UPSC Prelims 2016

General Studies Paper I

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

1. Question 1 · Polity and Governance

   Which of the following statements is/are correct?

   1. 1.A Bill pending in the Lok Sabha lapses on its prorogation.
   2. 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.

   a1 only

   b2 only

   cBoth 1 and 2

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

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

   1. 1.Undernourishment
   2. 2.Child stunting
   3. 3.Child mortality

   Select the correct answer using the code given below.

   a1 only

   b2 and 3 only

   c1, 2 and 3

   d1 and 3 only
3. Question 3 · Economy and Social Development

   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. 1.Reducing revenue expenditure
   2. 2.Introducing new welfare schemes
   3. 3.Rationalizing subsidies
   4. 4.Reducing import duty

   Select the correct answer using the code given below.

   a1 only

   b2 and 3 only

   c1 and 3 only

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

   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. 1.Mobile telephone companies and supermarket chains that are owned and controlled by residents are eligible to be promoters of Payment Banks.
   2. 2.Payment Banks can issue both credit cards and debit cards.
   3. 3.Payment Banks cannot undertake lending activities.

   Select the correct answer using the code given below.

   a1 and 2 only

   b1 and 3 only

   c2 only

   d1, 2 and 3
5. Question 5 · Science and Technology

   With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

   1. 1.It uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission.
   2. 2.It is a wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.

   Select the correct answer using the code given below.

   a1 only

   b2 only

   cBoth 1 and 2

   dNeither 1 nor 2
6. Question 6 · Environment and Ecology

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

   apledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East

   bplan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change

   ccapital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

   dplan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals
7. Question 7 · Economy and Social Development

   Which one of the following is a purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?

   aProviding technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy

   bProviding electricity to every household in the country by 2018

   cReplacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time

   dProviding for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies
8. Question 8 · Economy and Social Development

   With reference to ‘IFC Masala Bonds’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the statements given below is/are correct?

   1. 1.The International Finance Corporation, which offers these bonds, is an arm of the World Bank.
   2. 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.

   a1 only

   b2 only

   cBoth 1 and 2

   dNeither 1 nor 2
9. Question 9 · History and Culture

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

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

   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

   a1 only

   b2 only

   cBoth 1 and 2

   dNeither 1 nor 2
10. Question 10 · History and Culture

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

    aSwapnavasavadatta

    bMalavikagnimitra

    cMeghadoota

    dRatnavali
11. Question 11 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aWTO affairs

    bSAARC affairs

    cUNFCCC affairs

    dIndia-EU negotiations on FTA
12. Question 12 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following is/are included in the capital budget of the Government of India?

    1. 1.Expenditure on acquisition of assets like roads, buildings, machinery, etc.
    2. 2.Loans received from foreign governments
    3. 3.Loans and advances granted to the States and Union Territories

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
13. Question 13 · Environment and Ecology

    What is/are the importance/importances of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification?

    1. 1.It aims to promote effective action through innovative national programmes and supportive international partnerships.
    2. 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. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
14. Question 14 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aRouble

    bRand

    cIndian Rupee

    dRenminbi
15. Question 15 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    With reference to the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), consider the following statements :

    1. 1.IMFC discusses matters of concern affecting the global economy, and advises the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the direction of its work.
    2. 2.The World Bank participates as observer in IMFC’s meetings.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
16. Question 16 · Economy and Social Development

    ‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national campaign to

    arehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood

    brelease the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of livelihood

    ceradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers

    drelease the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them
17. Question 17 · History and Culture

    With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
    2. 2.Lingayats of Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
18. Question 18 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aIt is the ratio of value of imports to the Gross Domestic Product of a country

    bIt is the total value of imports of a country in a year

    cIt is the ratio between the value of exports and that of imports between two countries

    dIt is the number of months of imports that could be paid for by a country’s international reserves
19. Question 19 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Community sometimes mentioned in the news	In the affairs of
    1.	Kurd	Bangladesh
    2.	Madhesi	Nepal
    3.	Rohingya	Myanmar

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

    a1 and 2

    b2 only

    c2 and 3

    d3 only
20. Question 20 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.It is an organization of European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
    2. 2.It monitors chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
    3. 3.It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
21. Question 21 · Economy and Social Development

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

    1. 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. 2.This scheme covers post-harvest losses arising out of cyclones and unseasonal rains.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
22. Question 22 · Environment and Ecology

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

    aSand deserts of northwest India

    bHigher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir

    cSalt marshes of western Gujarat

    dWestern Ghats
23. Question 23 · Environment and Ecology

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

    1. 1.River basin is the unit of planning and management.
    2. 2.It spearheads the river conservation efforts at the national level.
    3. 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.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
24. Question 24 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aRelease of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms

    bNeem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil

    cNitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into atmosphere by crop fields

    dIt is a combination of a weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops
25. Question 25 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State.
    2. 2.The Chief Secretary in a State has a fixed tenure.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
26. Question 26 · Economy and Social Development

    With reference to ‘Stand Up India Scheme’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs.
    2. 2.It provides for refinance through SIDBI.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
27. Question 27 · Environment and Ecology

    The FAO accords the status of ‘Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)’ to traditional agricultural systems. What is the overall goal of this initiative?

    1. 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. 2.To identify and safeguard eco-friendly traditional farm practices and their associated landscapes, agricultural biodiversity and knowledge systems of the local communities
    3. 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.

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
28. Question 28 · Geography

    Which of the following is/are tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra?

    1. 1.Dibang
    2. 2.Kameng
    3. 3.Lohit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
29. Question 29 · Economy and Social Development

    The term ‘Core Banking Solutions’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statements best describes/describe this term?

    1. 1.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. 2.It is an effort to increase RBI’s control over commercial banks through computerization.
    3. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
30. Question 30 · Environment and Ecology

    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 Mechanism	Kyoto Protocol

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

    a1 and 2

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
31. Question 31 · Science and Technology

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

    aa range of enzymes used in genome editing

    bthe full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism

    cthe description of the mechanism of gene expression

    da mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
32. Question 32 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aimmunization of children and pregnant women

    bconstruction of smart cities across the country

    cIndia’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space

    dNew Educational Policy
33. Question 33 · Environment and Ecology

    Which of the following best describes/describe the aim of ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government of India?

    1. 1.Incorporating environmental benefits and costs into the Union and State Budgets thereby implementing the ‘green accounting’
    2. 2.Launching the second green revolution to enhance agricultural output so as to ensure food security to one and all in the future
    3. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
34. Question 34 · Polity and Governance

    With reference to pre-packaged items in India, it is mandatory 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?

    1. 1.List of ingredients including additives
    2. 2.Nutrition information
    3. 3.Recommendations, if any, made by the medical profession about the possibility of any allergic reactions
    4. 4.Vegetarian/non-vegetarian

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 3

    b2, 3 and 4

    c1, 2 and 4

    d1 and 4 only
35. Question 35 · Science and Technology

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

    awaste management technology

    bwireless communication technology

    csolar power production technology

    dwater conservation technology
36. Question 36 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aproduction and use of solar energy by the households/consumers

    buse of piped natural gas in the kitchens of households

    cinstallation of CNG kits in motor-cars

    dinstallation of water meters in urban households
37. Question 37 · International Relations and Current Affairs

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

    aOrganization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)

    bWorld Economic Forum

    cWorld Bank

    dWorld Trade Organization (WTO)
38. Question 38 · History and Culture

    Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally

    aagriculturists

    bwarriors

    cweavers

    dtraders
39. Question 39 · History and Culture

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

    aGeorg Bühler

    bJames Prinsep

    cMax Müller

    dWilliam Jones
40. Question 40 · Polity and Governance

    With reference to the ‘Gram Nyayalaya Act’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
    2. 2.The Act allows local social activists as mediators/reconciliators.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
41. Question 41 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.
    2. 2.It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
42. Question 42 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Consider the following statements : The India-Africa Summit

    1. 1.held in 2015 was the third such Summit
    2. 2.was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
43. Question 43 · Economy and Social Development

    What is/are the purpose/purposes of the ‘Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR)’ announced by RBI?

    1. 1.These guidelines help improve the transparency in the methodology followed by banks for determining the interest rates on advances.
    2. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
44. Question 44 · Environment and Ecology

    What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?

    1. 1.It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.
    2. 2.It survives by grazing on mangroves.
    3. 3.It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
45. Question 45 · Environment and Ecology

    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?

    aAndaman Islands

    bAnaimalai Forests

    cMaikala Hills

    dTropical rain forests of northeast
46. Question 46 · Science and Technology

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

    aAmphibious warfare ship

    bNuclear-powered submarine

    cTorpedo launch and recovery vessel

    dNuclear-powered aircraft carrier
47. Question 47 · Science and Technology

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

    aElectric plane tested by NASA

    bSolar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan

    cSpace observatory launched by China

    dReusable rocket designed by ISRO
48. Question 48 · Economy and Social Development

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

    1. 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. 2.Poor, small, marginal and tribal farmers have larger stake in this scheme.
    3. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 2 only

    d1, 2 and 3
49. Question 49 · History and Culture

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

    aagitation against the Partition of Bengal

    bHome Rule Movement

    cNon-Cooperation Movement

    dvisit of the Simon Commission to India
50. Question 50 · History and Culture

    With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
    2. 2.Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.
    3. 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?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c2 only

    d1, 2 and 3
51. Question 51 · International Relations and Current Affairs

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

    aa division of World Health Organization

    ba non-governmental international organization

    can inter-governmental agency sponsored by European Union

    da specialized agency of the United Nations
52. Question 52 · Environment and Ecology

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

    1. 1.It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
    2. 2.It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
    3. 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.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
53. Question 53 · Environment and Ecology

    With reference to ‘Red Sanders’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.It is a tree species found in a part of South India.
    2. 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?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
54. Question 54 · Environment and Ecology

    Which of the following statements is/are correct? Proper design and effective implementation of UN-REDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to

    1. 1.protection of biodiversity
    2. 2.resilience of forest ecosystems
    3. 3.poverty reduction

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
55. Question 55 · Environment and Ecology

    What is ‘Greenhouse Gas Protocol’?

    aIt is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions

    bIt 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

    cIt 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

    dIt is one of the multilateral REDD+ initiatives hosted by the World Bank
56. Question 56 · Economy and Social Development

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

    1. 1.It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
    2. 2.It is headed by the Union Finance Minister.
    3. 3.It monitors macroprudential supervision of the economy.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
57. Question 57 · Environment and Ecology

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

    1. 1.It is a global action plan for sustainable development.
    2. 2.It originated in the World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg in 2002.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
58. Question 58 · History and Culture

    Satya Shodhak Samaj organized

    aa movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar

    ba temple-entry movement in Gujarat

    can anti-caste movement in Maharashtra

    da peasant movement in Punjab
59. Question 59 · Science and Technology

    Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect

    1. 1.bacteria
    2. 2.fungi
    3. 3.plants

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
60. Question 60 · Economy and Social Development

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

    amining operation by multinational companies in resource-rich but backward areas

    bcurbing of the tax evasion by multinational companies

    cexploitation of genetic resources of a country by multinational companies

    dlack of consideration of environmental costs in the planning and implementation of developmental projects
61. Question 61 · Economy and Social Development

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

    aAndhra Pradesh

    bGujarat

    cMaharashtra

    dUttar Pradesh
62. Question 62 · Economy and Social Development

    What is/are the purpose/purposes of ‘District Mineral Foundations’ in India?

    1. 1.Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts
    2. 2.Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations
    3. 3.Authorizing State Governments to issue licences for mineral exploration

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
63. Question 63 · Economy and Social Development

    ‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at

    apromoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas

    bproviding financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs

    cpromoting the education and health of adolescent girls

    dproviding affordable and quality education to the citizens for free
64. Question 64 · History and Culture

    The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to

    asocial reforms

    beducational reforms

    creforms in police administration

    dconstitutional reforms
65. Question 65 · History and Culture

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

    1. 1.Both were built in the same period.
    2. 2.Both belong to the same religious denomination.
    3. 3.Both have rock-cut monuments.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    dNone of the statements given above is correct
66. Question 66 · Science and Technology

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

    1. 1.Bitcoins are tracked by the Central Banks of the countries.
    2. 2.Anyone with a Bitcoin address can send and receive Bitcoins from anyone else with a Bitcoin address.
    3. 3.Online payments can be sent without either side knowing the identity of the other.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
67. Question 67 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.New Development Bank has been set up by APEC.
    2. 2.The headquarters of New Development Bank is in Shanghai.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
68. Question 68 · Environment and Ecology

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

    aconstitutional reforms

    bGanga Action Plan

    clinking of rivers

    dprotection of Western Ghats
69. Question 69 · History and Culture

    Consider the following :

    1. 1.Calcutta Unitarian Committee
    2. 2.Tabernacle of New Dispensation
    3. 3.Indian Reform Association

    Keshab Chandra Sen is associated with the establishment of which of the above?

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
70. Question 70 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Which of the following is not a member of ‘Gulf Cooperation Council’?

    aIran

    bSaudi Arabia

    cOman

    dKuwait
71. Question 71 · Economy and Social Development

    What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?

    1. 1.To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy
    2. 2.To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector
    3. 3.To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
72. Question 72 · International Relations and Current Affairs

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

    aAfrican Union

    bBrazil

    cEuropean Union

    dChina
73. Question 73 · Economy and Social Development

    Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at

    abringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system

    bproviding loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops

    cproviding pensions to old and destitute persons

    dfunding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation
74. Question 74 · Geography

    In which of the following regions of India are shale gas resources found?

    1. 1.Cambay Basin
    2. 2.Cauvery Basin
    3. 3.Krishna-Godavari Basin

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
75. Question 75 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    ‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is prepared by the

    aEuropean Central Bank

    bInternational Monetary Fund

    cInternational Bank for Reconstruction and Development

    dOrganization for Economic Cooperation and Development
76. Question 76 · Economy and Social Development

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

    1. 1.It is a minimum guaranteed pension scheme mainly targeted at unorganized sector workers.
    2. 2.Only one member of a family can join the scheme.
    3. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
77. Question 77 · International Relations and Current Affairs

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

    aG20

    bASEAN

    cSCO

    dSAARC
78. Question 78 · Economy and Social Development

    On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?

    1. 1.Ceiling fans
    2. 2.Electric geysers
    3. 3.Tubular fluorescent lamps

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
79. Question 79 · Science and Technology

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

    aIt can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation

    bIt can attain a global role in satellite navigation

    cIt can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation

    dIt can build fusion reactors for power generation
80. Question 80 · History and Culture

    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?

    a1 and 2

    b3 only

    c2 and 3

    d1 and 3
81. Question 81 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015.
    2. 2.The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
82. Question 82 · International Relations and Current Affairs

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

    aagency created by EU to deal with the impact of millions of refugees arriving from Middle East

    bagency of EU that provides financial assistance to eurozone countries

    cagency of EU to deal with all the bilateral and multilateral agreements on trade

    dagency of EU to deal with the conflicts arising among the member countries
83. Question 83 · Geography

    Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of practising drip irrigation?

    1. 1.Reduction in weed
    2. 2.Reduction in soil salinity
    3. 3.Reduction in soil erosion

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    dNone of the above is an advantage of practising drip irrigation
84. Question 84 · Polity and Governance

    Regarding ‘DigiLocker’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under Digital India Programme.
    2. 2.It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
85. Question 85 · Geography

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

    aCauvery and Tungabhadra

    bGodavari and Krishna

    cMahanadi and Sone

    dNarmada and Tapti
86. Question 86 · Environment and Ecology

    In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?

    1. 1.Carbon dioxide
    2. 2.Carbon monoxide
    3. 3.Nitrogen dioxide
    4. 4.Sulfur dioxide
    5. 5.Methane

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 3 only

    b2, 3 and 4 only

    c1, 4 and 5 only

    d1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
87. Question 87 · Science and Technology

    With reference to ‘Astrosat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.
    2. 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.

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
88. Question 88 · History and Culture

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

    abonded labour

    bland grants made to military officers

    cwaterwheel used in the irrigation of land

    dwasteland converted to cultivated land
89. Question 89 · History and Culture

    With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorizing of chronicles, dynastic histories and epic tales was the profession of who of the following?

    aShramana

    bParivraajaka

    cAgrahaarika

    dMaagadha
90. Question 90 · Environment and Ecology

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

    aArunachal Pradesh

    bHimachal Pradesh

    cKarnataka

    dMaharashtra
91. Question 91 · Science and Technology

    Consider the following statements : The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

    1. 1.is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
    2. 2.made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
    3. 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?

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
92. Question 92 · History and Culture

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

    aIntroduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto

    bExtremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government

    cFoundation of Muslim League

    dAurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress
93. Question 93 · History and Culture

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

    aIndia should be granted complete independence

    bIndia should be partitioned into two before granting independence

    cIndia should be made a republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth

    dIndia should be given Dominion status
94. Question 94 · Geography

    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?

    a1, 2 and 4

    b2, 3, 4 and 5

    c2 and 5 only

    d1, 3, 4 and 5
95. Question 95 · Polity and Governance

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

    aLok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

    bLok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership

    cRajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

    dRajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and voting
96. Question 96 · Geography

    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?

    aAndhra Pradesh

    bChhattisgarh

    cKarnataka

    dRajasthan
97. Question 97 · Environment and Ecology

    With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017.
    2. 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. 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.

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
98. Question 98 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The Sustainable Development Goals were first proposed in 1972 by a global think tank called the ‘Club of Rome’.
    2. 2.The Sustainable Development Goals have to be achieved by 2030.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
99. Question 99 · International Relations and Current Affairs

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

    aS. Ramanujan

    bS. Chandrasekhar

    cS. N. Bose

    dC. V. Raman
100. Question 100 · Polity and Governance

     Consider the following statements :

     1. 1.The minimum age prescribed for any person to be a member of Panchayat is 25 years.
     2. 2.A Panchayat reconstituted after premature dissolution continues only for the remainder period.

     Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

     a1 only

     b2 only

     cBoth 1 and 2

     dNeither 1 nor 2

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2016, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.