UPSC Prelims 2017

General Studies Paper I

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

1. Question 1 · Polity and Governance

   With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements :

   1. 1.A private member’s bill is a bill presented by a Member of Parliament who is not elected but only nominated by the President of India.
   2. 2.Recently, a private member’s bill has been passed in the Parliament of India for the first time in its history.

   Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

   a1 only

   b2 only

   cBoth 1 and 2

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

   With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct ?

   1. 1.Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them.
   2. 2.Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron.
   3. 3.Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal.

   Select the correct answer using the code given below :

   a1 only

   b2 and 3 only

   c1 and 3 only

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

   ‘Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme’ is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to

   aCertifying the skills acquired by construction workers through traditional channels.

   bEnrolling the persons in Universities for distance learning programmes.

   cReserving some skilled jobs to rural and urban poor in some public sector undertakings.

   dCertifying the skills acquired by trainees under the National Skill Development Programme.
4. Question 4 · Environment and Ecology

   From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats ?

   aSathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

   bNallamala Forest

   cNagarhole National Park

   dSeshachalam Biosphere Reserve
5. Question 5 · Polity and Governance

   One of the implications of equality in society is the absence of

   aPrivileges

   bRestraints

   cCompetition

   dIdeology
6. Question 6 · Environment and Ecology

   Consider the following statements in respect of Trade Related Analysis of Fauna and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC) :

   1. 1.TRAFFIC is a bureau under United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
   2. 2.The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the conservation of nature.

   Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

   a1 only

   b2 only

   cBoth 1 and 2

   dNeither 1 nor 2
7. Question 7 · Polity and Governance

   Which principle among the following was added to the Directive Principles of State Policy by the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution ?

   aEqual pay for equal work for both men and women

   bParticipation of workers in the management of industries

   cRight to work, education and public assistance

   dSecuring living wage and human conditions of work to workers
8. Question 8 · Polity and Governance

   Which one of the following statements is correct ?

   aRights are claims of the State against the citizens.

   bRights are privileges which are incorporated in the Constitution of a State.

   cRights are claims of the citizens against the State.

   dRights are privileges of a few citizens against the many.
9. Question 9 · International Relations and Current Affairs

   Which of the following gives ‘Global Gender Gap Index’ ranking to the countries of the world ?

   aWorld Economic Forum

   bUN Human Rights Council

   cUN Women

   dWorld Health Organization
10. Question 10 · Polity and Governance

    Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017 ?

    1. 1.It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade.
    2. 2.It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country.
    3. 3.It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c3 only

    d2 and 3 only
11. Question 11 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) ?

    1. 1.It decides the RBI’s benchmark interest rates.
    2. 2.It is a 12-member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year.
    3. 3.It functions under the chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b1 and 2 only

    c3 only

    d2 and 3 only
12. Question 12 · History and Culture

    With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.It is a song and dance performance.
    2. 2.Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.
    3. 3.It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1, 2 and 3

    b1 and 3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1 only
13. Question 13 · History and Culture

    Who among the following was/were associated with the introduction of Ryotwari Settlement in India during the British rule ?

    1. 1.Lord Cornwallis
    2. 2.Alexander Read
    3. 3.Thomas Munro

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b1 and 3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
14. Question 14 · Environment and Ecology

    In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of bioremediation technique ?

    1. 1.It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process that occurs in nature.
    2. 2.Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and completely treated by bioremediation using microorganisms.
    3. 3.Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed for bioremediation.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

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

    The Trade Disputes Act of 1929 provided for

    athe participation of workers in the management of industries.

    barbitrary powers to the management to quell industrial disputes.

    can intervention by the British Court in the event of a trade dispute.

    da system of tribunals and a ban on strikes.
16. Question 16 · Polity and Governance

    Local self-government can be best explained as an exercise in

    aFederalism

    bDemocratic decentralisation

    cAdministrative delegation

    dDirect democracy
17. Question 17 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements : With reference to the Constitution of India, the Directive Principles of State Policy constitute limitations upon

    1. 1.legislative function.
    2. 2.executive function.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
18. Question 18 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    The term ‘Digital Single Market Strategy’ seen in the news refers to

    aASEAN

    bBRICS

    cEU

    dG20
19. Question 19 · Geography

    At one of the places in India, if you stand on the seashore and watch the sea, you will find that the sea water recedes from the shore line a few kilometres and comes back to the shore, twice a day, and you can actually walk on the sea floor when the water recedes. This unique phenomenon is seen at

    aBhavnagar

    bBheemunipatnam

    cChandipur

    dNagapattinam
20. Question 20 · Polity and Governance

    With reference to the ‘Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 (PBPT Act)’, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.A property transaction is not treated as a benami transaction if the owner of the property is not aware of the transaction.
    2. 2.Properties held benami are liable for confiscation by the Government.
    3. 3.The Act provides for three authorities for investigations but does not provide for any appellate mechanism.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d2 and 3 only
21. Question 21 · Environment and Ecology

    Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences ?

    1. 1.Pollination of some plants could be adversely affected.
    2. 2.There could be a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants.
    3. 3.It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders and birds.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
22. Question 22 · Science and Technology

    It is possible to produce algae based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry ?

    1. 1.Production of algae based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents.
    2. 2.Setting up and engineering the algae based biofuel production requires high level of expertise/technology until the construction is completed.
    3. 3.Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
23. Question 23 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’ ?

    1. 1.To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
    2. 2.To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women.
    3. 3.To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice.
    4. 4.To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 2 only

    b1, 2 and 3 only

    c1, 2 and 4 only

    d3 and 4 only
24. Question 24 · History and Culture

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The Factories Act, 1881 was passed with a view to fix the wages of industrial workers and to allow the workers to form trade unions.
    2. 2.N.M. Lokhande was a pioneer in organizing the labour movement in British India.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
25. Question 25 · Environment and Ecology

    In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration ?

    1. 1.Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams
    2. 2.Depleted oil and gas reservoirs
    3. 3.Subterranean deep saline formations

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
26. Question 26 · History and Culture

    The object of the Butler Committee of 1927 was to

    aDefine the jurisdiction of the Central and Provincial Governments.

    bDefine the powers of the Secretary of State for India.

    cImpose censorship on national press.

    dImprove the relationship between the Government of India and the Indian States.
27. Question 27 · Economy and Social Development

    The term ‘Domestic Content Requirement’ is sometimes seen in the news with reference to

    aDeveloping solar power production in our country

    bGranting licences to foreign T.V. channels in our country

    cExporting our food products to other countries

    dPermitting foreign educational institutions to set up their campuses in our country
28. Question 28 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The Nuclear Security Summits are periodically held under the aegis of the United Nations.
    2. 2.The International Panel on Fissile Materials is an organ of International Atomic Energy Agency.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
29. Question 29 · Economy and Social Development

    Who among the following can join the National Pension System (NPS) ?

    aResident Indian citizens only

    bPersons of age from 21 to 55 only

    cAll State Government employees joining the services after the date of notification by the respective State Governments

    dAll Central Government employees including those of Armed Forces joining the services on or after 1st April, 2004
30. Question 30 · Geography

    With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.
    2. 2.River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.
    3. 3.River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c2 and 3 only

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

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.
    2. 2.Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
32. Question 32 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The Standard Mark of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is mandatory for automotive tyres and tubes.
    2. 2.AGMARK is a quality Certification Mark issued by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

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

    What is/are the advantage/advantages of implementing the ‘National Agriculture Market’ scheme ?

    1. 1.It is a pan-India electronic trading portal for agricultural commodities.
    2. 2.It provides the farmers access to nationwide market, with prices commensurate with the quality of their produce.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
34. Question 34 · Polity and Governance

    With reference to the ‘National Intellectual Property Rights Policy’, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.It reiterates India’s commitment to the Doha Development Agenda and the TRIPS Agreement.
    2. 2.Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion is the nodal agency for regulating intellectual property rights in India.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
35. Question 35 · Environment and Ecology

    According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law ?

    1. 1.Gharial
    2. 2.Indian wild ass
    3. 3.Wild buffalo

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
36. Question 36 · Polity and Governance

    Which of the following statements is/are true of the Fundamental Duties of an Indian citizen ?

    1. 1.A legislative process has been provided to enforce these duties.
    2. 2.They are correlative to legal duties.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
37. Question 37 · History and Culture

    Consider the following pairs :

    1	Radhakanta Deb	First President of the British Indian Association
    2	Gazulu Lakshminarasu Chetty	Founder of the Madras Mahajana Sabha
    3	Surendranath Banerjee	Founder of the Indian Association

    Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched ?

    a1 only

    b1 and 3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
38. Question 38 · Polity and Governance

    Which one of the following objectives is not embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India ?

    aLiberty of thought

    bEconomic liberty

    cLiberty of expression

    dLiberty of belief
39. Question 39 · Polity and Governance

    With reference to ‘Quality Council of India (QCI)’, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.QCI was set up jointly by the Government of India and the Indian Industry.
    2. 2.Chairman of QCI is appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendations of the industry to the Government.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
40. Question 40 · Economy and Social Development

    What is the purpose of setting up of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) in India ?

    1. 1.To supply credit to small business units
    2. 2.To supply credit to small and marginal farmers
    3. 3.To encourage young entrepreneurs to set up business particularly in rural areas.

    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
41. Question 41 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    With reference to ‘Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD)’, consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The first APMCHUD was held in India in 2006 on the theme ‘Emerging Urban Forms — Policy Responses and Governance Structure’.
    2. 2.India hosts all the Annual Ministerial Conferences in partnership with ADB, APEC and ASEAN.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
42. Question 42 · Polity and Governance

    Democracy’s superior virtue lies in the fact that it calls into activity

    athe intelligence and character of ordinary men and women.

    bthe methods for strengthening executive leadership.

    ca superior individual with dynamism and vision.

    da band of dedicated party workers.
43. Question 43 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following is a most likely consequence of implementing the ‘Unified Payments Interface (UPI)’ ?

    aMobile wallets will not be necessary for online payments.

    bDigital currency will totally replace the physical currency in about two decades.

    cFDI inflows will drastically increase.

    dDirect transfer of subsidies to poor people will become very effective.
44. Question 44 · Science and Technology

    The terms ‘Event Horizon’, ‘Singularity’, ‘String Theory’ and ‘Standard Model’ are sometimes seen in the news in the context of

    aObservation and understanding of the Universe

    bStudy of the solar and the lunar eclipses

    cPlacing satellites in the orbit of the Earth

    dOrigin and evolution of living organisms on the Earth
45. Question 45 · Science and Technology

    With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of ‘genome sequencing’, often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future ?

    1. 1.Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants.
    2. 2.This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants.
    3. 3.It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
46. Question 46 · Polity and Governance

    The main advantage of the parliamentary form of government is that

    athe executive and legislature work independently.

    bit provides continuity of policy and is more efficient.

    cthe executive remains responsible to the legislature.

    dthe head of the government cannot be changed without election.
47. Question 47 · Polity and Governance

    In the context of India, which one of the following is the correct relationship between Rights and Duties ?

    aRights are correlative with Duties.

    bRights are personal and hence independent of society and Duties.

    cRights, not Duties, are important for the advancement of the personality of the citizen.

    dDuties, not Rights, are important for the stability of the State.
48. Question 48 · Polity and Governance

    The mind of the makers of the Constitution of India is reflected in which of the following ?

    aThe Preamble

    bThe Fundamental Rights

    cThe Directive Principles of State Policy

    dThe Fundamental Duties
49. Question 49 · Geography

    If you travel by road from Kohima to Kottayam, what is the minimum number of States within India through which you can travel, including the origin and the destination ?

    a6

    b7

    c8

    d9
50. Question 50 · Polity and Governance

    The Parliament of India exercises control over the functions of the Council of Ministers through

    1. 1.Adjournment motion
    2. 2.Question hour
    3. 3.Supplementary questions

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
51. Question 51 · History and Culture

    Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom ?

    aKakinada

    bMotupalli

    cMachilipatnam (Masulipatnam)

    dNelluru
52. Question 52 · Environment and Ecology

    With reference to ‘Global Climate Change Alliance’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. 1.It is an initiative of the European Union.
    2. 2.It provides technical and financial support to targeted developing countries to integrate climate change into their development policies and budgets.
    3. 3.It is coordinated by World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).

    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 · History and Culture

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

    1. 1.Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the sects of Jainism.
    2. 2.Sarvastivadin held that the constituents of phenomena were not wholly momentary, but existed forever in a latent form.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
54. Question 54 · Geography

    Mediterranean Sea is a border of which of the following countries ?

    1. 1.Jordan
    2. 2.Iraq
    3. 3.Lebanon
    4. 4.Syria

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1, 2 and 3 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c3 and 4 only

    d1, 3 and 4 only
55. Question 55 · Economy and Social Development

    With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct ?

    1. 1.It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
    2. 2.It has a corpus of ₹ 4,00,000 crore at present.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
56. Question 56 · Economy and Social Development

    The Global Infrastructure Facility is a/an

    aASEAN initiative to upgrade infrastructure in Asia and financed by credit from the Asian Development Bank.

    bWorld Bank collaboration that facilitates the preparation and structuring of complex infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to enable mobilization of private sector and institutional investor capital.

    cCollaboration among the major banks of the world working with the OECD and focused on expanding the set of infrastructure projects that have the potential to mobilize private investment.

    dUNCTAD funded initiative that seeks to finance and facilitate infrastructure development in the world.
57. Question 57 · Polity and Governance

    For election to the Lok Sabha, a nomination paper can be filed by

    aanyone residing in India.

    ba resident of the constituency from which the election is to be contested.

    cany citizen of India whose name appears in the electoral roll of a constituency.

    dany citizen of India.
58. Question 58 · Geography

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only.
    2. 2.Western Ghats are spread over five States only.
    3. 3.Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1 and 3 only
59. Question 59 · Environment and Ecology

    Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for

    aMeasuring oxygen levels in blood

    bComputing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems

    cPollution assay in aquatic ecosystems

    dAssessing oxygen levels in high altitude regions
60. Question 60 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    With reference to the role of UN-Habitat in the United Nations programme working towards a better urban future, which of the statements is/are correct ?

    1. 1.UN-Habitat has been mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities to provide adequate shelter for all.
    2. 2.Its partners are either governments or local urban authorities only.
    3. 3.UN-Habitat contributes to the overall objective of the United Nations system to reduce poverty and to promote access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below ;

    a1, 2 and 3

    b1 and 3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1 only
61. Question 61 · Economy and Social Development

    With reference to ‘National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)’, which of the statements given below is/are correct ?

    1. 1.Under NSQF, a learner can acquire the certification for competency only through formal learning.
    2. 2.An outcome expected from the implementation of NSQF is the mobility between vocational and general education.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
62. Question 62 · History and Culture

    In the context of Indian history, the principle of ‘Dyarchy (diarchy)’ refers to

    aDivision of the central legislature into two houses.

    bIntroduction of double government i.e., Central and State governments.

    cHaving two sets of rulers; one in London and another in Delhi.

    dDivision of the subjects delegated to the provinces into two categories.
63. Question 63 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following in respect of ‘National Career Service’ :

    1. 1.National Career Service is an initiative of the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India.
    2. 2.National Career Service has been launched in a Mission Mode to improve the employment opportunities to uneducated youth of the country.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
64. Question 64 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following statements best describes the term ‘Scheme for Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets (S4A)’, recently seen in the news ?

    aIt is a procedure for considering ecological costs of developmental schemes formulated by the Government.

    bIt is a scheme of RBI for reworking the financial structure of big corporate entities facing genuine difficulties.

    cIt is a disinvestment plan of the Government regarding Central Public Sector Undertakings.

    dIt is an important provision in ‘The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code’ recently implemented by the Government.
65. Question 65 · Environment and Ecology

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to Reduce Short Lived Climate Pollutants is a unique initiative of G20 group of countries.
    2. 2.The CCAC focuses on methane, black carbon and hydrofluorocarbons.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
66. Question 66 · Geography

    With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)’ sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct ?

    1. 1.IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.
    2. 2.An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Nino’s impact on the monsoon.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
67. Question 67 · Environment and Ecology

    If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit ?

    aBhitarkanika Mangroves

    bChambal River

    cPulicat Lake

    dDeepor Beel
68. Question 68 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) :

    1. 1.Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
    2. 2.IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
69. Question 69 · History and Culture

    The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous and oft-illustrated paintings at

    aAjanta

    bBadami

    cBagh

    dEllora
70. Question 70 · History and Culture

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Traditions	Communities
    1	Chaliha Sahib Festival	Sindhis
    2	Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra	Gonds
    3	Wari-Warkari	Santhals

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

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    dNone of the above
71. Question 71 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following practices can help in water conservation in agriculture ?

    1. 1.Reduced or zero tillage of the land
    2. 2.Applying gypsum before irrigating the field
    3. 3.Allowing crop residue to remain in the field

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
72. Question 72 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following statements : The nation-wide ‘Soil Health Card Scheme’ aims at

    1. 1.expanding the cultivable area under irrigation.
    2. 2.enabling the banks to assess the quantum of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis of soil quality.
    3. 3.checking the overuse of fertilizers in farmlands.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

    a1 and 2 only

    b3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
73. Question 73 · Science and Technology

    Consider the following pairs :

    	Commonly used / consumed materials	Unwanted or controversial chemicals likely to be found in them
    1	Lipstick	Lead
    2	Soft drinks	Brominated vegetable oils
    3	Chinese fast food	Monosodium glutamate

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

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

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

    Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create digital display in many devices. What are the advantages of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays ?

    1. 1.OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates.
    2. 2.Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs.
    3. 3.Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 3 only

    b2 only

    c1, 2 and 3

    dNone of the above statements is correct
75. Question 75 · History and Culture

    Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples ?

    1. 1.Arasavalli
    2. 2.Amarakantak
    3. 3.Omkareshwar

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
76. Question 76 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.In the election for Lok Sabha or State Assembly, the winning candidate must get at least 50 percent of the votes polled, to be declared elected.
    2. 2.According to the provisions laid down in the Constitution of India, in Lok Sabha, the Speaker’s post goes to the majority party and the Deputy Speaker’s to the Opposition.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
77. Question 77 · Economy and Social Development

    Which of the following has/have occurred in India after its liberalization of economic policies in 1991 ?

    1. 1.Share of agriculture in GDP increased enormously.
    2. 2.Share of India’s exports in world trade increased.
    3. 3.FDI inflows increased.
    4. 4.India’s foreign exchange reserves increased enormously.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

    a1 and 4 only

    b2, 3 and 4 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
78. Question 78 · Science and Technology

    What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology ?

    aProduction of biolarvicides

    bManufacture of biodegradable plastics

    cReproductive cloning of animals

    dProduction of organisms free of diseases
79. Question 79 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) helps in promoting the financial inclusion in the country.
    2. 2.NPCI has launched RuPay, a card payment scheme.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
80. Question 80 · Environment and Ecology

    The term ‘M-STrIPES’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of

    aCaptive breeding of Wild Fauna

    bMaintenance of Tiger Reserves

    cIndigenous Satellite Navigation System

    dSecurity of National Highways
81. Question 81 · Economy and Social Development

    What is/are the most likely advantages of implementing ‘Goods and Services Tax (GST)’ ?

    1. 1.It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India.
    2. 2.It will drastically reduce the ‘Current Account Deficit’ of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserves.
    3. 3.It will enormously increase the growth and size of economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b2 and 3 only

    c1 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
82. Question 82 · Economy and Social Development

    ‘Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of negotiations held between India and

    aEuropean Union

    bGulf Cooperation Council

    cOrganization for Economic Cooperation and Development

    dShanghai Cooperation Organization
83. Question 83 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.India has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO.
    2. 2.TFA is a part of WTO’s Bali Ministerial Package of 2013.
    3. 3.TFA came into force in January 2016.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 and 2 only

    b1 and 3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
84. Question 84 · International Relations and Current Affairs

    What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India ?

    aIndia’s trade with African countries will enormously increase.

    bIndia’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened.

    cIndia will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

    dPakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India.
85. Question 85 · Science and Technology

    In India, it is legally mandatory for which of the following to report on cyber security incidents ?

    1. 1.Service providers
    2. 2.Data centres
    3. 3.Body corporate

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 only

    b1 and 2 only

    c3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
86. Question 86 · Polity and Governance

    Right to vote and to be elected in India is a

    aFundamental Right

    bNatural Right

    cConstitutional Right

    dLegal Right
87. Question 87 · Science and Technology

    What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)’ project ?

    aTo detect neutrinos

    bTo detect gravitational waves

    cTo detect the effectiveness of missile defence system

    dTo study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems
88. Question 88 · Economy and Social Development

    What is the purpose of ‘Vidyanjali Yojana’ ?

    1. 1.To enable the famous foreign educational institutions to open their campuses in India.
    2. 2.To increase the quality of education provided in government schools by taking help from the private sector and the community.
    3. 3.To encourage voluntary monetary contributions from private individuals and organizations so as to improve the infrastructure facilities for primary and secondary schools.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a2 only

    b3 only

    c1 and 2 only

    d2 and 3 only
89. Question 89 · Economy and Social Development

    What is the aim of the programme ‘Unnat Bharat Abhiyan’ ?

    aAchieving 100% literacy by promoting collaboration between voluntary organizations and government’s education system and local communities.

    bConnecting institutions of higher education with local communities to address development challenges through appropriate technologies.

    cStrengthening India’s scientific research institutions in order to make India a scientific and technological power.

    dDeveloping human capital by allocating special funds for health care and education of rural and urban poor, and organizing skill development programmes and vocational training for them.
90. Question 90 · Polity and Governance

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.The Election Commission of India is a five-member body.
    2. 2.Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections.
    3. 3.Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognised political parties.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 and 2 only

    b2 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d3 only
91. Question 91 · Environment and Ecology

    In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply ?

    aIt enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.

    bIt no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and now it is impossible to prevent its extinction.

    cIt is endemic to a particular region of India.

    dBoth (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context.
92. Question 92 · Polity and Governance

    In India, Judicial Review implies

    athe power of the Judiciary to pronounce upon the constitutionality of laws and executive orders.

    bthe power of the Judiciary to question the wisdom of the laws enacted by the Legislatures.

    cthe power of the Judiciary to review all the legislative enactments before they are assented to by the President.

    dthe power of the Judiciary to review its own judgements given earlier in similar or different cases.
93. Question 93 · History and Culture

    With reference to Indian freedom struggle, consider the following events :

    1. 1.Mutiny in Royal Indian Navy
    2. 2.Quit India Movement launched
    3. 3.Second Round Table Conference

    What is the correct chronological sequence of the above events ?

    a1-2-3

    b2-1-3

    c3-2-1

    d3-1-2
94. Question 94 · Economy and Social Development

    Consider the following statements :

    1. 1.Tax revenue as a percent of GDP of India has steadily increased in the last decade.
    2. 2.Fiscal deficit as a percent of GDP of India has steadily increased in the last decade.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    a1 only

    b2 only

    cBoth 1 and 2

    dNeither 1 nor 2
95. Question 95 · Environment and Ecology

    Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites ?

    aCorbett National Park

    bKuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary

    cMudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

    dSariska National Park
96. Question 96 · Polity and Governance

    Which of the following are not necessarily the consequences of the proclamation of the President’s rule in a State ?

    1. 1.Dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly
    2. 2.Removal of the Council of Ministers in the State
    3. 3.Dissolution of the local bodies

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1 and 2 only

    b1 and 3 only

    c2 and 3 only

    d1, 2 and 3
97. Question 97 · Polity and Governance

    Which of the following are envisaged by the Right against Exploitation in the Constitution of India ?

    1. 1.Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour
    2. 2.Abolition of untouchability
    3. 3.Protection of the interests of minorities
    4. 4.Prohibition of employment of children in factories and mines

    Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    a1, 2 and 4 only

    b2, 3 and 4 only

    c1 and 4 only

    d1, 2, 3 and 4
98. Question 98 · Geography

    Which of the following is geographically closest to Great Nicobar ?

    aSumatra

    bBorneo

    cJava

    dSri Lanka
99. Question 99 · Polity and Governance

    Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying the Cabinet form of Government :

    aAn arrangement for minimizing the criticism against the Government whose responsibilities are complex and hard to carry out to the satisfaction of all.

    bA mechanism for speeding up the activities of the Government whose responsibilities are increasing day by day.

    cA mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people.

    dA device for strengthening the hands of the head of the Government whose hold over the people is in a state of decline.
100. Question 100 · Polity and Governance

     Which one of the following is not a feature of Indian federalism ?

     aThere is an independent judiciary in India.

     bPowers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States.

     cThe federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha.

     dIt is the result of an agreement among the federating units.

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2017, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.