UPSC Prelims 2007 · General Studies
Question 85: Geography
Out of the Southern States – Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu – which shares boundaries with the maximum number of Indian States?
AnswerThe answer is (c).
In 2007 Andhra Pradesh bordered five States: Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Karnataka also bordered five: Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Tamil Nadu bordered three (Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh) and Kerala two. So Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka tie for the most.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Karnataka also has five neighbours, so Andhra Pradesh is not alone.
- (b) Andhra Pradesh also has five neighbours, so Karnataka is not alone.
- (c) Correct: each of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka had five neighbouring States.
- (d) Tamil Nadu has three neighbours and Kerala two.
Worth knowing: The creation of Telangana in 2014 changed this: Karnataka now borders six States, so today the answer would be Karnataka only.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2007, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.