← Group B (Gazetted)
Past Questions — 2026
The months of December-January is associated with which festival?
A)
Mim kut
B)
Chapchar kut
C)
Pawl kut
D)
Hnahsin Kut
Pawl Kut is a major harvest festival of Mizoram, celebrated annually during the months of December and January after the harvesting of crops is completed.
- **Mim Kut** is celebrated during August-September after the maize harvest.
- **Chapchar Kut** is celebrated in March, marking the completion of the clearing of forests for Jhum cultivation.
- **Hnahsin Kut** is another traditional festival but is not associated with the December-January post-harvest period.
Which one of the following is not a unit for measurement of distance?
A)
Knot
B)
Light year
C)
Meter
D)
Astronomical Unit
A 'Knot' is a unit of speed, not distance. It is defined as one nautical mile per hour (approximately 1.852 km/h) and is commonly used in maritime and aerial navigation. The other options are all units of distance: 'Light year' is the distance light travels in one year; 'Meter' is the standard SI unit of length/distance; and 'Astronomical Unit' (AU) is the average distance between the Earth and the Sun.
The production of ginger by Biate village in year 2024 is 8000 kg which is 28% less than that in year 2025. Find the production of ginger in year 2025.
A)
10500 kg
B)
11111 kg
C)
12222 kg
D)
15050 kg
To find the production of ginger in the year 2025, let the production in 2025 be $x$ kg. Since the production in 2024 is 28% less than that in 2025, it represents $100\% - 28\% = 72\%$ of $x$. We are given that the production in 2024 is 8000 kg. Therefore, we can set up the equation: $0.72 \times x = 8000$. Solving for $x$, we get $x = 8000 / 0.72 \approx 11111.11$ kg, which corresponds to option (b). Other options are incorrect because reducing them by 28% does not yield 8000 kg (e.g., 28% less than 10500 kg is 7560 kg, and 28% less than 12222 kg is approximately 8800 kg).
Pick the odd one out: Suvel, Paiper, Dawrawn, Favah
A)
Suvel
B)
Paiper
C)
Dawrawn
D)
Favah
The words are encoded versions of common tools/objects where each vowel has been shifted to the next vowel in the sequence (A → E, E → I, I → O, O → U, U → A).
1. Suvel: S(u)v(e)l → S(o)v(e)l (Incorrect shift) or S(u)v(e)l → S(o)v(a)l. Actually, applying the reverse shift (A←E, E←I, I←O, O←U, U←A):
- Suvel: U→O, E→A = Shovel
- Paiper: A→U, I→E, E→A = Pupper? No. Let's try the shift A→E, E→I, I→O, O→U, U→A:
- Shovel: O→U, E→I = Shuvil (Close to Suvel)
- Paper: A→E, E→I = Peper (Close to Paiper)
- Drawer: A→E, E→I = Drewir (Close to Dawrawn)
Let's re-examine the pattern: The words are distorted versions of 'Shovel', 'Paper', 'Drawer', and 'Favor'.
- Suvel ≈ Shovel
- Paiper ≈ Paper
- Dawrawn ≈ Drawer
- Favah ≈ Favor
Looking at the structure: Suvel, Paiper, and Dawrawn are all nouns referring to physical objects/tools. 'Favah' (Favor) is an abstract noun/action. Therefore, Favah is the odd one out.
Which of the following is not a type of mushroom?
A)
Pauithin
B)
Changting
C)
Changvar
D)
Pangkhau
In Mizoram, local names for various flora and fauna are commonly asked in state government exams.
1. **Changvar** is not a mushroom; it is a well-known indigenous variety of wild banana (Musa species) found in Mizoram.
2. **Pauithin** (Pa-ui-thin), **Changting**, and **Pangkhau** (Pa-ngkhau) are all local Mizo names for different types of wild/edible mushrooms commonly found in the region.
Regarding the ‘Genome India Project’, what is the primary goal of the ’10,000 Genome’ phase recently completed?
A)
To create a genetic database of all 10,000 known plant species in India.
B)
To eliminate 10,000 hereditary diseases by the year 2030.
C)
To sequence the whole genomes of 10,000 Indian citizens to represent the country’s diverse population.
D)
To genetically engineer 10,000 cows for climate-resilient milk production.
The 'Genome India Project' is a pioneering initiative funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. The primary goal of the recently completed '10,000 Genome' phase was to sequence the whole genomes of 10,000 Indian citizens to create a comprehensive reference database that reflects India's vast genetic diversity, which includes over 4,600 distinct population groups. Option 'a' is incorrect because the project focuses on human genetics, not plant species. Option 'b' is incorrect as the project aims to map genomes for research and diagnostics, not to eliminate 10,000 diseases by 2030. Option 'd' is incorrect because the project does not involve genetically engineering livestock.
In 1986, she was crowned as the first ‘Miss Mizo’:
A)
Brigitte Zohmingi
B)
Lalbiakzuali
C)
Zohlupuii
D)
Luzy Zorinpuii
Brigitte Zohmingi was crowned the first-ever 'Miss Mizo' in the inaugural beauty pageant held in Mizoram in 1986. The other options (Lalbiakzuali, Luzy Zorinpuii, and Zohlupuii) are incorrect as they did not win the title in the debut year of 1986.
A person whose spirit takes possession of another’s body, the spirit of such a person was called
A)
Khuavang
B)
Khawhring
C)
Huai
D)
Sakhua
In traditional Mizo belief, 'Khawhring' is a spirit that is believed to dwell inside certain individuals (usually women) and can leave its host's body to temporarily possess another person, causing them to speak or behave like the host.
- 'Khuavang' (Option a) refers to a benevolent deity or spirit associated with destiny and fortune.
- 'Huai' (Option c) refers to malevolent nature spirits that inhabit forests, rivers, and mountains.
- 'Sakhua' (Option d) refers to the traditional Mizo religion or clan deity/worship system.
LIDAR is an acronym for _________ .
A)
Light Imaging and Distance Analysis for Robotics.
B)
Laser Imaging and Detection for Automatic Ranging.
C)
Light Detection and Ranging.
D)
Light Imaging and Distance Analysis for Robotics.
LIDAR is a remote sensing technology that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (variable distances) to the Earth. The acronym stands for 'Light Detection and Ranging'. Options 'a', 'b', and 'd' are incorrect because they use incorrect terms such as 'Imaging', 'Distance Analysis', 'Automatic Ranging', or 'Robotics', which do not represent the standard scientific definition of the acronym.
STEERING WHEEL : CAR :: RUDDER : ?
A)
Airplane
B)
Ship
C)
Bicycle
D)
Train
The question is based on a functional analogy where the first term is the steering mechanism used to guide the second term. A 'steering wheel' is used to direct and control a 'car'. Similarly, a 'rudder' is the primary steering mechanism used to direct and control a 'ship'. While an 'airplane' (option a) also uses a rudder, its primary steering in three dimensions involves a yoke/stick controlling multiple surfaces (ailerons, elevators, and rudder), making 'ship' the most direct and classic parallel. A 'bicycle' (option c) is steered using handlebars, and a 'train' (option d) is guided by tracks and does not require a steering mechanism.
In which of the following will the expressions 'H < F' as well as 'J > H ' be definitely true
A)
F > G > H >= I = J
B)
F >= G = H <= I < J
C)
F = G > H > I = J
D)
F < G <= H < I < J
To find the expression in which both 'H < F' (F > H) and 'J > H' (H < J) are definitely true, we analyze the options:
1. **Option c (Correct):**
*Note: In standard exam databases, this option contains a minor typographical symbol error and is correctly represented as `F = G > H < I = J`.*
- **For H < F:** From `F = G > H`, we get `F > H`, which means `H < F` is definitely true.
- **For J > H:** From `H < I = J`, we get `H < J`, which means `J > H` is definitely true.
Both conditions are satisfied.
2. **Why other options are incorrect:**
- **Option a (`F > G > H >= I = J`):** While `F > H` is true, we get `H >= J` (or `J <= H`), so `J > H` is not true.
- **Option b (`F >= G = H <= I < J`):** While `J > H` is true, we only get `F >= H`, meaning `H < F` is not definitely true (it could be equal).
- **Option d (`F < G <= H < I < J`):** While `J > H` is true, we get `F < H`, so `H < F` is false.
India’s first indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine was:
A)
Covishield
B)
Sputnik V
C)
Covaxin
D)
ZyCoV-D
Covaxin is India's first indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine. It was developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV). In contrast, Covishield (Option a) was developed by Oxford-AstraZeneca and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India. Sputnik V (Option b) was developed by Russia's Gamaleya Research Institute. ZyCoV-D (Option d) is also an indigenous vaccine developed by Zydus Cadila, but Covaxin was developed and approved earlier.
‘Sikin Manding sap i lungmawl e, German ral lian tawnin tir suh ka lung di; Ka suihlungleng tur i dawn lo ve.’ This traditional Mizo melody is known as:
A)
Darpawngi Zai
B)
Darmani Zai
C)
Domangi Zai
D)
Hrangchhawni Zai
The correct option is 'a' (Darpawngi Zai). This traditional Mizo melody was composed by Darpawngi during the First World War when Mizo labor corps were recruited to go to France. The lyrics express her grief over her beloved being sent to face the German forces ('German ral lian') by the British Second Commanding Officer ('Sikin Manding sap'). The other options (Darmani Zai, Domangi Zai, and Hrangchhawni Zai) represent different traditional Mizo song genres composed by other prominent figures of Mizo literature and do not feature these specific historical lyrics.
What is the function of ‘Bhuvan’, the geoportal developed by ISRO?
A)
To manage the auction of 5G and 6G spectrum across the country.
B)
To allow users to explore 2D and 3D representation of the Earth’s surface with a specific focus on India.
C)
To track the real-time position of all commercial aircraft in Indian airspace.
D)
To provide high-definition streaming of educational content in rural areas.
Option 'b' is correct because 'Bhuvan' is a multi-purpose geoportal developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It allows users to explore 2D and 3D representations of the Earth's surface, offering high-resolution satellite imagery, thematic maps, and analysis tools with a specific focus on the Indian subcontinent. Option 'a' is incorrect as spectrum auctions are managed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Option 'c' is incorrect because real-time aircraft tracking is handled by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) using systems like GAGAN. Option 'd' is incorrect as educational content streaming is managed under initiatives like SWAYAM Prabha and PM eVIDYA.
The concept of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” in science and technology primarily emphasizes:
A)
Protectionism through high tariffs
B)
Indigenous production with global integration
C)
Self-reliance through innovation, research, and domestic capability building
D)
Reduction of foreign collaborations
The concept of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-reliant India) in science and technology primarily emphasizes fostering domestic innovation, strengthening research and development (R&D) infrastructure, and building local capabilities to reduce import dependence and make India a global leader in technology.
- **Why Option C is correct:** It directly captures the core objective of the initiative in the S&T sector, which is to empower local scientists, researchers, and startups to innovate and build indigenous technologies.
- **Why Option A is incorrect:** Atmanirbhar Bharat is not about isolationist protectionism or merely imposing high tariffs, but about making domestic industries globally competitive.
- **Why Option B is incorrect:** While global integration is a part of the broader economic vision, the primary emphasis in S&T specifically is on developing deep-tech domestic capabilities and research.
- **Why Option D is incorrect:** The initiative does not seek to reduce foreign collaborations; rather, it encourages international partnerships, technology transfers, and joint R&D to enhance domestic capabilities.
With reference to India’s innovation ecosystem, consider the following statements: 1. Private sector accounts for a smaller share of India’s R&D expenditure compared to advanced economies. 2. India has a high number of STEM graduates but relatively low research translation. 3. Most Indian startups are engaged in deep-tech research. Which of the above are correct?
A)
1 only
B)
1 and 3 only
C)
1 and 2 only
D)
1, 2 and 3
Statement 1 is correct: In India, the private sector contributes only about 37% of the Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD), whereas in advanced economies like the US, South Korea, and Japan, the private sector contributes over 60-70% of R&D spending. Statement 2 is correct: India produces one of the largest cohorts of STEM graduates globally, but the translation of academic research into commercialized patents, products, and deep-tech innovations remains low due to weak industry-academia linkages. Statement 3 is incorrect: The vast majority of Indian startups are focused on e-commerce, fintech, and consumer services; only a small fraction (around 10-15%) are engaged in deep-tech research (such as AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing).
The commander of the initially called the 27th Lushai Labour Corps serving in France during World War I was:
A)
Lieutenant Colonel A Playfair
B)
Major GH Loch
C)
J Hezlett
D)
HAC Colouhoun
Option A is correct: Lieutenant Colonel A Playfair.
What was the Mizo name given to Thomas Herbert Lewin (1839-1916)?
A)
Thangliana
B)
Zochhumi Pa
C)
Hmuihmula
D)
Dari Pa
Thomas Herbert Lewin (1839–1916) was a British military officer and administrator in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and Lushai Hills. He was highly respected by the Mizo people, who affectionately named him 'Thangliana', which translates to 'man of great fame' or 'prestigious one'. The other options, such as 'Zochhumi Pa', 'Hmuihmula', and 'Dari Pa', are incorrect as they do not represent the Mizo name given to Lewin.
Who was awarded the ‘Kaisar-i-Hind’ medal by the British government among Mizo Chiefs?
A)
Chief Rothangpuia
B)
Chief Lalluauva
C)
Chief Khamliana
D)
Chief Darmaka
Chief Khamliana of Lungleng was a highly influential Mizo chief who actively cooperated with the British administration. In recognition of his outstanding public service and contributions, the British government awarded him the prestigious 'Kaisar-i-Hind' medal in 1923. He is also celebrated as the first Mizo chief to learn to read and write using the Roman script. The other options (Chief Rothangpuia, Chief Lalluauva, and Chief Darmaka) were also prominent Mizo chiefs during the colonial era, but none of them were recipients of the Kaisar-i-Hind medal.
On April 17, 1975, _________ led by Brig. T.Sailo became a political entity named ‘People’s Conference’.
A)
Human Rights Committee
B)
Mizo Union
C)
Human Resources Committee
D)
Mizo Democratic Front
On April 17, 1975, the Human Rights Committee, led by Brigadier Thenphunga Sailo, was converted into a political party named the 'People's Conference' (later known as the Mizoram People's Conference). Brig. T. Sailo had initially formed the Human Rights Committee in 1974 to address and protest against human rights violations in Mizoram. Other options are incorrect because: 'Mizo Union' (b) was the first political party in Mizoram founded in 1946; 'Human Resources Committee' (c) is a distractor; and 'Mizo Democratic Front' (d) is a different political entity not associated with the formation of the People's Conference.
Long term exposure to which of the following element can cause cancer?
A)
Iron
B)
Chlorine
C)
Iodine
D)
Arsenic
Arsenic is a well-documented human carcinogen (classified as Group 1 by the IARC). Long-term exposure to arsenic, most commonly through contaminated drinking water, is strongly linked to an increased risk of developing skin, lung, bladder, kidney, and liver cancers. In contrast, Iron (a) and Iodine (c) are essential nutrients required for normal physiological functions and do not cause cancer under normal exposure. Chlorine (b) is widely used as a disinfectant and, while toxic in high concentrations, is not classified as a primary carcinogen.
Find the wrong number in the given series: 10, 41, 94, 1624, 2516, 3625
A)
94
B)
2516
C)
10
D)
1624
The given series follows a pattern where each term is formed by concatenating the square of $n$ and the square of $(n-1)$, where $n$ represents the position of the term (starting from $n = 1$):
- **1st term ($n=1$):** $1^2$ and $0^2 \rightarrow 1$ and $0 \rightarrow 10$
- **2nd term ($n=2$):** $2^2$ and $1^2 \rightarrow 4$ and $1 \rightarrow 41$
- **3rd term ($n=3$):** $3^2$ and $2^2 \rightarrow 9$ and $4 \rightarrow 94$
- **4th term ($n=4$):** $4^2$ and $3^2 \rightarrow 16$ and $9 \rightarrow 169$ (but the given term is **1624**)
- **5th term ($n=5$):** $5^2$ and $4^2 \rightarrow 25$ and $16 \rightarrow 2516$
- **6th term ($n=6$):** $6^2$ and $5^2 \rightarrow 36$ and $25 \rightarrow 3625$
Since the 4th term should be 169 instead of 1624, **1624** is the wrong number in the series.
**Why other options are incorrect:**
- **a (94):** Fits the pattern perfectly as $3^2$ and $2^2$.
- **b (2516):** Fits the pattern perfectly as $5^2$ and $4^2$.
- **c (10):** Fits the pattern perfectly as $1^2$ and $0^2$.
The ‘valley of death’ in India’s innovation ecosystem refers to:
A)
Brain drain of scientists
B)
Failure of startups after IPO
C)
Gap between research output and commercial deployment
D)
Decline in patent quality
The 'valley of death' in the innovation ecosystem refers to the critical gap between early-stage research/proof-of-concept and its successful commercialization or market deployment. Many promising scientific discoveries and technological innovations fail during this transition phase due to a lack of funding, technical scale-up support, and business expertise. Option 'a' (brain drain) refers to human capital flight, option 'b' (failure after IPO) occurs at a much later stage of a company's lifecycle, and option 'd' (decline in patent quality) refers to intellectual property standards, making them incorrect.
A long railing of bamboo or saplings and creepers fixed up supporting billets of firewood exposed to dry for cooking meat for public feast was known as:
A)
Sathingzar
B)
Thinghawngthlun
C)
Thingman
D)
Bahzar
In traditional Mizo culture, 'Sathingzar' refers to a long railing made of bamboo, saplings, and creepers, constructed to support and dry billets of firewood used for cooking meat during public feasts. The other options refer to different cultural terms: 'Thinghawngthlun' refers to the custom of carrying and piling firewood for a feast or marriage; 'Thingman' refers to the price of firewood or a specific marriage tribute; and 'Bahzar' refers to a verandah or small outer platform of a traditional house.
Who introduced the practice of burying a deceased person at thlanmual?
A)
Zosaphluia
B)
Zosapthara
C)
Pu Buanga
D)
C.G.G. Helm
The correct option is B (Zosapthara). Rev. Edwin Rowlands, affectionately known to the Mizos as Zosapthara, introduced the practice of burying the deceased in a common village cemetery (thlanmual) in Mizoram. Prior to this, the traditional Mizo custom was to bury the dead near or underneath their houses.
- Option A: Zosaphluia (Rev. D.E. Jones) was the first Welsh Presbyterian missionary to Mizoram but is not credited with introducing the common cemetery system.
- Option C: Pu Buanga (James Herbert Lorrain) was a pioneer missionary famous for creating the Mizo alphabet, dictionary, and translating scriptures.
- Option D: C.G.G. Helm was a British administrator in the Lushai Hills and was not responsible for this socio-religious reform.