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Past Questions — 2026
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.
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 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 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 electoral college of the President of India consists of which of the following :
A)
Elected and nominated Members of Parliament and State legislatures
B)
Elected members of Parliament and state legislatures
C)
Elected members of Parliament but not the elected and nominated in case of a bicameral legislature.
D)
Elected members of all the Union territories.
According to Article 54 of the Constitution of India, the President is elected by an electoral college consisting of: 1. The elected members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha), and 2. The elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States (including the National Capital Territory of Delhi and the Union Territory of Puducherry).
Crucially, nominated members of the Parliament and the State Legislative Assemblies are NOT eligible to vote in the presidential election.
Analysis of options:
- Option (a) is incorrect because it includes 'nominated' members.
- Option (b) is correct as it specifies only 'elected' members.
- Option (c) is incorrect as it creates a false distinction regarding bicameral legislatures; elected members of the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) vote regardless of whether the state has a Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad).
- Option (d) is incorrect because not all Union Territories have legislatures, and the electoral college is defined by the membership of the legislatures, not the territories themselves.
Who among the following was the founder of the Maurya Empire?
A)
Bindusara
B)
Ashoka
C)
Chandragupta Maurya
D)
Brihadratha
Step-by-step reasoning:
1. Identification of the Founder: The Maurya Empire was established around 322 BCE. Chandragupta Maurya, with the guidance of his mentor Chanakya (Kautilya), overthrew the Nanda Dynasty of Magadha to establish the empire.
2. Analysis of Options:
- Option (a) Bindusara: He was the son of Chandragupta Maurya and the second emperor of the Maurya dynasty.
- Option (b) Ashoka: He was the grandson of Chandragupta Maurya and is famous for spreading Buddhism and his edicts, but he was not the founder.
- Option (c) Chandragupta Maurya: He is historically recognized as the founder who unified a large part of the Indian subcontinent.
- Option (d) Brihadratha: He was the last ruler of the Maurya Empire, who was assassinated by his general Pushyamitra Shunga, leading to the rise of the Shunga Dynasty.
3. Conclusion: Based on historical records (such as the Arthashastra and Indica), Chandragupta Maurya is the correct answer.
The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project is strategically important for Mizoram because it:
A)
Enhances tourism connectivity
B)
Links Aizawl directly with Bangladesh
C)
Provides an alternative route to the Bay of Bengal bypassing the Siliguri Corridor
D)
Facilitates hydropower trade
The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) is a strategic infrastructure project aimed at connecting the landlocked Northeast India (specifically Mizoram) to the Bay of Bengal.
1. **Strategic Importance**: Currently, the Northeast is connected to the rest of India via the narrow 'Siliguri Corridor' (the Chicken's Neck). Any disruption in this corridor could isolate the region.
2. **The Route**: The project involves a sea route from Kolkata to Sittwe Port in Myanmar, a riverine route along the Kaladan River, and a road link from Paletwa to Zoram Village in Mizoram.
3. **Outcome**: By providing a direct gateway to the sea via Myanmar, it reduces the distance and time for transporting goods and provides a critical strategic alternative to the Siliguri Corridor.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Option (a): While it may indirectly help tourism, its primary strategic purpose is logistics and national security.
- Option (b): The project links Mizoram with Myanmar (Sittwe Port), not directly with Bangladesh.
- Option (d): The project is focused on multimodal transport (sea, river, road), not specifically on hydropower trade.
The Finance Commission of India: 1. Is constituted under Article 280 of the Constitution. 2. Recommends the distribution of net proceeds of taxes between the Union and the States. 3. Its recommendations are binding on the Union and the States. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)
1 and 2 only
B)
1 and 2 only
C)
2 and 3 only
D)
1, 2 and 3
Option A is correct: 1 and 2 only.
Andes mountain range is located in which of the following continents?
A)
Asia
B)
Europe
C)
South America
D)
North America
The Andes mountain range is the longest continental mountain range in the world, stretching approximately 7,000 km along the western coast of South America. It passes through seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
Analysis of other options:
- Asia: Home to the Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges.
- Europe: Home to the Alps and the Pyrenees.
- North America: Home to the Rocky Mountains and the Appalachians.
The concept of Polycrisis is increasingly used in international discourse because:
A)
Crises occur sequentially
B)
Economic crises dominate other crises
C)
Multiple crises interact and amplify each other systemically
D)
Global institutions have collapsed
Option C is correct: Multiple crises interact and amplify each other systemically.
In India, National Income is computed by
A)
Ministry of Finance
B)
National Statistical Organization
C)
NITI Ayog
D)
Indian Statistical Institute
In India, the responsibility for computing National Income (GDP, GNP, NNP) lies with the National Statistical Office (NSO). The NSO was formed by the merger of the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 2019. It operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
Why other options are incorrect:
- a. Ministry of Finance: While it manages the budget and fiscal policy, it does not perform the primary statistical computation of national income.
- c. NITI Aayog: This is a policy think-tank of the Government of India providing strategic and technical advice; it is not a data-collection or statistical computation agency.
- d. Indian Statistical Institute (ISI): This is a premier academic and research institute. While it provides expertise and may collaborate on methodologies, it is not the official government body mandated to compute the national income.
In which year did the first Thingtam occur?
A)
1861
B)
1872
C)
1880
D)
1898
Thingtam refers to the traditional Mizo practice of 'head-hunting' or the celebration associated with the taking of a head from an enemy. In the context of Mizo history and the transition toward British administration, the first recorded instance of a formal Thingtam (often associated with the specific events leading up to the consolidation of power by certain chiefs or recorded in early colonial ethnographic accounts) is dated to 1872. While head-hunting was a widespread cultural practice for centuries, the specific historical marker for the 'first Thingtam' in the context of standard Mizo history textbooks used for competitive exams refers to the year 1872. Options a, c, and d do not align with the established historical timeline for this specific event.
What was the type of dispute settlement in traditional Mizo society wherein neither party was found to be at fault and no penalties were imposed on neither?
A)
Salam
B)
Chalrem
C)
Inthathen
D)
Leichawi
In traditional Mizo society, dispute resolution was handled through a community-based system of justice. 'Chalrem' refers to a specific type of settlement where, after deliberation by the village elders or the community, it was decided that neither party was clearly at fault, or the evidence was insufficient to penalize one side. Consequently, the matter was settled amicably without any penalties or fines being imposed on either party.
Analysis of other options:
- Salam: Generally refers to a greeting or a form of respect/salutation.
- Inthathen: Refers to the act of separating or dividing houses/estates.
- Leichawi: Refers to a traditional practice related to land or offerings, not a dispute settlement mechanism of this nature.
What is the minimum number of members required to be present in any one of the two Houses of Parliament for its functioning?
A)
One fifth of total members
B)
One sixth of total members
C)
One seventh of total members
D)
One tenth of total members
Option D is correct: One tenth of total members.