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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam –1st May 2024

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   International Criminal Court (ICC) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Israel is voicing concern that the International Criminal Court could be preparing to issue arrest warrants for government officials on charges related to the conduct of its war against Hamas. Background:- The ICC – which can charge individuals with war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide – is investigating Hamas’ October 7 cross-border attack and Israel’s devastating military assault on Hamas-ruled Gaza. About International Criminal Court (ICC) It is an intergovernmental organization and international tribunal that sits in The Hague, Netherlands. It has jurisdiction to prosecute individuals for the international crimes of: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, crime of aggression. It is intended to complement existing national judicial systems. It may exercise its jurisdiction only when national courts are unwilling or unable to prosecute criminals. It may only investigate and prosecute crimes committed within member states, crimes committed by nationals of member states, or crimes in situations referred to the Court by the United Nations Security Council.The ICC lacks universal territorial jurisdiction. Israel is not a member of the court and does not recognise its jurisdiction, but the Palestinian territories were admitted with the status of a member state in 2015. Established in 2002 pursuant to the multilateral Rome Statute, the ICC is considered by its proponents to be a major step toward justice. However, it has faced a number of criticisms from governments and civil society groups, including objections to its jurisdiction, accusations of bias, Eurocentrism and racism, questioning of the fairness of its case selection and trial procedures, and doubts about its effectiveness. Additional Information The ICC is distinct from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), an organ of the United Nations that hears disputes between states. The ICJ, is also known as the World Court. Source: Indian Express The Election Commission of India’s options when polling process is disrupted Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Polity Context: The Election Commission of India (EC), under various Sections of the Representation of People Act, 1951 (RPA), declared void the poll on April 19, in 11 polling stations of Manipur, and 8 polling stations of Arunachal Pradesh. Repolls were conducted on April 22 and April 24 respectively. Elections were also adjourned in Madhya Pradesh’s Betul Lok Sabha constituency due to the death of a candidate on April 9. The polling, originally scheduled on April 26, will now be held on May 7. Background: India’s election laws provide a framework for handling situations where the normal polling process is disrupted for any reason, including damage to EVMs, booth-capturing, natural disasters, or a candidate’s death. The provisions for repolls, adjournments, and the voiding of polls ensure that the democratic process remains fair, transparent, and uninterrupted. Circumstances when the normal polling process is disrupted — and the options before the EC in each case : Intentional destruction, taking away of EVMs: Under Section 58 of the RPA (‘Fresh poll in the case of destruction, etc., of ballot boxes’), the EC can declare the poll at a polling station to be void if: an unauthorised person has unlawfully taken away any EVM; any EVM has been accidentally or intentionally destroyed, or lost, or damaged, or tampered with; or a mechanical failure develops in any EVM during the recording of votes. In such cases, the Returning Officer (RO) immediately informs the EC and the Chief Electoral Officer of the state about the relevant facts and material circumstances, after considering which, the EC can declare the poll void and formally fix the date and time for a new poll. All electors will be allowed to vote at the fresh poll.During the repoll, the voters’ left middle fingers are inked to distinguish between the mark made during the original poll (on their left forefinger). Booth capturing Booth-capturing, defined in Section135A of the RPA, includes all or any of the following activities by any person or persons : seizure of a polling station, affecting the conduct of elections; taking possession of a polling station, allowing only his or their supporters to vote; intimidating or threatening any elector and preventing him from going to the polling station; seizure of a counting place affecting the counting of votes; involvement of any person in government service in any of the above activities. Booth capturing is punishable for a term of not less than one year, which may extend to three years for lay people, and not less than three years, extending to five years for government servants. Under Section 58A (‘Adjournment of poll or countermanding of election on the ground of booth capturing’) in case booth capturing has taken place at a polling Station, the Presiding Officer of a polling station immediately closes the Control Unit of EVM and detaches the Ballot Unit(s) from the Control Unit under Rule 49X of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. He/She then informs the RO, who reports the full facts to the EC through the fastest means of communication. The EC, based on the material facts, may: (a) declare the poll at that polling station to be void and direct a fresh poll on a new date; or (b) countermand the election in the constituency in case booth capturing has taken place in a large number of polling stations, or if it has affected the counting of votes. Natural disasters, other disruptions to polling The Presiding Officer of a polling station can adjourn the poll at a polling station under section 57(1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, in case of: a natural calamity like a flood, a severe storm; non-receipt or loss or damage to essential polling materials like EVM, electoral roll etc; interruption or obstruction due to any riot or, open violence; non-arrival of the polling party due to obstruction or any other serious difficulty; or non-commencement of the poll within two hours from the scheduled time due to malfunctioning of EVM, or any other reason. After seeking the EC’s approval on the date and hours, the adjourned poll will recommence from the stage at which it was left immediately before the adjournment. Contesting candidates or their agents are informed, and only electors who have not already voted before the poll was adjourned are permitted to vote. Death of a candidate As per Section 52 of RPA, the poll shall be adjourned only in case of the death of a recognised political party’s candidate. A “recognised political party” refers to either a recognised national party, or party recognised as a state party in the state concerned, for which the EC reserves a symbol under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order. The above provision applies if the candidate with a valid nomination dies at any time after 11.00 a.m. on the last date for making nominations, until the commencement of the poll. The RO reports the fact to the EC and orders the adjournment of the poll to a date to be notified later by the Commission. The EC then calls upon the concerned political party to nominate another candidate for the said election in place of the deceased candidate. The political party must make the nomination within seven days. In Betul, the candidate’s death occurred one day after the last day for withdrawing candidature. Therefore, the polls were adjourned. However, in the Moradabad Lok Sabha constituency, the candidate died after voting, in which case a by-election will be held if he emerges as the winner of the seat after counting. Source: Indian Express SALMONELLA Syllabus Prelims – Science Context: The United States has taken stringent measures in response to salmonella contamination in shipments from Mahashian Di Hatti Pvt Ltd (MDH). Background: The situation underscores the importance of stringent quality control measures in food production and distribution. Authorities worldwide are closely monitoring such incidents to protect consumers and maintain food safety standards. About SALMONELLA Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness and fever, a condition known as salmonellosis. These bacteria naturally reside in animals’ intestines and can be found in their faeces. Humans can contract salmonella if they come into contact with infected animals or contaminated items in their environment. This ubiquitous and hardy bacteria can survive for several weeks in a dry environment and several months in water. People infected with salmonella might experience diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that salmonella causes approximately 1.2 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations, and about 450 deaths in the United States every year. Source: Economic Times PARADOX OF THRIFT Syllabus Prelims : Economy Context: The paradox of savings, also known as the paradox of thrift, has garnered attention in recent discussions related to the economy. Background: The The concept was popularized by British economist John Maynard Keynes in his 1936 book, The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money. About PARADOX OF THRIFT : The Paradox of Thrift suggests that when people save more money, especially during a recession, it can lead to a decrease in overall economic activity. The idea is part of the under-consumption theories of the business cycle, which attribute economic downturns to weak consumption and high savings. The Paradox of Thrift has the following implications for the economy: Reduced Consumption: When a large percentage of the population saves more and consumes less, it leads to decreased consumer spending. During a recession, people tend to save more as a precautionary measure, fearing economic uncertainty. However, this collective behaviour can result in reduced overall consumption levels. Contraction of Output: As consumption falls, businesses experience decreased demand for their goods and services. Consequently, they produce less, leading to a contraction of economic output. This decline in production affects both employers and employees, resulting in lower income for everyone. Source: The Hindu ASSAM RIFLES Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Security Forces Context: The Assam Rifles successfully intercepted a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and other war-like supplies near the Indo-Myanmar border in Mon district, Nagaland. Background: This significant recovery of heavy-caliber, military-grade weapons close to the border area is a commendable achievement for the ongoing border sealing operation by the Assam Rifles. About ASSAM RIFLES : The Assam Rifles, also known as the Sentinels of North East, is the oldest paramilitary force in India. Formation and Evolution: The Assam Rifles traces its lineage back to the Cachar Levy, which was formed in 1835 during British rule. Over time, it underwent several name changes, including the Assam Frontier Police, Assam Military Police, and Eastern Bengal and Assam Military Police, before officially becoming the Assam Rifles in 1917. It served in both World Wars and has a rich historical legacy. Role and Responsibilities: Counter-Insurgency Force: The Assam Rifles plays a crucial role in counter-insurgency operations in the challenging terrain of the Northeastern states. Law and Order: It assists in maintaining law and order in the region, working alongside the Indian Army. Indo-Myanmar Border Security: The force guards the Indo-Myanmar border, ensuring security and preventing illegal activities. Sentinels of the Northeast: The Assam Rifles is aptly called the “Friends of the Hill People” due to its close interaction with the local communities. Dual Control Structure: The Assam Rifles is unique in having a dual control structure: Administrative Control: Lies with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Operational Control: Rests with the Indian Army, which falls under the Ministry of Defence. This dual control arrangement ensures effective coordination and synergy between civil administration and military operations. Source: PIB Water Trading Syllabus Mains – GS 3 Context: As urbanization gathers pace, more and more wastewater is generated. But only about 40% of this is treated, and even that is not being reused. Background: The NITI Aayog, said in a report titled ‘water trading mechanism to promote reuse of treated water’ that in many countries water trading has helped achieve water-use efficiency and productivity. Water Trading: It is a water market mechanism that considers water as a commodity rather than a public good. It can be traded amongst users according to their needs. A water company, rather than creating its own water source, can buy the water from a third party and sell it to the users. Enabling elements for Water Trading: Ownership of water – should be indisputable. Water entitlements- could be transferred. Water Reuse Certificates (WRCs) – as tradable permits. Need for reuse of treated wastewater through water trading: Only about 40% of urban wastewater is treated in India, and even that is not being reused. Wide temporal and spatial variations in the distribution of water. For example, India receives more than 80 % of the rainfall during four months of the year. The National Water Policy of 2002 & 2012 has proposed a private hand in water management and has emphasised public-private partnership. Wastewater, including agricultural runoff, is the leading cause of water pollution. It is intricately linked to human and ecosystem health, with over 80% of global wastewater estimated to enter water bodies untreated. (UN World Water Report 2023) Around 80% of people living under water stress lived in Asia, in particular, northeast China, as well as India. (UN World Water Report 2023) Around 89% of groundwater extracted is used for irrigation, and crops such as paddy and sugarcane consume more than 60% of irrigation water. India is also a large virtual net export of water because of agricultural products export. Challenges/Issues for reuse of treated wastewater through water trading: Treating the wastewater and supplying it to the farm fields or the industrial units will involve certain costs that may not be competitive with the cost of fresh water. As fresh water is available at a substantially low or sometimes even at no cost. Since the process of wastewater generation is continuous, the treatment process also should be continuous. However, the demand may not remain constant throughout the year. For example, the crops may not require irrigation for a certain period; demands in industrial units may also vary. This would require either storage of treated wastewater or discharging the treated water to other freshwater sources. To make water/treated wastewater a tradable commodity, it is necessary to have a demand. Maintenance of the plant, disruption in the sewage network, quality problems in inlet sewage or treated sewage, disruption in the distribution network, etc. could interrupt supply. In India, water is neither considered a commodity nor possesses any significant economic value. This is mainly because of the due consideration of the essentiality of water as a fundamental human right. Way Forward: Formation of Independent Regulatory Authority (IRAs) with statutory powers to determine water allocation and pricing of treated wastewater. Creation of a trading platform and induction of all stakeholders into it. Fixing the reuse target and finalising the norms of treated wastewater quality along with credits and value of Water Reuse Certificates (WRCs). Identification of Industrial Clusters, Municipal/Residential units, Agriculture lands, and Environmental needs where the treated wastewater could be reused. Preparation of site-specific plans for reuse where GIS tools could be used for initial planning, and social mobilisation through NGOs would be required to overcome the stigma of the use of treated wastewater. Establishment of regular monitoring mechanisms and social impact assessment under the supervision of IRAs. The water neutrality concept advocates that the total water demand should be the same after a new development is built as it was before. Promoting water reuse can aid in achieving water neutrality. Source: Livemint Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) Salmonella, recently seen in news is a group of Bacteria Fungi Virus Flowering plants Q2.) With reference to the paradox of thrift, consider the following statements: The Paradox of thrift suggests that when people save more money, especially during a recession, it can lead to a decrease in overall economic activity. Paradox of thrift leads to a decrease in the level of employment and income and reduces total savings in the economy. How many of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q3.) Consider the following statements about the Assam Rifles: The Assam Rifles is the oldest paramilitary force in India. The Assam Rifles is tasked with guarding the Indo-Myanmar border. Administrative control of the Assam Rifles lies with the Ministry of Home Affairs. How many of the statements given above are not correct? Only one Only two All three None Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’ 1st May 2024 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR  30th April – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – c Q.3) – c

[DAY 51] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2024 – HISTORY, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Archives Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test Time limit: 0 Test-summary 0 of 35 questions completed Questions: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 Information The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2023 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022. To view Solutions, follow these instructions: Click on – ‘Start Test’ button Solve Questions Click on ‘Test Summary’ button Click on ‘Finish Test’ button Now click on ‘View Questions’ button – here you will see solutions and links. You have already completed the test before. Hence you can not start it again. Test is loading... You must sign in or sign up to start the test. You have to finish following test, to start this test: Results 0 of 35 questions answered correctly Your time: Time has elapsed You have scored 0 points out of 0 points, (0) Average score     Your score     Categories Not categorized 0% Your result has been entered into leaderboard Loading Name: E-Mail: Captcha: maximum of 70 points Pos. Name Entered on Points Result Table is loading No data available 1 RS 2024/05/01 3:12 PM 4 33.33 % 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 Answered Review Question 1 of 35 1. Question Consider the following statements with respect to Medieval India: System of paying salaries by grants of revenue increased in the medieval period Raziya was the first and the last woman ruler of the Sultanate Period. Muhammad Ghori was the patron of Persian poet Firdausi How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect During the Gupta period some of the officers were not paid their salaries in cash but in grants of revenue. The officer did not have any rights of ownership over the land. But during medieval times officers began to claim that they owned the land as well. The system of paying salaries by grants also increased. Persons who received such grants came to be called by titles like Thakur. Raziya was the first and the last woman ruler of medieval India. She assumed the title of ‘Sultan’ and did her best to play the part of a man. She discarded Purdah and began to adorn the attire of the male. Raziya tried to concentrate power in her own hands and succeeded. This provoked serious opposition that took the shape of a protest against her. Mahmud Ghazni was the patron of Firdausi, who wrote the epic poem Shah Namah. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect During the Gupta period some of the officers were not paid their salaries in cash but in grants of revenue. The officer did not have any rights of ownership over the land. But during medieval times officers began to claim that they owned the land as well. The system of paying salaries by grants also increased. Persons who received such grants came to be called by titles like Thakur. Raziya was the first and the last woman ruler of medieval India. She assumed the title of ‘Sultan’ and did her best to play the part of a man. She discarded Purdah and began to adorn the attire of the male. Raziya tried to concentrate power in her own hands and succeeded. This provoked serious opposition that took the shape of a protest against her. Mahmud Ghazni was the patron of Firdausi, who wrote the epic poem Shah Namah. Question 2 of 35 2. Question What factors facilitated the Turkish invasion of Delhi in the 11th -12th century? Better organization skill of the Turkish army Artillery Supremacy of invaders Internal conflicts of Indian rulers How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Turkish army was better organized and well-led by able leaders. The superior organization skills and speed of movement of the Turkish cavalry and their mounted archers dominated the numerically strong and equally equipped Indian forces. The speed of movement of the Turkish cavalry and their mounted archers dominated the Indians but the Indian forces were equally equipped. Politically, India was divided into many kingdoms which constantly fought against each other. Because of their internal conflicts, none of them could utilize its complete resources, nor could they unite themselves against foreign invasions. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Turkish army was better organized and well-led by able leaders. The superior organization skills and speed of movement of the Turkish cavalry and their mounted archers dominated the numerically strong and equally equipped Indian forces. The speed of movement of the Turkish cavalry and their mounted archers dominated the Indians but the Indian forces were equally equipped. Politically, India was divided into many kingdoms which constantly fought against each other. Because of their internal conflicts, none of them could utilize its complete resources, nor could they unite themselves against foreign invasions. Question 3 of 35 3. Question Consider the following statements: Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakutas kingdom. Pratihara dynasty was founded by Harichandra in 6th century AD. Pala Dynasty was founded by Gopala in 750 AD and controlled most of Bengal and Bihar. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct According to one scholar Rashtrakutas belonged to the dynasty of the Rathors while the other says that they were the ancestors’ of the Marathas. Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakutas kingdom. The Pratiharas were a section of the large tribe called Gurjara who immigrated into India. Probably they are also called Gurjara-Prathiharas. The dynasty of Gurjara-Pratiharas was founded by Harichandra in 6th century AD. They remained influential till the 11th century AD. It is said that they originated from Ujjain or Mandsaur. Pala Dynasty was founded by Gopala in 750 AD, who was a chieftain earlier but later became the king of Bengal. The Palas controlled most of Bengal and Bihar. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct According to one scholar Rashtrakutas belonged to the dynasty of the Rathors while the other says that they were the ancestors’ of the Marathas. Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakutas kingdom. The Pratiharas were a section of the large tribe called Gurjara who immigrated into India. Probably they are also called Gurjara-Prathiharas. The dynasty of Gurjara-Pratiharas was founded by Harichandra in 6th century AD. They remained influential till the 11th century AD. It is said that they originated from Ujjain or Mandsaur. Pala Dynasty was founded by Gopala in 750 AD, who was a chieftain earlier but later became the king of Bengal. The Palas controlled most of Bengal and Bihar. Question 4 of 35 4. Question Consider the following statements: The first battle of Tarain was fought between Muhammad Ghori and Jai Chand. Muhammad Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in the battle of Chandwar. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Incorrect Incorrect Muhammad Ghori’s possession of Punjab and his attempt to advance into the Gangetic Doab brought him into direct conflict with the Rajput ruler Prithivaraj Chauhan which resulted in the first battle of Tarain between them. In AD 1194 Muhammad Ghori again returned to India. He crossed Yamuna with 50,000 cavalry and moved towards Kanauj. He gave a crushing defeat to Jai Chand at Chandwar near Kanauj. Thus the battle of Tarain and Chandwar laid the foundations of Turkish rule in Northern India. Incorrect Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Incorrect Incorrect Muhammad Ghori’s possession of Punjab and his attempt to advance into the Gangetic Doab brought him into direct conflict with the Rajput ruler Prithivaraj Chauhan which resulted in the first battle of Tarain between them. In AD 1194 Muhammad Ghori again returned to India. He crossed Yamuna with 50,000 cavalry and moved towards Kanauj. He gave a crushing defeat to Jai Chand at Chandwar near Kanauj. Thus the battle of Tarain and Chandwar laid the foundations of Turkish rule in Northern India. Question 5 of 35 5. Question Consider the following statements regarding the social conditions during the Sultanate period Women did not enjoy any property rights. Forced religious conversion to Islam was widespread. There was a complete ban on the construction of temples. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect As per the records of Ibn Battuta, widows were given the right to the property of a sonless husband, provided the property was not joint i.e., had been divided. Despite the significant influence of orthodox theologians, a policy of broad religious toleration was maintained. Conversion to Islam was not effected by the strength of the sword. The Chaitanya guru converted a number of Muslims as a part of the reformation. Conversion to Islam was due to the hopes of political or economic gains or to improve one/s social position. In the early phase of the Delhi sultanate, a number of Hindu temples were sacked and converted to mosques. The policy towards temples and places of worship of the Hindus, Jains etc. rested on the Sharia Law which forbade the new places of worship being built in opposition to Islam. There was no ban on erecting temples in villages since there were no practices of Islam there. Similarly, temples could be built within the private space of homes. Incorrect Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect As per the records of Ibn Battuta, widows were given the right to the property of a sonless husband, provided the property was not joint i.e., had been divided. Despite the significant influence of orthodox theologians, a policy of broad religious toleration was maintained. Conversion to Islam was not effected by the strength of the sword. The Chaitanya guru converted a number of Muslims as a part of the reformation. Conversion to Islam was due to the hopes of political or economic gains or to improve one/s social position. In the early phase of the Delhi sultanate, a number of Hindu temples were sacked and converted to mosques. The policy towards temples and places of worship of the Hindus, Jains etc. rested on the Sharia Law which forbade the new places of worship being built in opposition to Islam. There was no ban on erecting temples in villages since there were no practices of Islam there. Similarly, temples could be built within the private space of homes. Question 6 of 35 6. Question Consider the following statements: Tenali Rama was one of the Ashtadiggajas at the court of Krishnadevaraya. The Battle of Talikota marked the end of the Vijayanagar Empire. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Tenali Rama was one of the Ashtadiggajas at the court of Krishnadevaraya. He was a Telugu poet who hailed from a village called Tenali located at what is now the Andhra Pradesh region, generally known for the folk tales which focus on his wit. Ramakrishna held an important position in Krishnadevaraya’s court. He was one of the Ashtadiggajas and chief adviser appointed by the emperor. During the reign of Rama Raya, the combined forces of Bijapur, Ahmednagar, Golkonda and Bidar defeated him at the Battle of Talikota (or the Battle of Rakshasa Tangadi), in 1565, which marked the end of the Vijayanagar empire. The last ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire was Sri Ranga III. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Tenali Rama was one of the Ashtadiggajas at the court of Krishnadevaraya. He was a Telugu poet who hailed from a village called Tenali located at what is now the Andhra Pradesh region, generally known for the folk tales which focus on his wit. Ramakrishna held an important position in Krishnadevaraya’s court. He was one of the Ashtadiggajas and chief adviser appointed by the emperor. During the reign of Rama Raya, the combined forces of Bijapur, Ahmednagar, Golkonda and Bidar defeated him at the Battle of Talikota (or the Battle of Rakshasa Tangadi), in 1565, which marked the end of the Vijayanagar empire. The last ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire was Sri Ranga III. Question 7 of 35 7. Question Consider the following statements about Nayakas in the Vijayanagar Empire: Nayakas enjoyed both military and revenue powers. The rise of Nayakas led to the considerable rise of village autonomy and administration. The Nayakship was not hereditary and rather based on merit. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Incorrect They collected taxes and other dues from peasants, craftspersons, and traders in the area. They retained part of the revenue for personal use and for maintaining a stipulated contingent of horses and elephants. The Chola traditions of village self-government were considerably weakened under the Vijayanagar rule. The Nayakship was hereditary in nature.The growth of hereditary Nayakships during the Vijaynangara rule tended to curb their freedom and initiatives. Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Incorrect They collected taxes and other dues from peasants, craftspersons, and traders in the area. They retained part of the revenue for personal use and for maintaining a stipulated contingent of horses and elephants. The Chola traditions of village self-government were considerably weakened under the Vijayanagar rule. The Nayakship was hereditary in nature.The growth of hereditary Nayakships during the Vijaynangara rule tended to curb their freedom and initiatives. Question 8 of 35 8. Question Consider the following statements regarding Jinaprabha Suri: Jinaprabha Suri was contemporary of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. He composed the Jain text ‘Vividha Tirtha Kalpa’ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Jinaprabha Suri lived during the rule of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. He traveled widely and has left a record of contemporary events as well as oral traditions. He was born in Mohilvadi, Gujarat in the Tambi clan of the Shrimal Jain community. He was initiated at the age of 8 and became an Acharya in Kharatara Gaccha at 23. He composed the Jain text ‘Vividha Tirtha Kalpa’. It is a compilation of about 60 Kalpas (sections), most of them giving the accounts of major Jain Tirthas. Vividha Tirtha Kalpa is an example of the tirtha-mala texts that are compilations about Jain Tirthas throughout India, ranging from Nirvana Kanda of Kundakunda to modern publications. Jinaprabha Suri is said to have written three Jain prayers in Persian. Some of the Kalpas contain the date of compositions, although most are undated. The dates range from Samvat 1364 (Vaibhargiri Kalpa) to Samvat 1389. The last section of the book was written in 1332 CE in Delhi during the rule of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. The description suggests that at that time, while the Svetambara-Digambara division had become distinct, the tirtha were visited by Jains of both sects. He describes the building and destruction of many temples in recent period. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Jinaprabha Suri lived during the rule of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. He traveled widely and has left a record of contemporary events as well as oral traditions. He was born in Mohilvadi, Gujarat in the Tambi clan of the Shrimal Jain community. He was initiated at the age of 8 and became an Acharya in Kharatara Gaccha at 23. He composed the Jain text ‘Vividha Tirtha Kalpa’. It is a compilation of about 60 Kalpas (sections), most of them giving the accounts of major Jain Tirthas. Vividha Tirtha Kalpa is an example of the tirtha-mala texts that are compilations about Jain Tirthas throughout India, ranging from Nirvana Kanda of Kundakunda to modern publications. Jinaprabha Suri is said to have written three Jain prayers in Persian. Some of the Kalpas contain the date of compositions, although most are undated. The dates range from Samvat 1364 (Vaibhargiri Kalpa) to Samvat 1389. The last section of the book was written in 1332 CE in Delhi during the rule of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. The description suggests that at that time, while the Svetambara-Digambara division had become distinct, the tirtha were visited by Jains of both sects. He describes the building and destruction of many temples in recent period. Question 9 of 35 9. Question With reference to the religious freedom under the Sultanate period, consider the following statements: Universal freedom was allotted to all the religions to build religious structures. Conversion to Islamic religion was mandatory to serve in the army. Ruling dynasties used existing religious structures to build mosques. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Correct In the early phase of the Sultanate, many cities were sacked, temples being a special target partly to justify the conquest and partly to seize the fabulous treasures they were supposed to contain. All religious denominations were used to fight in the wars and thus allowed to enroll in army without discrimination. No forced conversion was allowed in this regard. During this period, a number of Hindu temples were converted into mosques. The most notable example of this is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque near the Qutab Minar in Delhi. Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Correct In the early phase of the Sultanate, many cities were sacked, temples being a special target partly to justify the conquest and partly to seize the fabulous treasures they were supposed to contain. All religious denominations were used to fight in the wars and thus allowed to enroll in army without discrimination. No forced conversion was allowed in this regard. During this period, a number of Hindu temples were converted into mosques. The most notable example of this is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque near the Qutab Minar in Delhi. Question 10 of 35 10. Question Consider the following statements regarding Qutbuddin Aibak: He patronized the scholar Hasan Nizami. He started the construction of Qutub Minar after the name of famous Sufi Saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakthiyar. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Aibak patronized the great scholar Hasan Nizami. He also started the construction of Qutb Minar after the name of a famous Sufi saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakthiyar. It was later completed by Iltutmish. Aibak died suddenly while playing chaugan (horse polo) in 1210. He was succeeded by his son Aram Baksh, who was replaced by Iltutmish after eight months.  Note: Qutbuddin Aibak (1206-1210) Qutbuddin Aibak was a slave of Muhammad Ghori, who made him the Governor of his Indian possessions. He set up his military headquarters at Indraprasta, near Delhi. He raised a standing army and established his hold over north India even during the lifetime of Ghori. After the death of Ghori in 1206, Aibak declared his independence. He severed all connections with the kingdom of Ghori and thus founded the Slave dynasty as well as the Delhi Sultanate. He assumed the title Sultan and made Lahore his capital. His rule lasted for a short period of four years. Muslim writers call Aibak Lakh Baksh or giver of lakhs because he gave liberal donations to them. Aibak patronized the great scholar Hasan Nizami. He also started the construction of Qutub Minar after the name of a famous Sufi saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakthiyar. It was later completed by Iltutmish. Aibak died suddenly while playing chaugan (horse polo) in 1210. He was succeeded by his son Aram Baksh, who was replaced by Iltutmish after eight months. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Aibak patronized the great scholar Hasan Nizami. He also started the construction of Qutb Minar after the name of a famous Sufi saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakthiyar. It was later completed by Iltutmish. Aibak died suddenly while playing chaugan (horse polo) in 1210. He was succeeded by his son Aram Baksh, who was replaced by Iltutmish after eight months.  Note: Qutbuddin Aibak (1206-1210) Qutbuddin Aibak was a slave of Muhammad Ghori, who made him the Governor of his Indian possessions. He set up his military headquarters at Indraprasta, near Delhi. He raised a standing army and established his hold over north India even during the lifetime of Ghori. After the death of Ghori in 1206, Aibak declared his independence. He severed all connections with the kingdom of Ghori and thus founded the Slave dynasty as well as the Delhi Sultanate. He assumed the title Sultan and made Lahore his capital. His rule lasted for a short period of four years. Muslim writers call Aibak Lakh Baksh or giver of lakhs because he gave liberal donations to them. Aibak patronized the great scholar Hasan Nizami. He also started the construction of Qutub Minar after the name of a famous Sufi saint Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakthiyar. It was later completed by Iltutmish. Aibak died suddenly while playing chaugan (horse polo) in 1210. He was succeeded by his son Aram Baksh, who was replaced by Iltutmish after eight months. Question 11 of 35 11. Question The book ‘Tuti Nama’ (Book of the Parrot) was written in the time of which of the following rulers? a) Alauddin Khilji b) Sikandar Lodi c) Jahangir d) Muhammad Bin Tughlaq Correct Solution (d) Tuti Nama: Sanskrit and Persian functioned as link languages in the country in politics, religion and philosophy, as well as being the means of literary productions. At first, there was little interchange between the two. Zia Nakhshabi was the first to translate into Persian the Sanskrit stories which were narrated by a parrot to a woman whose husband had gone on a journey. This book, Tuti Nama (Book of the Parrot), written in the time of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, proved very popular and was translated from Persian into Turkish and into many European languages as well. It is said that the text of the Tuti Nama was written in Nastaliq calligraphy style. But each of the paintings seen in various libraries across the world focus on a single topic or episode of the stories. The straightforwardness of expressions seen in the paintings is attributed to the influence of pre-Mughal paintings. Several portfolios of Tuti Nama are also stated to be similar to the Malwa manuscripts with illustrations (dated to 1439 AD) but with distinct perfection. The difference is traced to the tasteful colors in Tuti Nama paintings, which make it rich in colors with graded quality. Incorrect Solution (d) Tuti Nama: Sanskrit and Persian functioned as link languages in the country in politics, religion and philosophy, as well as being the means of literary productions. At first, there was little interchange between the two. Zia Nakhshabi was the first to translate into Persian the Sanskrit stories which were narrated by a parrot to a woman whose husband had gone on a journey. This book, Tuti Nama (Book of the Parrot), written in the time of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, proved very popular and was translated from Persian into Turkish and into many European languages as well. It is said that the text of the Tuti Nama was written in Nastaliq calligraphy style. But each of the paintings seen in various libraries across the world focus on a single topic or episode of the stories. The straightforwardness of expressions seen in the paintings is attributed to the influence of pre-Mughal paintings. Several portfolios of Tuti Nama are also stated to be similar to the Malwa manuscripts with illustrations (dated to 1439 AD) but with distinct perfection. The difference is traced to the tasteful colors in Tuti Nama paintings, which make it rich in colors with graded quality. Question 12 of 35 12. Question Consider the following statements about Portuguese trade in India during the Vijayanagar Empire: Indian exports by the traders mainly included saltpeter, sugar, rice, spices, and textiles. Traders helped in transmitting potato, tobacco, maize, cocoa, and peanuts from Central America to India. Trade in pepper, arms, ammunition and war horses in India was a royal monopoly and no private traders were allowed to engage in the trade of these goods. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct Indian exports by the traders mainly included saltpeter, sugar, rice, spices, and textiles. The Portuguese engaged themselves in trade in these items through the sea route. They also tried to control sea routes and provided safeguards to other nationals against sea pirates. Portuguese traders also helped in transmitting potato, tobacco, maize, cocoa, and peanuts from Central America to India. But the Portuguese were hardly able to change the established pattern of Asian trade networks. The Gujarati and Arab traders continued to dominate the most lucrative Asian trade like gold and horses from West Asia, and silk and porcelain from China. As a policy measure, trade in pepper, arms, and ammunition and war horses in India was a royal monopoly and no private traders were allowed to engage in the trade of these goods. Even though the Portuguese tried to change this but due to the presence of a strong Vijayanagar empire, they failed to achieve success. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct Indian exports by the traders mainly included saltpeter, sugar, rice, spices, and textiles. The Portuguese engaged themselves in trade in these items through the sea route. They also tried to control sea routes and provided safeguards to other nationals against sea pirates. Portuguese traders also helped in transmitting potato, tobacco, maize, cocoa, and peanuts from Central America to India. But the Portuguese were hardly able to change the established pattern of Asian trade networks. The Gujarati and Arab traders continued to dominate the most lucrative Asian trade like gold and horses from West Asia, and silk and porcelain from China. As a policy measure, trade in pepper, arms, and ammunition and war horses in India was a royal monopoly and no private traders were allowed to engage in the trade of these goods. Even though the Portuguese tried to change this but due to the presence of a strong Vijayanagar empire, they failed to achieve success. Question 13 of 35 13. Question Consider the following statements: Mortar began to be used prominently in all the constructions as a cementing agent in Khilji Dynasty. The architecture in Delhi Sultanate reached its climax during the Tughlaq dynasty Tombs are largely commissioned during the Lodi dynasty How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Khilji dynasty ruled from 1290 A.D. to 1320 A.D. and established the Seljuk style of architecture. The constructions of this period are marked by the use of red sandstone. Also, the prominence of Arcade style began from this period. Mortar began to be used prominently in all the constructions as a cementing agent. Example: Alai Darwaza by Alauddin Khilji, Siri fort, etc. Tughlaq dynasty was the crisis period for architecture during the Delhi Sultanate period. However, some construction works were still undertaken, which used grey sandstone. During this period, the focus was more on the strength of the building and so, there was less emphasis on decoration. The constructions combined both arch and lintel method of entrance design. They also introduced a style of construction known as ‘batter’ which was characterized by sloping walls to give more strength to the building. Under the Lodi dynasty, architecture continued to take a back seat. Only tombs were commissioned during this period. However, one important feature of architecture during this period was the introduction of double domes. It consisted of a hollow dome inside the top dome. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Khilji dynasty ruled from 1290 A.D. to 1320 A.D. and established the Seljuk style of architecture. The constructions of this period are marked by the use of red sandstone. Also, the prominence of Arcade style began from this period. Mortar began to be used prominently in all the constructions as a cementing agent. Example: Alai Darwaza by Alauddin Khilji, Siri fort, etc. Tughlaq dynasty was the crisis period for architecture during the Delhi Sultanate period. However, some construction works were still undertaken, which used grey sandstone. During this period, the focus was more on the strength of the building and so, there was less emphasis on decoration. The constructions combined both arch and lintel method of entrance design. They also introduced a style of construction known as ‘batter’ which was characterized by sloping walls to give more strength to the building. Under the Lodi dynasty, architecture continued to take a back seat. Only tombs were commissioned during this period. However, one important feature of architecture during this period was the introduction of double domes. It consisted of a hollow dome inside the top dome. Question 14 of 35 14. Question Consider the following statements about Shah Jahan: Shah Jahan came to the conclusion that there could be no peace for the Mughals in the Deccan as long as Ahmednagar continued as an independent state. He was not keen to extend the Mughal territories in the Deccan beyond what was absolutely necessary. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Shah Jahan’s first concern as a ruler was to recover the territories in the Deccan which had been lost to the Nizam Shahi ruler. For this purpose, he deputed an old and experienced noble, Khan-i-Jahan Lodi. However, Khan-i-Jahan Lodi failed in the enterprise and was recalled to the court. Shortly afterwards, he rebelled and joined the Nizam Shah who deputed him to expel the Mughals from the remaining portions of Berar and Balaghat. Giving asylum to a leading Mughal noble in this manner was a challenge which Shah Jahan could not ignore. It was clear that even after Malik Ambar’s death, his policy of refusing to recognize the Mughal position in Berar and Balaghat was being continued by the Nizam Shahi ruler. Shah Jahan, therefore, came to the conclusion that there could be no peace for the Mughals in the Deccan as long as Ahmednagar continued as an independent state. This was a major departure from the policy which had been followed by Akbar and Jahangir. However, Shah Jahan was not keen to extend the Mughal territories in the Deccan beyond what was absolutely necessary. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Shah Jahan’s first concern as a ruler was to recover the territories in the Deccan which had been lost to the Nizam Shahi ruler. For this purpose, he deputed an old and experienced noble, Khan-i-Jahan Lodi. However, Khan-i-Jahan Lodi failed in the enterprise and was recalled to the court. Shortly afterwards, he rebelled and joined the Nizam Shah who deputed him to expel the Mughals from the remaining portions of Berar and Balaghat. Giving asylum to a leading Mughal noble in this manner was a challenge which Shah Jahan could not ignore. It was clear that even after Malik Ambar’s death, his policy of refusing to recognize the Mughal position in Berar and Balaghat was being continued by the Nizam Shahi ruler. Shah Jahan, therefore, came to the conclusion that there could be no peace for the Mughals in the Deccan as long as Ahmednagar continued as an independent state. This was a major departure from the policy which had been followed by Akbar and Jahangir. However, Shah Jahan was not keen to extend the Mughal territories in the Deccan beyond what was absolutely necessary. Question 15 of 35 15. Question Consider the following statements regarding Sikh rule: A section of Sikhs under the leadership of Banda Bahadur revolted against Aurangzeb and was defeated. Kapur Singh Faizullapuria organized the Sikhs under Dal Khalsa, with the objective of uniting followers of Sikhism, politically, culturally and economically. The Sikhs consolidated in Misls which were military brotherhoods with a democratic set-up. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Correct After the murder of the last Sikh guru, Guru Govind Singh, a section of Sikhs under the leadership of Banda Bahadur revolted against the Mughals during the rule of Bahadur Shah. In 1715, Banda Bahadur was defeated by Farrukhsiyar and put to death in 1716. Due to death of Banda Bahadur, the Sikh polity, once again, became leaderless and later got divided into two groups—Bandai (liberal) and Tat Khalsa (Orthodox). This rift among the followers ended in 1721 under the influence of Bhai Mani Singh. Later in 1784 Kapur Singh Faizullapuria organized the Sikhs under Dal Khalsa, with the objective of uniting followers of Sikhism, politically, culturally and economically. The whole body of the Khalsa was formed into two sections – Budha Dal, the army of the veterans, and Taruna Dal, the army of the young. The weakness of the Mughals and invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali created a general confusion and anarchy in Punjab. These political conditions helped the organized Dal Khalsa to consolidate further. The Sikhs consolidated in Misls which were military brotherhoods with a democratic set-up. Misl is an Arabic word which means equal or alike. Another meaning of Misl is State. During the period, 1763 to 1773, many Misls started to rule the Punjab region under Sikh chieftains, from Saharanpur in the east to Attock in the west, from the mountainous regions of the north to Multan in the south. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Correct After the murder of the last Sikh guru, Guru Govind Singh, a section of Sikhs under the leadership of Banda Bahadur revolted against the Mughals during the rule of Bahadur Shah. In 1715, Banda Bahadur was defeated by Farrukhsiyar and put to death in 1716. Due to death of Banda Bahadur, the Sikh polity, once again, became leaderless and later got divided into two groups—Bandai (liberal) and Tat Khalsa (Orthodox). This rift among the followers ended in 1721 under the influence of Bhai Mani Singh. Later in 1784 Kapur Singh Faizullapuria organized the Sikhs under Dal Khalsa, with the objective of uniting followers of Sikhism, politically, culturally and economically. The whole body of the Khalsa was formed into two sections – Budha Dal, the army of the veterans, and Taruna Dal, the army of the young. The weakness of the Mughals and invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali created a general confusion and anarchy in Punjab. These political conditions helped the organized Dal Khalsa to consolidate further. The Sikhs consolidated in Misls which were military brotherhoods with a democratic set-up. Misl is an Arabic word which means equal or alike. Another meaning of Misl is State. During the period, 1763 to 1773, many Misls started to rule the Punjab region under Sikh chieftains, from Saharanpur in the east to Attock in the west, from the mountainous regions of the north to Multan in the south. Question 16 of 35 16. Question Consider the following statements: Aurangzeb had granted Shivaji’s Swarajya and the right of Sardeshmukhi over the Deccan to Shahu. Aurangzeb imprisoned Shah Alam for daring to negotiate with the Deccani rulers. Which of the statements given above are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Incorrect Correct In 1689, Sambhaji was surprised at his secret hide-out at Sangameshwar by a Mughal force. He was paraded before Aurangzeb and executed as a rebel and an infidel. In 1703, Aurangzeb opened negotiations with the Marathas. He was prepared to release Shahu, the son of Sambhaji, who had been captured at Satara along with his mother. Shahu had been treated well. He had been given the title of raja and the mansab of 7000. Aurangzeb was prepared to grant to Shahu, Shivaji’s swarajya and the right of sardeshmukhi over the Deccan, thus recognising his special position. Over 70 Maratha sardars were actually assembled to receive Shahu. But Aurangzeb canceled the arrangements at the last minute, being uncertain about the intentions of the Marathas. Some of the nobles were of the opinion that Aurangzeb should return to north India, leaving to others the task of mopping-up operations against the Marathas. Earlier, there was an opinion which, it appears, had the support of the heirapparent, Shah Alam, that the task of ruling over Karnataka should be left to the vassal rulers of Bijapur and Golconda. Aurangzeb rejected all these suggestions, and imprisoned Shah Alam for daring to negotiate with the Deccani rulers. Convinced that the Maratha power had been crushed after 1690, Aurangzeb concentrated on annexing to the empire the rich and extensive Karnataka tract. He unduly extended his lines of communications which became vulnerable to Maratha attacks. This resulted in his failure to provide a sound administration to Bijapur which was the hub of Maratha activities. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Incorrect Correct In 1689, Sambhaji was surprised at his secret hide-out at Sangameshwar by a Mughal force. He was paraded before Aurangzeb and executed as a rebel and an infidel. In 1703, Aurangzeb opened negotiations with the Marathas. He was prepared to release Shahu, the son of Sambhaji, who had been captured at Satara along with his mother. Shahu had been treated well. He had been given the title of raja and the mansab of 7000. Aurangzeb was prepared to grant to Shahu, Shivaji’s swarajya and the right of sardeshmukhi over the Deccan, thus recognising his special position. Over 70 Maratha sardars were actually assembled to receive Shahu. But Aurangzeb canceled the arrangements at the last minute, being uncertain about the intentions of the Marathas. Some of the nobles were of the opinion that Aurangzeb should return to north India, leaving to others the task of mopping-up operations against the Marathas. Earlier, there was an opinion which, it appears, had the support of the heirapparent, Shah Alam, that the task of ruling over Karnataka should be left to the vassal rulers of Bijapur and Golconda. Aurangzeb rejected all these suggestions, and imprisoned Shah Alam for daring to negotiate with the Deccani rulers. Convinced that the Maratha power had been crushed after 1690, Aurangzeb concentrated on annexing to the empire the rich and extensive Karnataka tract. He unduly extended his lines of communications which became vulnerable to Maratha attacks. This resulted in his failure to provide a sound administration to Bijapur which was the hub of Maratha activities. Question 17 of 35 17. Question Which of the following were the items of import during the Mughal periods? Raw silk and silk fabrics Saltpetre Pepper Coffee Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1, 2 and 3 only b) 2, 3 and 4 only c) 1, 3 and 4 only d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Incorrect Correct Correct From Persian Gulf Region— pearls, raw silk, wool, dates, dried fruits, and rose water; Saltpetre was not the item of import during the Mughal periods From Europe— woolen cloth, copper, iron, lead and pepper. From Arabia—coffee, gold, drugs, and honey; Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Incorrect Correct Correct From Persian Gulf Region— pearls, raw silk, wool, dates, dried fruits, and rose water; Saltpetre was not the item of import during the Mughal periods From Europe— woolen cloth, copper, iron, lead and pepper. From Arabia—coffee, gold, drugs, and honey; Question 18 of 35 18. Question Consider the following statements regarding: Bajirao I had started a confederacy of prominent Maratha chiefs to manage the rapidly expanding Maratha power. Under the arrangement of the Maratha confederacy, each prominent family under a chief was assigned a sphere of influence which he was supposed to conquer and rule. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Bajirao I (1720-40), considered greatest of all the Peshwas, had started a confederacy of prominent Maratha chiefs to manage the rapidly expanding Maratha power, and to some extent appease the kshatriya section of the Marathas (Peshwas were brahmins) led by the senapati Dabodi. Under the arrangement of the Maratha confederacy, each prominent family under a chief was assigned a sphere of influence which he was supposed to conquer and rule, but in the name of the then Maratha king, Shahu. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Bajirao I (1720-40), considered greatest of all the Peshwas, had started a confederacy of prominent Maratha chiefs to manage the rapidly expanding Maratha power, and to some extent appease the kshatriya section of the Marathas (Peshwas were brahmins) led by the senapati Dabodi. Under the arrangement of the Maratha confederacy, each prominent family under a chief was assigned a sphere of influence which he was supposed to conquer and rule, but in the name of the then Maratha king, Shahu. Question 19 of 35 19. Question During the period of which Portuguese Viceroy, the Mughal ruler Akbar visited Cambay in Gujarat? a) Albuquerque b) Nino da Cunha c) Antonio de Noronha d) Francisco d’ Almeida Correct Solution (c) Akbar’s conquest of Gujarat: The last two Gujarat Sultans, Ahmad Shah III and Mahmud Shah III, were raised to throne when they were young so the nobles were ruling the Sultanate. The nobles divided territories between themselves but soon started fighting between themselves for supremacy. One noble invited the Mughal emperor Akbar to intervene in 1572 which resulted in the conquest of Gujarat by 1573 and Gujarat becoming the province of the Mughal Empire. During the period of Antonio de Noronha (1571) the Mughal ruler Akbar visited Cambay in Gujarat and the first contacts between the Portuguese and the Mughal emperor were established. Muzaffar Shah III escaped from captivity and took asylum under Jam Sataji of Nawanagar in Kathiawar region. The battle to save him was fought in July 1591 (Vikram Samvat 1648). The Kathiawar army included the armies of Junagadh and Kundla who betrayed Nawanagar and joined the Mughal army at last. The battle led to a large number of casualties on both sides. The battle resulted in the decisive victory of the Mughal army and Gujarat finally and completely fell under the Mughal empire. Incorrect Solution (c) Akbar’s conquest of Gujarat: The last two Gujarat Sultans, Ahmad Shah III and Mahmud Shah III, were raised to throne when they were young so the nobles were ruling the Sultanate. The nobles divided territories between themselves but soon started fighting between themselves for supremacy. One noble invited the Mughal emperor Akbar to intervene in 1572 which resulted in the conquest of Gujarat by 1573 and Gujarat becoming the province of the Mughal Empire. During the period of Antonio de Noronha (1571) the Mughal ruler Akbar visited Cambay in Gujarat and the first contacts between the Portuguese and the Mughal emperor were established. Muzaffar Shah III escaped from captivity and took asylum under Jam Sataji of Nawanagar in Kathiawar region. The battle to save him was fought in July 1591 (Vikram Samvat 1648). The Kathiawar army included the armies of Junagadh and Kundla who betrayed Nawanagar and joined the Mughal army at last. The battle led to a large number of casualties on both sides. The battle resulted in the decisive victory of the Mughal army and Gujarat finally and completely fell under the Mughal empire. Question 20 of 35 20. Question Consider the following statements: The Jats of the Mathura region broke out in rebellion under the leadership of a local zamindar, Gokla, against Aurangzeb. During the reign of Shah Jahan there was no conflict with the Afghan tribesmen. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect In 1669, the Jats of the Mathura region broke out in rebellion under the leadership of a local zamindar, Gokla. The rebellion spread rapidly among the peasants of the area, and Aurangzeb decided to march in person from Delhi to quell it. In a stiff battle the Jats were defeated. Gokla was captured and executed. In 1685, there was a second uprising of the Jats under the leadership of Rajaram. The Jats were better organized this time and adopted the methods of guerrilla warfare, combining it with plunder. Conflict with the Afghan tribesmen had taken place during the reign of Shah Jahan also. These conflicts were partly economic and partly political and religious. With little means of livelihood in the rugged mountains, the Afghans had no option but to prey on the caravans or to enroll in the Mughal armies. Their fierce love of freedom made service in the Mughal armies difficult.   Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect In 1669, the Jats of the Mathura region broke out in rebellion under the leadership of a local zamindar, Gokla. The rebellion spread rapidly among the peasants of the area, and Aurangzeb decided to march in person from Delhi to quell it. In a stiff battle the Jats were defeated. Gokla was captured and executed. In 1685, there was a second uprising of the Jats under the leadership of Rajaram. The Jats were better organized this time and adopted the methods of guerrilla warfare, combining it with plunder. Conflict with the Afghan tribesmen had taken place during the reign of Shah Jahan also. These conflicts were partly economic and partly political and religious. With little means of livelihood in the rugged mountains, the Afghans had no option but to prey on the caravans or to enroll in the Mughal armies. Their fierce love of freedom made service in the Mughal armies difficult.   Question 21 of 35 21. Question Consider the following pairs: Island Country Reunion Island France Agalega Island Mauritius Diego Garcia China Choose the correct code: a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Island Country Reunion Island France Agalega Island Mauritius Diego Garcia United Kingdom Hence option b is correct. Incorrect Solution (b) Island Country Reunion Island France Agalega Island Mauritius Diego Garcia United Kingdom Hence option b is correct. Question 22 of 35 22. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Yars Missile: It is a Russian-made intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with multiple independently targetable warheads. It is a three-stage, solid propellant, multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle ICBM. It has a range of 10,500 km and a launch weight capability of 49600 kg. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) The Yars Missile is a Russian-made intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with multiple independently targetable warheads. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is a modified version of the Topol-M missile system. It is a three-stage, solid propellant, multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle ICBM. Hence statement 2 is correct. It can be armed with up to 10 MIRVs, each containing a thermonuclear warhead weighing 300 kilotons. It can manoeuvre during flight and deploy both active and passive decoys, which gives Yars an advantage against modern missile defence systems. It is 23 meters long and can be launched from a silo or mobile launcher. It has a range of 10,500 km and a launch weight capability of 49600 kg. Hence statement 3 is correct. Incorrect Solution (c) The Yars Missile is a Russian-made intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with multiple independently targetable warheads. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is a modified version of the Topol-M missile system. It is a three-stage, solid propellant, multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle ICBM. Hence statement 2 is correct. It can be armed with up to 10 MIRVs, each containing a thermonuclear warhead weighing 300 kilotons. It can manoeuvre during flight and deploy both active and passive decoys, which gives Yars an advantage against modern missile defence systems. It is 23 meters long and can be launched from a silo or mobile launcher. It has a range of 10,500 km and a launch weight capability of 49600 kg. Hence statement 3 is correct. Question 23 of 35 23. Question Consider the following statements regarding Burkina Faso: It is a landlocked country in the Western Africa. It shares its borders with Mali to the north and west, Niger to the east, and Benin to the southeast. Its official language is Moore, which is used in government and education. It is a republic with a presidential system of government. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution (c) Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in the Western Africa. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is predominantly characterized by savannahs, plateaus, and low mountains in the southwest. The northern region, known as the Sahel, is arid and desert-like. It shares its borders with Mali to the north and west, Niger to the east, and Benin to the southeast. Hence statement 2 is correct. In the south, it touches Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. Burkina Faso, previously known as Upper Volta, was once part of French West Africa since 1896. It gained independence from France in 1960 and changed its name to Burkina Faso in 1984. Its official language is French, which is used in government and education. Hence statement 3 is incorrect. There are many indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, with Moore (Mossi) being one of the most widely spoken. The economy is largely based on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the workforce. It is one of the world’s poorest countries. It is a republic with a presidential system of government. Hence statement 4 is correct. Incorrect Solution (c) Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in the Western Africa. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is predominantly characterized by savannahs, plateaus, and low mountains in the southwest. The northern region, known as the Sahel, is arid and desert-like. It shares its borders with Mali to the north and west, Niger to the east, and Benin to the southeast. Hence statement 2 is correct. In the south, it touches Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. Burkina Faso, previously known as Upper Volta, was once part of French West Africa since 1896. It gained independence from France in 1960 and changed its name to Burkina Faso in 1984. Its official language is French, which is used in government and education. Hence statement 3 is incorrect. There are many indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, with Moore (Mossi) being one of the most widely spoken. The economy is largely based on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the workforce. It is one of the world’s poorest countries. It is a republic with a presidential system of government. Hence statement 4 is correct. Question 24 of 35 24. Question Consider the following statements regarding the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights: It has been constituted under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. It is mandated to monitor the effective implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act of 2012 and the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act of 2009. It works under the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Its members are appointed by the central government for a term of 3 years. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution (d) The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been constituted under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is mandated under section 13 of the CPCR Act, 2005 “to ensure that all Laws, Policies, Programmes, and Administrative Mechanisms align with the Child Rights perspective as enshrined in the Constitution of India and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.” It is mandated to monitor the effective implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act of 2012, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015, and the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act of 2009. Hence statement 2 is correct. It works under the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Hence statement 3 is correct. It has a chairperson who, is a person of eminence and has done outstanding work for promoting the welfare of children It has six members, out of which at least two are women, from the following fields, appointed by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability, integrity, standing, and experience in Education, Child health, care, welfare, or child development; Juvenile justice or care of neglected or marginalized children or children with disabilities, Elimination of child labour or children in distress, Child psychology or sociology; and Laws relating to children. Its members are appointed by the central government for a term of 3 years. Hence statement 4 is correct.   Incorrect Solution (d) The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been constituted under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is mandated under section 13 of the CPCR Act, 2005 “to ensure that all Laws, Policies, Programmes, and Administrative Mechanisms align with the Child Rights perspective as enshrined in the Constitution of India and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.” It is mandated to monitor the effective implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act of 2012, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015, and the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act of 2009. Hence statement 2 is correct. It works under the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Hence statement 3 is correct. It has a chairperson who, is a person of eminence and has done outstanding work for promoting the welfare of children It has six members, out of which at least two are women, from the following fields, appointed by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability, integrity, standing, and experience in Education, Child health, care, welfare, or child development; Juvenile justice or care of neglected or marginalized children or children with disabilities, Elimination of child labour or children in distress, Child psychology or sociology; and Laws relating to children. Its members are appointed by the central government for a term of 3 years. Hence statement 4 is correct.   Question 25 of 35 25. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954: It aims to control the advertisement of drugs and prohibit claims of magical qualities in remedies. The term “drug” refers to medicines intended for human or animal use, substances for diagnosis or treatment of diseases, and articles affecting the body’s functions. Violations of these provisions can result in penalties, including imprisonment or fines, upon conviction. It applies to all individuals and entities involved in the publication of advertisements, including manufacturers, distributors, and advertisers. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution (d) The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954 aims to control the advertisement of drugs and prohibit claims of magical qualities in remedies. Hence statement 1 is correct. The term “advertisement,” under the Act, extends to all notices, labels, wrappers, and oral announcements. It prohibits advertisements that give false impressions, make false claims, or are otherwise misleading. The term “drug” refers to medicines intended for human or animal use, substances for diagnosis or treatment of diseases, and articles affecting the body’s functions. Hence statement 2 is correct. The definition of “magic remedy” under this Act also extends to talismans, mantras, and charms that allegedly possess miraculous powers for healing or influencing bodily functions. Violations of these provisions can result in penalties, including imprisonment or fines, upon conviction. Hence statement 3 is correct. If this is the first conviction for the violator, they may face up to six months in prison, fines, or both. For a subsequent conviction, imprisonment may extend to one year, a fine, or both. The Act does not include any limits for the fines that may be imposed on individuals or organizations. It applies to all individuals and entities involved in the publication of advertisements,  including manufacturers, distributors, and advertisers. Hence statement 4 is correct. It can hold both individuals and companies accountable for contraventions. If a company violates the act, individuals in charge of its business operations may also be deemed guilty unless they can prove a lack of knowledge or demonstrate due diligence in preventing the offense. Directors, managers, or officers of the company may also be held liable if they consented to or neglected the offense. Incorrect Solution (d) The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954 aims to control the advertisement of drugs and prohibit claims of magical qualities in remedies. Hence statement 1 is correct. The term “advertisement,” under the Act, extends to all notices, labels, wrappers, and oral announcements. It prohibits advertisements that give false impressions, make false claims, or are otherwise misleading. The term “drug” refers to medicines intended for human or animal use, substances for diagnosis or treatment of diseases, and articles affecting the body’s functions. Hence statement 2 is correct. The definition of “magic remedy” under this Act also extends to talismans, mantras, and charms that allegedly possess miraculous powers for healing or influencing bodily functions. Violations of these provisions can result in penalties, including imprisonment or fines, upon conviction. Hence statement 3 is correct. If this is the first conviction for the violator, they may face up to six months in prison, fines, or both. For a subsequent conviction, imprisonment may extend to one year, a fine, or both. The Act does not include any limits for the fines that may be imposed on individuals or organizations. It applies to all individuals and entities involved in the publication of advertisements,  including manufacturers, distributors, and advertisers. Hence statement 4 is correct. It can hold both individuals and companies accountable for contraventions. If a company violates the act, individuals in charge of its business operations may also be deemed guilty unless they can prove a lack of knowledge or demonstrate due diligence in preventing the offense. Directors, managers, or officers of the company may also be held liable if they consented to or neglected the offense. Question 26 of 35 26. Question Recently in the news, the Quartet Road Map is related to? a) Israel-Iran b) Iran-Saudia Arabia c) Iran-United States d) Israel-Palestine Correct Solution (d) The Quartet Road Map, set up in 2002, was a plan to resolve the Israeli–Palestinian conflict proposed by the Quartet on the Middle East: the United States, the European Union, Russia, and the United Nations. Hence option d is correct.   Incorrect Solution (d) The Quartet Road Map, set up in 2002, was a plan to resolve the Israeli–Palestinian conflict proposed by the Quartet on the Middle East: the United States, the European Union, Russia, and the United Nations. Hence option d is correct.   Question 27 of 35 27. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Dying Declaration: It is dealt with in section 32 of the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. It can be given orally, in writing, through gestures or signs, by a thumb impression, or even in the form of a question and answer. It cannot serve as the sole basis for a conviction without the need for additional corroborating evidence. It can be recorded by public servants or by a doctor as well, where the victim is hospitalized. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution (c) The Dying Declaration is a statement made by a person who is dead. It is dealt with in section 32 of the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. Hence statement 1 is correct. It relates to the cause of death of the declarant. It can be given orally, in writing, through gestures or signs, by a thumb impression, or even in the form of a question and answer. Hence statement 2 is correct. There is no specific format required for a dying declaration. It can serve as the sole basis for a conviction without the need for additional corroborating evidence. Hence statement 3 is incorrect. It carries significant weight in legal proceedings. However, the court must ensure that the statement of the deceased was not influenced, coached, or a result of imagination. It must also ascertain that the deceased was of sound mind and had a clear opportunity to observe and identify the assailants. It can be recorded by public servants or by a doctor as well, where the victim is hospitalized. Hence statement 4 is correct. The best form of declaration of dying would be the one recorded by the Magistrate. If the person making the dying statement is likely to live, his statement is inadmissible as a dying statement.   Incorrect Solution (c) The Dying Declaration is a statement made by a person who is dead. It is dealt with in section 32 of the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. Hence statement 1 is correct. It relates to the cause of death of the declarant. It can be given orally, in writing, through gestures or signs, by a thumb impression, or even in the form of a question and answer. Hence statement 2 is correct. There is no specific format required for a dying declaration. It can serve as the sole basis for a conviction without the need for additional corroborating evidence. Hence statement 3 is incorrect. It carries significant weight in legal proceedings. However, the court must ensure that the statement of the deceased was not influenced, coached, or a result of imagination. It must also ascertain that the deceased was of sound mind and had a clear opportunity to observe and identify the assailants. It can be recorded by public servants or by a doctor as well, where the victim is hospitalized. Hence statement 4 is correct. The best form of declaration of dying would be the one recorded by the Magistrate. If the person making the dying statement is likely to live, his statement is inadmissible as a dying statement.   Question 28 of 35 28. Question Consider the following statements: An asylum seeker is an individual who asserts refugee status but has yet to undergo a formal assessment, transitioning to refugee status upon a successful evaluation of their claim. Refugee Status Determination (RSD) is a legal procedure employed by governments or the UNHCR to ascertain an asylum seeker’s refugee status under international, national, or regional legislation. Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) An asylum seeker is an individual who asserts refugee status but has yet to undergo a formal assessment, transitioning to refugee status upon a successful evaluation of their claim. Hence statement 1 is correct. Refugee Status Determination (RSD) is a legal procedure employed by governments or the UNHCR to ascertain an asylum seeker’s refugee status under international, national, or regional legislation. Hence statement 2 is correct. Incorrect Solution (c) An asylum seeker is an individual who asserts refugee status but has yet to undergo a formal assessment, transitioning to refugee status upon a successful evaluation of their claim. Hence statement 1 is correct. Refugee Status Determination (RSD) is a legal procedure employed by governments or the UNHCR to ascertain an asylum seeker’s refugee status under international, national, or regional legislation. Hence statement 2 is correct. Question 29 of 35 29. Question Consider the following statements: Fourier’s law describes how heat is transferred, or conducted, through gaseous materials. Conduction is the process by which heat energy is transmitted through collisions between neighbouring atoms or molecules. Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (b) Fourier’s law describes how heat is transferred, or conducted, through solid materials. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. As molecules vibrate and electrons shuttle about, the heat diffuses from the hotter end of an object to the colder end. It states that the rate of heat conduction through a plane layer is proportional to the temperature gradient across the layer and the heat transfer area of the layer. It is an empirical relation between the rate of heat conduction, heat transfer, and temperature gradient in the direction of heat flow. Conduction is the process by which heat energy is transmitted through collisions between neighbouring atoms or molecules. Hence statement 2 is correct. It occurs more readily in solids and liquids, where the particles are closer together than in gases, where particles are further apart. Incorrect Solution (b) Fourier’s law describes how heat is transferred, or conducted, through solid materials. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. As molecules vibrate and electrons shuttle about, the heat diffuses from the hotter end of an object to the colder end. It states that the rate of heat conduction through a plane layer is proportional to the temperature gradient across the layer and the heat transfer area of the layer. It is an empirical relation between the rate of heat conduction, heat transfer, and temperature gradient in the direction of heat flow. Conduction is the process by which heat energy is transmitted through collisions between neighbouring atoms or molecules. Hence statement 2 is correct. It occurs more readily in solids and liquids, where the particles are closer together than in gases, where particles are further apart. Question 30 of 35 30. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967: It assigns absolute power to state governments, by way of which if the state deems an activity as unlawful then it may, by way of an Official Gazette, declare it so. It applies to both Indian and foreign nationals. Under the UAPA, the investigating agency can file a charge sheet in maximum of 180 days after the arrests and the duration can be extended further after intimating the court. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967 assigns absolute power to the central government, by way of which if the center deems an activity as unlawful then it may, by way of an Official Gazette, declare it so. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. It applies to both Indian and foreign nationals, charging them similarly even if the crime is committed outside India. Hence statement 2 is correct. Under the UAPA, the investigating agency can file a charge sheet in maximum of 180 days after the arrests and the duration can be extended further after intimating the court. Hence statement 3 is correct. Incorrect Solution (b) The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967 assigns absolute power to the central government, by way of which if the center deems an activity as unlawful then it may, by way of an Official Gazette, declare it so. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. It applies to both Indian and foreign nationals, charging them similarly even if the crime is committed outside India. Hence statement 2 is correct. Under the UAPA, the investigating agency can file a charge sheet in maximum of 180 days after the arrests and the duration can be extended further after intimating the court. Hence statement 3 is correct. Question 31 of 35 31. Question Find the missing term: 165, 195, 255, 285, 345, ? a) 375 b) 390 c) 420 d) 435 Correct Solution (d) Each number of the series is 15 multiplied by a prime number i.e., 15 × 11, 15 × 13, 15 × 17, 15 × 19, 15 × 23,………….. So, missing term = 15 × 29 = 435 Incorrect Solution (d) Each number of the series is 15 multiplied by a prime number i.e., 15 × 11, 15 × 13, 15 × 17, 15 × 19, 15 × 23,………….. So, missing term = 15 × 29 = 435 Question 32 of 35 32. Question A number when divided by 729 given a remainder of 56. What will we get as remainder if the same number is divided by 27? a) 4 b) 2 c) 0 d) 1 Correct Solution (b) If first number (729) is completely divide by second number (27) then we divide remainder from second number then remaining remainder will be answer. (729/27) = 27 times Now, (56/27) = 2 Incorrect Solution (b) If first number (729) is completely divide by second number (27) then we divide remainder from second number then remaining remainder will be answer. (729/27) = 27 times Now, (56/27) = 2 Question 33 of 35 33. Question Vinay and Versha run a race with their speed in the ratio of 5:3. They prefer to run on a circular track of circumference 1.5 km. What is the distance covered by Vinay when he passes Versha for the seventh time? a) 26.25 km b) 25.25 km c) 14.5 km d) 13.2 km Correct Solution (a) Since, the speeds of Vinay and Versha are in the ratio 5 : 3 i.e. when Vinay covers 5 rounds, then Versa covers 3 rounds, but first time Vinay and Versha meet when Vinay completes {2(1/2) = 2.5} round and Versha completes 1/2 round. For Vinay to pass Versha seventh time, Vinay would have completed, = 7 × 2.5 rounds Since, each round is 1.5 km, the distance covered by Vinay is, = 7 × 2.5 × 1.5 = 26.25 km. Incorrect Solution (a) Since, the speeds of Vinay and Versha are in the ratio 5 : 3 i.e. when Vinay covers 5 rounds, then Versa covers 3 rounds, but first time Vinay and Versha meet when Vinay completes {2(1/2) = 2.5} round and Versha completes 1/2 round. For Vinay to pass Versha seventh time, Vinay would have completed, = 7 × 2.5 rounds Since, each round is 1.5 km, the distance covered by Vinay is, = 7 × 2.5 × 1.5 = 26.25 km. Question 34 of 35 34. Question The calendar of year 1939 is same as which year? a) 1943 b) 1964 c) 1950 d) 1956 Correct Solution (c) Given year 1939, when divided by 4 leaves a remainder of 3. NOTE: When remainder is 3, 11 is added to the given year to get the result. So, 1939 + 11 = 1950 Incorrect Solution (c) Given year 1939, when divided by 4 leaves a remainder of 3. NOTE: When remainder is 3, 11 is added to the given year to get the result. So, 1939 + 11 = 1950 Question 35 of 35 35. Question In a regular week, there are 5 working days and for each day, the working hours are 8. A man gets Rs. 2.40 per hour for regular work and Rs. 3.20 per hours for overtime. If he earns Rs. 432 in 4 weeks, then how many hours does he work for? a) 175 b) 160 c) 195 d) 180 Correct Solution (a) Suppose the man works overtime for x hours. Now, working hours in 4 weeks = (5 * 8 * 4) = 160. ∴ 160 * 2.40 + x * 3.20 = 432 ⇒ 3.20x = 432 – 384 = 48 ⇒ x = 15. Hence, total hours of work = (160 + 15) = 175 Incorrect Solution (a) Suppose the man works overtime for x hours. Now, working hours in 4 weeks = (5 * 8 * 4) = 160. ∴ 160 * 2.40 + x * 3.20 = 432 ⇒ 3.20x = 432 – 384 = 48 ⇒ x = 15. 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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 1st May 2024

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions.To take the Test Click Here

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[SPECIAL OPEN SESSION] Toppers’ Strategy and Interaction with – Ms. Eshani Anand (AIR 79, CSE 2023) at Bangalore on 2nd May (Thursday) @ 2PM

Dear All, Are you aspiring to crack the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) and make your mark in the prestigious civil services? If so, then mark your calendars and get ready for an insightful and inspiring session with Eshani Anand, who secured the 79th rank in the UPSC CSE 2023. This toppers' session promises to be an invaluable opportunity for aspirants to gain insights, guidance, and motivation from someone who has successfully navigated the challenging journey to the top. About Eshani Anand Eshani hails from Haryana but lived in Tamil Nadu because of her father’s job posting. She is a Computer Science Engineer with an outstanding 9.67 CGPA. She had a work offer, cracked CAT and IIFT, but she decided to stick to UPSC preparation. Eshani Anand's journey to success in the UPSC CSE 2023 is nothing short of inspirational. In her 2nd attempt she could not clear mains and, in her 1st, attempt she did not clear prelims. In her 3rd attempt she got in into IRS. She has got this splendid Rank in her 4th attempt IAS.   What to Expect? During the toppers' session, Eshani Anand will share her personal experiences, strategies, and insights that helped her crack the UPSC CSE. From study techniques to time management tips, aspirants can expect to gain valuable knowledge and guidance that will aid them in their preparation journey. Eshani's session will cover a wide range of topics, including: Effective study strategies Prelims Strategy for upcoming Prelims Time management techniques Approach to answer writing Handling pressure and staying motivated Balancing preparation with other commitments   Why Attend? Attending the toppers' session by Eshani Anand offers aspirants a unique opportunity to learn from someone who has successfully cleared one of the toughest examinations in the country twice. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned aspirant, this session will provide valuable insights and guidance that can significantly enhance your preparation strategy. Moreover, interacting with fellow aspirants and networking with like-minded individuals can foster a sense of camaraderie and support that is invaluable on the UPSC preparation journey. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the secrets of success in the UPSC CSE from someone who has walked the path to excellence. Join us for an enlightening and inspiring session with Eshani Anand, UPSC CSE 2023 Rank 79, organized by IASBABA in Bangalore. Get ready to embark on a journey of learning, growth, and empowerment as you strive to achieve your dreams of serving the nation through the civil services.   Session Details (OPEN to ALL!!!) Date: 2nd May (Thursday) Time: 2 PM Venue: IASbaba HQ, 2nd floor, Ganapathi Circle, 80 Feet Rd, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru. Google Map Link: Click Here   See you there! Team IASbaba  

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 30th April 2024

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Global Treaty on Plastic Waste Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Environment Context: On Tuesday (April 23), thousands of negotiators and observers from 175 countries arrived in Ottawa, Canada, to begin talks regarding the very first global treaty to curb plastics pollution.  Scheduled to run till April 29, this is the fourth round of negotiations since 2022, when the UN Environmental Assembly agreed to develop a legally binding treaty on plastics pollution by the end of 2024. The final round will take place in November this year, in South Korea. Background:- Plastic waste is everywhere, from the peak of Mount Everest to the floor of the Pacific Ocean, inside the bodies of animals and birds, and in human blood and breast milk. A global plastics treaty is urgently required to limit plastic’s contribution to climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Key Takeaways Since the 1950s, plastic production across the world has skyrocketed. It increased from just 2 million tonnes in 1950 to more than 450 million tonnes in 2019. If left unchecked, the production is slated to double by 2050, and triple by 2060. As plastic takes anywhere from 20 to 500 years to decompose, and less than 10% has been recycled till now, nearly 6 billion tonnes now pollute the planet, according to a 2023 study published by The Lancet. Much of this plastic waste leaks into the environment, especially into rivers and oceans, where it breaks down into smaller particles (microplastic or nanoplastic). These contain more than 16,000 chemicals which can harm ecosystems and living organisms, including humans. Plastic production and disposal are also contributing to climate change. According to a report by the OECD, in 2019, plastics generated 1.8 billion tonnes of GHG emissions — 3.4% of global emissions.Roughly 90% of these emissions come from plastic production, which uses fossil fuels as raw material. What can the treaty entail? Experts believe that the proposed treaty will be the most important environmental accord since the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. While none of the treaty’s details have currently been finalised, experts believe that it can go beyond just putting a cap on plastic production in UN member states. The treaty can theoretically lay out guidelines on how rich nations should help poorer ones meet their plastic reduction target. It may also ban “particular types of plastic, plastic products, and chemical additives used in plastics, and set legally binding targets for recycling and recycled content used in consumer goods,” according to a report by the Grist magazine. The treaty can mandate the testing of certain chemicals in plastics. It can also have some details on just transition for waste pickers and workers in developing countries who depend on the plastic industry for a living. What are the roadblocks to the treaty? Some of the biggest oil and gas-producing countries, as well as fossil fuel and chemical industry groups are trying to narrow the scope of the treaty to focus just on plastic waste and recycling. Treaty negotiations, so far, have been deeply polarising. Since the first round of talks in Uruguay in November 2022, oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Iran have opposed plastic production caps, and are using myriad delay tactics (like arguing over procedural matters) to derail constructive dialogues. On the other end, there is a coalition of around 65 nations — known as the “High-Ambition Coalition” — which seeks to tackle plastic production. The coalition, which includes African nations and most of the European Union, also wants to end plastic pollution by 2040, phase out “problematic” single-use plastics, and ban certain chemical additives that could carry health risks. The US has not joined the HAC. While it has said it wants to end plastic pollution by 2040, unlike the HAC, it advocates that countries should take voluntary steps to end plastic pollution. Source: Indian Express Joe Biden’s comments offends Papua New Guinea Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape criticised U S President Joe Biden for implying that his uncle was eaten by cannibals in New Guinea during World War II.Biden had said that after his uncle’s plane was shot down in New Guinea, “they never found the body because there used to be, there were a lot of cannibals, for real, in that part of New Guinea.” Background: The people of New Guinea have long tried to shed the cannibal label. While there have been documented cases of cannibalism among tribes on the island, the use of the stereotype has as much to do with European ideas on race and civilisation. Key takeaways : The Korowai tribe of New Guinea number between 2,000 and 4,000. Anthropologist Rupert Stasch wrote that “their spectacular treehouses, their limited possession of factory-made commodities such as cotton clothing, and their practice of cannibalism” make them “a perfect fit with Westerners’ stereotypes of ‘primitive’ humanity”. Although some anthropologists say the practice has been discontinued, the Korowai gained global notoriety as cannibals. But they themselves do not identify as such. “The Korowai have no knowledge of the deadly germs that infest their jungles, and so believe that mysterious deaths must be caused by khakhua, or witches who take on the form of men,” a 2006 Smithsonian Magazine article said. When a member of the tribe dies, his or her male relatives kill the khakhua responsible (the dying person names him). And then they eat him. As a Korawai man told the Smithsonian Magazine: “We don’t eat humans, we only eat khakhua.” Cannibalism in New Guinea has also been documented among the Fore (pronounced FOR-ay) people who live in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. This tribe of approximately 20,000 individuals (today) consumed human flesh as part of mortuary rituals till about the 1960s. For the Fore, this was an act of love and grief. “If the body was buried it was eaten by worms; if it was placed on a platform it was eaten by maggots; the Fore believed it was much better that the body was eaten by people who loved the deceased than by worms and insects The Fore stopped consuming human flesh in the 1960s after it was discovered that it was this practice that was leading to the spread of a deadly disease — kuru (literally “shivering” or “trembling”), later identified as a form of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy — that was annually killing as many as 200 Fore in the mid-20th century. The incidence of kuru has now declined, and no Fore has succumbed to the illness since 2010. In both the above cases, consumption of human flesh was a part of social custom, which helped the tribes make sense of the inexplicable, or process difficult emotions. New Guinea’s famous cannibal tribes did not eat just anybody, as Biden’s remarks appeared to imply. They were not “savages” — stereotype that has historically followed cannibals. During the last years of the 15th century, millions of indigenous people living in the Caribbean and Mexico were summarily reclassified as cannibals for reasons that had little to do with people-eating. Instead, it paved the way for them to be robbed, beaten, conquered, and slain, all at the whim of their new Spanish masters. Biden’s remarks — and Papua New Guinea’s reaction to them — must be seen in this context, where the cannibal stereotype has been used to justify the excesses of European colonialism. Papua New Guinea Papua New Guinea is a country in Oceania that comprises the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and its offshore islands in Melanesia (a region of the southwestern Pacific Ocean north of Australia). It encompasses the eastern half of New Guinea, the world’s second largest island (the western half is made up of the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua); the Bismarck Archipelago (New Britain, New Ireland, the Admiralty Islands, and several others); Bougainville and Buka (part of the Solomon Islands chain); and small offshore islands and atolls. Officially the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, it shares its only land border with Indonesia to the west and it is directly adjacent to Australia to the south and the Solomon Islands to the east. Its capital, located along its southeastern coast, is Port Moresby. The country is the world’s third largest island country, with an area of 462,840 km2 (178,700 sq mi). Source: Indian Express CRITICAL MINERALS SUMMIT Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: The Ministry of Mines is organizing the “Critical Minerals Summit”. Background: This significant event take place from April 29th to April 30th, 2024, at the India Habitat Centre in Lodhi Estate, New Delhi. About CRITICAL MINERALS SUMMIT The Critical Minerals Summit 2024 is set to be a significant event, focusing on the strategic importance of critical minerals. It is organized by the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation (Shakti), Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), and Indian Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD). The summit aims to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in the field of critical mineral processing. The summit will address the importance of domestic production of critical minerals for India’s economic development and clean energy targets. Discussions will revolve around eight key minerals: Glauconite, Lithium, Rare Earth Elements, Chromium, Platinum Group, Graphite, Tungsten, and Vanadium. Critical minerals are essential for economic development, national security, and are vital for various industrial sectors including technology, defence, energy, and healthcare. Technical sessions will cover policy incentives, mineral auction progress, and environmentally sustainable solutions for CRM ecosystem development. Source: AIR GREEN TAXONOMY Syllabus Prelims – Environment Context: The RBI and the Finance Ministry could take inspiration from the developing world, especially the ASEAN region, where a layered green taxonomy as a living document keeps getting updated with sectoral views of possible sustainable trajectories. Background: This taxonomy continually evolves, incorporating sector-specific perspectives on potential sustainable pathways. Green Taxonomy : A green taxonomy serves as a framework for defining environmentally sustainable investments. It classifies economic activities and assets based on their environmental impact. Essentially, it helps identify which activities are “green” or environmentally sustainable. Purpose and Benefits: Preventing Greenwashing: Taxonomies play a crucial role in preventing greenwashing—the deceptive practice of conveying false impressions about a company’s environmentally friendly products or practices. Informed Investment Decisions: By providing clear criteria, taxonomies assist investors in making informed decisions by identifying genuinely sustainable opportunities. Channelling Investments: They guide investments toward sustainable economic activities and assets. Structural Aspects: Environmental Objectives: Most taxonomies include goals related to climate mitigation and adaptation. Some also address other environmental objectives like biodiversity conservation. “Do No Significant Harm” Criteria: Activities considered green should not harm other environmental objectives. Social Safeguards: Compliance with human rights is often part of taxonomies. Source: Hindu NATIONAL CENTRE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE (NCGG) Syllabus Prelims – Polity Context: A delegation from India visited Bangladesh for bilateral discussions on renewing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India’s National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Public Administration. Background: The primary agenda of the visit is to negotiate the renewal of the MoU for the period 2024-2029, focusing on mid-career capacity-building programs for Bangladesh Civil Servants. National CENTRE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE (NCGG) : The National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) is an autonomous institute under the aegis of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Government of India. Its mission is to facilitate governance reforms through studies, training, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of innovative ideas. Purpose and Functions: The NCGG focuses on public policy, governance, and reforms. It conducts policy-relevant research and prepares case studies. The centre curates training courses for civil servants from India and other developing countries. It collaborates with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to provide training to civil servants from various nations. The NCGG aims to enhance the capacity of civil servants in India and other developing countries. Source: PIB Start-up Ecosystem in India Syllabus Mains – GS 2 & GS 3 Context: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the Startup Mahakumbh event that India has emerged as the world’s third largest startup ecosystem, boasting over 1.25 lakh startups and 110 unicorns. Background: The 182nd report on ‘Ecosystem of Startups to Benefit India’ was tabled by the Department Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce last year. It has provided key insights which are discussed below. Start-up: In India, a start-up is defined as an entity that is headquartered in India, which was opened less than 10 years ago, and has an annual turnover of less than ₹100 crore. It is typically characterized by its innovative ideas, products, or services. Start-ups often rely on a combination of personal savings, crowdfunding, angel investors, and venture capital to finance their growth. They are typically funded through bootstrapping, venture capital, or other means. Significance/Impact of Start-ups: Approximately 47% of the recognised start-ups are from Tier 2 and 3 cities, which provide employment opportunities to the youth. Approximately 47% of recognised start-ups in the country have at least one-woman director. They promote new ideas and innovations. For instance, Deep Tech Start-ups. Fintech start-ups are now reaching out to remote areas, for instance, Paytm, etc. Start-ups have attracted multinational corporations to bring in foreign investments. Issues/Challenges in the Start-up Ecosystem of India: Out of the total recognised startups, only 5.18% are in the agriculture sector. Only 11% of the patent applications filed by startups have been granted patents. The Economic Survey 2022-23 highlighted the flipping trend due to more access to overseas debt, eliminating the risk of angel tax, better IP protection, etc. Under Section 80-IAC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, only 1% of recognised start-ups have received the Certificate of Eligibility. This Section allows recognised start-ups a 100% tax exemption for three consecutive profit-making years. Absence of adequate and specific testing standards, particularly for startups dealing with hardware products. Funding from angel investors and venture capital firms becomes available to startups only after the proof of concept has been provided. Recommendations of the Committee: Encourage the adoption of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), data analytics, etc., to improve productivity, optimise resource utilisation, and enhance decision-making in agriculture. Establishing women entrepreneurs-focused funds to ensure uninterrupted access to capital. Relaxation in regulatory/legal framework to enable direct overseas listing of unlisted Indian start-ups and steps to facilitate reverse flipping. Amendments to the Income Tax Act of 1961 so that Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs) are taxed only at the time of sale of shares and not on notional gains. Dynamic testing and certification standards shall be established as per international best practices. Filling up the talent gap by encouraging industries to collaborate with educational institutions to create customised courses. Encourage partnerships between start-ups and research institutes for collaborative innovation and R&D partnerships. Source: PRS India Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) With reference to the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG), consider the following statements: NCGG is an autonomous institute under the aegis of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances. The NCGG focuses on public policy, governance, and reforms. It collaborates with the Ministry of External Affairs to provide training to civil servants from various nations. How many of the above given statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q2.) With reference to the green taxonomy, consider the following statements: Green taxonomy serves as a framework for defining environmentally sustainable investments. It classifies economic activities and assets based on their environmental impact. Taxonomies play a crucial role in preventing greenwashing. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q3.)With reference to the Critical Minerals Summit 2024, consider the following statements: The summit aims to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in the field of critical mineral processing. It is organized by the Ministry of Mines. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  30th April  2024 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR  29th April – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – b Q.3) – c

[DAY 50] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2024 – POLITY, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!

Archives Hello Friends The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year. It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday) CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis. To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE   60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE  Important Note Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come. It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis. Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test Time limit: 0 Test-summary 0 of 33 questions completed Questions: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 Information The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2023 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022. To view Solutions, follow these instructions: Click on – ‘Start Test’ button Solve Questions Click on ‘Test Summary’ button Click on ‘Finish Test’ button Now click on ‘View Questions’ button – here you will see solutions and links. You have already completed the test before. Hence you can not start it again. Test is loading... You must sign in or sign up to start the test. You have to finish following test, to start this test: Results 0 of 33 questions answered correctly Your time: Time has elapsed You have scored 0 points out of 0 points, (0) Average score     Your score     Categories Not categorized 0% Your result has been entered into leaderboard Loading Name: E-Mail: Captcha: maximum of 66 points Pos. Name Entered on Points Result Table is loading No data available 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 Answered Review Question 1 of 33 1. Question Consider the following statements about the Lokpal: The Lokpal has jurisdiction over only the public servants. Only a sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court can become a Chairperson of the Lokpal. The Lokpal has the power of superintendence and direction over any central investigation agency for the cases referred to them by the Lokpal. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Correct The Lokpal has the jurisdiction to inquire into the allegations of corruption against anyone who is or has been the Prime Minister, or a minister in the Union Government, or a member of the Parliament, as well as the officials of the Union Government under Groups A, B, C and D. Also covered are the Chairpersons, members, officers and directors of any board, corporation, society, trust or autonomous body, either established by an Act of the Parliament, or wholly or partly funded by the Union or the state government. It also covers any society or trust or body that receives foreign contribution above ₹10 lakh. The Lokpal is headed by a Chairperson.   The Chairperson can be any person who is or has been a Chief Justice of India, or is or has been a judge of the Supreme Court, or an eminent person who fulfils the criteria of other members for non-judicial member can become a chairperson of the Lokpal. The Lokpal will have the power of superintendence and direction over any central investigation agency, including the CBI, for the cases referred to them by the Lokpal. Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Correct The Lokpal has the jurisdiction to inquire into the allegations of corruption against anyone who is or has been the Prime Minister, or a minister in the Union Government, or a member of the Parliament, as well as the officials of the Union Government under Groups A, B, C and D. Also covered are the Chairpersons, members, officers and directors of any board, corporation, society, trust or autonomous body, either established by an Act of the Parliament, or wholly or partly funded by the Union or the state government. It also covers any society or trust or body that receives foreign contribution above ₹10 lakh. The Lokpal is headed by a Chairperson.   The Chairperson can be any person who is or has been a Chief Justice of India, or is or has been a judge of the Supreme Court, or an eminent person who fulfils the criteria of other members for non-judicial member can become a chairperson of the Lokpal. The Lokpal will have the power of superintendence and direction over any central investigation agency, including the CBI, for the cases referred to them by the Lokpal. Question 2 of 33 2. Question Consider the following statements about the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): Only a sitting or a retired Chief Justice of India can become the Chairperson of the NHRC. The United Nations Paris Principles provide for the international benchmarks for the National Human Rights Institutions. Chairperson of the National Council for Transgender Persons and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities are the ex-officio members of the NHRC. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Incorrect The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, has amended the qualification of the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Earlier, only a person, who was a sitting or a retired Chief Justice of India, could become the Chairperson of the NHRC. Now, any sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court can become the Chairperson of the NHRC. The United Nations Paris Principles provide the international benchmarks against which the National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) can be accredited. Adopted in 1993 by the United Nations General Assembly, the Paris Principles require the NHRIs to protect human rights, including by receiving, investigating and resolving complaints, mediating conflicts and monitoring activities; and promote human rights, through education, outreach, the media, publications, training and capacity building, as well as advising and assisting the government. The ex-officio members of the NHRC are: 1. Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities 2. Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes 3. Chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights 4. Chairperson of the National Commission for Women 5. Chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes 6. Chairperson of the National Commission for Secluded Tribes 7. Chairperson of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities The National Council for Transgender Persons is not represented in the NHRC.   Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Incorrect The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, has amended the qualification of the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Earlier, only a person, who was a sitting or a retired Chief Justice of India, could become the Chairperson of the NHRC. Now, any sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court can become the Chairperson of the NHRC. The United Nations Paris Principles provide the international benchmarks against which the National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) can be accredited. Adopted in 1993 by the United Nations General Assembly, the Paris Principles require the NHRIs to protect human rights, including by receiving, investigating and resolving complaints, mediating conflicts and monitoring activities; and promote human rights, through education, outreach, the media, publications, training and capacity building, as well as advising and assisting the government. The ex-officio members of the NHRC are: 1. Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities 2. Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes 3. Chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights 4. Chairperson of the National Commission for Women 5. Chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes 6. Chairperson of the National Commission for Secluded Tribes 7. Chairperson of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities The National Council for Transgender Persons is not represented in the NHRC.   Question 3 of 33 3. Question Consider the following statements about the NITI Aayog: The President of India is the Chairperson of the NITI Aayog. All Cabinet Ministers are the ex-officio members of the NITI Aayog. The Ministry of Planning is responsible for answering the questions related to the NITI Aayog. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Correct The Prime Minister of India is the ex-officio Chairperson of the NITI Aayog. All Cabinet Ministers are not the ex-officio members of the NITI Aayog. The Ministry of Planning is responsible for answering the questions related to the NITI Aayog. Note: NITI Aayog Composition: Prime Minister of India is the Chairperson Governing Council consists of the Chief Ministers of all the States and Lt. Governors of Union Territories in India. Regional Councils will be created to address particular issues and possibilities affecting more than one state. These will be formed for a fixed term. It will be summoned by the Prime Minister. It will consist of the Chief Ministers of States and Lt. Governors of Union Territories. These will be chaired by the Chairperson of the NITI Aayog or his nominee. Special invitees: Eminent experts, specialists with relevant domain knowledge, which will be nominated by the Prime Minister. The full-time organizational framework will include, in addition to the Prime Minister as the Chairperson: Vice-Chairperson (appointed by the Prime Minister) Members: Full-time Part-time members: Maximum of 2 members from foremost universities, leading research organizations, and other innovative organizations in an ex-officio capacity. Part-time members will be on a rotational basis. Ex Officio members: Maximum of 4 members of the Council of Ministers which is to be nominated by the Prime Minister. Chief Executive Officer: CEO will be appointed by the Prime Minister for a fixed tenure. He will be in the rank of Secretary to the Government of India. Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Correct The Prime Minister of India is the ex-officio Chairperson of the NITI Aayog. All Cabinet Ministers are not the ex-officio members of the NITI Aayog. The Ministry of Planning is responsible for answering the questions related to the NITI Aayog. Note: NITI Aayog Composition: Prime Minister of India is the Chairperson Governing Council consists of the Chief Ministers of all the States and Lt. Governors of Union Territories in India. Regional Councils will be created to address particular issues and possibilities affecting more than one state. These will be formed for a fixed term. It will be summoned by the Prime Minister. It will consist of the Chief Ministers of States and Lt. Governors of Union Territories. These will be chaired by the Chairperson of the NITI Aayog or his nominee. Special invitees: Eminent experts, specialists with relevant domain knowledge, which will be nominated by the Prime Minister. The full-time organizational framework will include, in addition to the Prime Minister as the Chairperson: Vice-Chairperson (appointed by the Prime Minister) Members: Full-time Part-time members: Maximum of 2 members from foremost universities, leading research organizations, and other innovative organizations in an ex-officio capacity. Part-time members will be on a rotational basis. Ex Officio members: Maximum of 4 members of the Council of Ministers which is to be nominated by the Prime Minister. Chief Executive Officer: CEO will be appointed by the Prime Minister for a fixed tenure. He will be in the rank of Secretary to the Government of India. Question 4 of 33 4. Question Consider the following statements regarding the State Human Rights Commission in India: The State Human Rights Commission can inquire into violation of Human Rights only in respect of subjects mentioned in the State list of the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The Chairperson and Members of a State Human Rights Commission are appointed by the Governor of that State. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Incorrect Correct The State Human Rights Commission can inquire into violation of Human Rights only in respect of subjects mentioned in the State List (List-II) and the Concurrent List (List-III) of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. However, if any such case is already being inquired into by the National Human Rights Commission or any other Statutory Commission, then the State Human Rights Commission does not inquire into that case. The Chairperson and Members are appointed by the Governor of that State on the recommendations of a committee consisting of the Chief Minister as its head, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the State Home Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly. In the case of a state having a Legislative Council, the Chairman of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition in the Council would also be the members of the committee. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Incorrect Correct The State Human Rights Commission can inquire into violation of Human Rights only in respect of subjects mentioned in the State List (List-II) and the Concurrent List (List-III) of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. However, if any such case is already being inquired into by the National Human Rights Commission or any other Statutory Commission, then the State Human Rights Commission does not inquire into that case. The Chairperson and Members are appointed by the Governor of that State on the recommendations of a committee consisting of the Chief Minister as its head, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the State Home Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly. In the case of a state having a Legislative Council, the Chairman of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition in the Council would also be the members of the committee. Question 5 of 33 5. Question Consider the following statements about the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC): The terms of service of the Chief Information Commissioner are similar to that of the Chief Election Commissioner. The term of the office of the Chief Information Commissioner is 5 years from the date he enters the office. After a Supreme Court inquiry, which has recommended the removal of the CIC on the grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity, the CIC can be removed from the office by the Prime Minister. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect According to the terms of the RTI (Amendment) Act, 2019: The conditions of service, which were earlier similar to the Chief Election Commissioner, have been made based on the rules made by the government. According to the terms of the RTI (Amendment) Act, 2019: The term of the office of the CIC has been reduced from 5 years to 3 years. Removal of the CIC: The Chief Information Commissioner or any Information Commissioner shall be removed from his office only by the order of the President on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity, after the Supreme Court, on a reference made to it by the President, has, on inquiry, reported that the Chief Information Commissioner or any Information Commissioner, as the case may be, ought on such ground be removed.   Incorrect Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect According to the terms of the RTI (Amendment) Act, 2019: The conditions of service, which were earlier similar to the Chief Election Commissioner, have been made based on the rules made by the government. According to the terms of the RTI (Amendment) Act, 2019: The term of the office of the CIC has been reduced from 5 years to 3 years. Removal of the CIC: The Chief Information Commissioner or any Information Commissioner shall be removed from his office only by the order of the President on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity, after the Supreme Court, on a reference made to it by the President, has, on inquiry, reported that the Chief Information Commissioner or any Information Commissioner, as the case may be, ought on such ground be removed.   Question 6 of 33 6. Question Who among of the following is/are the Members of the Committee that recommends the appointment of the Chief Information Commissioner in India? Prime Minister of India Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Speaker of Lok Sabha Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution (b) The Central Information Commission (CIC) was established by the Central Government in 2005. It was constituted through an Official Gazette Notification under the provisions of the Right to Information Act (2005). Hence, it is not a Constitutional body. The Commission consists of a Chief Information Commissioner and not more than ten Information Commissioners. At present (2019), the Commission has six Information Commissioners apart from the Chief Information Commissioner. They are appointed by the President on the recommendation of a Committee consisting of the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister. It does not include the Speaker of Lok Sabha. They should be persons of eminence in public life with wide knowledge and experience in law, science and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media or administration and governance. They should not be a Member of Parliament or Member of the Legislature of any State or Union Territory. Incorrect Solution (b) The Central Information Commission (CIC) was established by the Central Government in 2005. It was constituted through an Official Gazette Notification under the provisions of the Right to Information Act (2005). Hence, it is not a Constitutional body. The Commission consists of a Chief Information Commissioner and not more than ten Information Commissioners. At present (2019), the Commission has six Information Commissioners apart from the Chief Information Commissioner. They are appointed by the President on the recommendation of a Committee consisting of the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister. It does not include the Speaker of Lok Sabha. They should be persons of eminence in public life with wide knowledge and experience in law, science and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media or administration and governance. They should not be a Member of Parliament or Member of the Legislature of any State or Union Territory. Question 7 of 33 7. Question The jurisdiction of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) extends to which of the following? Members of All India Services. Officers in Grade D and above in Reserve Bank of India, NABARD and SIDBI. Managers and above in General Insurance Companies. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the main agency for preventing corruption in the Central government. It was established in 1964 by an executive resolution of the Central government. Its establishment was recommended by the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption (1962–64). Thus, originally the CVC was neither a constitutional body nor a statutory body. Later, in 2003, the Parliament enacted a law conferring statutory status on the CVC. The jurisdiction of the CVC extends to the following: Members of All India Services serving in connection with the affairs of the Union and Group A officers of the Central Government. Officers of the rank of Scale V and above in the Public Sector Banks. Officers in Grade D and above in Reserve Bank of India, NABARD and SIDBI. Chief Executives and Executives on the Board and other officers of E-8 and above in Schedule ‘A’ and ‘B’ Public Sector Undertakings. Chief Executives and Executives on the Board and other officers of E-7 and above in Schedule ‘C’ and ‘D’ Public Sector Undertakings. Managers and above in General Insurance Companies. Senior Divisional Managers and above in Life Insurance Corporation. Officers drawing salary of ₹8700/- per month (pre-revised) and above on Central Government D.A. pattern, as may be revised from time to time, in societies and local authorities owned or controlled by the Central Government. Incorrect Solution (c) The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the main agency for preventing corruption in the Central government. It was established in 1964 by an executive resolution of the Central government. Its establishment was recommended by the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption (1962–64). Thus, originally the CVC was neither a constitutional body nor a statutory body. Later, in 2003, the Parliament enacted a law conferring statutory status on the CVC. The jurisdiction of the CVC extends to the following: Members of All India Services serving in connection with the affairs of the Union and Group A officers of the Central Government. Officers of the rank of Scale V and above in the Public Sector Banks. Officers in Grade D and above in Reserve Bank of India, NABARD and SIDBI. Chief Executives and Executives on the Board and other officers of E-8 and above in Schedule ‘A’ and ‘B’ Public Sector Undertakings. Chief Executives and Executives on the Board and other officers of E-7 and above in Schedule ‘C’ and ‘D’ Public Sector Undertakings. Managers and above in General Insurance Companies. Senior Divisional Managers and above in Life Insurance Corporation. Officers drawing salary of ₹8700/- per month (pre-revised) and above on Central Government D.A. pattern, as may be revised from time to time, in societies and local authorities owned or controlled by the Central Government. Question 8 of 33 8. Question Consider the following statements regarding the National Commission for Backward Classes: It is a Constitutional Body under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. It was set up by the central government based on Indra Sawhney judgment. It presents an annual report to the Parliament of India. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect The National Commission for Backward Classes is a Constitutional Body under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. It was initially constituted by the Central Government by the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993. The 102nd Amendment Act of 2018 conferred a constitutional status on the Commission. The amendment inserted a new Article 338-B in the constitution. In the Indra Sawhney judgement (1992), the Supreme Court directed the central government to constitute a permanent statutory body to examine the complaints of under inclusion, overinclusion or non-inclusion of any class of citizens in the list of backward classes. Accordingly, the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was set up in 1993. The NCBC presents an annual report to the President. It can also submit a report as and when it thinks necessary. The President places all such reports before the Parliament, along with a memorandum explaining the action taken on the recommendations made by the Commission. The memorandum should also contain the reasons for the non-acceptance of any of such recommendations. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect The National Commission for Backward Classes is a Constitutional Body under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. It was initially constituted by the Central Government by the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993. The 102nd Amendment Act of 2018 conferred a constitutional status on the Commission. The amendment inserted a new Article 338-B in the constitution. In the Indra Sawhney judgement (1992), the Supreme Court directed the central government to constitute a permanent statutory body to examine the complaints of under inclusion, overinclusion or non-inclusion of any class of citizens in the list of backward classes. Accordingly, the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was set up in 1993. The NCBC presents an annual report to the President. It can also submit a report as and when it thinks necessary. The President places all such reports before the Parliament, along with a memorandum explaining the action taken on the recommendations made by the Commission. The memorandum should also contain the reasons for the non-acceptance of any of such recommendations. Question 9 of 33 9. Question Which of the following are the functions of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (STs)? Measures to be taken to reduce and ultimately eliminate the practice of shifting cultivation by the tribals. Measures to be taken to improve the efficacy of relief and rehabilitation measures for the tribal groups displaced by the development projects. To investigate and monitor all matters relating to the constitutional and legal safeguards for the STs, OBCs and the Anglo-Indians. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect Measures to be taken to reduce and ultimately eliminate the practice of shifting cultivation by the tribals.   Measures to be taken to improve the efficacy of relief and rehabilitation measures for the tribal groups displaced by the development projects. To investigate and monitor all matters relating to the constitutional and legal safeguards for the STs. Clause 10 of Article 338 reads as follows: “In this Article, references to the Scheduled Castes (SC) shall be construed as including references to such other backward classes as the President may, on receipt of the report of a Commission appointed under clause (1) of Article 340 by order specify and also to the Anglo-Indian Community”. Therefore, the National Commission for SCs works for the OBCs and the Anglo-Indians, not the National Commission for STs. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect Measures to be taken to reduce and ultimately eliminate the practice of shifting cultivation by the tribals.   Measures to be taken to improve the efficacy of relief and rehabilitation measures for the tribal groups displaced by the development projects. To investigate and monitor all matters relating to the constitutional and legal safeguards for the STs. Clause 10 of Article 338 reads as follows: “In this Article, references to the Scheduled Castes (SC) shall be construed as including references to such other backward classes as the President may, on receipt of the report of a Commission appointed under clause (1) of Article 340 by order specify and also to the Anglo-Indian Community”. Therefore, the National Commission for SCs works for the OBCs and the Anglo-Indians, not the National Commission for STs. Question 10 of 33 10. Question With reference to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), consider the following statements: It was established in 1964 on the recommendation of the Santhanam Committee. It has all the powers of a Criminal Court and its proceedings have a judicial character. Which of the statements given above is/are not correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the main agency for preventing corruption in the Central Government. It was established in 1964 by an executive resolution of the Central Government. Its establishment was recommended by the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption (1962–64). Thus, originally the CVC was neither a constitutional body nor a statutory body. Later, in 2003, the Parliament enacted a law conferring statutory status on the CVC. The CVC conducts its proceedings at its Headquarters (New Delhi). It is vested with the power to regulate its own procedure. CVC has all the powers of a Civil Court and its proceedings have a judicial character. It may call for information or report from the Central Government or its authorities so as to enable it to exercise general supervision over the vigilance and anticorruption work in them. Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the main agency for preventing corruption in the Central Government. It was established in 1964 by an executive resolution of the Central Government. Its establishment was recommended by the Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption (1962–64). Thus, originally the CVC was neither a constitutional body nor a statutory body. Later, in 2003, the Parliament enacted a law conferring statutory status on the CVC. The CVC conducts its proceedings at its Headquarters (New Delhi). It is vested with the power to regulate its own procedure. CVC has all the powers of a Civil Court and its proceedings have a judicial character. It may call for information or report from the Central Government or its authorities so as to enable it to exercise general supervision over the vigilance and anticorruption work in them. Question 11 of 33 11. Question Who among of the following is/are the Members of the Selection Committee of Lokpal in India? The Prime Minister of India The Speaker of the Lok Sabha The Chief Justice of India Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution (d) Salient features of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act (2013): It seeks to establish the institution of the Lokpal at the Centre and the Lokayukta at the level of the State and thus seeks to provide a uniform vigilance and anti-corruption road map for the nation both at the Centre and at the States. The jurisdiction of Lokpal includes the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament and Groups A, B, C and D officers and Officials of the Central Government. The Lokpal to consist of a Chairperson with a maximum of 8 Members of which 50% shall be judicial members. 50% of the members of the Lokpal shall come from amongst the SCs, the STs, the OBCs, minorities and women. The selection of the Chairperson and the Members of Lokpal shall be through a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India, or a sitting Supreme Court Judge nominated by the Chief Justice of India and an eminent Jurist to be nominated by the President of India on the basis of recommendations of the first four members of the selection committee. A Search Committee will assist the Selection Committee in the process of selection. 50% of the members of the Search Committee shall also be from amongst the SCs, the STs, the OBCs, minorities and women. The Prime Minister has been brought under the purview of the Lokpal with subject matter exclusions and specific process for handling complaints against the Prime Minister. Incorrect Solution (d) Salient features of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act (2013): It seeks to establish the institution of the Lokpal at the Centre and the Lokayukta at the level of the State and thus seeks to provide a uniform vigilance and anti-corruption road map for the nation both at the Centre and at the States. The jurisdiction of Lokpal includes the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament and Groups A, B, C and D officers and Officials of the Central Government. The Lokpal to consist of a Chairperson with a maximum of 8 Members of which 50% shall be judicial members. 50% of the members of the Lokpal shall come from amongst the SCs, the STs, the OBCs, minorities and women. The selection of the Chairperson and the Members of Lokpal shall be through a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India, or a sitting Supreme Court Judge nominated by the Chief Justice of India and an eminent Jurist to be nominated by the President of India on the basis of recommendations of the first four members of the selection committee. A Search Committee will assist the Selection Committee in the process of selection. 50% of the members of the Search Committee shall also be from amongst the SCs, the STs, the OBCs, minorities and women. The Prime Minister has been brought under the purview of the Lokpal with subject matter exclusions and specific process for handling complaints against the Prime Minister. Question 12 of 33 12. Question With reference to the Competition Commission of India (CCI), consider the following statements: It is a statutory body established by the Competition Act, 2002. Its goal is to create and sustain fair competition in the economy that will provide a level playing field to the producers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory body and was established by the Competition Act, 2002. The Competition Act, 2002, as amended by the Competition (Amendment) Act, 2007, follows the philosophy of modern competition laws. The Act prohibits anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant position by enterprises and regulates combinations (acquisition, acquiring of control, and M&A), which causes or likely to cause an appreciable adverse effect on competition within India. The goal of the CCI is to create and sustain fair competition in the economy that will provide a level playing field to the producers and make the markets work for the welfare of the consumers. It is the duty of the Commission to eliminate practices having an adverse effect on competition, promote and sustain competition, protect the interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade in the markets of India. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory body and was established by the Competition Act, 2002. The Competition Act, 2002, as amended by the Competition (Amendment) Act, 2007, follows the philosophy of modern competition laws. The Act prohibits anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant position by enterprises and regulates combinations (acquisition, acquiring of control, and M&A), which causes or likely to cause an appreciable adverse effect on competition within India. The goal of the CCI is to create and sustain fair competition in the economy that will provide a level playing field to the producers and make the markets work for the welfare of the consumers. It is the duty of the Commission to eliminate practices having an adverse effect on competition, promote and sustain competition, protect the interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade in the markets of India. Question 13 of 33 13. Question Consider the following statements about the National Council for Transgender Persons: It is a statutory body constituted by the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. The National Council for Transgender Persons is to be necessarily headed by a transgender person. Which of the statements given above is/are not correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect It has been established under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. It is a statutory body headed by the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. Five representatives of the transgender community are the members of this body. Note: The National Council for Transgender Persons: It is a statutory body headed by the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. Five representatives of the transgender community are the members of this body. It has been established under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. Functions of the National Council for Transgender Persons: To advise the central government on the formulation of the policies, programmes, legislation and projects with respect to the transgender persons; To monitor and evaluate the impact of the policies and programmes designed for achieving equality and full participation of the transgender persons; To review and co-ordinate the activities of all the departments of the government, and other governmental and non-governmental organizations, which are dealing with the matters relating to the transgender persons; To redress the grievances of the transgender persons; and To perform such other functions as may be prescribed by the central government.   Incorrect Solution (b) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect It has been established under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. It is a statutory body headed by the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. Five representatives of the transgender community are the members of this body. Note: The National Council for Transgender Persons: It is a statutory body headed by the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. Five representatives of the transgender community are the members of this body. It has been established under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. Functions of the National Council for Transgender Persons: To advise the central government on the formulation of the policies, programmes, legislation and projects with respect to the transgender persons; To monitor and evaluate the impact of the policies and programmes designed for achieving equality and full participation of the transgender persons; To review and co-ordinate the activities of all the departments of the government, and other governmental and non-governmental organizations, which are dealing with the matters relating to the transgender persons; To redress the grievances of the transgender persons; and To perform such other functions as may be prescribed by the central government.   Question 14 of 33 14. Question Consider the following statements regarding State Chief Information commission: State Chief Information Commissioner is removed by Governor. The salary, allowances and other service conditions of the State Chief Information Commissioner shall be such as prescribed by the state Government. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect The Governor can remove the State Chief Information Commissioner or any State Information Commissioner on the ground of proved misbehavior or incapacity. The salary, allowances and other service conditions of the State Chief Information Commissioner and a State Information Commissioner shall be such as prescribed by the Central Government. But they cannot be varied to his disadvantage during service. Incorrect Solution (a) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Incorrect The Governor can remove the State Chief Information Commissioner or any State Information Commissioner on the ground of proved misbehavior or incapacity. The salary, allowances and other service conditions of the State Chief Information Commissioner and a State Information Commissioner shall be such as prescribed by the Central Government. But they cannot be varied to his disadvantage during service. Question 15 of 33 15. Question Consider the following statements about the National Medical Commission (NMC): It is a statutory body constituted under the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956. The Union Health Minister is the de-facto Chairperson of the National Medical Commission. It has the power to grant license to practice as a Community Health Provider to a person who has been practicing traditional medicine. How many of the above statements are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect The National Medical Commission (NMC) has been constituted by an Act of the Parliament, known as the National Medical Commission Act, 2019. There is no such provision for the Union Health Minister to be the de-facto Chairperson of the National Medical Commission. The Commission may grant limited licence to practice medicine at mid-level as a Community Health Provider to such person connected with the modern scientific medical profession, who qualifies such criteria as may be specified by the regulations. Incorrect Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect The National Medical Commission (NMC) has been constituted by an Act of the Parliament, known as the National Medical Commission Act, 2019. There is no such provision for the Union Health Minister to be the de-facto Chairperson of the National Medical Commission. The Commission may grant limited licence to practice medicine at mid-level as a Community Health Provider to such person connected with the modern scientific medical profession, who qualifies such criteria as may be specified by the regulations. Question 16 of 33 16. Question In which of the following conditions, the President may, by order, remove from the office the Chairman or any other member of a Union Public Service Commission? If he/she is adjudged an insolvent. If he/she engages, during his term of office, in any paid employment outside the duties of his office. If he/she is, in the opinion of the President, unfit to continue in the office by reason of infirmity of mind or body. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) Removal of Chairman or any other member of Union Public Service Commission: The President may, by order, remove from the office the Chairman or any other member of a Public Service Commission, if the Chairman or such other member, as the case may be is adjudged an insolvent; or engages, during his term of office, in any paid employment outside the duties of his office; or is, in the opinion of the President, unfit to continue in the office by reason of infirmity of mind or body. Incorrect Solution (c) Removal of Chairman or any other member of Union Public Service Commission: The President may, by order, remove from the office the Chairman or any other member of a Public Service Commission, if the Chairman or such other member, as the case may be is adjudged an insolvent; or engages, during his term of office, in any paid employment outside the duties of his office; or is, in the opinion of the President, unfit to continue in the office by reason of infirmity of mind or body. Question 17 of 33 17. Question Which of the following are the powers and functions of the Election Commission? To advise the President on the matters relating to the disqualification of the members of the Parliament. To appoint officers for inquiring into the disputes relating to the electoral arrangements. To supervise the machinery of the elections to the Panchayats and the municipalities in the states. To grant recognition to the political parties and allot election symbols to them. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Correct Incorrect Correct To advise the President on the matters relating to the disqualification of the members of the Parliament. To appoint officers for inquiring into the disputes relating to the electoral arrangements. It must be noted here that the Election Commission is not concerned with the elections to the Panchayats and the municipalities in the states. For this, the Constitution of India provides for a separate State Election Commission. To grant recognition to the political parties and allot election symbols to them. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Correct Incorrect Correct To advise the President on the matters relating to the disqualification of the members of the Parliament. To appoint officers for inquiring into the disputes relating to the electoral arrangements. It must be noted here that the Election Commission is not concerned with the elections to the Panchayats and the municipalities in the states. For this, the Constitution of India provides for a separate State Election Commission. To grant recognition to the political parties and allot election symbols to them. Question 18 of 33 18. Question Which of the following statements is/are correct about the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)? The CBI derives its powers to investigate from the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946. The CBI can suo-moto take up investigation of the offences in the Union Territories. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct During the period of World War II, a Special Police Establishment (SPE) was constituted in 1941 in the Department of War of the British India to enquire into the allegations of bribery and corruption in the war related procurements. Lateron, it was formalized as an agency of the Government of India to investigate into the allegations of corruption in various wings of the Government of India by enacting the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946. As per section 2 of the DSPE Act, the CBI can suo-moto take up investigation of the offences notified in Section 3 only in the Union Territories. Taking up investigation by the CBI in the boundaries of a state requires prior consent of that state, as per Section 6 of the DSPE Act. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct During the period of World War II, a Special Police Establishment (SPE) was constituted in 1941 in the Department of War of the British India to enquire into the allegations of bribery and corruption in the war related procurements. Lateron, it was formalized as an agency of the Government of India to investigate into the allegations of corruption in various wings of the Government of India by enacting the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946. As per section 2 of the DSPE Act, the CBI can suo-moto take up investigation of the offences notified in Section 3 only in the Union Territories. Taking up investigation by the CBI in the boundaries of a state requires prior consent of that state, as per Section 6 of the DSPE Act. Question 19 of 33 19. Question Consider the following statements about the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI): The UIDAI is under the administrative control of the NITI Aayog. Only the citizens of India can get an Aadhaar Number. The UIDAI collects and maintains the information about the purpose of authentication. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is a statutory body constituted by the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. It functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Both the citizens as well as the non-citizens of India can get an Aadhaar Number. The Aadhaar Act, 2016, specifically prohibits the UIDAI from controlling, collecting, keeping or maintaining any information about the purpose of authentication, either by itself or through any entity. Note: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is a statutory body constituted by the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. It functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The Chief Executive Officer shall be the legal representative of the Authority and shall be responsible for The day-to-day administration of the Authority; Implementing the work programmes and decisions adopted by the Authority; Drawing up of proposal for the Authority’s decisions and work programmes; The preparation of the statement of revenue and expenditure, and the execution of the budget of the Authority; and Performing such other functions, or exercising such other powers, as may be specified by the regulations. The Aadhaar Act, 2016, specifically prohibits the UIDAI from controlling, collecting, keeping or maintaining any information about the purpose of authentication, either by itself or through any entity. Aadhaar is an identifier, not a profiling tool. Incorrect Solution (d) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Incorrect Incorrect The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is a statutory body constituted by the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. It functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Both the citizens as well as the non-citizens of India can get an Aadhaar Number. The Aadhaar Act, 2016, specifically prohibits the UIDAI from controlling, collecting, keeping or maintaining any information about the purpose of authentication, either by itself or through any entity. Note: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is a statutory body constituted by the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. It functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The Chief Executive Officer shall be the legal representative of the Authority and shall be responsible for The day-to-day administration of the Authority; Implementing the work programmes and decisions adopted by the Authority; Drawing up of proposal for the Authority’s decisions and work programmes; The preparation of the statement of revenue and expenditure, and the execution of the budget of the Authority; and Performing such other functions, or exercising such other powers, as may be specified by the regulations. The Aadhaar Act, 2016, specifically prohibits the UIDAI from controlling, collecting, keeping or maintaining any information about the purpose of authentication, either by itself or through any entity. Aadhaar is an identifier, not a profiling tool. Question 20 of 33 20. Question The Constitution has made which of the following provisions to safeguard and ensure the independence of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India? He is provided with the security of tenure. His service conditions are determined by the Parliament. His salary is not subject to the vote of Parliament. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct CAG is provided with the security of tenure. CAG is appointed for tenure of six years or 65 years of age, whichever is early. CAG salary and other service conditions are determined by the Parliament. CAG salary is equal to that of a judge of the Supreme Court. Salary, allowances and pension of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India comes under expenditure ‘charged’ upon the Consolidated Fund of India which is not subject to the vote of Parliament. Incorrect Solution (c) Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct CAG is provided with the security of tenure. CAG is appointed for tenure of six years or 65 years of age, whichever is early. CAG salary and other service conditions are determined by the Parliament. CAG salary is equal to that of a judge of the Supreme Court. Salary, allowances and pension of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India comes under expenditure ‘charged’ upon the Consolidated Fund of India which is not subject to the vote of Parliament. Question 21 of 33 21. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Garbhini-GA2: It is based on genetic algorithms which are optimisation techniques inspired by evolution and natural selection principles. It is tailored for accurately determining the gestational age (GA) of a foetus in the first trimester of pregnancy. Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (a) The GARBH-Ini-GA2 is a flagship programme of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. GARBH-Ini GA-2 is based on genetic algorithms. A genetic algorithm is an optimisation technique inspired by evolution and natural selection principles. Hence statement 1 is correct. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras and the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, have collaborated to develop an India-specific artificial intelligence model named Garbhini-GA2, tailored for accurately determining the gestational age (GA) of a foetus in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Incorrect Solution (a) The GARBH-Ini-GA2 is a flagship programme of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. GARBH-Ini GA-2 is based on genetic algorithms. A genetic algorithm is an optimisation technique inspired by evolution and natural selection principles. Hence statement 1 is correct. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras and the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, have collaborated to develop an India-specific artificial intelligence model named Garbhini-GA2, tailored for accurately determining the gestational age (GA) of a foetus in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Question 22 of 33 22. Question Consider the following statements regarding the GROW portal: It utilizes thematic datasets derived from remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. It is hosted on the Bhuvan platform, ensuring universal access to state and district-level data related to agroforestry suitability. It aims to facilitate restoration projects for achieving national commitments to Land Degradation Neutrality by 2030. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) The GROW portal utilizes thematic datasets derived from remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is hosted on the Bhuvan platform, ensuring universal access to state and district-level data related to agroforestry suitability. Hence statement 2 is correct. It aims to facilitate restoration projects for achieving national commitments of Land Degradation Neutrality and restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, as well as creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. Hence statement 3 is correct.   Incorrect Solution (c) The GROW portal utilizes thematic datasets derived from remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. Hence statement 1 is correct. It is hosted on the Bhuvan platform, ensuring universal access to state and district-level data related to agroforestry suitability. Hence statement 2 is correct. It aims to facilitate restoration projects for achieving national commitments of Land Degradation Neutrality and restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, as well as creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. Hence statement 3 is correct.   Question 23 of 33 23. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Lokpal: The President appoints the chairperson and members of the Lokpal based on recommendations from a Selection Committee chaired by the Prime Minister. The Lokpal can consist of a chairperson and eight members, with four being judicial and four non-judicial. Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (c) The Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013 provided for the establishment of Lokpal for the Union and Lokayukta for States. These institutions are statutory bodies without any constitutional status. They perform the function of an “ombudsman” and inquire into allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and related matters. The President appoints the chairperson and members of the Lokpal based on recommendations from a Selection Committee chaired by the Prime Minister. Hence statement 1 is correct. Lokpal is a multi-member body, that consists of one chairperson and a maximum of 8 members. The Lokpal can consist of a chairperson and eight members, with four being judicial and four non-judicial. Hence statement 2 is correct. The term of office for Lokpal Chairman and Members is 5 years or till the age of 70 years. Incorrect Solution (c) The Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013 provided for the establishment of Lokpal for the Union and Lokayukta for States. These institutions are statutory bodies without any constitutional status. They perform the function of an “ombudsman” and inquire into allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and related matters. The President appoints the chairperson and members of the Lokpal based on recommendations from a Selection Committee chaired by the Prime Minister. Hence statement 1 is correct. Lokpal is a multi-member body, that consists of one chairperson and a maximum of 8 members. The Lokpal can consist of a chairperson and eight members, with four being judicial and four non-judicial. Hence statement 2 is correct. The term of office for Lokpal Chairman and Members is 5 years or till the age of 70 years. Question 24 of 33 24. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Small Island Developing States (SIDS): They are a distinct group of 39 states and 18 associate members of the United Nations regional commissions that face unique social, economic, and environmental vulnerabilities. The three geographical regions in which SIDS is located are the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, the Indian Ocean, and the South China Sea (AIS). They were recognized as a special case both for their environment and development at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Barbados Programme of Action and SAMOA Pathway are the UN Programmes of Action in support of SIDS. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution (d) The Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are a distinct group of 39 states and 18 associate members of the United Nations regional commissions that face unique social, economic, and environmental vulnerabilities. Hence statement 1 is correct. They are highly vulnerable developing countries as they suffer from low economic diversification, often characterized by high dependence on tourism and remittances, volatility due to fluctuations in private income flows and the prices of raw materials, and debt stress situations. The three geographical regions in which SIDS is located are the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, the Indian Ocean, and the South China Sea (AIS). Hence statement 2 is correct. They were recognized as a special case both for their environment and development at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Hence statement 3 is correct. Barbados Programme of Action and SAMOA Pathway are the UN Programmes of Action in support of SIDS. In 1994, the Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA) prescribed specific actions that would enable SIDS to achieve sustainable development. The Conference also adopted the Barbados Declaration, a statement of political will underpinning the commitments contained in the BPoA. The SAMOA Pathway recognizes the adverse impacts of climate change and sea-level rise on SIDS’ efforts to achieve economic development, food security, disaster risk reduction, and ocean management, among other challenges. Hence statement 4 is correct. Incorrect Solution (d) The Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are a distinct group of 39 states and 18 associate members of the United Nations regional commissions that face unique social, economic, and environmental vulnerabilities. Hence statement 1 is correct. They are highly vulnerable developing countries as they suffer from low economic diversification, often characterized by high dependence on tourism and remittances, volatility due to fluctuations in private income flows and the prices of raw materials, and debt stress situations. The three geographical regions in which SIDS is located are the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, the Indian Ocean, and the South China Sea (AIS). Hence statement 2 is correct. They were recognized as a special case both for their environment and development at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Hence statement 3 is correct. Barbados Programme of Action and SAMOA Pathway are the UN Programmes of Action in support of SIDS. In 1994, the Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA) prescribed specific actions that would enable SIDS to achieve sustainable development. The Conference also adopted the Barbados Declaration, a statement of political will underpinning the commitments contained in the BPoA. The SAMOA Pathway recognizes the adverse impacts of climate change and sea-level rise on SIDS’ efforts to achieve economic development, food security, disaster risk reduction, and ocean management, among other challenges. Hence statement 4 is correct. Question 25 of 33 25. Question Which of the following reports are released by the International Energy Agency? World Energy Outlook Oil Market Report Global Methane Tracker 2024 World Energy Investment Report India Energy Outlook Report Choose the correct code: a) Only two b) Only three c) Only four d) All five Correct Solution (d) The reports released by the International Energy Agency: World Energy Outlook Oil Market Report Global Methane Tracker 2024 World Energy Investment Report India Energy Outlook Report Hence option d is correct. Incorrect Solution (d) The reports released by the International Energy Agency: World Energy Outlook Oil Market Report Global Methane Tracker 2024 World Energy Investment Report India Energy Outlook Report Hence option d is correct. Question 26 of 33 26. Question Consider the following statements regarding the World Wildlife Day (WWD): It was first proposed by India to the UN General Assembly in 2013. It is celebrated to promote sustainable practices that can help conserve biodiversity and raise public awareness. The theme of WWD 2024 is “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation”. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (b) World Wildlife Day (WWD) was first proposed by Thailand to the UN General Assembly in 2013. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. The General Assembly adopted a resolution on 20 December 2013, designating March 3 as World Wildlife Day in 2014. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), a global agreement to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival, was signed on this day in 1973. It is celebrated to promote sustainable practices that can help conserve biodiversity and raise public awareness. Hence statement 2 is correct. It aims to raise awareness of the interconnectedness of all living things on our planet and to promote peaceful coexistence between humans and animals through activism, campaigning, and education. The theme of WWD 2024 is “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation”. Hence statement 3 is correct. It highlights the potential of technology to advance conservation efforts. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s digital age, where technological advances can offer novel solutions to long-standing conservation challenges. Incorrect Solution (b) World Wildlife Day (WWD) was first proposed by Thailand to the UN General Assembly in 2013. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. The General Assembly adopted a resolution on 20 December 2013, designating March 3 as World Wildlife Day in 2014. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), a global agreement to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival, was signed on this day in 1973. It is celebrated to promote sustainable practices that can help conserve biodiversity and raise public awareness. Hence statement 2 is correct. It aims to raise awareness of the interconnectedness of all living things on our planet and to promote peaceful coexistence between humans and animals through activism, campaigning, and education. The theme of WWD 2024 is “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation”. Hence statement 3 is correct. It highlights the potential of technology to advance conservation efforts. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s digital age, where technological advances can offer novel solutions to long-standing conservation challenges. Question 27 of 33 27. Question Consider the following statements regarding Plaint: It is a legal document that contains the claims made by the plaintiff when they bring a case to a civil court. It serves as the initial step in starting a lawsuit. Order VII of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) particularly deals with a plaint. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution (c) A plaint is a legal document that contains the claims made by the plaintiff when they bring a case to a civil court. Hence statement 1 is correct. A plaintiff is a person who brings a civil action in a court of law. It serves as the initial step in starting a lawsuit. Hence statement 2 is correct. In fact, in the very plaint, the contents of the civil suit are laid out. Through such a plaint, the grievances of the plaintiff are spelled out, as well as the possible causes of action that can arise out of the suit. A plaint that is presented to a civil court of appropriate jurisdiction contains everything, including facts to relief that the plaintiff expects to obtain. Order VII of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) particularly deals with a plaint. Hence statement 3 is correct. A few of the essentials of a plaint implicit in itself are those only material facts, and not all facts or the law as such is to be stated, the facts should be concise and precise, and no evidence should be mentioned.   Incorrect Solution (c) A plaint is a legal document that contains the claims made by the plaintiff when they bring a case to a civil court. Hence statement 1 is correct. A plaintiff is a person who brings a civil action in a court of law. It serves as the initial step in starting a lawsuit. Hence statement 2 is correct. In fact, in the very plaint, the contents of the civil suit are laid out. Through such a plaint, the grievances of the plaintiff are spelled out, as well as the possible causes of action that can arise out of the suit. A plaint that is presented to a civil court of appropriate jurisdiction contains everything, including facts to relief that the plaintiff expects to obtain. Order VII of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) particularly deals with a plaint. Hence statement 3 is correct. A few of the essentials of a plaint implicit in itself are those only material facts, and not all facts or the law as such is to be stated, the facts should be concise and precise, and no evidence should be mentioned.   Question 28 of 33 28. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Press and Registration of Periodicals Act of 2023: It provides for the Press Registrar General of India who will issue registration certificates for all periodicals. It provides for the state governments to appoint a Press Registrar who maintains a register of newspapers. Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (a) The Press and Registration of Periodicals Act (PRP Act), 2023 has replaced the colonial era Press and Registration of Books Act dating back to 1867. The office of Press Registrar General of India – PRGI (erstwhile Registrar of Newspapers for India – RNI) shall be carrying out the purposes of the new Act. It provides an online system for facilitating the registration of newspapers and other periodicals in the country. The new system replaces the existing manual, cumbersome processes involving multiple steps and approvals at various stages, which were causing unnecessary hardships to the publishers. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting launched the Press Sewa Portal ((presssewa.prgi.gov.in), the online portal of the Press Registrar General, for receiving various applications as mandated by the new Act. The Press and Registration of Periodicals Act of 2023 provide for the Press Registrar General of India who will issue registration certificates for all periodicals. Hence statement 1 is correct. Functions of the Press Registrar General include: maintaining a register of periodicals, making guidelines for the admissibility of the title of periodicals, verifying circulation figures of prescribed periodicals, and revising, suspending, or cancelling registration. It provides for the central government to appoint a Press Registrar who maintains a register of newspapers. Hence statement 2 is incorrect.   Incorrect Solution (a) The Press and Registration of Periodicals Act (PRP Act), 2023 has replaced the colonial era Press and Registration of Books Act dating back to 1867. The office of Press Registrar General of India – PRGI (erstwhile Registrar of Newspapers for India – RNI) shall be carrying out the purposes of the new Act. It provides an online system for facilitating the registration of newspapers and other periodicals in the country. The new system replaces the existing manual, cumbersome processes involving multiple steps and approvals at various stages, which were causing unnecessary hardships to the publishers. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting launched the Press Sewa Portal ((presssewa.prgi.gov.in), the online portal of the Press Registrar General, for receiving various applications as mandated by the new Act. The Press and Registration of Periodicals Act of 2023 provide for the Press Registrar General of India who will issue registration certificates for all periodicals. Hence statement 1 is correct. Functions of the Press Registrar General include: maintaining a register of periodicals, making guidelines for the admissibility of the title of periodicals, verifying circulation figures of prescribed periodicals, and revising, suspending, or cancelling registration. It provides for the central government to appoint a Press Registrar who maintains a register of newspapers. Hence statement 2 is incorrect.   Question 29 of 33 29. Question Consider the following statements: INS Jatayu is the second Naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. Minicoy Island is the southernmost island of Andaman and Nicobar which straddles the vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs). Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (a) INS Jatayu is the second Naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. Hence statement 1 is correct. With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will strengthen its foothold in the Lakshadweep islands along with extending operational surveillance, reach, and sustenance. It will usher in a new era of capacity building and comprehensive development of the island territories. Minicoy Island is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep which straddles the vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs). Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Naval Detachment Minicoy was set up in the early 1980s under the operational command of the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep).   Incorrect Solution (a) INS Jatayu is the second Naval base in Lakshadweep after INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. Hence statement 1 is correct. With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will strengthen its foothold in the Lakshadweep islands along with extending operational surveillance, reach, and sustenance. It will usher in a new era of capacity building and comprehensive development of the island territories. Minicoy Island is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep which straddles the vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs). Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Naval Detachment Minicoy was set up in the early 1980s under the operational command of the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep).   Question 30 of 33 30. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Financial Action Task Force (FATF): It is the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog set up out of a G-7 meeting of developed nations in Paris. Recently, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been included in the FATF grey list. Choose the correct code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution (a) Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog set up in 1989 out of a G-7 meeting of developed nations in Paris. Hence statement 1 is correct. Initially, its objective was to examine and develop measures to combat money laundering. After the 9/11 attacks on the US, the FATF in 2001 expanded its mandate to incorporate efforts to combat terrorist financing. The recent removal of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list has sparked optimism for investment landscapes, particularly in India’s Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Incorrect Solution (a) Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog set up in 1989 out of a G-7 meeting of developed nations in Paris. Hence statement 1 is correct. Initially, its objective was to examine and develop measures to combat money laundering. After the 9/11 attacks on the US, the FATF in 2001 expanded its mandate to incorporate efforts to combat terrorist financing. The recent removal of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list has sparked optimism for investment landscapes, particularly in India’s Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Question 31 of 33 31. Question In a family of 12 people, the current average age is the same as it was 18 months ago because an older member died and a new member got added to the family. What is the difference between the age of the new member and the member who died? a) 24 years b) 20 years c) 18 years d) 16 years Correct Solution (c) Let the average age of the 12-member family be x years. Had the member not changed, the average age now (i.e. after 18 months) would have been (x + 1.5) years. Hence, the total age should have been (12x + 18) instead of (12x) that it is right now. This reduction of 18 years is because of the difference in age of the person who died and the person who joined. ∴ Required age difference = 18 years Hence, option c. Incorrect Solution (c) Let the average age of the 12-member family be x years. Had the member not changed, the average age now (i.e. after 18 months) would have been (x + 1.5) years. Hence, the total age should have been (12x + 18) instead of (12x) that it is right now. This reduction of 18 years is because of the difference in age of the person who died and the person who joined. ∴ Required age difference = 18 years Hence, option c. Question 32 of 33 32. Question Peter marked up the price of a product by 25% and then provided a discount of 25% on the marked price. His selling price was less than his marked price by Rs. 1,000. What would this difference have been had he marked up by 20% instead of 25%? a) Rs. 900 b) Rs. 850 c) Rs. 740 d) Rs. 960 Correct Solution (d) Let the original price be Rs. 100. ∴ M.P. = 1.25 × 100 = Rs. 125 Also, S.P. = (1 – 0.25) × 125 = 0.75 × 125 = Rs. 93.75 ∴ Difference = 125 – 93.75 = Rs. 31.25 The actual difference is Rs. 1,000 ∴ Actual C.P. = 100 × (1000/31.25) = Rs. 3,200 Hence, new M.P. = 1.2 × 3200 = Rs. 3,840 New S.P. = 0.75 × 3840 = Rs. 2,880 ∴ Required difference = 3840 – 2880 = Rs. 960 Hence, option d. Incorrect Solution (d) Let the original price be Rs. 100. ∴ M.P. = 1.25 × 100 = Rs. 125 Also, S.P. = (1 – 0.25) × 125 = 0.75 × 125 = Rs. 93.75 ∴ Difference = 125 – 93.75 = Rs. 31.25 The actual difference is Rs. 1,000 ∴ Actual C.P. = 100 × (1000/31.25) = Rs. 3,200 Hence, new M.P. = 1.2 × 3200 = Rs. 3,840 New S.P. = 0.75 × 3840 = Rs. 2,880 ∴ Required difference = 3840 – 2880 = Rs. 960 Hence, option d. Question 33 of 33 33. Question B takes 12 more days than A to finish a task. B and A start this task and A leaves the task 12 days before the task is finished. B completes 60% of the overall task. How long would B have taken to finish the task if he had worked independently? a) 48 days b) 36 days c) 28 days d) 32 days Correct Solution (b) Let us say A and B split their share of the task and started doing their respective shares simultaneously. Let’s say A takes A days to finish the task. Therefore, B takes A + 12 days to finish the entire task. A has to finish 40% of the task, since B is doing the rest. So A will only take 2A/5 number of days. B only has to finish 60% of the task, so B will take (3(A+12)/5) number of days. But as we know, B starts working along with A and finishes 12 days after A stops working. So, (3(A+12)/5) = ((2A)/5+12) 3A + 36 = 2A + 60 A = 24; B = 36 days. The question is “How long would B have taken to finish the task if he had worked independently?” Hence, the answer is “36 days”. Choice B is the correct answer. Incorrect Solution (b) Let us say A and B split their share of the task and started doing their respective shares simultaneously. Let’s say A takes A days to finish the task. Therefore, B takes A + 12 days to finish the entire task. A has to finish 40% of the task, since B is doing the rest. So A will only take 2A/5 number of days. B only has to finish 60% of the task, so B will take (3(A+12)/5) number of days. But as we know, B starts working along with A and finishes 12 days after A stops working. So, (3(A+12)/5) = ((2A)/5+12) 3A + 36 = 2A + 60 A = 24; B = 36 days. The question is “How long would B have taken to finish the task if he had worked independently?” Hence, the answer is “36 days”. 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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 30th April 2024

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions.To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 29th April 2024

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Candidate elected unopposed Syllabus Prelims – Polity Context: On April 22, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party opened its tally in the Lok Sabha when its nominee for the Surat constituency in the western State of Gujarat, Mukesh Dalal, was elected unopposed. Background:- This happened because of the rejection of the nomination papers of the Congress candidates [main and substitute nominees] the previous day and the withdrawal of other nominees. How is a candidate declared elected before polling? Section 53 (3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 deals with the procedure in uncontested elections. According to this proviso, if the number of such candidates is less than the number of seats to be filled, the returning officer (RO) shall forthwith declare all such candidates to be elected. The RO’s actions are governed by Section 33 of the Act which pertains to the presentation of nomination papers and requirements for a valid nomination.The sub-section 4 says: “On the presentation of a nomination paper, the returning officer shall satisfy himself that the names and electoral roll numbers of the candidate and his proposer as entered in the nomination paper are the same as those entered in the electoral rolls”. In the given instance, three proposers of the Congress’ candidate for Surat, Nilesh Kumbhani, claimed in an affidavit to the district election officer (DEO) that they had not signed his nomination form. They did not also turn up before the DEO on April 21 to support the candidate’s nomination form. What is the scope for negative voting in the election system? There is ample scope in the system. While the NOTA (none of the above) option has been in force since 2013, the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, allows electors to decide not to vote through Rule 49-O. A remark to the effect that the elector has decided not to record his or her vote would have to be made in the “remarks column” against the entry relating to the elector in the Register of Voters by the presiding officer, after which the signature or thumb impression of the elector would have to be obtained against such a remark. The option of NOTA, introduced through the Supreme Court’s intervention, has been available on electronic voting machines (EVMs) since November 2013. This became a reality in the wake of a verdict given by a Bench of the Supreme Court comprising Chief Justice P. Sathasivam and Justices Ranjana Desai and Ranjan Gogoi in September 2013, while allowing a petition filed by the People’s Union for Civil Liberties. The then CJI, who wrote the judgment, said: “Giving right to a voter not to vote for any candidate while protecting his right of secrecy is extremely important in a democracy. Such an option gives the voter the right to express his disapproval of the kind of candidates being put up by the parties.” He expressed the hope that “gradually, there will be a systemic change and the parties will be forced to accept the will of the people and field candidates who are known for their integrity.” There is a difference between an elector exercising Rule 49-O and one using the NOTA option. In the case of the former, the likelihood of such an elector compromising his or her secrecy is high, as there is a procedure to be followed manually at a polling booth. However, in the case of the latter, there is no such issue. Source: Hindu Success of the INS Vikrant Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Current Event Context: On March 5, both aircraft carriers of the Indian Navy, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, showcased “twin carrier operations” with MiG-29K fighter jets taking off simultaneously from both and landing cross deck as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh looked on from onboard one of them. Background: An aircraft carrier is fundamental to command, control and coordination of operations from the sea and to project combat power ashore, over the seas or in the air. What does INS Vikrant signify? : The design work on the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC)-I, later christened Vikrant, began in 1999; however 2005-2006 were probably the most crucial years for the carrier and for India’s war shipbuilding. The crucial decision was on the warship grade steel, which till then was procured from Russia. After much brainstorming, it was decided that it would be developed and produced in India, a collaborative effort between the Steel Authority of India, the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy.DMR grade steel was developed. Vikrant is an engineering marvel. It has a total area in excess of 12,450 m2 which equals to about two and a half hockey fields. The 262m long and 62m wide ship is powered by four General Electric LM2500 engines generating 88 MW of power giving it a maximum speed of 28 Knots and an endurance of 7,500 nautical miles. Built at an overall cost of around ₹20,000 crore and 76% indigenous content, the ship has around 2,200 compartments, for a crew of around 1,600 that include specialised cabins to accommodate women officers and sailors. Vikrant can operate an air wing of 30 aircraft comprising MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, in addition to indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters and Light Combat Aircraft (Navy). It uses the STOBAR (Short Take-Off but Arrested Recovery) method to launch and recover aircraft for which it is equipped with a ski- jump to launch aircraft, and three ‘arrester wires’ for their recovery. Noting that among manufacturing activities, shipbuilding has one of the highest employment multipliers of 6.48, the economic Survey 2022-23 said that Vikrant alone engaged approximately 500 MSMEs, 12,000 employees from ancillary industries, and 2,000 CSL employees. While the present Vikrant was the first carrier built in the country, India has had a long history of operating carriers. The erstwhile 19,500 tonne Vikrant was India’s first carrier purchased from the U.K., which arrived in 1961 and played a vital role in the 1971 war. Then came the 28,700 tonne INS Viraat commissioned in 1987, formerly HMS Hermes, also from the U.K. INS Vikramaditya procured from Russia and commissioned in 2013 is India’s third carrier. Source: Hindu NATIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE FUND (NDRF) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: The Union government releases disaster relief funds for Karnataka and Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). Background: Move comes weeks after the two State governments approached the Supreme Court seeking relief funds for calamities such as Cyclone Michaung, floods and drought in 2023. About NATIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE FUND (NDRF) The National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) is a crucial component of disaster management in India. It is a fund managed by the Central Government to meet expenses related to emergency response, relief, and rehabilitation during threatening disaster situations or actual disasters. The fund aims to provide immediate assistance when natural or man-made calamities strike. Decisions on NDRF expenses are made by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the National Disaster Management Authority. The NDRF accounts are audited annually by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). Supplementing State Disaster Response Funds (SDRF): The NDRF operates alongside the State Disaster Response Funds (SDRF). It provides additional financial assistance for natural calamities of severe nature. When a state faces a disaster that exceeds the available funds in its own SDRF, the NDRF steps in to offer support. Eligibility and Coverage – NDRF guidelines cover a range of disasters: Natural Calamities: Cyclones, drought, earthquakes, fires, floods, tsunamis, hailstorms, landslides, avalanches, cloud bursts, pest attacks, and cold waves. Man-Made Disasters: These include terrorist attacks, chemical or biological incidents, and nuclear disasters as notified by the Central Government. States seeking NDRF funds must submit a memorandum detailing the damage and funding requirements. The NDRF provides immediate relief assistance, not compensation for property or crop loss. Sources of Financing: The NDRF is financed through a cess on certain items, chargeable to excise and customs duty, approved annually through the Finance Bill. If additional funds are needed beyond what the NDRF provides, they come from general budgetary resources. Source: The Wire WTO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS AGREEMENT (ITA) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: India and Chinese Taipei have jointly requested the World Trade Organization (WTO) not to adopt any ruling regarding New Delhi’s import duties on specific information and technology (ICT) products until July 26. Background: ICT products fall under the WTO’s Information Technology Products Agreement (ITA). India’s involvement with the ITA has led to disputes due to the imposition of customs duties on certain ICT products. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS AGREEMENT (ITA) : The Information Technology Agreement (ITA) is a significant trade agreement under the World Trade Organization (WTO) that was adopted in 1996. The ITA aims to eliminate all import duties and other charges on specified information technology products. The commitments under the ITA become binding on a country under Articles II of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) only if they are incorporated into the Goods Schedule. Key aspects of the ITA include: Trade Liberalization: The ITA promotes trade liberalization by eliminating duties on IT products among participating WTO member countries. Product Coverage: The agreement covers a wide range of IT products, including computers, telecommunication equipment, semiconductors, software, and scientific instruments. Expansion: The ITA has been expanded since its inception to include more products and participants, reflecting the evolving nature of technology and global trade. Source: Business Standard National Research Foundation Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Education Context: The provisions of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act have been brought into force on February 5, 2024 in line with the commitment of the Government to boost Research and Innovation as the fulcrum of growth and development of the country. Background: The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act of 2023 provides for the establishment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF). National Research Foundation (NRF): It is an apex body to provide high-level strategic direction of scientific research in the country in accordance with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) and will be established at a cost of 50,000 crore over the period 2023-28. It aims to increase private sector contributions to research in India and to ensure that a larger portion of government funds go to state universities and colleges. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will be NRF’s administrative department. Functions of the National Research Foundation: Preparing the roadmap for short-, medium-, and long-term research and development. Facilitating and funding the expansion of Research and Development and related infrastructure in universities, colleges, and research institutions. Funding competitive peer-reviewed grant proposals to eligible individuals. Assisting in the transformation of research into capital-intensive technology. Enhancing India’s role and engagement in significant national and global areas. Encouraging private and public sector entities to invest in the foundation. Carry out annual surveys of scientific research, outcomes, and spending. Need for National Research Foundation: India’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) stagnated at about 0.7 percent of GDP, which is less as compared to the 2% of the global benchmark. A significant infusion of funding, steered by a clear implementation strategy, is required for India to become a science leader. 52% of GERD in India is by the government which is substantially higher than in the US (10%), Germany (13%), and China (15%). To bridge this gap, the ANRF-2023 Act plans to seek significant private-sector contributions. NRF can be a viable tool to address challenges to India’s research and development capacity. For example, a share of the funds should be targeted toward building scientific research capacity in universities and semi-urban areas. Lower spending on R&D and less innovative opportunities may force young talents to move to better terrains. India must strive to optimally use its pool of talent. Significance of the National Research Foundation: NRF will prioritize funding for projects in outlying, rural, and semi-urban areas, which are underserved and rarely receive funding for science projects. The NRF would support research in areas other than natural sciences and engineering, such as social sciences, arts, and humanities. For the implementation of missions such as the supercomputer mission or the quantum mission. The NRF will establish collaborations between business, academia, government agencies, and research institutions, and will dig into the financial resources of the private sector to ensure a financially viable research ecosystem. Limitations of the National Research Foundation: An amount of Rs 50,000 crore has been earmarked for priority areas in research over 2023-2028. It is stated that approximately 70% will be raised from the private sector. There is no mechanism in the NRF Act to ensure this support. It does not follow the principle of cooperative federalism and has no place for the representatives of state governments in the decision-making structure. The act does not enunciate the role and contribution of the relevant actors operating under the economic and social ministries in the NRF decision-making structures. The CPSEs should play a pivotal role in being vehicles for the transfer of R&D benefits from academic institutions to application to strategic areas of manufacturing. Source: Times of India CLIMATE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE AND NETWORK (CTCN) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: The Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) celebrates its 10-year anniversary as a key player in advancing climate technology and innovation. Background: The CTCN’s commitment to climate resilience and emissions reduction remains unwavering as it continues to drive technological advancements for a sustainable future. About CLIMATE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE AND NETWORK (CTCN) : The Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) is a vital initiative that connects countries to climate solutions. The Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) is the operational arm of the UNFCCC Technology Mechanism, hosted by the UN Environment Programme and the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). It was established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to facilitate the transfer of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries for low carbon and climate-resilient development. The primary goal is to facilitate the transfer of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries. Key Functions: Technology Transfer: The CTCN accelerates the adoption of climate-friendly technologies by responding to country-driven requests. Capacity Building: It provides expertise, policy advice, and capacity-building support tailored to individual countries. Global Network: The CTCN collaborates with a global network of technology companies and institutions. Source: UNEP Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) With reference to the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN), consider the following statements: The CTCN serves as the implementation arm of the Technology Mechanism under the UNFCCC. The primary goal is to facilitate the transfer of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q2.) The Information Technology Agreement (ITA), recently seen in news is related to IMF WTO ASEAN EU Q3.) With reference to the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), consider the following statements: It is a fund managed by the Central Government to meet expenses related to emergency response, relief, and rehabilitation during threatening disaster situations or actual disasters. Decisions on NDRF expenses are made by the National Executive Committee of the National Disaster Management Authority. The NDRF accounts are audited annually by the Comptroller and Auditor General. How many of the above statements are correct? Only one Only two All three None Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  29th April  2024 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR  27th April – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – d Q.3) – c

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 29th April 2024

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions.To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 26th April 2024

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Effect of rising temperature on health Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Health & Climate Change Context: A study of 266 studies worldwide,  revealed that heat waves were associated with a 11.7 per cent increase in mortality. The highest specific risk was for stroke and coronary heart disease. Background:- Even as we must try energetically to mitigate the drivers of climate change and global warming, we must prepare adaptation plans. Heat Waves and Health The consequences of climate change, mostly mediated through global warming, adversely affect human, animal and plant health in several ways: Direct effects of heat exposure on the body; extreme weather events; water scarcity; vector-borne and water-borne infections; non-communicable diseases (strokes; heart attacks; diabetes; respiratory disease; cancers); mental health disorders; food and nutrition insecurity due to reduced yield and nutrient quality of crops. Health systems will face increased demand due to these and the movement of displaced climate refugees. They will also be affected by the adverse impact of extreme weather events on healthcare infrastructure, supply chains and personnel. Of these myriad threats, heat waves are of immediate concern as summer advances across the Indian Subcontinent.A heat wave represents a combination of heat and humidity. At any level of heat, its impact on human body is amplified if humidity is high in the ambient air. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) says that such “moist heat” stress has increased by 30 per cent between 1980 and 2020. Heat acts through dehydration, inability of the skin to cool the body through perspiration, dilatation of blood vessels and thickening of blood with increased risk of clot formation (thrombosis). Infants and young children are more vulnerable than adults, since their bodies have higher fluid content than grownups. Among adults, vulnerability is high among the elderly, persons with disabilities and in those with serious comorbidities. Women are more vulnerable than men. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) contribute to 65 per cent of deaths in India. The heat effects of climate change will only exacerbate the problem. As our population ages and cardiovascular risk factors rise in our population, every 1 degree centigrade rise in ambient temperature will compound the risk of serious cardiovascular events. Wildfires triggered by excessive heat release particulate matter (PM 2.5) and toxic chemicals (ozone, carbon monoxide, polycyclic aromatic compounds and nitrogen dioxide) can cause extensive inflammation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attacks, strokes, heart rhythm abnormalities, pulmonary embolism, heart failure), respiratory disease, diabetes and pre-diabetes. Chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde (also present in wildfire emissions) increase the risk of cancer. Less immediate, but with a long lasting impact on health, is the impact on food systems which threatens nutrition security. Countries in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa currently grow staples (like rice and wheat) at the highest levels of heat tolerance. A further increase of 1 degree centigrade will lower their yield by 10 per cent. The crops will also be more deficient in zinc, protein and iron. Rising ocean temperatures will flood coastal agriculture while reducing fish yields. Loss of biodiversity will reduce access to nutritious “wild foods”. Heat will kill us not only through its effect on our skin but also our stomachs. There is a need to prepare for adaptation plans. These will include heat action climate-smart and climate resilient food and healthcare systems, and education of public and healthcare providers. Source: Indian Express Rise of a ‘new’ Japan Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s address to the United States Congress earlier this month, and the developments from his summit meeting with President Joe Biden, announced the arrival of a new, assertive Japan to the world. Background: Japan has given up its post-War pacifism and is working to become a major military power. The turn is historic, and promises to transform the geopolitics of Asia and the world. A politically resolute and militarily strong Japan contributes to India’s objective of building a multipolar Asia in a multipolar world. Key Takeaways: After World War II, a defeated and chastened Japan adopted a policy of pacifism — it avoided building significant armed capability, limited its defence expenditure, and refused to participate in military conflicts anywhere.This pacifism was rooted in Japan’s determination to expiate its militarism and imperialism in the pre-War decades. Japan’s pacifism was compensated by its bilateral military alliance with the United States. Being a protectorate of the US in Asia, Japan was free to focus its energies on rebuilding its economy. Today, Japan is set to become a major military power, transform its famed civilian industrial capability into a military industrial complex, and turn from being a US protectorate into an American partner and a significant contributor to Asian and Indo-Pacific security. This is the second Japanese transition over the last decade. In the mid-2000s, Japan began to articulate ideas for a new security architecture in Asia. Take for instance the concept of the Indo-Pacific. The late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe first spoke about the strategic unity of the two oceans (Indian and Pacific) during his visit to India in 2007. Since then, Japan has invested enormous diplomatic, political, and financial resources to popularise this geopolitical construct that was eventually adopted by Australia, Indonesia, India, and the United States. In the second transition unfolding today, Japan is matching its strategic ideas with military resources and the political will to actively reshape the regional security order. Reasons behind the radical change in Japan’s reorientation in defence: A mix of external and internal factors have contributed to its Japan’s reorientation in the 21st century. On the external front, four elements have come together: the rise of China and its military assertion, especially on the territorial disputes with Japan; the deepening military bonds between Beijing and Moscow and the coordination of their policies in North East Asia; the growing military capabilities of North Korea; and the fears triggered by the Trump Administration that the US could withdraw its security protection to Japan and other Asian allies. Internally, this situation strengthened conservatives in Tokyo, who wanted to see Japan becoming a ‘normal power’. They argued that Japan has done enough to prove its credentials as a responsible citizen of world affairs, and the time has come for it to take responsibility for its own security, and to contribute to the regional order. What Japan is doing to become a geopolitical power? First, Japan has done away with the historical cap on defence expenditure. According to data from the World Bank, in 2020, Japan’s military expenditure touched 1% of GDP for the first time in six decades. In 2022, it touched 1.1%. Kishida’s government has pledged to double annual defence spending to around 10 trillion yen ($68 billion) by 2027. Second, Japan has acquired, and is in the process of further acquiring, its own counter-strike capability in the form of cruise missiles. Third, late last year, Japan’s cabinet eased its self-imposed ban on exports of lethal weapons to friendly countries. This has paved the way for the leveraging of Japan’s immense manufacturing and technological base to aid its allies at a time when their own production capacities cannot keep up with the likes of China and Russia. Fourth, Japan and the US are in the process of revising the command-and-control framework governing their defence forces, with plans to eventually significantly integrate the command structure. Currently, the US operates military bases in mainland Japan and Okinawa island, but its command structure is in Hawai’i, the headquarters of the US Indo-Pacific Command. A joint operations command will be set up in Japan going forward. Source: Indian Express SPICES BOARD OF INDIA Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: In response to the recent ban on certain Indian spice brands in Singapore and Hong Kong due to quality concerns, the Spices Board of India has taken proactive measures. Background: The Spices Board will now conduct mandatory testing for ethylene oxide in spice consignments destined for Singapore and Hong Kong. This decision comes after the ban on products from Indian brands MDH and Everest in these countries. About SPICES BOARD OF INDIA The Spices Board of India is a statutory body established under the Spices Board Act of 1986. It resulted from the merger of two entities: the erstwhile Cardamom Board and the Spices Export Promotion Council. The Spices Board operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. Its primary purpose is to facilitate spice trade, promote exports, and safeguard the interests of Indian spice growers and exporters. The Board serves as an international link between Indian spice exporters and importers abroad. Spices Production and Export: India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices globally. India produces about 75 out of 109 varieties listed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The country’s diverse climatic conditions allow for the cultivation of a variety of spices, including: Black Pepper: Often referred to as the “King of Spices,” native to the Western Ghats of India. Cardamom: Known as the “Queen of Spices,” produced in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Turmeric: Key ingredient in Indian cooking, known for its vibrant colour and anti-inflammatory properties. Major spices-producing states in India include Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, and others. Source: Times of India Municipal Elections Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Polity Context: The Supreme Court judgment on the Chandigarh mayoral election resurfaces the issues associated with the electoral processes of local urban bodies. Background: Bench of DY Chandrachud, CJI, JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, JJ. set aside the Mayor election results and declared the appellant Kuldeep Kumar to be the winner for Mayor post since the 8 wrongly invalidated votes were cast in his favour, giving him the majority over BJP candidate. Status of Municipal Elections in India: According to the Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems 2023 by Janaagraha (a non-profit institution), over 1,400 municipalities in India did not have elected councils in place as of September 2021 which indicates a significant and widespread issue across the country. The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG)’s audit revealed that, between 2015 and 2021, over 1,500 municipalities didn’t have elected councils. Even major cities like Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru faced delays ranging from months to years in holding elections. Issues/Challenges associated with Local Bodies’ Elections: Due to the ambiguous constitutional safeguards, government officials like SECs currently possess discretionary powers when it comes to scheduling elections. This flexibility can sometimes lead to inconsistent or delayed election timelines, which may undermine the democratic process’s transparency and fairness. There is a concern about the potential undue influence exerted by state governments to delay elections for political or strategic reasons. Such interference can compromise the integrity of the electoral process and erode public trust in democratic institutions. The continued reliance on manual ballot paper-based processes introduces vulnerabilities, such as errors in counting, the potential for tampering, and delays in declaring election results. This traditional approach may not be as efficient or secure as modern Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), which could enhance the transparency and credibility of electoral outcomes. Even after elections, municipal councils in urban local governments were not promptly constituted. For example: In Karnataka, a delay of 12-24 months was observed post-elections. Way Forward: To deal with the challenges effectively, the State Election Commissions (SECs) need to play a more significant role in overseeing the electoral process using the powers mentioned in Articles 243K and 243ZA of the Constitution. Only 11 out of 35 states and union territories have empowered SECs to conduct ward delimitation. Ward delimitation is crucial for ensuring fair and equitable representation in municipal elections. SECs should be granted greater authority, including the power to conduct ward delimitation. Holding election officials and authorities accountable for any delays or irregularities in the conduct of municipal elections. This can be done through transparent investigation processes and appropriate disciplinary action. Addressing the challenges highlighted, from scheduling elections to ensuring fair processes, requires comprehensive policy reforms. The idea of ‘One Nation, One Election’ can be explored with a major focus on the efficient and timely election of the local bodies. Source: SCC Online MOUNT EREBUS Syllabus Prelims – Geography Context: According to experts, Mount Erebus, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, emits approximately 80 grams of gold every day, valued at about £5,000 (or $6,000, approximately). Background: Mt Erebus gets its name from Captain Sir James Clark Ross who first discovered it in 1841.   About MOUNT EREBUS : Mount Erebus is located on Ross Island in Antarctica. Mount Erebus is the second-highest volcano in Antarctica, following Mount Sidley. Mount Erebus holds the distinction of being the world’s southernmost active volcano. It stands at 3,794 meters (12,448 feet) above sea level. Among all the islands on Earth, it ranks as the sixth-highest point. After Mount Vinson, it is the second most prominent mountain in Antarctica. Geological Significance: Mount Erebus is classified as a polygenetic stratovolcano. Its lower half is a shield, while the upper half forms a stratocone. The volcano has been active for around 1.3 million years. Within its inner summit crater, there exists a persistent convecting phonolitic lava lake—one of only five such long-lasting lava lakes on Earth. Source: Times of India EXERCISE POORVI LEHAR (XPOL) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Recently, the Indian Navy conducted extensive exercise Poorvi Lehar. Background: Exercise Poorvi Lehar plays a crucial role in ensuring the Indian Navy’s capability to safeguard our coastal waters and maintain security in the East Coast region. About EXERCISE POORVI LEHAR (XPOL): Exercise Poorvi Lehar (XPOL) is a significant maritime exercise conducted by the Indian Navy along the East Coast. Under the operational direction of the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, this exercise aims to validate procedures and assess the Indian Navy’s preparedness to meet Maritime Security challenges in the region. Key Points : Objective: The exercise focuses on enhancing the Indian Navy’s readiness to address security threats in the maritime domain. Participating Assets: It involves Ships, Submarines, Aircrafts, and Special Forces. Phases: XPOL is conducted in multiple phases, including combat training during the Tactical Phase and successful firings during the Weapon Phase. Interoperability: The exercise demonstrates a high degree of interoperability among different services, with participation from assets of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Andaman & Nicobar Command, and Coast Guard. Maritime Domain Awareness: Continuous awareness of the maritime area of operations is maintained through the operation of aircraft from diverse locations. Source: PIB Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) With reference to Exercise Poorvi Lehar (XPOL), consider the following statements: It is a maritime exercise conducted by the Indian Navy along the East Coast. The exercise focuses on enhancing the Indian Navy’s readiness to address security threats in the maritime domain. How many of the statements given above are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q2.) With reference to the Spices Board of India, consider the following statements: The Spices Board of India is a statutory body. The Spices Board operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The Board serves as an international link between Indian spice exporters and importers abroad. How many of the statements given above are correct? Only one Only two All three None Q3.) Mount Erebus, an active volcano is located in Indonesia Italy Australia Antarctica