← AD (Town Planning)
Past Questions
When Congress leaders condemned the Montague Chelmsford Report, many moderates left the party to form the
A)
Swarajya Party
B)
Indian Freedom Party
C)
Independence Federation of India
D)
Indian Liberal Federation
The Montague-Chelmsford Reforms (1919) introduced 'diarchy' in the provinces. While the Indian National Congress (INC) condemned these reforms as inadequate and disappointing, a group of moderate leaders felt that the reforms provided a starting point for constitutional progress and believed in working within the system. These moderates, led by figures like Surendranath Banerjea, disagreed with the Congress's increasingly radical stance and the decision to boycott the reforms. Consequently, they broke away from the Congress to form the Indian Liberal Federation (also known as the Liberal Party) in 1919.
Why other options are incorrect:
- a. Swarajya Party: Formed in 1923 by C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru after the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement, not as a result of the Montague-Chelmsford Report.
- b. Indian Freedom Party: This is not a recognized major political entity associated with this specific historical split.
- c. Independence Federation of India: This is not the correct name of the party formed by the moderates during this period.
The Kyoto Protocol is associated with:
A)
Wildlife conservation
B)
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
C)
Deforestation control
D)
Ozone layer protection
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, on December 11, 1997, and entered into force on February 16, 2005. It is an extension of the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Its primary objective is to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs)—such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulphur hexafluoride—which are the main contributors to global warming.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Option (a) Wildlife conservation is primarily addressed by treaties like CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).
- Option (c) Deforestation control is a component of broader environmental goals and specific agreements like the REDD+ framework, but the Kyoto Protocol's overarching mandate is GHG emissions.
- Option (d) Ozone layer protection is the primary goal of the Montreal Protocol (1987), not the Kyoto Protocol.
Assertion (A): Fundamental Duties are enforceable in a court of law. Reason (R): They were added to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
A)
Both A and R are true
B)
A is false but R is true
C)
A is true but R is false
D)
Both A and R are false
Option B is correct: A is false but R is true.
The “Chipko Movement” in India was related to:
A)
Water conservation
B)
Wildlife protection
C)
Forest conservation
D)
Renewable energy
Option C is correct: Forest conservation.
When one suffers from a serious stomach problem, the early Mizos believed it was done by an evil spirit called
A)
Khawhring
B)
Khawvar
C)
Lasi
D)
Chawmnu
In traditional Mizo folklore and belief systems, various spirits were thought to cause specific ailments. The 'Khawvar' was believed to be a malevolent spirit or a 'village-spirit' that caused sudden, severe illnesses, particularly those affecting the stomach or internal organs, often leading to death if not treated by traditional healers.
Breakdown of other options:
- Khawhring: Generally refers to a type of spirit or entity, but not specifically associated with stomach ailments in the same primary way as Khawvar.
- Lasi: These are generally considered benevolent or neutral nature spirits/fairies, often associated with forests and mountains, rather than spirits that cause stomach diseases.
- Chawmnu: This term is not typically associated with the specific cause of stomach ailments in Mizo spiritual tradition.
The Lodhi dynasty was established by which tribe of Afghans?
A)
Ghizlai
B)
Ilabari
C)
Aibak
D)
Khalji
The Lodi (or Lodhi) dynasty, which ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1451 to 1526, was the first Afghan dynasty to rule Delhi. Bahlul Lodi, the founder of the dynasty, belonged to the Ilabari (also spelled Lodi or Lodhi) tribe of Afghans. The Ilabari were a prominent Pashtun tribe.
Analysis of other options:
- a. Ghizlai: While the Ghilzai are a major Afghan tribe, they were not the founders of the Lodi dynasty.
- c. Aibak: Qutb-ud-din Aibak founded the Mamluk (Slave) dynasty, not the Lodi dynasty. He was of Turkic origin, not Afghan.
- d. Khalji: The Khaljis founded the Khalji dynasty (1290–1320). While they were also of Turkic-Afghan origin, they are a distinct lineage from the Lodis.
Which of the following proteins is found in nails?
A)
Keratin
B)
Histone
C)
Actin
D)
Elastin
Option A is correct: Keratin.
Which of the following are components of inclusive growth? 1. Equity in income and opportunities 2. Access to social services 3. Environmental sustainability
A)
1 and 2 only
B)
1, 2 and 3
C)
1 and 3 only
D)
2 and 3 only
Inclusive growth refers to economic growth that is distributed fairly across society and creates opportunities for all, particularly for the marginalized sections.
1. Equity in income and opportunities: This is the core pillar of inclusive growth. It ensures that the benefits of GDP growth are not concentrated in the hands of a few but are spread across different income groups and social strata.
2. Access to social services: For growth to be inclusive, people must have access to basic human development services such as healthcare, education, and clean water. Without these, the poor cannot participate effectively in the economic process.
3. Environmental sustainability: Modern economic definitions of inclusive growth (including those used by the UNDP and World Bank) integrate sustainability. Growth that destroys the environment disproportionately affects the poor (who depend more on natural resources), meaning growth cannot be truly 'inclusive' or sustainable in the long run if it ignores environmental health.
Since all three components are essential for achieving a holistic model of inclusive growth, option 'b' is the correct choice.
Consider the following statements about the National Green Tribunal (NGT): 1. It deals with cases related to environmental protection. 2. Its decisions are binding in nature. Which of the statements is/are correct?
A)
1 only
B)
2 only
C)
1 and 2
D)
Neither 1 nor 2
Option C is correct: 1 and 2.
The Ramsar Convention deals with:
A)
Forest conservation
B)
Wetlands of international importance
C)
Endangered species
D)
Climate change mitigation
The Ramsar Convention, formally known as the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat, is an international treaty signed in the city of Ramsar in Iran on February 2, 1971. Its primary objective is the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
Analysis of options:
- Option (a) Forest conservation: This is primarily addressed by various national laws and international frameworks like the UN-REDD programme, not the Ramsar Convention.
- Option (b) Wetlands of international importance: This is the correct answer as the treaty specifically targets the protection of wetlands (marshes, fens, peatlands, lakes, rivers, etc.).
- Option (c) Endangered species: This is the primary focus of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and the IUCN Red List.
- Option (d) Climate change mitigation: This is the focus of the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and subsequent agreements like the Paris Agreement.
Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev along with Jaigopal were involved in which among the following conspiracy case?
A)
Kanpur Conspiracy Case
B)
Lahore Conspiracy Case
C)
Bhagalpur Conspiracy Case
D)
Alipore Bomb case
The Lahore Conspiracy Case (1929) was a legal case initiated by the British colonial government following the assassination of Police Superintendent John P. Saunders. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were the primary accused in this case, along with other associates including Jaigopal. The case was a result of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association's (HSRA) attempt to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were ultimately executed on March 23, 1931.
Why other options are incorrect:
- a. Kanpur Conspiracy Case: This was a separate set of trials involving various revolutionaries in the Kanpur region, not the primary case for the execution of the trio.
- c. Bhagalpur Conspiracy Case: This is not a recognized major landmark case associated with Bhagat Singh and his comrades.
- d. Alipore Bomb Case: This case (1908) was associated with Aurobindo Ghosh and Barindra Kumar Ghosh during the early nationalist phase, long before Bhagat Singh's primary activities in the 1920s.
Very small-time intervals are accurately measured by
A)
Pulsars
B)
White dwarfs
C)
Atomic clocks
D)
Quartz clocks
Step-by-step reasoning: 1. The question asks for the instrument used to accurately measure very small-time intervals. 2. Quartz clocks (Option d) use the vibrations of a quartz crystal; while accurate for daily use, they drift over time and are not suitable for high-precision scientific measurements of tiny intervals. 3. Pulsars (Option a) and White Dwarfs (Option b) are astronomical objects. While pulsars are highly regular and can be used as 'cosmic clocks' for long-term astrophysical measurements, they are not instruments used for measuring small-time intervals in a laboratory or practical setting. 4. Atomic clocks (Option c) measure the frequency of electromagnetic radiation emitted during electronic transitions between energy levels in atoms (typically Cesium-133). These transitions occur at extremely high and stable frequencies (billions of times per second), allowing for the measurement of time intervals with precision up to 10^-15 seconds or better. Therefore, atomic clocks are the gold standard for measuring very small-time intervals and defining the SI second.
Which of the following is true about Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in India?
A)
They are legally binding
B)
India has integrated SDGs into national policies
C)
They are only applicable to rural areas
D)
They focus exclusively on economic growth
Step-by-step reasoning:
1. Analysis of SDGs: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a 'blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all' by 2030, established by the United Nations.
2. Evaluating Option (a): SDGs are voluntary frameworks agreed upon by UN member states. They are not legally binding treaties or laws; therefore, option (a) is incorrect.
3. Evaluating Option (b): India has actively integrated the SDGs into its national development agenda. This is evidenced by the creation of the NITI Aayog SDG India Index, which monitors progress across states and union territories, and the alignment of various central schemes (like Swachh Bharat Mission for Goal 6 or Ayushman Bharat for Goal 3) with the SDGs. Thus, option (b) is correct.
4. Evaluating Option (c): SDGs are universal. They cover urban sustainability (Goal 11), industrialization (Goal 9), and global partnerships, making them applicable to both rural and urban areas. Therefore, option (c) is incorrect.
5. Evaluating Option (d): The SDGs are holistic. They balance three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social, and environmental. They focus on poverty, hunger, health, education, and climate action, not exclusively on economic growth. Therefore, option (d) is incorrect.
Which Superintendent was given the nickname “Lalman Sap”?
A)
Captain Browne
B)
R.B. McCabe
C)
A.W. Davis
D)
J. Shakespear
Option D is correct: J. Shakespear.
Which one of the following movements was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920?
A)
Civil Disobedience Movement
B)
Quit India Movement
C)
Non-Cooperation Movement
D)
Individual Satyagraha
The Non-Cooperation Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920. It was a significant phase of the Indian independence movement aimed at resisting British rule through non-violent means, such as boycotting British goods, courts, and educational institutions.
Analysis of other options:
- a. Civil Disobedience Movement: This was launched in 1930, beginning with the famous Dandi March.
- b. Quit India Movement: This was launched in August 1942 during World War II, demanding an immediate end to British rule.
- d. Individual Satyagraha: This was launched by Gandhi in 1940 to protest against the British government's decision to involve India in WWII without consent.
The strategic significance of the India–Myanmar border for Mizoram is best explained by which of the following? 1. Free Movement Regime (FMR) 2. Act East Policy 3. Transnational insurgency networks Select the correct answer using the code below:
A)
1 only
B)
1 and 2 only
C)
1, 2 and 3
D)
2 and 3 only
Option C is correct: 1, 2 and 3.
The slogan “Do or Die” is associated with which movement?
A)
Non-Cooperation Movement
B)
Civil Disobedience Movement
C)
Home Rule Movement
D)
Quit India Movement
Option D is correct: Quit India Movement.
With reference to the Fundamental Rights in India, which of the following statements is correct?
A)
Right to Property is a Fundamental Right under Article 21.
B)
Fundamental Rights can be suspended only during a National Emergency.
C)
Right to Constitutional Remedies is considered the “heart and soul” of Fundamental Rights.
D)
Fundamental Rights are not enforceable by the judiciary.
Option C is correct: Right to Constitutional Remedies is considered the “heart and soul” of Fundamental Rights..
Which among the following principles is used by Bats?
A)
RADAR (Radio Detective & Ranging)
B)
SONAR (Sound Navigation & Ranging)
C)
law of reflection
D)
law of diffraction
Bats use a biological process called echolocation to navigate and hunt in the dark. They emit high-frequency ultrasonic sound waves that travel through the air, hit an object, and reflect back to the bat's ears. By analyzing the time delay and frequency shift of the returning echo, the bat can determine the distance, size, and movement of the object. This principle is identical to the human-made SONAR (Sound Navigation and Ranging) system used by submarines and ships to detect underwater objects.
Why other options are incorrect:
- a. RADAR: Uses radio waves (electromagnetic waves) rather than sound waves. While the principle of reflection is similar, bats do not emit radio waves.
- c. Law of Reflection: While the law of reflection is the physical mechanism that allows the sound to bounce back, the 'principle' or 'system' used for navigation and ranging is specifically SONAR/Echolocation.
- d. Law of Diffraction: Diffraction refers to the bending of waves around obstacles. While it occurs, it is not the primary principle bats use to locate prey or navigate.
Consider the following statements regarding the Concurrent List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution: 1. Both the Parliament and State Legislatures can make laws on these subjects. 2. In case of conflict, the State law prevails over the Central law. 3. The President can issue directions to States to implement Central laws on Concurrent List subjects. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)
1 only
B)
1 and 3 only
C)
1 and 3 only
D)
1, 2 and 3
Option B is correct: 1 and 3 only.
Which of the following schemes addresses nutritional support to pregnant and lactating women in India?
A)
Mid-Day Meal Scheme
B)
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
C)
National Health Mission
D)
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
Step-by-step reasoning:
1. Analyze the requirement: The question asks for a scheme specifically providing nutritional support to pregnant and lactating women.
2. Evaluate Option (a): The Mid-Day Meal Scheme is designed to enhance the nutritional status of school-age children and encourage school attendance; it does not target pregnant women.
3. Evaluate Option (b): Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is a Maternity Benefit Programme that provides a cash incentive to pregnant and lactating mothers. This financial assistance is intended to compensate for wage loss and enable the woman to take adequate rest and nutrition during pregnancy and early motherhood.
4. Evaluate Option (c): The National Health Mission (NHM) is a broad umbrella program for improving overall health infrastructure and delivery across India, not a specific nutritional scheme for mothers (though it may oversee such programs).
5. Evaluate Option (d): Beti Bachao Beti Padhao is a campaign focused on preventing gender-biased sex selective elimination and ensuring the survival, protection, and education of the girl child.
Conclusion: Option (b) is the only scheme specifically designed for the nutritional and financial support of pregnant and lactating women.
Which of the following is an example of bioremediation?
A)
Using chlorine to treat water
B)
Using microbes to degrade oil spills
C)
Burning industrial waste
D)
Using chemical fertilizers to improve soil
Option B is correct: Using microbes to degrade oil spills.
The Deccan Plateau is primarily composed of which type of rocks?
A)
Sedimentary rocks
B)
Metamorphic rocks
C)
Igneous rocks
D)
Alluvial rocks
The Deccan Plateau is a large volcanic plateau in peninsular India. It was formed primarily by massive volcanic eruptions (fissure eruptions) during the late Cretaceous to early Paleogene periods. These eruptions released vast quantities of basaltic lava, which cooled and solidified to form thick layers of basalt. Basalt is a mafic extrusive igneous rock.
Why other options are incorrect:
- a. Sedimentary rocks: While some sedimentary layers exist in basins within the plateau, the primary composition of the plateau itself is volcanic basalt.
- b. Metamorphic rocks: Metamorphic rocks (like gneiss and schist) are found in the ancient crystalline basement of the Peninsular block (e.g., the South Indian Shield), but the characteristic 'Deccan Traps' that define the plateau are igneous.
- d. Alluvial rocks: Alluvium consists of loose, unconsolidated sediments deposited by rivers (like in the Indo-Gangetic plains) and is not a type of rock that forms the structural foundation of the Deccan Plateau.
The nine year old Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte, a singing prodigy from Mizoram received which of the following awards in December, 2025?
A)
Rashtriya Bal Puraskar
B)
Bal Shakti Puraskar
C)
Shaurya Chakra
D)
Nari Shakti Puraskar
Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte, a young singing prodigy from Mizoram, was honored with the Rashtriya Bal Puraskar in December 2025. The Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is the highest civilian award for children in India, given by the President of India to recognize exceptional achievements of children in various fields, including Arts and Culture, Sports, Innovation, and Social Service.
Analysis of other options:
- b. Bal Shakti Puraskar: This is not the standard nomenclature for the national award given by the President for child achievements.
- c. Shaurya Chakra: This is a military decoration awarded for gallantry, not for artistic achievements.
- d. Nari Shakti Puraskar: This is an award given to women for their exceptional contribution to society, typically for adults, and not specifically a 'child' award for a nine-year-old prodigy.
The greatest threat to the world’s coral reef system emanates from
A)
UV light
B)
Starvation caused by decline in zooplankton
C)
Cyanide fishing
D)
More frequent coral bleaching
Option D is correct: More frequent coral bleaching.