ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to

(a) immunization of children and pregnant women
(b) construction of smart cities across the country
(c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
(d) New Educational Policy

33. Which of the following best describes/ describe the aim of ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government of India?
34. Incorporating environment al 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.

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

34. With reference to pre-packaged items in India, it is mandatoy to the manufacturer to put which of the following information on the main label, as per the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, 2011?
35. 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.

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

35. ‘Project Loon’, sometimes seen in the news, is related to

(a) waste management technology
(b) wireless communication technology
(c) solar power production technology
(d) water conservation technology

36. ‘Net metering’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of promoting the

(a) production and use of solar energy by the households/consumers
(b) use of piped natural gas in the kitchens of households
(c) installation of CNG kits in motor-cars
(d) installation of water meters in urban households

37. India’s ranking in the ‘Ease of Doing Business Index’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following has declared that ranking?

(a) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
(b) World Economic Forum
(c) World Bank
(d) World Trade Organization (WTO)

38. Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally

(a) agriculturists
(b) warriors
(c) weavers
(d) traders

39. Who of the following had first deciphered the edicts of Emperor Ashoka?

(a) Georg Bilhler
(b) James Prinsep
(c) Max Muller
(d) William Jones

40. With reference to the ‘Gram Nyayalaya Act’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
41. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
    2. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/reconciliators.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

41. With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements :
42. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

42. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

43. What is/are the purpose/purposes of the `Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR)’ announced by RBI?
44. These guidelines help improve the transparency in the methodology followed by banks for determining the interest rates on advances.
    2. These guidelines help ensure availability of bank credit at interest rates which are fair to the borrowers as well as the banks.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

44. What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?
45. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres 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.

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

45. 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?

(a) Andaman Islands
(b) Anaimalai Forests
(c) Maikala Hills
(d) Tropical rain forests of northeast

46. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

47. What is ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’, recently in the news?

(a) Electric plane tested by NASA
(b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan
(c) Space observatory launched by China
(d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO

48. With reference to ‘Initiative for Nutritional Security through Intensive Millets Promotion’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
49. 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 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 microirrigation equipment.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

49. The `Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the

(a) agitation against the Partition of Bengal
(b) Home Rule Movement
(c) Non-Cooperation Movement
(d) visit of the Simon Commission to India

50. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements :
51. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
    2. Bodhisattva is a 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?

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

51. ‘Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres)’, often in the news, is

(a) a division of World Health Organization
(b) a non-governmental international organization
(c) an inter-governmental agency sponsored by European Union
(d) a specialized agency of the United Nations

52. With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
53. 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.

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

53. With reference to ‘Red Sanders’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements:
54. It is a tree species found in a part of South India.
    2. It is one of the most important trees in the tropical rain forest areas of South India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

54. Which of the following statements is/are correct?

Proper design and effective implementation of UN-REDD+ 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.

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

55. What is ‘Greenhouse Gas Protocol’?

(a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions
(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
(c) It is an inter-governmental agreement ratified by all the member countries of the United Nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to specified levels by the year 2022
(d) It is one of the multilateral REDD+ initiatives hosted by the World Bank

56. With reference to ‘Financial Stability and Development Council’, consider the following statements :
57. 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?

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

57. With reference to ‘Agenda 21’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements :
58. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

58. Satya Shodhak Samaj organized

(a) a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar
(b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat
(c) an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra
(d) a peasant movement in Punjab

59. 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.

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

60. The term ‘Base Erosion and Profit Shifting’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of

(a) mining operation by multinational companies in resource-rich but backward areas
(b) curbing of the tax evasion by multinational companies
(c) exploitation of genetic resources of a country by multinational companies
(d) lack of consideration of environmental costs in the planning and implementation of developmental projects

61. Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in

(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Gujarat
(c) Maharashtra
(d) Uttar Pradesh

62. What is/are the purpose/purposes of `District Mineral Foundations’ in India?
63. Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts
    2. Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations
    3. Authorizing State Governments to issue licences for mineral exploration

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

63. `SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at

(a) promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas
(b) providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs
(c) promoting the education and health of adolescent girls
(d) providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free

64. The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to

(a) social reforms
(b) educational reforms
(c) reforms in police administration
(d) constitutional reforms

65. What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram?
66. 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.

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

(d) None of the statements given above is correct

66. With reference to ‘Bitcoins’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
67. 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.

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

67. Consider the following statements :
68. New Development Bank has been set up by APEC.
    2. The headquarters of New Development Bank is in Shanghai.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

68. ‘Gadgil Committee Report’ and ‘Kasturirangan Committee Report’, sometimes seen in the news, are related to

(a) constitutional reforms
(b) Ganga Action Plan
(c) linking of rivers
(d) protection of Western Ghats

69. Consider the following :
70. 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?

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

70. Which of the following is not a member of `Gulf Cooperation Council’?

(a) Iran
(b) Saudi Arabia
(c) Oman
(d) Kuwait

71. What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?
72. 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 India’s dependence on gold imports

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

72. ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of

(a) African Union
(b) Brazil
(c) European Union
(d) China

73. Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at

(a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system
(b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops
(c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons
(d) funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation

74. In which of the following regions of India are shale gas resources found?
75. Cambay Basin
    2. Cauvery Basin
    3. Krishna-Godavari Basin

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

75. ‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is prepared by the

(a) European Central Bank
(b) International Monetary Fund
(c) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(d) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development

76. Regarding ‘Atal Pension Yojana’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
77. 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.

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

77. The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as

(a) G20
(b) ASEAN
(c) SCO
(d) SAARC

78. On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
79. Ceiling fans
    2. Electric geysers
    3. Tubular fluorescent lamps

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

79. India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?

(a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation
(b) It can attain a global role in satellite navigation
(c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation
(d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation

80. 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

81. Consider the following statements:
82. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

82. ‘European Stability Mechanism’, sometimes seen in the news, is an

(a) agency created by EU to deal with the impact of millions of refugees arriving from Middle East
(b) agency of EU that provides financial assistance to eurozone countries
(c) agency of EU to deal with all the bilateral and multilateral agreements on trade
(d) agency of EU to deal with the conflicts arising among the member countries

83. Which of the following is/are the advantage /advantages of practising drip irrigation?
84. Reduction in weed
    2. Reduction in soil salinity
    3. Reduction in soil erosion

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the above is an advantage of practising drip irrigation

84. Regarding DigiLocker’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
85. It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under Digital India Programme.
    2. It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

85. Recently, linking of which of the following rivers was undertaken?

(a) Cauvery and Tungabhadra
(b) Godavari and Krishna
(c) Mahanadi and Sone
(d) Narmada and Tapti

86. In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?
87. Carbon dioxide
    2. Carbon monoxide
    3. Nitrogen dioxide
    4. Sulfur dioxide
    5. Methane

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

87. With reference to `Astrosat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
88. Other than 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.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

88. With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term Araghatta’ refers to

(a) bonded labour
(b) land grants made to military officers
(c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of land
(d) wastel and converted to cultivated land

89. With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorizing of chronicles, dynastic histories and Epictales was the profession of who of the following?

(a) Shramana
(b) Parivraaj a k a
(c) Agrahaarika
(d) Maagadha

90. Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?

(a) Arunachal Pradesh
(b) Himachal Pradesh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Maharashtra

91. 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?

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

92. What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?

(a) Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto
(b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government
(c) Foundation of Muslim League
(d) Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress

93. The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War

(a) India should be granted complete independence(b) India should be partitioned into two before granting independence
(c) India should be made a republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth
(d) India should be given Dominion status

94. 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?

(a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5
(c) 2 and 5 only
(d) 1, 3, 4 and 5

95. The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to thateffect is passed by the

(a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
(b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership
(c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
(d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and voting

96. 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?

(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Chhattisgarh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Rajasthan

97. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct?
98. 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 the greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2 °C or even 1.5 °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.

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

98. Consider the following statements:
99. 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

99. A recent movie titled The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on the biography of

(a) S. Ramanujan
(b) S. Chandrasekhar
(c) S. N. Bose
(d) C. V. Raman

100. Consider the following statements:
101. The minimum age prescribed for any person to be a member of 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2