UPSC Prelims 1998 · General Studies
Question 3: Geography
What is the correct sequence of the following Indian states in descending order of their length of surface roads per 100 km² of their area? I. Haryana II. Maharashtra III. Punjab IV. Tamil Nadu Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
AnswerThe answer is (a).
The given order ranks Tamil Nadu first, then Maharashtra, Punjab and Haryana, by length of surface roads per 100 sq km of area, using the figures available at the time. This is a recall question on road statistics, not something to reason out. Road density tracks population density and rural connectivity rather than state size, so small, densely settled states usually lead such lists. Do not spend time on it in the exam unless you remember the data.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) The key's order: Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana.
- (b) Has Tamil Nadu first, but puts Maharashtra last; the key puts it second.
- (c) Has Punjab first and Maharashtra last; the key's order is different.
- (d) Has Punjab first and Haryana last; the key's order is different.
Worth knowing: The ranking rests on dated road statistics I cannot verify from memory, and Punjab's high road density makes the key's order surprising.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1998, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.