Which  of the following statement is/are correct?
1. It is a minimum guaranteed pension scheme mainly targeted at unorganized sector  workers.
2. Only one member of a family can join the scheme.
3. Same amount of pension is guaranteed for the spouse for life after subscriber’s death.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – Statement 2 – Only one member of a family can join the scheme- the logic is WHY ? Your pension is your money so why restrict it to one member , it is not subsidy.Government is contributing max 1000 rupees , so by elimination we are left with the correct answer.

The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as:-
(a) G20
(b) ASEAN
(c) SCO
(d) SAARC

Logic :- Concentrate on the term “Regional” , that eliminates option a and c and we are left with ASEAN and SAARC – and the correct answer among the two is – ASEAN.

On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
1. Ceiling fans
2. Electric geysers
3. Tubular florescent lamps
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic- UPSC asks 1 or 2 questions related to our daily life.This one is one such case.You would have seen energy star in all of the above.

India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?
(a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation.

b) It can be attain a global role in satellite navigation.
(c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation.
(d) It can build fusion reactors in power generation.

Logic – Deriving energy from FUSION was the buzzword for the past one year or so.

In the context of the history of India, consider the following pairs :

1. Eripatti : Land, revenue from which was set apart for the maintenance of the village tank.
2. Taniyurs : Villages donated to a single Brahmin or a group of Brahmins
3. Ghatikas : Colleges generally attached to the temples.
Which of the pairs given above is / are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3

Consider the following statements :
1. The International Solar Alliance was launched at the Untied Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015.
2. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the Untied Nations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

European Stability Mechanism’, sometimes seen in the news, is an
(a) agency created by EU to deal with the impact of millions of refugees arriving from Middle East.
(b) agency of EU that provides financial assistance to eurozone countries.
(c) agency of EU to deal with all the bilateral and multilateral agreements on trade.
(d) agency of EU to deal with the conflicts arising among the member countries.

Logic – Suppose you don’t know the answer at all, then lets concentrate on the words :-“Stability” – stability is required when there can be an issue,now if you check  the options c is eliminated.Now, the next logic is simpler – EU is an economic manifestation, so dealing with political refugees is not an option, also this brings political sovereignty of each member country into question and no one will let anyone else decide on its countries sovereignty- so option a is eliminated.Same logic can be applied to option d as conflict between countries can political, legal or otherwise .Hence we are left with option b which seems the most logical one.

Which of the following statement is/are the advantage/advantages of practising drip irrigation?
1. Reduction in weed
2. Reduction in soil salinity
3. Reduction in soil erosion
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the above is an advantage of practising drip irrigation.

Logic – Drip irrigation usually takes place in plain region and not in undulating terrains and it is costly too.It delivers both water and nutrient to the root of the plant directly thus reducing water usage.There by , it does not waste by watering the whole field.Weed can grow when there is water and nutrient available to it , but drip irrigation eliminates this option so reduced weed.Similar logic can be applied to salinity , when a land is wet through capillary action the salt gets accumulated at the top layer, but drip irrigation does not wet the whole land so reduces salinity.Moreover, soil erosion is less when the whole land is wet but aeolian erosion increases when the land is dry and drip irrigation does not wet the whole land so does not reduce erosion per se.Elimination can come in handy for this question.

Check this for more info and reference

Regarding ‘DigiLocker’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statement is/are correct?
1. It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under Digital India Programme.
2. It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Recently, linking of which of the following rivers was undertaken?
(a) Cauvery and Tungabhadra (Cauvery’s 90% of potential is already harnessed so why in Kaveri)
(b) Godavari and Krishna
(c) Mahanadi and Sone(Was not in news )
(d) Narmada and Tapti (Already many links are there and few are yet to be realised)

In the cities of our country, who among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?
1. Carbon dioxide
2. Carbon monoxide
3. Nitrogen dioxide
4. Sulphur dioxide
5. Methane

Select the correct answer using the
code given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Logic – it is a known that CO2 is essential for life and eliminate CO2 and we are left with option b.

With reference to ‘Astrosat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.
2. Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Don’t answer this type of questions unless you are absolutely certain.

With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta’ refers to 😕
(a) bonded labour
(b) land grants made to military officers.
(c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of land.
(d) wasteland converted to cultivated land.

With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorizing of chronicles, dynastic histories and epic tales was the profession of who of the following?
(a) Shramana
(b) Parivraajaka
(c) Agrahaarika
(d) Maagadha

Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?
(a) Arunachal Pradesh
(b) Himachal Pradesh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Maharashtra

Consider the following statements :
The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission.
2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA.
3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt.

Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?
(a) Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto.
(b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government.
(c) Foundation of Muslim League.
(d) Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress.

Logic- This is a bit weird question, because none of the answer is directly related to the split.The preferable one is option- b, however if we read the statement – Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government.Extremist lacked faith thats why they came to fore from the beginning and is not directly related to split per se We gave this question in our last Mock test :-

Surat Split of 1907 was due to :-

a)Disagreement between moderates and extremists , while extremists wanted to expand Swedishi movement beyond  Bengal and to all spheres while moderate wanted to restrict it

b)The moderates in order to exclude Tilak from presidency ,shifted it to Surat and dropped resolutions on Swadeshi, boycott and national education.

c)Both a and b

d)None of the above

Explanation to the question provided by us – If the question has this option only – Disagreement between moderates and extremists , while extremists wanted to expand Swedishi movement beyond and Bengal and to all spheres moderate wanted to restrict it to Bengal and boycott of only foreign cloth and liquor – Go for it . And if it has this option only- The moderates in order to exclude Tilak from presidency ,shifted it to Surat and dropped resolutions on Swadeshi, boycott and national education- go for it too.The prominent was the former one but later added fuel to the fire.So both A and B were causes.

Now it is clear that those are the real reason for split, but the option in the prelims paper is akin to this –

Why did Ashoka attacked Kaling and the only option you can choose form the rest of the option is – Because Ashoka was a king.Is not it  abstract and far fetched? Similarly the option b of the prelims question is abstract and far fetched.

The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War
(a) India should be granted complete independence.
(b) India should be partitioned into two before granting independence.
(c) India should be made a republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth.
(d) India should be given Dominion status.

Consider the following pairs :
Famous Place Region
1. Bodhgaya : Baghelkhand
2. Khajuraho : Bundelkhand
3. Shirdi : Vidarbha
4. Nasik (Nashik) : Malwa
5. Tirupati : Rayalaseema

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5
(c) 2 and 5 only
(d) 1, 3, 4 and 5

The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to that effect is passed by the

(a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership.
(b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership.
(c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership.
(d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and voting.

Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Chhattisgarh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Rajasthan

Logic – If you don’t know the news about it, then lets apply logic- concentrate on the word LONG , and this should help you eliminate option c and a ,because even if both of the states wanted to create such project it would not be LONG in comparative terms.Now Let consider the Rajasthan- the logic is even if you build an inland port , you need rivers to navigate and connect it through but most of the rivers of Rajasthan we know drains in to deserts and are ephemeral.On the contrary Chhatisgarh seems a suitable option because it is a resource rich state and a port can add to its advantage.Also many river that pass through CG also pass through Odisha and moreover there are enough rivers and channels  to link the CG port with the sea and it satisfies all criteria i.e. it has resource to export and major industrial hub,rivers are there to link and can also act as a an alternative to Paradip port of Odisha and take some load off.Logically CG seems the correct answer but this question defies logic and the news was related to Rajasthan.

With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statement is/are correct?
1. The Agreement was signed by all the member of countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017.
2. The Agreement aims to limit the greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below.
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – The moment you see 1000b dollars (really ?) the answer is clear by elimination.

Consider the following statements :
1. The Sustainable Development Goals were first proposed in 1972 by a global think tank called the ‘Club of Rome’.
2. The Sustainable Development Goals have to be achieved by 2030.

Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Logic – Club of rome has given the concept of limits to growth but SDG as a concept in 1972 is little far fetched.Brutland commission was associated with SDG in 1990s and all SDG related talks gathered moment in past 2 decades.So eliminate club of rome –  seems logical.

A recent movie titled The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on the biography of
(a) S. Ramanujan
(b) S. Chandrasekhar
(c) S.N. Bose
(d) C.V. Raman

Logic – we told you UPSC loves movies , now they started asking in Prelims too.Ha.

Consider the following statements :
1. The minimum age prescribed for any person to be a member of Panchayat is 25 years.
2. A Panchayat reconstituted after premature dissolution continues only for the remainder period.
Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. A Bill pending in the Lok Sabha lapses on its prorogation.
2. A Bill pending in the Rajya Sabha, which has not been passed by the Lok Sabha, shall not lapse on dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Logic – UPSC plays smart with polity questions, so be careful.

Which of the following is/are the indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report?
1. Undernourishment
2. Child stunting
3. Child mortality

Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3 only

Which reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following
statements is/are correct?
1. It uses light as the medium for high speed data transmission
2. It is a wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of

(a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees
from the war-affected Middle East.
(b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change
(c) capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
(d) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals

Logic – we have covered this one in details, and INDC has nothing to do with SDG.

Which one of the following is a purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?
(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy
(b) providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018

(c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time
(d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies

With reference to ‘IFC Masala Bonds’,sometimes seen in the news, which of the statements given below is/are correct?
1. The International Finance Corporation, which offers these bonds, is an arm of the World Bank.
2. They are the rupee-denominated bonds and are a source of debt financing for the public and private sector
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Regarding the taxation system of Krishna Deva, the ruler of Vijayanagar, consider the following statements:
1. The tax rate on land was fixed depending on the quality of the land.
2. Private owners of workshop paid an industries tax.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of Sunga dynasty?
(a) Swapnavasavadatta
(b) Malavikagnimitra
(c) Meghadoota
(d) Ratnavali

In the context of which of the following do you sometimes find the terms ‘amber box, blue box and green box’ in the news?
(a) WTO affairs
(b) SAARC affairs
(c) UNFCCC affairs
(d) India-EU negotiations of FTA

Which of the following is/are included in the capital budget of the Government of India?
1. Expenditure on acquisition of assets like roads, buildings, machinery etc.
2. Loans received from foreign governments
3. Loans and advances granted to the States and Union Territories

Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic Always link capital with asset, when institutional loan is provided the loans are usually to create capital and then generate revenue, so these are asset creating loans hence capital.

What is/are the importance/importances of the ‘United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification’?
1. It aims to promote effective action through innovative national programmes and supportive international partnerships.
2. It has a special/particular focus on South Asia and North Africa regions, and its Secretariat facilitates the allocation of major portion of financial resources to these regions.
3. It is committed to bottom-up approach, encouraging the participation of local people in combating the desertification.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – a) seems logical, b)of course it will be there where there are deserts – South Asia and Sahara desertification eating in to man’s habitat hence the focus (http://www.e-ir.info/2014/04/30/united-nations-convention-to-combat-desertification-issues-and-challenges/) and c is obviously correct because all programs before were not bottom  up and hence failed and to include the locals in planning is the buzzword around the world ,so correct  (http://www.unccd.int/en/about-the-convention/Pages/About-the-Convention.aspx)

Recently, which one of the following currencies has been proposed to be added to the basket of IMF’s SDR?
(a) Rouble
(b) Rand
(c) Indian Rupee
(d) Renminbi

Logic – Changing the name does not make you smart – UPSC 🙂

With reference to International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), consider the following statements:
1. IMFC discusses matters of concern affecting the global economy, and advises the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the direction of its work.
2. The World Bank participates as observer in IMFC’s meetings.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national campaign to
(a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood – this would be governments wildest dream, it is not able to create enough jobs for those who are asking- so eliminate this option.
(b) release the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of livelihood – Another wild dream , and probably a political suicide
(c) eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers – Garima means dignity so this option is logical even if you don’t know the program.
(d) release the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them – well, it is difficult to identify the bonded labour and if you know the number as per the slavery index – government may need one full years budget for this.

With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements:
1. Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
2. Lingayats of Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.

Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Which of the following best describes of term ‘import cover’, sometimes seen in the news?
(a) It is the ratio of value of imports to the Gross Domestic Product of a country
(b) It is the total value of imports of a country in a year
(c) It is the ratio between the value of exports and that of imports between two countries
(d) It is the number of months of imports that could be paid for by a country’s  international reserves

Consider the following pairs:
Community In the affairs of sometimes mentioned in the news
1. Kurd : Bangladesh
2. Madhesi : Nepal
3. Rohingya : Myanmar
Which of the above pairs is/are
correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only

Which reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons(OPCW)’, consider the following statements:
1. It is an organization of European Union in working relation with
NATO and WHO

2. It monitors chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging
3. It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons
threats.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’, consider the following statements:
1. Under this scheme, farmers will have to pay a uniform premium of two percent for any crop they cultivate in any season of the year.
2. This scheme covers post-harvest losses arising out of cyclones and unseasonal rains.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Logic – Different premium for rabi and kharif crop.

In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?
(a) Sand deserts of northwest India
(b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and
Kashmir
(c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat
(d) Western Ghats

Logic – This is a really conceptual question.We all know hornbill is present in Nagaland and a hornbill festival is held there.However there is no Nagaland in the option.So lets apply logic- If you have seen the bird it has a very long beak , that means it mostly dwells on the trees and survives of fruit diet – this is becasue , if you have read biogeography  and Darwin’s theory of evolution and the Galapagos island you would know that the long beak is an evolution. This question  we gave in our PM4 test:-

The following features are typical of animals inhabiting which vegetation  ?

1)Strong tail
2)Thick Skin
3)Bright colours
4)Long and large beaks
5)Sharp patterns

The answer to this question was Tropical rain forest.

Now if you draw conclusion large and long beak and tropical rain forest we are left on ly with western ghat.

Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)?
1. River basin is the unit of planning and management.
2. It spearheads the river conservation efforts at the national level.
3. One of the Chief Ministers of the States through which the Ganga flows becomes the Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis. (What the PM will do ?)
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Why does the Government of India, promote the use of ‘Neem-coated Urea’ in agriculture?
(a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms (this is correct , as we saw the PM’s speech in parliament with regards to this and he mentions this one)
(b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil (this one also correct-PM’s speech)
(c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into atmosphere by crop fields ((Not correct for obvious reasons)
(d) It is a combination of a weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops (It is a herbicide, but if we apply logic herbicide is the one which kills herbs and weeds are herbs anyway and this might be correct option too)

Logic – No logic applies to this question here, 3 of the option are correct, so either UPSC will give grace mark or we just dont know which one to pick .Now lets concentrate on the question – Why govt should promote it :- keyword promote – one reason was that it can stop the illegal diversion of Urea for other means and that seems a strong argument for govt to promote this.At the outset, govt is not as much worried about the microorganisms as it is worried about food production i.e. to say govt wants food security  and its main concern is to increase it – so options a might not be the strong reason for promotion.Optin-b makes a strong case as , if the Urea stays longer on the land then less urea is used –  so less subsidy – a better option than option a.Option-d is simply an obvious statement and can be correct too – becasue it kills the weeds and a fertilizer too – thus reducing use of pesticides, but this does not seems as a strong reason for govt to promote.

So in this dilemma, we ask you to count this as a wrong one irrespective of your choice of option to get peace of mind.

Consider the following statements:
1. The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State.
2. The Chief Secretary in a State has a fixed tenure.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Logic – Appointment is an executive function and chief secretary being a central govt employ has to be appointed by governor.This does not mean he is chosen by the governor , it just means he is appointed by the hand and seal of the governor and that’s is what appointment exactly means.The CM can recommend the candidates to the governor to appoint.This seems logical in our.opinion , also state Information commissioner has a similar rank of chief secretary and he is appointed by governor with aid and advise of the CM and cabinet.ARC recommended for fixed tenure but it was rejected.

If you have any other views on this let us know.

Check this for more info and reference

With reference to `Stand Up India Scheme’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs.
2. It provides for refinance through SIDBI.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

The FAO accords the status of `Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) to traditional agricultural systems. What is the overall goal of this initiative?
1. To provide modern technology, training in modern farming methods and financial support to local communities of identified GIAHS so as to greatly enhance their  agricultural productivity.(This is counter productive to the very idea of heritage, you don’t build modern Eiffel tower to replace Taj mahal)

2. To identify and safeguard ecofriendly traditional farm practices and their associated landscapes, agricultural biodiversity and knowledge systems of the local communities.
3. To provide Geographical Indication status to all the varieties of agricultural produce in such identified GIAHS.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – When you see a word like all or only , be careful and on this ground you can eliminate option 3.

Which of the following is/are tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra?
1. Dibang
2. Kameng
3. Lohit
Select the correct answer using the
code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

The term `Core Banking Solutions’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statements best describes/describe this term?
1. It is a networking of a bank’s branches which enables customers to operate their accounts from any branch of the bank on its network regardless of of where they open their accounts.
2. It is an effort to increase RBI’s control over commercial banks through computerization.
3. It is a detailed procedure by which a bank with huge non-performing assets is taken over by another bank
Select the correct answer using the
code given below?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Consider the following pairs:
Terms sometimes Their origin
seen in the news
1. Annex – I Countries : Cartagena  Protocol
2. Certified Emissions Reductions : Nagoya Protocol
3. Clean Development Mechanism : Kyoto Protocol
Which of the pairs given above is/are
correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – Nagoya is related to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable usage of it , so nothing to do with Emissions.If you remove 2 you have your answer.

In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term `transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to
(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing
(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism

(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells

Logic – Lets decode the word – transcriptome , lets take the word transcript from the whole word , it means to read or expression .Now lets look at the option – bot b and c has expression – so our logic is not enough to answer this question here, but this kind of logic can help you to narrow down the options.As we could not narrow down the option you should leave it rather than blindly guessing it unless you know the answer for certain.

`Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to
(a) immunization of children and pregnant women
(b) construction of smart cities across the country
(c) India’s own search for the Earthlike planets in outer space
(d) New Educational Policy

Which of the following best describes/ describe the aim of `Green India Mission’ of the Government of India?
1. Incorporating environmental benefits and costs into the Union and State Budgets
thereby implementing the `green accounting’
2. Launching the second green revolution to enhance agricultural output so as to ensure food security to one and all in the future
3. Restoring and enhancing forest cover and responding to climate change by a  combination of adaptation and mitigation measures.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – eliminate green accounting  and green revolution , both are green but nothing to do with green India.

With reference to pre-packaged items in India, it is mandatory to the manufacturer to put which of the following information on the main label, as per the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, 2011?
1. List of ingredients including additives.
2. Nutrition information
3. Recommendations, if any, made by the medical profession about the possibility of any allergic reactions
4. Vegetarian/non vegetarian
Select the correct answer using the
code given below
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1 and 4 only

Logic – No body prepares for this kind of question,they are just as we said before application of common sense and question from daily lives.

`Project Loon’, sometimes seen in the news, is related to
(a) waste management technology
(b) wireless communication technology
(c) solar power production technology
(d) water conservation technology

Logic- We covered this with elaborate details just to find out that only simple question was asked on this, but it is always better to be sure than sorry.

`Net meeting’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of promoting the
(a) production and use of solar energy by the households/ consumers
(b) use of piped natural gas in the kitchens of households

(c) installation of CNG kits in motorcars
(d) installation of water meters in urban households

India’s ranking in the `East of Doing Business Index’ is sometimes seen in
the news. Which of the following has declared that ranking?
(a) Organization for Economic Cooperation and development (OECD)
(b) World Economic Forum
(c) World Bank
(d) World Trade Organization (WTO)

Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally
(a) agriculturists
(b) warriors
(c) weavers
(d) traders

Logic – NCERT question

Who of the following had first deciphered Scripts of Ashokan edicts ?
(a) Georg Buhler
(b) James Prinsep
(c) Max Muller
(d) William Jones

With reference to the `Gram Nyayalaya Act’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
2. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/reconciliators.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ref – http://www.downtoearth.org.in/coverage/where-are-rural-courts-44754

With reference to the `Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements :
1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.
2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Consider the the following statements about The India – Africa Summit
1. held in 2015 was the third such Summit
2. was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

What is/are the purpose/purposes of the `Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR)’ announced by RBI?
1. These guidelines help improve the transparency in the methodology followed by banks for determining the interest rates on advances.
2. These guidelines help ensure availability of bank credit at interest rates which are fair to the borrowers as well as the banks.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Economic survey question.

What is/are unique about `Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?
1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometers in seawater.
2. It survives by grazing on mangroves
3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – Camel has always been domesticated and never found in wild per se. SO that leave us with option a . However this statement is little ridiculous – It is capable of swimming up to three kilometers in seawater. – What if  there is some who can swim 4 km, giving this kind numbers is not very UPSC like, better statement would have been It can swim in water for few kms.

Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?
(a) Andaman Islands
(b) Anaimalai Forests
(c) Maikala Hills
(d) Tropical rain forests of northeast

Ref- thehindu

Which one of the following is the best description of `INS Astradharini’, that
was in the news recently?
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

Logic – Even if you don’t know, lets decode the word AstraDharani – that translates to the one that holds the weapons and now if we check the options, option c as answer comes clear.

What is `Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’ , recently in the news?
(a) Electric plane tested by NASA
(b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft
designed by Japan
(c) Space observatory launched by
China
(d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO

With reference to `Initiative for Nutritional Security through Intensive Millets Promotion’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. This initiative aims to demonstrate the improved production and post-harvest technologies, and to demonstrate value addition techniques, in an integrated manner, with cluster approach.
2. Poor, small, marginal and tribal farmers have larger stake in this scheme.

3. An important objective of the scheme is to encourage farmers of commercial crops to shift to millet cultivation by offering them free kits of critical inputs of nutrients and micro irrigation equipment.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – 1 and 2 are right. 1 is right becasue the key word here is post-harvest cluster – this is need of the hour so it is right.2 is right for obvious reasons.3 might be right becasue govt gives free kits for this however there is little uncertainty whether there is shifting from commercial crops.However if we think over it , commercial crops have destroyed the way of life for the tribals and diversion to commercial crops in tribal lands has negated the benefits that arose from it.Moreover commercial crops are water intensive and had adverse effects when they were carried over unsuitable lands.So 3 can be right but , there is no certainty on this , hence count this one as wrong in your calculation of marks .

The `Swadeshi’ and `Boycott’ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the
(a) agitation against the Partition of Bengal
(b) Home-Rule Movement
(c) Non-Cooperation Movement
(d) Visit of the Simon Commission to India

With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism
2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment
3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – Hinayana were little orthodox and for them there was one and only Buddha and no one else, hence 1 is eliminated.Statement 3 , we gave it in one of our full lenght tests and it is right.

Doctors without Borders (Medeicins Sans Frontieres)’, often in the news, is

(a) a division of World Health Organization
(b) a non-governmental international organization
(c) an inter-governmental agency sponsored by European Union
(d) a specialized agency of the United Nations

With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)’, which of the following statements is / are correct ?
1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
3. It presents an approach that can help decision-makers regonize, demonstrate and  capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – IMF in environment related issues is far-fetched.Think of it as a big fat business man for whom profit matters, so cutting a sandal tree makes economic sense to him than planting one.

With reference to ‘Red Sanders’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements :
1. It is a tree species found in a part of South India.
2. It is one of the most important trees in the tropical rain forest areas of South India.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

Logic – It is found in Telengana and Telengana has no tropical rainforest.

 

Which of the following statements is/are correct ? Proper design and effective implementation of UN-REDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to
1. protection of biodiversity
2. resilience of forest ecosystems
3. poverty reduction
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – The + in REDD is all about integrating every parameter to ecosystem management.

What is ‘Greenhouse Gas Protocol ?
(a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions
(b) It is an initiative of the United Nations to offer financial incentives to developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adopt eco-friendly technologies.
(c) It is an inter-governmental agreement ratified by all the member countries of the United Nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to specified levels by the year 2022
(d) It is one of the multilateral REDD+ initiatives hosted by the World Bank

Logic – Elimination is better than thinking over the question and option a is most logical.

With reference to ‘Financial Stability and Development Council’, consider the following statements :
1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
2. It is headed by the Union Finance Minister.
3. It monitors macroprudential supervision of the economy.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct ?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

With reference to ‘Agenda 21’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements :
1. It is a global action plan for sustainable development.
2. It originated in the World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg in 2002.
Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Logic – UPSC has asked this last year as well, just twisted the statement this time.

Satya Shodhak Samaj organized
(a) a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar
(b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat
(c) an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra
(d) a peasant movement in Punjab

Logic – Satyasodhak- Jyotiba Phule- Maharastra

Which of the following statements is/are correct ?
Viruses can infect
1. bacteria
2. fungi
3. plants
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

The term ‘Base Erosion and Profit Shifting’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of
(a) mining operation by multinational companies in resource-rich but backward areas
(b) curbing of the tax evasion by multinational companies
(c) exploitation of genetic resources of a country by multinational companies
(d) lack of consideration of environmental costs in the planning and implementation of  developmental projects

Economic Survey question

Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in
(a) Andhra Prdesh (Chittor to be specific but this is not recently news item , it is relative old news)
(b) Gujarat
(c) Maharashtra
(d) Uttar Pradesh

What is/are the purpose/purposes of ‘District Mineral Foundations’ in India?
1. Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts
2. Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations
3. Authorizing State Governments to issue licences for mineral exploration
Select the correct answer usig the code
given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – A district body authorizing the state – that would a be dream come true for grassroot democratization.Eliminate this and you are left with 1 and 2 .Option 1 has nothing do with promotion.Words like foundation , fund etc are for good causes, words like board ,corporation etc are for promotional purposes in general.

SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at
(a) promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas
(b) providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entreprenuers
(c) promoting the education and health of adolescent girls
(d) providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free

The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to
(a) social reforms
(b) educational reforms
(c) reforms in police administration
(d) constitutional reforms (Spectrum mentions this)

What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and
Mahabalipuram ?
1. Both were built in the same period
2. Both belong to the same religious denomination
3. Both have rock-cut monuments.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the statements given above is correct

With reference to ‘Bitcoins’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct ?
1. Bitcoins are tracked by the Central Banks of the countries.
2. Anyone with a Bitcoin address can send and receive Bitcoins from anyone else with a Bitcoin address.
3. Online payments can be sent without either side knowing the identity of the other.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Consider the following statements:
1. New Development Bank has been set up by APEC.
2. The headquarters of New Development Bank is in Shanghai.
Which of the statements given aboe
is/are correct ?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Gadgil Committee Report’ and ‘Kasturirangan Committee Report’, sometimes seen in the news, are related to
(a) constitutional reforms
(b) Ganga Action Plan
(c) linking of rivers
(d) protection of Western Ghats

Consider the following:
1. Calcutta Unitarian Committee
2. Tabernacle of New Dispensation
3. Indian Reform Association
Keshab Chandra Sen is associated with the establishment of which of the
above ?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Logic – We don’t understand why ask about K.C. Sen , he professed everything then got his 13 yr daughter married to a king.How ironic ? Now UPSC should have asked some better personality who is worth researching for in our opinion .Where is Gandhi or Roy or plethora of leader from Netaji to Rani Gaindinliu or M.N Roy for that matter.

Which of the following is not a member of ‘Gulf Cooperation Council’ ?
(a) Iran
(b) Saudi Arabia
(c) Oman
(d) Kuwait

What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme?
1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy
2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector
3. To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

`Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of
(a) African Union
(b) Brazil
(c) European Union
(d) China

We thought South China sea will be asked and did  research and published an unparalleled article on this .So much for hard work.Although it can be helpful in Mains , so the hard work is not wasted yet.

Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at
(a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system
(b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops
(c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons
(d) funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation.

In which of the following regions of India are shale gas resources found ?
1. Cambay Basin
2. Cauvery Basin
3. Krishna-Godavari Basin
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Don’t touch this question unless you are completely sure.

‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is prepared by the
(a) European Central Bank
(b) International Monetary Fund
(c) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(d) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development

The establishment of “Payment Banks’ is being allowed in India to promote Financial inclusion. Which of the following statements is/are correct in this context?

1. Mobile telephone companies and supermarket chains that are owned and controlled by residents are eligible to be promoters of Payment Banks.
2. Payment Banks can issue both credit cards and debit cards.
3. Payment Banks cannot undertake lending activities.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

There has been a persistent deficit budget year after year. Which action/ actions of the  following can be taken by the Government to reduce the deficit?
1. Reducing revenue expenditure
2. Introducing new welfare schemes
3. Rationalizing subsidies
4. Reducing import duty
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

The Analysis will follow.

---