Past Questions — 2025

Uttarakhand became the first state in independent India to pass a bill to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2024, was passed by the state assembly in February 2024. The UCC aims to replace fragmented personal laws based on scriptures and customs of various religions with a common set of laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, regardless of their religion. - Option (a) Himachal Pradesh: While it has discussed the concept, it has not implemented a UCC. - Option (c) Uttar Pradesh: There have been political discussions regarding UCC, but no legislation has been passed. - Option (d) Maharashtra: It has not implemented a UCC. Note: While Goa has had a common civil code (the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867) since before independence, Uttarakhand is the first state to independently legislate and implement its own UCC in the post-independence era.

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is designed as a 'right to work' program that provides a legal guarantee for 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to every rural household. 1. Why Option (c) is correct: The theoretical foundation of MGNREGA aligns with Keynesian economics, which emphasizes that during periods of economic downturn or unemployment, the government should intervene through public spending to stimulate aggregate demand. By providing guaranteed wages to the rural poor, MGNREGA injects liquidity into the rural economy, increasing the purchasing power of laborers, which in turn stimulates demand for goods and services (a demand-side stimulus). 2. Why Option (a) is incorrect: MGNREGA focuses on providing 'unskilled' manual labor. While some asset creation occurs, its primary goal is employment security and poverty alleviation, not high-end supply-side skilling or productivity targeting. 3. Why Option (b) is incorrect: Structural adjustment usually refers to macroeconomic policies (often mandated by the IMF) to reduce fiscal deficits and shift economic structures. MGNREGA is a social security measure, not a structural adjustment tool for agricultural surplus. 4. Why Option (d) is incorrect: Monetarism emphasizes controlling the money supply and believes in wage flexibility (letting wages drop to clear the labor market). MGNREGA does the opposite by setting a 'floor' wage (the minimum wage), preventing wages from falling below a certain level, which contradicts the monetarist principle of wage flexibility.

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).

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 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 Human Development Index (HDI) was created in 1990 by Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq in collaboration with Indian economist Prof. Amartya Sen. While both contributed to the conceptual framework (specifically Sen's 'capabilities approach'), Mahbub ul Haq is credited as the primary developer who operationalized the index to shift the focus of development from purely economic growth (GDP) to human-centric metrics. Breakdown of options: - Option (a) Mahbub ul Haq: Correct. He developed the HDI to emphasize that people and their capabilities should be the ultimate criteria for assessing the development of a country. - Option (b) Prof. Amartya Sen: While he provided the theoretical foundation (Capability Approach), the index itself is primarily attributed to Haq. - Option (c) Gunnar Myrdal: A Swedish economist known for the 'Circular Cumulative Causation' theory and work on inequality, but not the creator of HDI. - Option (d) Paul Krugman: A Nobel laureate known for New Trade Theory and New Economic Geography, unrelated to the creation of the HDI.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5th. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 during the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment. The day aims to raise global awareness and encourage action for the protection of our environment. Analysis of options: - April 5: Not a globally recognized environmental day. - May 5: Not the date for World Environment Day. - June 5: The correct official date designated by the UN. - November 4: Not the date for World Environment Day.

Blood consists of several components, each with a specific function: 1. Platelets (Thrombocytes): These are small, colorless cell fragments that are essential for blood clotting (coagulation). When a blood vessel is injured, platelets adhere to the site of the wound and clump together to form a 'platelet plug,' preventing excessive blood loss. 2. RBCs (Red Blood Cells/Erythrocytes): Their primary role is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body using a protein called hemoglobin. 3. WBCs (White Blood Cells/Leukocytes): These are part of the immune system and help the body fight infections and foreign invaders. 4. Plasma: This is the liquid component of blood that carries nutrients, hormones, and proteins throughout the body, but it is not a 'cell'. Therefore, platelets are the specific blood cells responsible for clotting.

In Mizo culture, 'Khuallam' is specifically known as the 'dance of the guest.' The word 'Khual' means guest or stranger, and 'Lam' means dance. Historically, it was performed to welcome guests or visitors to the village, making it the traditional welcome dance. Analysis of other options: - Cheraw: This is the famous 'Bamboo Dance,' typically performed during festivals or as a celebratory dance, but it is not specifically a welcome dance. - Chheihlam: This is a traditional dance often associated with the celebration of the harvest or specific seasonal festivities. - Rallu Lam: This is a 'war dance' performed to celebrate victory in battle or to prepare for war.

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.

The concept of the 'Invisible Hand' was introduced by Adam Smith, the Scottish philosopher and economist, primarily in his seminal work 'The Wealth of Nations' (1776). The metaphor describes the unintended social benefits resulting from individual self-interested actions; specifically, it suggests that in a free market, individuals seeking their own profit are led as if by an 'invisible hand' to promote the general economic well-being of society. Why other options are incorrect: - Karl Marx: Known for his theories on class struggle, communism, and the critique of capitalism (Das Kapital). - John Maynard Keynes: Known for Keynesian economics, which advocates for government intervention to manage demand and stabilize the economy, often contrasting with the 'laissez-faire' approach of the invisible hand. - David Ricardo: Known for the theory of Comparative Advantage and the Law of Diminishing Returns.

In the history of Christianity in Mizoram, the process of indigenous leadership began shortly after the arrival of missionaries. Chhuahkhama was the first Mizo person to be ordained as a pastor. This significant event took place in October 1913, marking a transition toward the localization of the church ministry in the Lushai Hills (now Mizoram). While other individuals like Suaka and Khuma were early converts and influential figures in the early church, Chhuahkhama holds the distinction of being the first ordained Mizo pastor.

The 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002 introduced compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years. It achieved this through three primary changes: 1) It inserted Article 21A into the Constitution, making the right to education a Fundamental Right. 2) It changed the subject matter of Article 45 (Directive Principles of State Policy) to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years. 3) It added a new Fundamental Duty under Article 51A(k), requiring parents or guardians to provide opportunities for education to their children between the age of 6 and 14 years. Analysis of other options: - 82nd Amendment: Related to the inclusion of 'promotion of educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and OBCs' in the Ninth Schedule. - 83rd Amendment: Related to the reservation of seats for SCs and STs in the Legislative Councils of certain states. - 85th Amendment: Related to the provision for the extension of the tenure of office of the Governor/President in specific contexts or related to the appointment of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) / Finance Commission nuances (though primarily known for the 84th amendment regarding delimitation).

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.

Step-by-step reasoning: 1. Originally, the Right to Property was a Fundamental Right under Article 19(1)(f) and Article 31 of the Constitution of India. 2. However, to facilitate land reforms and the equitable distribution of resources, the Government of India passed the 44th Amendment Act in 1978. 3. This amendment deleted the Right to Property from the list of Fundamental Rights. 4. Consequently, the Right to Property was inserted as a constitutional right under Article 300A, which states that 'no person shall be deprived of his property save by authority of law'. 5. Because it is now protected by law rather than being an inviolable fundamental right, it is classified as a 'Legal Right'. Why other options are incorrect: - (a) Fundamental Right: It ceased to be a fundamental right after the 44th Amendment (1978). - (c) Natural Right: Natural rights are universal rights inherent to human nature (e.g., right to life), not specific legal classifications within the Indian Constitution. - (d) Moral Right: Moral rights are based on ethics and social norms, not on statutory or constitutional law.

Mim Kut is traditionally known as the 'Festival of Weeping' (Tahna Kut). It was historically observed as a time of mourning and remembrance for the dead, where people would weep for their departed loved ones. In contrast, the other options are celebratory festivals: Chapchar Kut is the spring festival celebrated after the clearing of forests for Jhum cultivation; Pawl Kut is the harvest festival celebrated after the gathering of crops; and Thalfavang Kut is a post-harvest festival of thanksgiving. Therefore, Mim Kut is the only festival associated with weeping and mourning.

The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 was enacted to grant constitutional status to urban local governments in India. It added Part IX-A to the Constitution and introduced the 12th Schedule, which lists the powers and responsibilities of Municipalities. Analysis of other options: - Option (a) Panchayati Raj: This is dealt with by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which added Part IX and the 11th Schedule. - Option (c) Cooperative Societies: These were given constitutional status via the 97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011. - Option (d) Fundamental Duties: These were added to the Constitution by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee.

The Attorney General for India is the highest law officer in the country. This office is a constitutional post established under Article 76 of the Constitution of India. The Attorney General is appointed by the President and serves as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India and represents the government in the Supreme Court and other high courts. Why other options are incorrect: - a. Solicitor General: The Solicitor General is the second-highest law officer, appointed by the Government to assist the Attorney General. It is a statutory post, not a constitutional one. - b. Law Minister: The Law Minister is a political executive (a member of the Cabinet) responsible for policy and administration of the Ministry of Law and Justice, but not the 'first law officer' in a legal representative capacity. - c. Chief Justice of India: The CJI is the head of the Judiciary (the Supreme Court), not a law officer of the Government. The judiciary must remain independent of the executive government.

Step-by-step reasoning: 1. **Identification of the Organization**: The Servants of India Society was a social reform organization established to train Indians in welfare work and harness the youth for patriotic service. 2. **Founder Verification**: Historical records and the provided reference context confirm that the society was founded by Gopal Krishna Gokhale on June 12, 1905, in Pune, Maharashtra. 3. **Analysis of Options**: - **(a) Gopal Krishna Gokhale**: Correct. He founded the society to promote secularism and serve the underprivileged, rural, and tribal populations. - **(b) Dadabhai Naoroji**: Incorrect. Known as the 'Grand Old Man of India,' he focused on the 'Drain Theory' and political representation but did not found this specific society. - **(c) Mahatma Gandhi**: Incorrect. While he was influenced by Gokhale (who was his political mentor), Gandhi led the Satyagraha movements and the Indian National Congress. - **(d) Lala Lajpat Rai**: Incorrect. He was a prominent leader of the 'Lal-Bal-Pal' trio and focused on more radical nationalist movements compared to Gokhale's moderate approach.

The 'Blue Economy' is a term popularized by the World Bank and the United Nations. It refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, including fisheries, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, renewable energy from the ocean, and sustainable tourism. Why other options are incorrect: - Option (a) Oil exploration: While oil and gas extraction occurs in the ocean, the 'Blue Economy' specifically emphasizes 'sustainability' and ecological balance, whereas traditional oil exploration is often associated with the 'Brown Economy' or extractive industries that can harm marine environments. - Option (b) Increase in fruit production: This falls under the 'Green Economy' or agricultural economics, not the marine-based Blue Economy. - Option (c) Water transport: While shipping and transport are components of the Blue Economy, they are only a subset of the broader goal. The Blue Economy is not focused solely on transport, but on the holistic and sustainable management of all ocean resources.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is the global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Its headquarters are located in Vienna, Austria. Analysis of options: - a. Geneva, Switzerland: Hosts many UN agencies (like WHO and WTO), but not the UNODC headquarters. - b. New York, USA: Hosts the main UN Headquarters, but UNODC is based in Vienna. - c. Paris, France: Hosts UNESCO, but not UNODC. - d. Vienna, Austria: This is the correct location for the UNODC headquarters.

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.

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.

Option D is correct: Cloth : Body.

Option A is correct: Psephology.