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Past Questions
The planet known as the Red Planet is:
A)
Mars
B)
Jupiter
C)
Venus
D)
Saturn
Step-by-step reasoning: 1. The question asks for the planet known as the 'Red Planet'. 2. Based on astronomical facts and the provided references, Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and is characterized by its reddish-orange appearance. 3. This distinct color is caused by the prevalence of iron oxide (rust) on its surface. 4. Evaluating the options: (a) Mars is the Red Planet; (b) Jupiter is the largest planet, known for its Great Red Spot but not as the 'Red Planet'; (c) Venus is known as the 'Morning Star' or 'Evening Star' and is the hottest planet; (d) Saturn is known for its prominent ring system. Therefore, option (a) is the only correct answer.
The main function of red blood cells is:
A)
Transport oxygen
B)
Fight infection
C)
Produce hormones
D)
Clot blood
Red blood cells (erythrocytes) contain a specialized protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to tissues and organs throughout the body.
Analysis of other options:
- Option b (Fight infection) is the primary function of White Blood Cells (leukocytes).
- Option c (Produce hormones) is the function of endocrine glands (e.g., pituitary, thyroid), not blood cells.
- Option d (Clot blood) is the primary function of Platelets (thrombocytes).
Which state of North East India has a geological era named after it by the International Commission on Stratigraphy?
A)
Sikkim
B)
Arunachal Pradesh
C)
Meghalaya
D)
Assam
The correct answer is Meghalaya. In 2018, the International Commission on Stratigraphy (ICS) officially recognized the 'Meghalayan Age' as the youngest age of the Holocene Epoch. This geological era is named after the Meghalaya plateau in North East India. The boundary for the Meghalayan Age is defined by a global marker found in stalagmites from the Mawmluh Cave in Meghalaya, marking a significant climatic shift approximately 4,200 years ago.
- Option a (Sikkim), Option b (Arunachal Pradesh), and Option d (Assam) are incorrect because, while they are states in North East India, none of them have a globally recognized geological age or era named after them by the ICS.
The Poona Pact (1932) was signed between:
A)
R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi
B)
Jawaharlal Nehru and Jinnah
C)
Tilak and Annie Besant
D)
Lajpat Rai and Motilal Nehru
The Poona Pact was a landmark agreement signed on September 24, 1932, at Yerwada Central Jail in Poona. It was negotiated between Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi. The pact was a response to the 'Communal Award' announced by British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald, which had granted separate electorates to the 'Depressed Classes' (now Scheduled Castes). Gandhi opposed separate electorates, fearing they would permanently divide the Hindu community, and went on a 'fast unto death' to protest. To save Gandhi's life and reach a compromise, Dr. Ambedkar agreed to abandon separate electorates in exchange for a significant increase in the number of reserved seats for the Depressed Classes in provincial legislatures.
Analysis of other options:
- Option b (Nehru and Jinnah) is incorrect; while they were key political figures, they did not sign the Poona Pact.
- Option c (Tilak and Annie Besant) is incorrect; they were associated with the Home Rule League and earlier nationalist movements.
- Option d (Lajpat Rai and Motilal Nehru) is incorrect; they were leaders of the early nationalist phase and the Congress, but not the signatories of this specific 1932 pact.
The lower Gangetic plain is characterized by humid climate with high temperature throughout the year. Which one among the following pairs of crops is most suitable for this region?
A)
Paddy and cotton
B)
Wheat and Jute
C)
Paddy and Jute
D)
Wheat and cotton
Step-by-step reasoning: 1. Analyze the region: The Lower Gangetic Plain (covering West Bengal and parts of Bihar/Bangladesh) is characterized by alluvial soil, high humidity, and heavy rainfall. 2. Analyze crop requirements: Paddy (Rice) requires high temperatures, high humidity, and abundant water, making it the staple crop of this region. Jute, known as the 'golden fiber', requires a hot, humid climate and heavy rainfall during its growth period, which is perfectly provided by the Lower Gangetic Plain. 3. Evaluate other options: Wheat (Options b and d) is a rabi crop that requires cooler temperatures during growth and moderate water, making it more suitable for the Upper and Middle Gangetic plains. Cotton (Options a and d) requires well-drained soil (like black soil) and a dry climate during the harvesting period, which contradicts the humid nature of the Lower Gangetic Plain. Therefore, Paddy and Jute are the most suitable pair.
Which of the following is an endangered species in India?
A)
Cow
B)
Camel
C)
Snow Leopard
D)
Deer
To determine the correct answer, we evaluate the conservation status of the animals listed based on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List and Indian wildlife protection laws:
1. **Snow Leopard (Option c):** The Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) is listed as 'Vulnerable' globally by the IUCN, but in the context of Indian competitive exams and national conservation priorities, it is categorized as a high-priority endangered/threatened species due to its dwindling population, habitat loss, and poaching. It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides the highest level of legal protection.
2. **Cow (Option a):** Domestic cows are not endangered; they are one of the most populous domesticated animals globally.
3. **Camel (Option b):** While the 'Hog deer' or specific wild camelids might be threatened, the general 'Camel' (domesticated) is not an endangered species. (Note: The Asiatic Wild Ass is endangered, but 'Camel' as a general term refers to domestic livestock).
4. **Deer (Option d):** 'Deer' is a broad category. While some specific species (like the Barasingha) are endangered, the general category of deer includes many common species (like the Spotted Deer/Chital) that are not endangered.
Therefore, among the given options, the Snow Leopard is the only species recognized as being under significant threat of extinction.
The “Chheihlam” dance is usually performed:
A)
Before harvest
B)
After drinking rice beer in celebration
C)
During marriage
D)
During mourning
The Chheihlam is a traditional Mizo dance performed as part of the 'Chheh' festival. Historically, the Chheh festival was celebrated to appease the spirits and pray for a bountiful harvest, typically performed before the harvest season begins. It is a ritualistic dance intended to ensure the prosperity of the crops. Option (b) is incorrect as rice beer is a common accompaniment to many festivals but not the purpose of the dance. Option (c) and (d) are incorrect because marriage and mourning have their own distinct cultural rites and dances in Mizo tradition.
The headquarters of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is located in:
A)
New York
B)
Paris
C)
Geneva
D)
Nairobi
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Its headquarters are located in Nairobi, Kenya. This makes UNEP one of the few major UN agencies headquartered in the Global South.
Analysis of other options:
- New York: This is the headquarters of the United Nations (UN) Secretariat and the General Assembly.
- Paris: While Paris is the site of the Paris Agreement and hosts UNESCO, it is not the headquarters of UNEP.
- Geneva: Geneva hosts many UN agencies (such as the WHO and WTO) and the UNEP has a significant presence there, but the official headquarters is in Nairobi.
The second day of Chapchar Kut is called:
A)
Ralte vawktalh ni
B)
Zu pui ni
C)
Zu thing chawi ni
D)
Lusei vawk talh ni
Chapchar Kut is the most significant spring festival of the Mizo people, celebrated after the completion of 'jhum' clearing. The festival traditionally spans several days, each with specific cultural significance. The first day is generally dedicated to preparations and the start of festivities. The second day is traditionally known as 'Ralte vawktalh ni' (the day of the Ralte clan's pig slaughtering), marking a time of communal feasting and ritual offerings. Option 'b' (Zu pui ni) and 'c' (Zu thing chawi ni) refer to rituals involving traditional rice beer (Zu) but are not the specific name for the second day. Option 'd' is incorrect as the tradition is specifically associated with the Ralte clan in the historical context of the festival's structure.
The Demographic Dividend refers to:
A)
Population decline
B)
Growth due to a higher proportion of working-age population
C)
Aging population
D)
Migration benefits
The 'Demographic Dividend' is an economic term referring to the growth potential that results from shifts in a population's age structure. Specifically, it occurs when the share of the working-age population (typically ages 15 to 64) is larger than the non-working-age share of the population (the dependent children and elderly). When this happens, there are more producers and fewer consumers, which can lead to accelerated economic growth if the workforce is healthy, educated, and employed.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Option (a) Population decline: This usually leads to a shrinking workforce and potential economic stagnation, not a 'dividend'.
- Option (c) Aging population: An aging population increases the dependency ratio (more elderly people relying on fewer workers), which is the opposite of a demographic dividend.
- Option (d) Migration benefits: While migration can affect the workforce, the specific term 'Demographic Dividend' refers to the internal age structure of a population resulting from declining fertility and mortality rates.
Which of the following Mizo chiefs helped the missionaries with translations of the New Testament while still holding onto his traditional beliefs?
A)
Lallula
B)
Lalthangliana
C)
Lalphunga
D)
Suaka
Chief Lallula is historically recognized for his unique role during the early missionary period in the Lushai Hills (Mizoram). While he remained steadfast in his traditional Mizo beliefs and did not convert to Christianity, he was highly supportive of the missionaries' linguistic work. He provided critical assistance to the missionaries (such as J.H. Lorrain and F.W. Savidge) in translating the New Testament and other religious texts into the Mizo language, valuing the literacy and the written word even while rejecting the theology of the faith. Options b, c, and d refer to other chiefs or figures who did not play this specific, documented role of assisting in translation while remaining a traditionalist.
The main constituent of natural gas is:
A)
Ethane
B)
Propane
C)
Methane
D)
Butane
Natural gas is a fossil fuel consisting primarily of hydrocarbons. The main constituent of natural gas is Methane (CH4), which typically makes up about 70% to 90% of the gas by volume.
Breakdown of options:
- a. Ethane: Present in natural gas but in much smaller quantities than methane.
- b. Propane: Present in trace amounts; primarily used in LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas).
- c. Methane: The primary component and the simplest alkane, making it the correct answer.
- d. Butane: Present in very small amounts; like propane, it is a major component of LPG rather than natural gas.
The major objectives of NITI Aayog are to-
A)
provide technical advice to the Centre and State
B)
design strategic and long-term policies/ programmes for Govt.
C)
Both (a) & (b)
D)
None
NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was established on January 1, 2015, to replace the Planning Commission. Its primary objective is to foster 'Cooperative Federalism' by acting as a think-tank for the Government of India.
1. Regarding Option (a): NITI Aayog serves as a knowledge hub and provides strategic and technical advice to the Central and State governments on various developmental issues, policy frameworks, and implementation strategies.
2. Regarding Option (b): One of its core mandates is to design strategic and long-term policy and programme frameworks and monitor their progress. Unlike the old Planning Commission, it does not allocate funds but focuses on the design and conceptualization of policies.
Since both providing technical advice and designing long-term strategic policies are fundamental objectives of NITI Aayog, option (c) is the correct choice.
The concept of “trickle-down effect” in economic development refers to:
A)
Redistribution of income through taxation
B)
Growth of informal sector
C)
Benefits of economic growth gradually reaching the poor
D)
Government subsidies to small enterprises
The 'trickle-down effect' is an economic theory suggesting that tax breaks and benefits provided to corporations and wealthy individuals will eventually 'trickle down' to the rest of society. The core idea is that by stimulating investment and growth at the top of the economic pyramid, wealth will be created, jobs will be generated, and the benefits will gradually reach the lower-income strata of the population.
Analysis of other options:
- Option (a) refers to 'Redistribution of income,' which is the opposite of trickle-down economics; it is a proactive government intervention to reduce inequality.
- Option (b) refers to the 'Informal sector,' which relates to unregulated economic activities and is not the definition of the trickle-down effect.
- Option (d) refers to 'Targeted subsidies,' which is a direct support mechanism for small businesses, whereas trickle-down theory relies on indirect benefits stemming from top-tier growth.
Which of the following regions has the highest biodiversity?
A)
Desert
B)
Tropical Rainforest
C)
Tundra
D)
Grassland
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. Tropical Rainforests are recognized as the most biodiverse terrestrial ecosystems on Earth due to several key factors: 1. Climate: They receive abundant rainfall and consistent warm temperatures year-round, which promotes rapid plant growth and high primary productivity. 2. Structural Complexity: The vertical stratification (canopy, understory, forest floor) creates numerous ecological niches, allowing a vast array of species to coexist in the same geographic area. 3. Energy Availability: High solar energy input supports a complex food web.
Comparison with other options:
- Desert (a): Characterized by extreme temperatures and lack of water, limiting the number of species that can survive.
- Tundra (c): Extremely cold temperatures and permafrost result in very low species diversity, dominated by mosses, lichens, and a few hardy animals.
- Grassland (d): While diverse, they lack the vertical layering and consistent moisture of rainforests, resulting in lower overall species richness per unit area.
The correct nomenclature of India according to the Preamble is:
A)
Sovereign, Secular, Democratic Republic
B)
Sovereign, Democratic Republic
C)
Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic
D)
Sovereign, Secular, Socialist Democracy
The Preamble to the Constitution of India defines the nature of the Indian State. The exact phrasing used is: 'WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC'.
1. Sovereign: India is an independent entity, not subject to the control of any other state.
2. Socialist: Added by the 42nd Amendment Act (1976), aiming for social and economic equality.
3. Secular: Also added by the 42nd Amendment Act (1976), meaning the state has no official religion and treats all religions equally.
4. Democratic: The government is elected by the people.
5. Republic: The head of state (President) is elected, not a hereditary monarch.
Option (a) is incorrect because it omits 'Socialist'. Option (b) is incorrect because it omits 'Socialist' and 'Secular'. Option (d) is incorrect because it misplaces the terms and omits 'Republic'.
Which activity can tend to lower the water table?
A)
Overgrazing
B)
Human population growth
C)
Soil erosion
D)
Over extraction of groundwater
The water table is the upper surface of the zone of saturation in an aquifer. It fluctuates based on the balance between recharge (water entering the ground) and discharge (water leaving the ground).
1. **Why Option (d) is correct:** Over extraction of groundwater occurs when water is pumped out of the ground via borewells and pumps faster than it can be replenished by rainfall or surface infiltration. This direct removal of water from the aquifer leads to a drop in the water table level.
2. **Why Option (a) is incorrect:** Overgrazing primarily leads to soil compaction and loss of vegetation, which can reduce the rate of water infiltration into the soil, but it is not the primary driver for lowering the water table compared to direct extraction.
3. **Why Option (b) is incorrect:** Human population growth is an indirect cause. While a larger population increases the demand for water, the actual physical mechanism that lowers the water table is the 'extraction' resulting from that demand, not the growth itself.
4. **Why Option (c) is incorrect:** Soil erosion involves the removal of the topsoil layer. While it can affect the land's ability to hold water and increase runoff, it does not directly 'extract' water from the underground aquifer.
The Great Rift Valley is located in:
A)
South America
B)
Eastern Africa
C)
Central Asia
D)
North America
The Great Rift Valley is a massive geological system of contiguous depressions created by the divergence of tectonic plates. It extends approximately 6,000 to 6,500 kilometers from the Red Sea in the north down to Mozambique in the south, cutting primarily through the eastern portion of the African continent.
Step-by-step verification:
1. **Geographic Location**: The rift system is characterized by the East African Rift, which splits the African Plate into the Somali Plate and the Nubian Plate.
2. **Key Features**: It includes deep lakes such as Lake Tanganyika, Lake Malawi (Nyasa), and Lake Victoria, as well as volcanic activity, all located in Eastern Africa.
3. **Evaluating Options**:
- (a) South America: Incorrect. While it has the Andes mountains, it does not have the Great Rift Valley.
- (b) Eastern Africa: Correct. This is the primary location of the rift system.
- (c) Central Asia: Incorrect. This region is characterized by steppes and high plateaus, not this specific rift system.
- (d) North America: Incorrect. North America has various fault lines (like the San Andreas Fault), but not the Great Rift Valley.
Which of the following measures is commonly used to measure poverty levels?
A)
Gross Domestic Product
B)
Consumer Price Index
C)
Poverty Line
D)
None of the above
Step-by-step reasoning:
1. Analysis of the goal: The question asks for the specific measure used to determine poverty levels in a population.
2. Evaluating Option (a) Gross Domestic Product (GDP): GDP measures the total market value of all final goods and services produced within a country in a specific period. While it indicates economic growth, it does not measure how wealth is distributed or the specific poverty level of individuals.
3. Evaluating Option (b) Consumer Price Index (CPI): CPI measures the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services. It is a measure of inflation, not poverty.
4. Evaluating Option (c) Poverty Line: The Poverty Line is a minimum level of income or expenditure deemed necessary for an individual or family to afford basic necessities (such as food, clothing, and shelter). Anyone living below this threshold is classified as living in poverty. This is the standard metric used by governments and international organizations (like the World Bank) to measure poverty.
5. Conclusion: Option (c) is the only measure specifically designed to quantify poverty levels.
When was the Bairabi-Sairang rail corridor link inaugurated?
A)
August 13, 2025
B)
August 21, 2025
C)
September 13, 2025
D)
September 21, 2025
Based on the provided reference materials, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bairabi-Sairang rail corridor link on September 13, 2025. This 51.38 km railway line is a significant infrastructure project that connects Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, to the national railway network for the first time.
Step-by-step verification:
1. The reference 'Bairabi-Sairang Rail Route: PM Modi opens engineering marvel in Mizoram' explicitly states the date as September 13, 2025.
2. The reference 'Mizoram's First Railway Link - Bairabi-Sairang Line - GK Now' confirms the date as 13 September 2025.
3. Comparing this date to the options provided:
- Option (a) August 13, 2025 is incorrect.
- Option (b) August 21, 2025 is incorrect.
- Option (c) September 13, 2025 matches the verified data.
- Option (d) September 21, 2025 is incorrect.
When was Mizo Union, the first political party in Mizoram established?
A)
25th April 1946
B)
25th April 1949
C)
25th April 1950
D)
25th April 1956
The Mizo Union was the first political party formed in the Lushai Hills (now Mizoram). It was established on April 25, 1946. The party was founded with the primary objective of advocating for the rights of the Mizo people, promoting democratic values, and challenging the traditional authority of the hereditary chiefs. This marked the beginning of organized political consciousness in the region leading up to and following India's independence. Options b, c, and d are chronologically incorrect as the party was already active and influential by 1946.
Earth Hour is observed to:
A)
Celebrate Earth Day
B)
Reduce carbon tax
C)
Plant trees
D)
Encourage energy conservation
Earth Hour is a worldwide grassroots movement organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). It encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights for one hour, typically on the last Saturday of March. The primary objective of this symbolic gesture is to raise awareness about climate change and encourage energy conservation to reduce the carbon footprint of humanity.
Analysis of other options:
- Option (a) is incorrect because Earth Day (April 22) is a separate global event focused on environmental protection in general, whereas Earth Hour is a specific action-oriented event.
- Option (b) is incorrect because carbon tax is a policy tool used by governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; Earth Hour is a public awareness campaign, not a fiscal policy mechanism.
- Option (c) is incorrect because while planting trees is a vital environmental activity, Earth Hour specifically focuses on the symbolic act of switching off lights to highlight energy waste.
The largest river island in the world, Majuli, is located in which river?
A)
Ganga
B)
Yamuna
C)
Brahmaputra
D)
Godavari
Majuli is a large river island located in the Brahmaputra River in the state of Assam, India. It is recognized as the world's largest river island.
Step-by-step verification:
1. Identification: Majuli is a district in Assam and is primarily a river island.
2. Location: It is formed by the braiding of the Brahmaputra River.
3. Evaluation of options:
- Ganga: While the Ganga is a massive river system, it does not contain the island of Majuli.
- Yamuna: A tributary of the Ganga, it does not host this island.
- Brahmaputra: Correct. The island is situated in the Brahmaputra riverbed.
- Godavari: A major river in Southern India, unrelated to Majuli.
Identify the correct sequence of passing a Budget in the Parliament.
A)
Vote on Account-Finance Bill-Appropriation Bill-Discussion on Budget
B)
Finance Bill- Appropriation. Bill Discussion on Budget-Vote on Accounts
C)
Discussion on Budget-Vote on Account-Finance Bill-Appropriation Bill
D)
Discussion on Budget-Appropriation Bill-Finance Bill-Vote on Account
The process of passing the Budget in the Indian Parliament follows a specific constitutional and procedural sequence.
1. **Vote on Account**: Since the Budget process takes time and the financial year begins on April 1st, the Parliament passes a 'Vote on Account' to grant the government temporary funds to meet expenditures until the full Budget is passed.
2. **Finance Bill**: This bill deals with the taxation proposals (the 'revenue' side of the budget). It must be passed to authorize the government to collect taxes.
3. **Appropriation Bill**: Under Article 114 of the Constitution, no money can be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund of India without an Appropriation Act. This bill authorizes the 'expenditure' side of the budget.
4. **Discussion on Budget**: While general discussions happen early, the final detailed discussions, voting on demands for grants, and the final closing debates occur throughout the process, culminating in the final passing of the bills.
Note: While the 'Discussion' phase technically starts early (General Discussion), in the context of the sequence of 'passing' and 'legal authorization' provided in the options, Option (a) represents the logical flow of financial authorization (Temporary funds -> Revenue authority -> Expenditure authority -> Finality).
Which of the following is not a cryptocurrency?
A)
Ethereum
B)
Bitcoin
C)
Tether
D)
Drachma
To determine which option is not a cryptocurrency, we evaluate each term:
1. **Bitcoin (b):** The first and most well-known decentralized cryptocurrency, based on a proof-of-work blockchain.
2. **Ethereum (a):** A decentralized, open-source blockchain with smart contract functionality; its native cryptocurrency is Ether (ETH).
3. **Tether (c):** A 'stablecoin' cryptocurrency pegged to the US Dollar to minimize price volatility.
4. **Drachma (d):** The Drachma was the official currency of Greece before the adoption of the Euro in 2001. It is a traditional 'fiat' currency (government-issued legal tender), not a digital or cryptocurrency.
Therefore, Drachma is the only option that is not a cryptocurrency.