UPSC Prelims 2026 · GS Paper I
Question 5: History and Culture
Among the four main forms of existence of life recognized in Jainism, which one of the following is not included ?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).
Jainism recognises four gatis, or states of existence: Deva (celestial beings), Manushya (humans), Tiryancha (animals and plants) and Naraki (hell beings). Yakshas are not a separate state; they are counted among the lower orders of devas. A soul transmigrates among these four according to its karma until it attains moksha, which lies beyond all of them.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Included: Deva is one of the four gatis.
- (b) Right: Yaksha is not a gati; yakshas are a class within devas.
- (c) Included: Manushya is one of the four gatis.
- (d) Included: Tiryancha, the animal and plant world, is one of the four gatis.
Only the provisional key (27 May 2026) was found; the final key replaces it when found.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.