UPSC Prelims 2014

General Studies Paper I

100 questions, 2 hours. Open a question for its answer and why.

1. Question 1 · Economy and Social Development

   What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'?

   1. 1.Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
   2. 2.Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this.
   3. 3.There is no application of chemical/inorganic fertilizers at all in this.
   4. 4.The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.

   Select the correct answer using the code given below.

   a1 and 3 only

   b1, 2 and 4 only

   c2, 3 and 4 only

   d1, 2, 3 and 4
2. Question 2 · Environment and Ecology

   If a wetland of international importance is brought under the 'Montreux Record', what does it imply?

   aChanges in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference

   bThe country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres from the edge of the wetland

   cThe survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed

   dIt is given the status of 'World Heritage Site'
3. Question 3 · Geography

   Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the 'Ten Degree Channel'?

   aAndaman and Nicobar

   bNicobar and Sumatra

   cMaldives and Lakshadweep

   dSumatra and Java
4. Question 4 · Economy and Social Development

   Consider the following pairs :

   	Programme/Project	Ministry
   1.	Drought-Prone Area Programme	Ministry of Agriculture
   2.	Desert Development Programme	Ministry of Environment and Forests
   3.	National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas	Ministry of Rural Development

   Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

   a1 and 2 only

   b3 only

   c1, 2 and 3

   dNone
5. Question 5 · Environment and Ecology

   With reference to Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), consider the following statements :

   1. 1.It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
   2. 2.It strives to conserve nature through action-based research, education and public awareness.
   3. 3.It organizes and conducts nature trails and camps for the general public.

   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

   a1 and 3 only

   b2 only

   c2 and 3 only

   d1, 2 and 3
6. Question 6 · Environment and Ecology

   With reference to 'Global Environment Facility', which of the following statements is/are correct?

   aIt serves as financial mechanism for 'Convention on Biological Diversity' and 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change'

   bIt undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at global level

   cIt is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer of technology and funds to underdeveloped countries with specific aim to protect their environment

   dBoth (a) and (b)
7. Question 7 · Science and Technology

   With reference to technologies for solar power production, consider the following statements :

   1. 1.'Photovoltaics' is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while 'Solar Thermal' is a technology that utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process.
   2. 2.Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC).
   3. 3.India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics.

   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

   a1 only

   b2 and 3 only

   c1, 2 and 3

   dNone
8. Question 8 · History and Culture

   Consider the following languages :

   1. 1.Gujarati
   2. 2.Kannada
   3. 3.Telugu

   Which of the above has/have been declared as 'Classical Language/Languages' by the Government?

   a1 and 2 only

   b3 only

   c2 and 3 only

   d1, 2 and 3
9. Question 9 · Environment and Ecology

   Consider the following pairs :

   1.	Dampa Tiger Reserve	Mizoram
   2.	Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary	Sikkim
   3.	Saramati Peak	Nagaland

   Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

   a1 only

   b2 and 3 only

   c1 and 3 only

   d1, 2 and 3
10. Question 10 · Environment and Ecology

    With reference to a conservation organization called 'Wetlands International', which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.It is an intergovernmental organization formed by the countries which are signatories to Ramsar Convention.
    2. 2.It works at the field level to develop and mobilize knowledge, and use the practical experience to advocate for better policies.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
11. Question 11 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio de Janeiro in 2009.
    2. 2.South Africa was the last to join the BRICS grouping.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
12. Question 12 · Science and Technology

    Consider the following diseases :

    1. 1.Diphtheria
    2. 2.Chickenpox
    3. 3.Smallpox

    Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dNone
13. Question 13 · Environment and Ecology

    Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms?

    1. 1.Continental drift
    2. 2.Glacial cycles

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
14. Question 14 · Environment and Ecology

    Other than poaching, what are the possible reasons for the decline in the population of Ganges River Dolphins?

    1. 1.Construction of dams and barrages on rivers
    2. 2.Increase in the population of crocodiles in rivers
    3. 3.Getting trapped in fishing nets accidentally
    4. 4.Use of synthetic fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals in crop-fields in the vicinity of rivers

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1, 3 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
15. Question 15 · History and Culture

    The Radcliffe Committee was appointed to

    asolve the problem of minorities in India

    bgive effect to the Independence Bill

    cdelimit the boundaries between India and Pakistan

    denquire into the riots in East Bengal
16. Question 16 · Environment and Ecology

    Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use?

    1. 1.They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
    2. 2.They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
17. Question 17 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following :

    1. 1.Bats
    2. 2.Bears
    3. 3.Rodents

    The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dHibernation cannot be observed in any of the above
18. Question 18 · Polity and Governance

    Which one of the following is the largest Committee of the Parliament?

    aThe Committee on Public Accounts

    bThe Committee on Estimates

    cThe Committee on Public Undertakings

    dThe Committee on Petitions
19. Question 19 · Environment and Ecology

    Which of the following adds/add carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on the planet Earth?

    1. 1.Volcanic action
    2. 2.Respiration
    3. 3.Photosynthesis
    4. 4.Decay of organic matter

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c1, 2 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
20. Question 20 · Environment and Ecology

    If you walk through countryside, you are likely to see some birds stalking alongside the cattle to seize the insects disturbed by their movement through grasses. Which of the following is/are such bird/birds?

    1. 1.Painted Stork
    2. 2.Common Myna
    3. 3.Black-necked Crane

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2

    b2 only

    c2 and 3

    d3 only
21. Question 21 · History and Culture

    In medieval India, the designations 'Mahattara' and 'Pattakila' were used for

    amilitary officers

    bvillage headmen

    cspecialists in Vedic rituals

    dchiefs of craft guilds
22. Question 22 · Environment and Ecology

    Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological succession even on a bare rock, are actually a symbiotic association of

    aalgae and bacteria

    balgae and fungi

    cbacteria and fungi

    dfungi and mosses
23. Question 23 · Geography

    If you travel through the Himalayas, you are likely to see which of the following plants naturally growing there?

    1. 1.Oak
    2. 2.Rhododendron
    3. 3.Sandalwood

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
24. Question 24 · Environment and Ecology

    Which of the following are some important pollutants released by steel industry in India?

    1. 1.Oxides of sulphur
    2. 2.Oxides of nitrogen
    3. 3.Carbon monoxide
    4. 4.Carbon dioxide

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 3 and 4 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
25. Question 25 · History and Culture

    Which of the following Kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?

    1. 1.Avanti
    2. 2.Gandhara
    3. 3.Kosala
    4. 4.Magadha

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 3

    b2 and 4

    c3 and 4 only

    d1, 3 and 4
26. Question 26 · Environment and Ecology

    Every year, a monthlong ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/tribes?

    aBhutia and Lepcha

    bGond and Korku

    cIrula and Toda

    dSahariya and Agariya
27. Question 27 · Economy and Social Development

    The sales tax you pay while purchasing a toothpaste is a

    atax imposed by the Central Government

    btax imposed by the Central Government but collected by the State Government

    ctax imposed by the State Government but collected by the Central Government

    dtax imposed and collected by the State Government
28. Question 28 · Economy and Social Development

    What does venture capital mean?

    aA short-term capital provided to industries

    bA long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs

    cFunds provided to industries at times of incurring losses

    dFunds provided for replacement and renovation of industries
29. Question 29 · Economy and Social Development

    The main objective of the 12th Five-Year Plan is

    ainclusive growth and poverty reduction

    binclusive and sustainable growth

    csustainable and inclusive growth to reduce unemployment

    dfaster, sustainable and more inclusive growth
30. Question 30 · Economy and Social Development

    With reference to Balance of Payments, which of the following constitutes/constitute the Current Account?

    1. 1.Balance of trade
    2. 2.Foreign assets
    3. 3.Balance of invisibles
    4. 4.Special Drawing Rights

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3

    c1 and 3

    d1, 2 and 4
31. Question 31 · Economy and Social Development

    The terms 'Marginal Standing Facility Rate' and 'Net Demand and Time Liabilities', sometimes appearing in news, are used in relation to

    abanking operations

    bcommunication networking

    cmilitary strategies

    dsupply and demand of agricultural products
32. Question 32 · Economy and Social Development

    What is/are the facility/facilities the beneficiaries can get from the services of Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in branchless areas?

    1. 1.It enables the beneficiaries to draw their subsidies and social security benefits in their villages.
    2. 2.It enables the beneficiaries in the rural areas to make deposits and withdrawals.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
33. Question 33 · Economy and Social Development

    In the context of Indian economy, which of the following is/are the purpose/purposes of 'Statutory Reserve Requirements'?

    1. 1.To enable the Central Bank to control the amount of advances the banks can create
    2. 2.To make the people's deposits with banks safe and liquid
    3. 3.To prevent the commercial banks from making excessive profits
    4. 4.To force the banks to have sufficient vault cash to meet their day-to-day requirements

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b1 and 2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
34. Question 34 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Recently, a series of uprisings of people referred to as 'Arab Spring' originally started from

    aEgypt

    bLebanon

    cSyria

    dTunisia
35. Question 35 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Consider the following countries :

    1. 1.Denmark
    2. 2.Japan
    3. 3.Russian Federation
    4. 4.United Kingdom
    5. 5.United States of America

    Which of the above are the members of the 'Arctic Council'?

    a1, 2 and 3

    b2, 3 and 4

    c1, 4 and 5

    d1, 3 and 5
36. Question 36 · Geography

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Region often in news	Country
    1.	Chechnya	Russian Federation
    2.	Darfur	Mali
    3.	Swat Valley	Iraq

    Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
37. Question 37 · Science and Technology

    With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.It is a surface-to-surface missile.
    2. 2.It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
    3. 3.It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
38. Question 38 · Geography

    With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called 'coalbed methane' and 'shale gas', consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks.
    2. 2.In India, abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
39. Question 39 · Geography

    With reference to 'Changpa' community of India, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand.
    2. 2.They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool.
    3. 3.They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
40. Question 40 · Geography

    In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultivation of this has assumed significance. Which one of the following statements is correct in this context?

    aThe oil extracted from seeds is used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics

    bThe gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas

    cThe leaf extract of this plant has the properties of anti-histamines

    dIt is a source of high quality biodiesel
41. Question 41 · Environment and Ecology

    Which of the following have coral reefs?

    1. 1.Andaman and Nicobar Islands
    2. 2.Gulf of Kachchh
    3. 3.Gulf of Mannar
    4. 4.Sunderbans

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 3 only

    b2 and 4 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
42. Question 42 · Geography

    In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?

    1. 1.Terrace cultivation
    2. 2.Deforestation
    3. 3.Tropical climate

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
43. Question 43 · Geography

    The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of

    aEquatorial climate

    bMediterranean climate

    cMonsoon climate

    dAll of the above climates
44. Question 44 · History and Culture

    With reference to the cultural history of India, the term 'Panchayatan' refers to

    aan assembly of village elders

    ba religious sect

    ca style of temple construction

    dan administrative functionary
45. Question 45 · Geography

    Consider the following rivers :

    1. 1.Barak
    2. 2.Lohit
    3. 3.Subansiri

    Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
46. Question 46 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Wetlands	Confluence of rivers
    1.	Harike Wetlands	Confluence of Beas and Satluj/Sutlej
    2.	Keoladeo Ghana National Park	Confluence of Banas and Chambal
    3.	Kolleru Lake	Confluence of Musi and Krishna

    Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
47. Question 47 · History and Culture

    Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?

    aMimamsa and Vedanta

    bNyaya and Vaisheshika

    cLokayata and Kapalika

    dSankhya and Yoga
48. Question 48 · Geography

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Hills	Region
    1.	Cardamom Hills	Coromandel Coast
    2.	Kaimur Hills	Konkan Coast
    3.	Mahadeo Hills	Central India
    4.	Mikir Hills	North-East India

    Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?

    a1 and 2

    b2 and 3

    c3 and 4

    d2 and 4
49. Question 49 · Polity and Governance

    Which one of the following Schedules of the Constitution of India contains provisions regarding anti-defection?

    aSecond Schedule

    bFifth Schedule

    cEighth Schedule

    dTenth Schedule
50. Question 50 · Environment and Ecology

    The most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life is the establishment of

    abiosphere reserves

    bbotanical gardens

    cnational parks

    dwildlife sanctuaries
51. Question 51 · Geography

    Turkey is located between

    aBlack Sea and Caspian Sea

    bBlack Sea and Mediterranean Sea

    cGulf of Suez and Mediterranean Sea

    dGulf of Aqaba and Dead Sea
52. Question 52 · Geography

    What is the correct sequence of occurrence of the following cities in South-East Asia as one proceeds from south to north?

    1. 1.Bangkok
    2. 2.Hanoi
    3. 3.Jakarta
    4. 4.Singapore

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a4-2-1-3

    b3-2-4-1

    c3-4-1-2

    d4-3-2-1
53. Question 53 · Environment and Ecology

    The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2 °C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3 °C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?

    1. 1.Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.
    2. 2.Widespread coral mortality will occur.
    3. 3.All the global wetlands will permanently disappear.
    4. 4.Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b1 and 2 only

    c2, 3 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
54. Question 54 · History and Culture

    The national motto of India, 'Satyameva Jayate' inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken from

    aKatha Upanishad

    bChandogya Upanishad

    cAitareya Upanishad

    dMundaka Upanishad
55. Question 55 · Polity and Governance

    In the Constitution of India, promotion of international peace and security is included in the

    aPreamble to the Constitution

    bDirective Principles of State Policy

    cFundamental Duties

    dNinth Schedule
56. Question 56 · Economy and Social Development

    What are the benefits of implementing the 'Integrated Watershed Development Programme'?

    1. 1.Prevention of soil runoff
    2. 2.Linking the country's perennial rivers with seasonal rivers
    3. 3.Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table
    4. 4.Regeneration of natural vegetation

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2, 3 and 4 only

    c1, 3 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
57. Question 57 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following are associated with 'Planning' in India?

    1. 1.The Finance Commission
    2. 2.The National Development Council
    3. 3.The Union Ministry of Rural Development
    4. 4.The Union Ministry of Urban Development
    5. 5.The Parliament

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 5 only

    b1, 3 and 4 only

    c2 and 5 only

    d1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
58. Question 58 · Polity and Governance

    Which of the following is/are the function/functions of the Cabinet Secretariat?

    1. 1.Preparation of agenda for Cabinet Meetings
    2. 2.Secretarial assistance to Cabinet Committees
    3. 3.Allocation of financial resources to the Ministries

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 2 only

    d1, 2 and 3
59. Question 59 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements : A Constitutional Government is one which

    1. 1.places effective restrictions on individual liberty in the interest of State Authority
    2. 2.places effective restrictions on the Authority of the State in the interest of individual liberty

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
60. Question 60 · Polity and Governance

    Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State?

    1. 1.Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President's rule
    2. 2.Appointing the Ministers
    3. 3.Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India
    4. 4.Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b1 and 3 only

    c2, 3 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
61. Question 61 · Economy and Social Development

    If the interest rate is decreased in an economy, it will

    adecrease the consumption expenditure in the economy

    bincrease the tax collection of the Government

    cincrease the investment expenditure in the economy

    dincrease the total savings in the economy
62. Question 62 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The President shall make rules for the more convenient transaction of the business of the Government of India, and for the allocation among Ministers of the said business.
    2. 2.All executive actions of the Government of India shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the Prime Minister.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
63. Question 63 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements regarding a No-Confidence Motion in India :

    1. 1.There is no mention of a No-Confidence Motion in the Constitution of India.
    2. 2.A Motion of No-Confidence can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
64. Question 64 · Science and Technology

    With reference to Neem tree, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the proliferation of some species of insects and mites.
    2. 2.Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents.
    3. 3.Neem oil has applications in pharmaceutical industry.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
65. Question 65 · Science and Technology

    Which one of the following is the process involved in photosynthesis?

    aPotential energy is released to form free energy

    bFree energy is converted into potential energy and stored

    cFood is oxidized to release carbon dioxide and water

    dOxygen is taken, and carbon dioxide and water vapour are given out
66. Question 66 · Science and Technology

    In addition to fingerprint scanning, which of the following can be used in the biometric identification of a person?

    1. 1.Iris scanning
    2. 2.Retinal scanning
    3. 3.Voice recognition

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
67. Question 67 · Science and Technology

    Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding vegetative propagation of plants?

    1. 1.Vegetative propagation produces clonal population.
    2. 2.Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus.
    3. 3.Vegetative propagation can be practiced most of the year.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
68. Question 68 · Science and Technology

    Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?

    	Spacecraft	Purpose
    1.	Cassini-Huygens	Orbiting the Venus and transmitting data to the Earth
    2.	Messenger	Mapping and investigating the Mercury
    3.	Voyager 1 and 2	Exploring the outer solar system

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
69. Question 69 · Geography

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Region	Well-known for the production of
    1.	Kinnaur	Areca nut
    2.	Mewat	Mango
    3.	Coromandel	Soya bean

    Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dNone
70. Question 70 · Science and Technology

    Which of the following is/are the example/examples of chemical change?

    1. 1.Crystallization of sodium chloride
    2. 2.Melting of ice
    3. 3.Souring of milk

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dNone
71. Question 71 · Polity and Governance

    The power of the Supreme Court of India to decide disputes between the Centre and the States falls under its

    aadvisory jurisdiction

    bappellate jurisdiction

    coriginal jurisdiction

    dwrit jurisdiction
72. Question 72 · Science and Technology

    Consider the following techniques/phenomena :

    1. 1.Budding and grafting in fruit plants
    2. 2.Cytoplasmic male sterility
    3. 3.Gene silencing

    Which of the above is/are used to create transgenic crops?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3

    c1 and 3

    dNone
73. Question 73 · Geography

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Maize can be used for the production of starch.
    2. 2.Oil extracted from maize can be a feedstock for biodiesel.
    3. 3.Alcoholic beverages can be produced by using maize.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b1 and 2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
74. Question 74 · Science and Technology

    Among the following organisms, which one does not belong to the class of other three?

    aCrab

    bMite

    cScorpion

    dSpider
75. Question 75 · Polity and Governance

    The power to increase the number of judges in the Supreme Court of India is vested in

    athe President of India

    bthe Parliament

    cthe Chief Justice of India

    dthe Law Commission
76. Question 76 · History and Culture

    Consider the following towns of India :

    1. 1.Bhadrachalam
    2. 2.Chanderi
    3. 3.Kancheepuram
    4. 4.Karnal

    Which of the above are famous for the production of traditional sarees/fabric?

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    d1, 3 and 4
77. Question 77 · Geography

    Consider the following pairs :

    	National Highway	Cities connected
    1.	NH 4	Chennai and Hyderabad
    2.	NH 6	Mumbai and Kolkata
    3.	NH 15	Ahmedabad and Jodhpur

    Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dNone
78. Question 78 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following international agreements :

    1. 1.The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
    2. 2.The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
    3. 3.The World Heritage Convention

    Which of the above has/have a bearing on the biodiversity?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
79. Question 79 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following statements regarding 'Earth Hour' :

    1. 1.It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO.
    2. 2.It is a movement in which the participants switch off the lights for one hour on a certain day every year.
    3. 3.It is a movement to raise the awareness about the climate change and the need to save the planet.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
80. Question 80 · Environment and Ecology

    Which one of the following is the correct sequence of a food chain?

    aDiatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings

    bCrustaceans-Diatoms-Herrings

    cDiatoms-Herrings-Crustaceans

    dCrustaceans-Herrings-Diatoms
81. Question 81 · History and Culture

    The Partition of Bengal made by Lord Curzon in 1905 lasted until

    athe First World War when Indian troops were needed by the British and the partition was ended

    bKing George V abrogated Curzon's Act at the Royal Durbar in Delhi in 1911

    cGandhiji launched his Civil Disobedience Movement

    dthe Partition of India in 1947 when East Bengal became East Pakistan
82. Question 82 · History and Culture

    The 1929 Session of Indian National Congress is of significance in the history of the Freedom Movement because the

    aattainment of Self-Government was declared as the objective of the Congress

    battainment of Poorna Swaraj was adopted as the goal of the Congress

    cNon-Cooperation Movement was launched

    ddecision to participate in the Round Table Conference in London was taken
83. Question 83 · History and Culture

    With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama.
    2. 2.It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam.
    3. 3.It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b1 and 2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
84. Question 84 · History and Culture

    Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on the Saka Era corresponds to which one of the following dates of the Gregorian calendar in a normal year of 365 days?

    a22nd March (or 21st March)

    b15th May (or 16th May)

    c31st March (or 30th March)

    d21st April (or 20th April)
85. Question 85 · History and Culture

    With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs :

    	Famous work of sculpture	Site
    1.	A grand image of Buddha's Mahaparinirvana with numerous celestial musicians above and the sorrowful figures of his followers below	Ajanta
    2.	A huge image of Varaha Avatar (boar incarnation) of Vishnu, as he rescues Goddess Earth from the deep and chaotic waters, sculpted on rock	Mount Abu
    3.	"Arjuna's Penance"/"Descent of Ganga" sculpted on the surface of huge boulders	Mamallapuram

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

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
86. Question 86 · History and Culture

    The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a

    arevolutionary association of Indians with headquarters at San Francisco

    bnationalist organization operating from Singapore

    cmilitant organization with headquarters at Berlin

    dcommunist movement for India's freedom with headquarters at Tashkent
87. Question 87 · History and Culture

    With reference to India's culture and tradition, what is 'Kalaripayattu'?

    aIt is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India

    bIt is an ancient style bronze and brasswork still found in southern part of Coromandel area

    cIt is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar

    dIt is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India
88. Question 88 · History and Culture

    Consider the following pairs :

    1.	Garba	Gujarat
    2.	Mohiniattam	Odisha
    3.	Yakshagana	Karnataka

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

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
89. Question 89 · History and Culture

    With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs :

    	Famous shrine	Location
    1.	Tabo monastery and temple complex	Spiti Valley
    2.	Lhotsava Lhakhang temple, Nako	Zanskar Valley
    3.	Alchi temple complex	Ladakh

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

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
90. Question 90 · History and Culture

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.'Bijak' is a composition of the teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal.
    2. 2.The Philosophy of Pushti Marg was propounded by Madhvacharya.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
91. Question 91 · History and Culture

    A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their

    amartial arts in North-East India

    bmusical tradition in North-West India

    cclassical vocal music in South India

    dpietra dura tradition in Central India
92. Question 92 · History and Culture

    What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria's Proclamation (1858)?

    1. 1.To disclaim any intention to annex Indian States
    2. 2.To place the Indian administration under the British Crown
    3. 3.To regulate East India Company's trade with India

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
93. Question 93 · History and Culture

    Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was

    athe mosque for the use of Royal Family

    bAkbar's private prayer chamber

    cthe hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions

    dthe room in which the nobles belonging to different religions gathered to discuss religious affairs
94. Question 94 · Economy and Social Development

    In the context of food and nutritional security of India, enhancing the 'Seed Replacement Rates' of various crops helps in achieving the food production targets of the future. But what is/are the constraint/constraints in its wider/greater implementation?

    1. 1.There is no National Seeds Policy in place.
    2. 2.There is no participation of private sector seed companies in the supply of quality seeds of vegetables and planting materials of horticultural crops.
    3. 3.There is a demand-supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2

    b3 only

    c2 and 3

    dNone
95. Question 95 · Environment and Ecology

    With reference to 'Eco-Sensitive Zones', which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are declared under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
    2. 2.The purpose of the declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds of human activities in those zones except agriculture.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
96. Question 96 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Animal Welfare Board of India is established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
    2. 2.National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body.
    3. 3.National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c2 only

    d1, 2 and 3
97. Question 97 · Science and Technology

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Vitamin	Deficiency disease
    1.	Vitamin C	Scurvy
    2.	Vitamin D	Rickets
    3.	Vitamin E	Night blindness

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

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dNone
98. Question 98 · Science and Technology

    There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the industry in the manufacture of various products. Why?

    1. 1.They can accumulate in the environment, and contaminate water and soil.
    2. 2.They can enter the food chains.
    3. 3.They can trigger the production of free radicals.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
99. Question 99 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Which of the following organizations brings out the publication known as 'World Economic Outlook'?

    aThe International Monetary Fund

    bThe United Nations Development Programme

    cThe World Economic Forum

    dThe World Bank
100. Question 100 · Economy and Social Development

     With reference to Union Budget, which of the following is/are covered under Non-Plan Expenditure?

     1. 1.Defence expenditure
     2. 2.Interest payments
     3. 3.Salaries and pensions
     4. 4.Subsidies

     Select the correct answer using the code given below.

     a1 only

     b2 and 3 only

     c1, 2, 3 and 4

     dNone

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2014, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.