Insight Test 12

IA
1 The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports to both the UN General
Assembly and the UN Security Council because
1. IAEA was established by the UN Charter.
2. It is under the direct control of the UN.
Which of the above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer : B
Correct Answer : D
Answer Justification :
TS
Justification & Learning:Though established

blished independently of the United Nations
Statute, the IAEA reports to both the
through its own international treaty, the IAEA Statute
United Nations General Assembly
Council. However, it is not under
y and Security Coun
Counci
the direct control of the UN. So,
wrong.
o, both 1 and 2 are wr
The IAEA has its headquarters
uarters
rters in Vienna.
The IAEA serves as an intergovernment

intergovernmental
forum for scientific and technical
intergovernme
cooperation in the peaceful use of nu
nuclear technology and nuclear power worldwide.
Q Source:
e: Page
age 85: Chapter
Chapte 6: 12th NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
IN
SI
2 Consider
about the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
der the following abou
1. It provides advisory opinions on legal questions submitted to it by the UN General
Assembl
Assembly.
2. UN Security Council can enforce its rulings.
judges may be nationals of the same country in the ICJ.
3. No tw
two ju
judges are appointed for five-year terms by the UN Security Council.
4. Its judg
Select the correct answer using the codes below.
S
Sele
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
User Answer : B
Correct Answer : A
Justification: Statement 1: ICJ is the primary judicial branch of the United Nations
(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.
www.insightsias.com
(UN) in the Hague. It settles legal disputes submitted to it by states and provides
advisory opinions on legal questions submitted to it by duly authorized international
branches, agencies, and the UN General Assembly.
Statement 2: Chapter XIV of the United Nations Charter authorizes the UN

Security
NS
Council to enforce Court rulings. However, such enforcement is subject
ct to the vveto
power of the five permanent members of the Council, which the United
nited
ed States used
in the Nicaragua case.
IA
Statement 3 and 4: The ICJ is composed of fifteen judges elected

cted to nine-year terms
tte
by the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council
uncil from a list of people
peo
pe
nominated by the national groups in the Permanent Court
rt of Arbitrat
Arbitration.
TS
According to Article 9, the membershipp of the Court is supposed

to represent
supp
the "main forms of civilization and off the principal legal systems of the
world". Essentially, that has meant
ant common law, civil
ci law and socialist law
(now post-communist law).
There is an informal understanding
seats will be distributed by
rstanding that the sea
seat
geographic region
The five permanent members of the Unit
United
Unite Nations Security Council (France,
Russia, China, the
he United Kingdom
Kingdom, aand the United States) always have a
judge on the Court (except for 196
1967-1985 China).
1967
Q Source: Page
ge 85:
5: Chapter 6: 112th NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
IN
SI
he following stat
statemen
3 Consider the
statements.
1. It iss India's largest inlan
inland salt lake.
2. It is geographically a land locked river basin.
designated as a Ramsar site.
3. Itt has been design
refer to?
The above refe
A Bhim
A.
Bhimtal Lake
Bhitarkanika Lake
B B
B.
C. Sambhar Lake
C
D. Shakambari Lake
User Answer : C
Correct Answer : C
Learning: Sambhar has been designated as a Ramsar site (recognized wetland of
international importance) because the wetland is a key wintering area for tens of
thousands of flamingos and other birds that migrate from northern Asia.
www.insightsias.com
The specialized algae and bacteria growing in the lake provide striking water
colours and support the lake ecology that, in turn, sustains the migrating waterfowl.
It is not part of the Ganga river basin area and is geographically a separate land
locked river basin.
IA
Q Source: SET A: Improvisation: Q4: CSP 2009
It is the source of most of Rajasthan's salt production.
TS
4 CNX Nifty is used extensively by investors in India and

ndd around the world aas a barometer
of the Indian capital markets. It is prepared by
A. Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
B. Securities and Exchange Board off India (SEB
(SEBI)
C. National Stock Exchange of India
ndia
D. Department of Financial Services,
Government
ervices, Union Gove
Gover
User Answer : D
Correct Answer : C
Learning: The NIFTY

IFTY 50 covers 22 sse
sectors of the Indian economy and offers
anagers exposure to th
investment managers
the Indian market in one portfolio.
The basee period for the CNX Nifty index is 1995.
SI
NSE
exchange in the country to provide a modern, fully automated
SE was the first exch
excha
electronic trading system which offered easy trading facility to the
screen-based electr
electron
investors
nvestors spread
sprea aacross the length and breadth of the country.
IN
set up by a group of leading Indian financial institutions at the behest of

NSE was se
government of India to bring transparency to the Indian capital market.
the gov
gove
5 A High-level government committee headed by Deepak Parekh that submitted its report
in 2014 was set up to give recommendations on which sector?
A. Public Sector Bank (PSB) Reforms
B. Infrastructure financing
C. Railways modernization
D. Housing shortage
www.insightsias.com
User Answer : A
Correct Answer : B
Learning: The Deepak Parekh committee was tasked with estimating the
investments to be made by the public and private sectors in major coree sectors aand
suggest areas that are suitable for public and private investments.
Some of its proposals are as follows:-
IA
It was also expected to suggest changes in the business environment

capital
onment and the capita
markets framework to facilitate higher flows of savings into
projects.
nto infrastructure
nfrastructure proj
proje
SI
G
H
TS
Establish a PPP model for power distribution,

bution, starting first with
w the cities
Modernise public sector distribution
n companies. T
The viab
viability gap for such
companies should be funded by the
government
he Central governm
governmen
Tariffs should be rationalized with a grading system that distinguishes
between consumers depending
ding
ing on their paying ccapacity.
Privatise coal mining wherein
herein Coal India or iits arms/subsidiaries can retain
ownership of mines
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-05-06/news/49661704_1_infrastr
times.indiatimes.com/
mes.indiatimes.co
ucture-projects-new-infrastructure-deepak-parekh
-infrastructure-deepak
Q Source: SET
T A: Improvisation: Q
Q11: CSP 2009
IN
he following matches
matche oof Buddhist Monasteries with their locations.
6 Consider the
bo Monastery : Spiti V
1. Tabo
Valley
2. Kardang Monaster
Monastery : Nubra Valley
3. Rumtek Monaster
Monastery : Lhasa
Select the correct
corre answer using the codes below.
corr
A 1 and 2 only
A.
B 3 only
B.
C 2 only
C.
D. 1 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Learning: It is from here that UPSC lifted the question on Buddhist monasteries
and locations in CSP 2014.
www.insightsias.com
Statement 1: It is located in the Tabo village of Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It

was founded in 996 CE in the Tibetan year of the Fire Ape.
Tabo is noted for being the oldest continuously operating Buddhist enclave in both
India and the Himalayas. A large number of frescoes displayed on itss wa
walls depict
tales from the Buddhist pantheon.
IA
Statement 2: Kardang Monastery or Gompa is a famous Drukpa

monastery,
ukpa Lineage monast
mona
and is the most important monastery the Lahaul valley, India.
ndia. The monastery iis a
huge white building bedecked with prayer flags.
TS
Statement 3: The monastery is currently the largest

home to the
gest in Sikkim. It is ho
community of monks and where they perform
practices
of the Karma
m the rituals
als and pra
prac
Kagyu lineage. A golden stupa contains the
Karmapa. Opposite
he relics of the 16th K
that building is a college, Karma Shri Nalanda
alanda Institute
Institu for Higher Buddhist Studies.
Q Source: SET A: Improvisation:
on: Q15: CSP 2009
IN
SI
7 India has recently ratified thee Convention

Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear
onvention on Sup
Supp
Damage (CSC), 1997. Consider
about CSC.
sider
ider the following
followin ab
1. It sets parameters on a nation's financi
financial liability in case of a nuclear accident.
financia
2. It fulfils the commitments
made in the 2005 Nuclear Agreement with the
ommitments India mad
USA.
Select the
using the codes below.
he correct answer us
usin
A.. 1 only
B. 2 only
C.
C Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct An
Corre
Answer : B
Answe Justification :
Answer
JJustification: Statement 1: It does not set parameters on a nation's financial liability
but that of the nuclear plant operator. It seeks to establish a uniform global legal
regime for compensation to victims in the unlikely event of a nuclear accident.
Statement 2: India had signed it in 2010 for delivering its commitments for
stemming the landmark 2005 nuclear agreement with the United States. It finally
ratified it recently.
This article explains it.
www.insightsias.com
http://www.ibtimes.com/india-us-nuclear-agreement-india-clarifies-says-supplier-no
t-directly-liable-case-1809012
IA
S
Q Source:
+Ins
http://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/26324/India+submits+the+Instrument
+of+Ratification+of+the+Convention+on+Supplementary+Compensation+for+Nucl
tion+fo
tion+for+
ear+Damage+CSC+1997
TS
8 Which of the following best describes 'Gatka'?

A. A martial art associated with the Sikh history
B. A traditional theatre form of Kashmir where wit and parodies aare us
used to
induce laughter
C. Folk theatre of Kerala performed by tribals
bals
D. Narration of mythical plays with emphasis
gestures and eye
mphasis
hasis on hand gestur
movements
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Learning: It an integral part

art of an array of Sik
Sikh Shastar Vidiya developed during
15th century.
It is generally at public
ublic display during
durin religious processions.
SI
Gatka is a style
yle of stick fighting
fightin between two or more practitioners, with wooden
sticks (called Soti) intended
to simulate swords.
inte
defend & display fighting skills and exercise self-control.
It is a unique art to de
IN
Government of Punjab and School Games Federation of India (SGFI) have also
The Governme
Governmen
incorporate the Gatka game into the school games.
incorporated
Source: SET A: Improvisation: Q18: CSP 2009
Q Sou
9 Bhimbetaka rock art and paintings belong to which of these periods?

1. Upper Paleolithic
2. Mesolithic
3. Chalcolithic
4. Medieval
www.insightsias.com
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
IA
Justification: The drawings and paintings can be classified

fied
ied under seven diffe
differ
different
periods.
SI
TS
Period I - (Upper Paleolithic): These are linear

ar representa
representations
representations, in green and
dark red, of huge figures of animals such as bison,
on, tigers aan
and rhinoceroses.
Period II - (Mesolithic): Comparatively
the stylised figures in
tively small in size th
this group show linear decorations
ions
ns on the body.
body In aaddition to animals there
are human figures and hunting
ing scenes
Period III - (Chalcolithic)
paintings of the Chalcolithic, these
c) Similar to the paint
painti
drawings reveal that during this pe
period the cave dwellers of this area were in
contact with the agricultural
communities of the Malwa plains, exchanging
gricultural
icultural commun
communiti
goods with them.
m.
Period IV & V - (Early historic):
historic The figures of this group have a schematic
and decorative
orative style and are ppainted mainly in red, white and yellow. The
association
depiction of religious symbols
ciation
ation is of riders, de
dep
Period
(Medieval) : These paintings are geometric linear and more
eriod VI & VII - (M
(Med
schematic,
chematic, but they show
s
degeneration and crudeness in their artistic style.
The colors used bby the cave dwellers were prepared by combining
hematite and wooden coal.
manganese, he
IN
Page 7: Chapter 1: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts

Q Source: Pag
Pa
Capricorn passes through which of these countries?

10 Tropic of C
Indonesia
1. Ind
In
2 Sudan
2.
3. Chile
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
D. 2 only
User Answer :
www.insightsias.com
Correct Answer : C
Learning: Countries through which tropic of Capricorn passes through are as
mibi
follows in west to east direction: Chile; Argentina; Paraguay; Brazil; Namibia;
Botswana; South Africa; Mozambique; Madagascar; Australia.
Of the three major lines, Only Tropic of Cancer passes through India.
Tropic of cancer passing through Indian states: Gujarat; Rajasthan;
ajasthan;
sthan; Madhya
Pradesh; Chhattisgarh; Jharkhand; West Bengal; Tripura;
ra; Mizoram.
09
11 Natural rate of population increase per thousand
India during which of
and was highest iin Ind
the following decades?
A. Post-liberalization period
B. Post-Bangladesh war period
riod
C. Decade immediately afterr India's indepen
independence
independ
D. Post-Kargil war period
eriod
riod
User Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Answer Justification
ation
on :
Justification:
ion:
n: During 1971-19
1971-1981 natural increase rate per thousand was around 22.
rapid grow
It was a period of rapi
growth of population.
around 17-20.
Post-liberalization it hovered
h
after independence it was in the range of 13-19.
Immediately aft
Post-Kargil war it was around 17. After 2001 population growth slowed down.
Post-Karg
it percentage terms, during 1921 to 1951 A.D., there was an increase in
To sum
s
population by 12% and from 1951 to 1981, the growth showed an increase by
24.75%.
12 Consider the following about White Dwarfs.
1. They are the lightest forms of matter.
www.insightsias.com
IA
2. They can give an idea about the age of the Universe.

3. White dwarfs are the end product of black holes.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Justification: White dwarfs are one of the densest

nsest forms of matt
matter, surpassed only
rong.
by neutron stars and black holes. So, 1 is wrong.
TS
A low or medium mass star (with mass

times the mass of our Sun)
ss less than abou
about 8 tim
will become a white dwarf. Stars that
hat have a lot of mass
ma may end their lives as black
holes or neutron stars. So, 3 is wrong. v
White dwarfs can tell us about

If we can estimate the time it
bout the age of the Universe.
U
takes for a white dwarf
rff to cool into a black dwarf, that would give us a lower limit
on the age of the Universe
galaxy. So, 2 is correct.
verse and our gal
galax
Q Source: SET
ET A: Improvisation:
Improvisation Q44: CSP 2009
IN
SI
13 Considerr thee following about the Third Round Table Conference.

1. Indian
(INC) did not attend it
ndian National Congress
Congre
C
2. White paper publis
published as a result of the conference became the basis of the
publish
Government oof IIndia Act 1935.
proposed the idea of a 'commonwealth' of colonial nations in this conference.
3. British propo
A. 1 and 2 only
B.
B 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification: Statement 1: The Labour Party from Britain and the Indian National
Congress refused to attend. So, 1 is correct.
www.insightsias.com
Statement 2: The recommendations of conference were published in a White Paper

in March 1933 and debated in Parliament afterwards. A Joint Select Committee was
formed to analyse the recommendations and formulate a new GoI Act 1935 for
India. So, 2 is correct.
IA
Statement 3: The Commonwealth dates back to the mid-20th century with the
decolonisation of the British Empire through increased self-governance
ance
ce of its
territories. It was formally constituted by the London Declaration
on in 1949.
949. So, 3 is
wrong.
SI
TS
14 Which among the following is/are member(s) of the

Council
he National Water Resources
Res
Re
(NWRC)?
1. Chief Ministers of all States
2. Union Minister of Water Resources
3. Chairman, NITI Aayog
Select the correct answer using
g the codes below
below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer
wer : A
fication :
Learning:
earning:
ning: National Water
Wa Resources Council was set up by the Government of
India in 1983
1983.
IN
is the Chairman, Union Minister of Water Resources is the

The Prime Minister
Min
Vice-Chairman, and Minister of State for Water Resources, concerned Union
Vice-Chair
Vice-Chairm
Ministers/ Ministers of State, Chief Ministers of all States & Lieutenant Governors/
Minis
Minister
Administrators of the Union Territories are the Members. Secretary, Ministry of
Adm
Water Resources is the Secretary of the Council.
W
The Government of India constituted a National Water Board in September, 1990
under the Chairmanship of Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources to review the
progress achieved in implementation of the National Water Policy and to report the
progress to the National Water Resources Council from time to time.
www.insightsias.com
10
IA
15 The origins of Anekantavada can be traced back to the teachings of Mahavira.

Anekantavada means
A. Human beings cross many lives in the universal flux.
B. No single point of view is the complete truth.
C. Principle of Karma binds all mortal beings.
D. Multiple ways towards salvation lead to nowhere.
User Answer : B
Correct Answer : B
Learning: Jains contrast all attempts to arrogantly

y proclaim the sole m
mo
monopoly on
strated
d through the parable
par
truth with andhagajany?yah, which can be illustrated
of the
"blind men and an elephant". In this story, each
part of an
ach blind man felt a different
d
elephant (trunk, leg, ear, etc.).
TS
All the men claimed to understand

d and explain the tru
true aappearance of the elephant,
but could only partly succeed, due to their limited pe
perspectives.
This principle is more formally

observing that objects are infinite in their
rmally
mally stated by ob
obser
qualities and modes off existence, so they ca
cannot be completely grasped in all aspects
and manifestations by
(this is the Absolute Truth).
y finite human perception
pe
perc
According to
Kevalisomniscient beingscan comprehend objects in
o the Jains, only the K
all aspectss and
d manifestations;
manifestation others are only capable of partial knowledge.
Consequently,
specific, human view can claim to represent absolute truth.
quently,
uently, no single, sp
spe
SI
Improvisation: Q57: CSP 2009

Q Source: SET A: Im
IN
was associated with which of the following?

16 Aruna Asif Ali w
1. Quit India Movement
Satyagraha
2. Salt Sa
Sat
National Federation of Indian Women
3. Nati
N
S
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
www.insightsias.com
11
Justification: She is widely remembered for hoisting the Indian National Congress
flag at the Gowalia Tank maidan in Bombay during the Quit India Movement, 1942.
So, 1 is correct.
She became an active member of Congress Party after marrying Asaf Ali and
participated in public processions during the Salt Satyagraha. So, 2 is correct.
IA
In 1954, she helped form the National Federation of Indian Women,

men, the
he women's
wing of CPI but left the party in 1956 following Nikita Khrushchev's
shchev's disowning of
Stalin. So, 3 is correct.
TS
17 Camphor tree is most likely to be naturally found

nd
d in
A. Evergreen forests
B. Boreal forests
C. Temperate deciduous forests
tss
D. Mediterranean vegetation
onn
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Learning: Cinnamomum
namomum
momum camphora (from where Camphor can be obtained) is a
ad leaved evergreen tree.
tr
massive broad
SI
Nativee to the wet fores

forests of subtropical and tropical Asia, the camphor tree,
Cinnamomum
nnamomum
amomum camphora,
camphor
camphora has been planted across the world's warm temperate,
tropical regions.
subtropical, and tro
tropi
IN
feature is the essential oil that can be extracted from its tissues and the
Its defining fea
feat
mixture of aaromatic chemicals that give the oil its pungent odor. Of these, camphor
major ingredient- a highly aromatic terpene like chemical.
is the maj
SET A: Improvisation: Q73: CSP 2009
Q Source:
S
18 Consider the following about Shompen tribe.

1. They are the indigenous people of Lakshadweep Islands.
2. They have been classified as a Primitive Tribal Group (PTG).
3. They speak South Indian languages.
4. They are the descendants of Jarawa tribal lineage.
www.insightsias.com
12

A. 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 4 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
IA
Justification:Statement 1: They are the indigenous peoplee of the interio

interior oof Great
Nicobar Island.
TS
Statement 2 and 4: The Shompen are a designated

Tribe and a PTG. Not
gnated Scheduled
eduled Tri
Trib
as well known as the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman islands, the Shompen are as
precariously poised on the brink of extinction
other hunter-gatherer tribes
xtinction
nction as the four
f
ot
(the Jarawa, the Andamanese, the Onge and the Senti
Sentinelese
Sentine
SI
G
H
Statement 3: The Shompen languages,

anguages, of which th
tthere are at least two, are very little
known, but appear to be unrelated
nrelated to Nicobarese,
Nicoba
Nicobare an isolated group of Austroasiatic
languages, and perhaps
pss even to each other. They may constitute a language isolate.
So, 3 is wrong.
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-sundaymagazine/tragedy-of-th
hehindu.com/todays
hehindu.com/todays-p
e-shompen/article2275375.ece
en/article2275375.ece
rticle2275375.e
Q Source:
ource: SET A: Impro
Improvisation: Q81: CSP 2009
IN
9 Consider the followi

follo
19
following
with reference to the United Nations Economic and Social
(UNECOSOC).
Council
uncil (UNECOSO
1. Members aare appointed on rotation basis by the United Nations Secretary General.
2. Seats oon the Council are based on geographical representation.
3. Inter
IInternational Labour Organization (ILO) is one of its sub-agencies.
S
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
www.insightsias.com
13
Justification: ILO is an autonomous organization working with the United Nations

coordinating with other specialized agencies of the UN and UNECOSOC. So, 3 is
wrong.
IA
The Council has 54 member states out of the 193 UN member states, which
ch are
elected by the United Nations General Assembly for overlapping three-year
terms.
e-year te
term
Seats on the Council are based on geographical representation with
h 18
8 allocated to
African states, 13 to Asian states, 8 to East European states, 13 to Latin
in American
and Caribbean states and 13 to West European and other states.
es.
SI
TS
20 Consider the following with reference to the Cartagena

Biosafety.
agena Protocol on Bio
1. It seeks to promote genetically modified organisms
ganisms
anisms (GM
(GMOs) in oorder to ensure
biological diversity.
2. It restricts countries from banning any
y imports of GMOs.
3. It acts as a supplement to the Convention
vention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
g the codes below
below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer
wer : B
fication :
IN
Justification
ustification
fication and Lear
Learning: The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the
Convention on Bio
Biolo
Biological Diversity is an international agreement on biosafety as a
supplement
upplement to the Convention on Biological Diversity effective since 2003. So, 3 is
correct.
The
T Biosafety Protocol seeks to protect biological diversity from the potential
risks posed by genetically modified organisms resulting from modern
biotechnology. So, 1 is incorrect.
The Biosafety Protocol makes clear that products from new technologies
must be based on the precautionary principle and allow developing nations to
balance public health against economic benefits.
It will for example let countries ban imports of a genetically modified
organisms if they feel there is not enough scientific evidence that the product
is safe and requires exporters to label shipments containing genetically
www.insightsias.com
14
altered commodities such as corn or cotton. So, 2 is incorrect.

It is implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
TS
IA
wship.
ship.
21 Consider the following about Sangeet Natak Akademi Award fellowship.
1. It is the highest honour in the performing arts conferred by the
India.
he Government
overnment of In
2. Allauddin Khan was one of the first awardees.
3. The Awardees are entitled to a financial grant for establishing
blishing
shing a private autonomous
auto
performing arts institution.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification & Learning:The

arning:
rning:The
The Akade
Akademi Ratna (Fellow) may be conferred, as per
stitutional
titutional provision under
uun
the existing constitutional
Rule 12 (vi) of the Rules and Regulations
of the Akademi,
under:
mi, which reads as uund
IN
SI
"To elect,
ct, by a majority of aat least three-fourth of the members present and voting,
artists
merit in the field of Music, Dance and Drama or such persons
tss of outstanding meri
outstanding service to the cause of music, dance & drama through
ass have rendered ooutsta
research or original contributions as Fellows of the Akademi,
their scholarship, re
have been recommended for the elction by the Executive Board and
provided
rovided they ha
further the number of Fellows shall at no time exceed thirty."
provided furt
It is subject to the approval of the Department of Culture, Government of
India.
The fellowship was established in 1954 and the first elected fellows were the
Carnatic musicians Karaikudi Sambasiva Aiyer and Ariyakudi Ramanuja
Iyengar, the Hindustani musicians Allauddin Khan and Hafiz Ali Khan, and
movie and theatre actor Prithviraj Kapoor.
Q Source: SET A: Improvisation: Q93: CSP 2009 + Recent issue of Returning of

Awards of the Akademi
www.insightsias.com
15
TS
IA
22 Consider the following statements about the administrative setup of the Government of
India.
1. The Ministries/Departments of the Government are created by the President on the
advice of the Prime Minister.
2. Each of the Ministries is assigned to a Minister by the President on the advice
dvic of the
Prime Minister.
3. The rules for the allocation of business of the Government of Indiaa are
re made by the
President.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Justification & Learning: The Government oof India (Allocation of Business)

esident of India uund
Rules, 1961 are made by the President
under Article 77 of the Constitution
for the allocation of business
Government of India. So, 3 is correct.
ess of the Governmen
The Ministries/Departments
Government are created by the President on the
artments of the Gover
advice of the Prime
these Rules. The business of the Government are
me Minister under th
the
transacted in the Ministries/Depa
Ministries/Departments,
Secretariats and offices (referred to as
Ministries/Departm
'Department')
distribution of subjects specified in these Rules.
ent')
') as per the distribu
SI
Each
h of the Ministries iis aassigned to a Minister by the President on the advice of the
Prime
rime Minister. Each ddepartment is generally under the charge of a Secretary to
assist the Minister oon policy matters and general administration.
IN
SET A: Improvisation: Q94: CSP 2009

Q Source: SE
23 Laser dio
diodes are used in which of these device(s)?
1. Ba
Baking Oven
B
2. Barcode Readers
3. Air conditioner
4. Blu-ray Discs
A. 1 and 4 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
www.insightsias.com
16
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
IA
Justification: Both DVDs and Blu-ray Discs use laser diode, butt in DVD it is red
d to small areas,
are
areas
laser, in Blu-ray Discs it is blue (violet) laser. The laser is focused
thus enabling it to read information recorded in pits of the
correct.
hee discs. So, 4 is corre
Many Barcode readers use a laser beam as the light
htt source and typically have either
a reciprocating (return) mirror or a rotating prism
beam back and
sm to
o scan the laser
las be
forth across the bar code.
TS
A photo-diode is used to measure the intensity

back from the
tensity of the light reflected
r
bar code to read the pattern. So, 2 iss correct.
Air Conditioners use compressors
circulation to cool a place. A baking
essors
sors and fluid circul
circula
oven doesn't use laser diodes.
des.
es.
Q Source: CSP 2008

08
IN
SI
24 How is the UN Secretary-General

selected?
ecretary-General se
A. Elected
by the UN General Assembly (UNGA)
lected on a majority basis
b
B. Appointed by the U
UN Security Council (UNSC) based on the discretion of the
PP-5
C Appointed bby the General Assembly on the recommendations of the UNSC
C.
D. Nominated
Nomina by a body of former UN Secretary Generals
User Answer :
Correct A
Answer : C
An
Answe Justification :
Answer
Learning: The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UNSG) is the head of the
L
United Nations Secretariat, one of the principal organs of the United Nations.
The Secretary-General also acts as the de facto spokesperson and leader of the
United Nations.
Responsibilities of the Secretary-General are further outlined in Articles 98 through
100, which states that they shall act as the officer "in all meetings of the General
Assembly, of the Security Council, of the Economic and Social Council and the
www.insightsias.com
17
Trusteeship Council, and shall perform other functions as are entrusted to him by
these organs".
They are responsible, according to Article 99, for making an annual report to the
General Assembly as well as notifying the Security Council on matters which
hic "in
their opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security"
security".
security
TS
IA
25 The Shramana tradition is related to

A. The path of seeking the ultimate truth
B. Social service amongst the most vulnerable
C. Occult practices in the Tibetan region
D. Martial arts taught to princes in Gurukuls
ukuls
kuls
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Q Source: Page 85: Chapter 6: 12th NCERT: Contemporary World

orld Politics
Learning: Shramana meanss "seeker,

eker, one who pe
per
performs acts of austerity, ascetic".
veral
eral Indian religious m
The term refers to several
movements parallel to but separate from
the historical Vedicc religion.
The ?rama?aa tradition includes JJai
Jainism of 9th-century BCE, Buddhism of 6thcentury BCE,
E, and others such aas Ajivika and Carvaka.
IN
SI
The Srama?a movemen

movements arose in the same circles of mendicants in ancient India
development of Yogic practices, as well as the popular concepts in all
that
hat led to the deve
develop
such as sa?s?ra (the cycle of birth and death) and moksha
major Indian religions
religi
relig
(liberation from that cycle).
Source: Page 128-30: Chapter 8: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts
Q So
Source
26 Consider
the following about the Animal Welfare Board of India.
ns
1. It is an advisory body established by an executive order.
2. It is chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
3. The Board provides financial assistance to recognised Animal Welfare
Organisations(AWOs).
A. 1 and 2 only
www.insightsias.com
18
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
D. None of the above
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
IA
Justification:Statement 1: The Animal Welfare Board of India

ndia iss a statutory
nimal welfare in the
advisory body on Animal Welfare Laws and promotes animal
country. It was established in 1962 under the Prevention
Animals
tion of Cruelty to A
Anim Act,
1960. So, 1 is incorrect.
Statement 2: National Board for Wildlife is chaired by the PM, nno
not the welfare
board.
TS
Statement 3: It works to ensure that

att animal welfare laws
la in the country are followed
and provides grants to Animal Welfare Organisations
Organisations.
Organisation
The Board oversees Animal

(AWOs) by granting recognition
mal
al Welfare Organisations
Organ
Organisat
to them if they meet itss guidelines.
Q Source:SET A: Improvisation: Q9
Q91: CSP 2009
IN
SI
27 Consider thee following about A

Ashta Pradhan.
Ash
1. It was
ministers that administered the Maratha Empire.
as a council of eight m
2. It did not involve itse
itself in military campaigns.
3. No appointment to the
t body was made on a hereditary basis.
concern with dispensing justice on civil and criminal matters.
4. Its
ts role did not co
Select the correct
corr answer using the codes below.
cor
A.
A 11, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 only
C.
C 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Justification & Learning: The Ashta Pradhan was designed to encompass all the
primary administrative functions of the state, with each minister being given charge
of one role in the administration. Ministerial designations were drawn from the
Sanskrit language; the eight ministerial roles were as follows:
www.insightsias.com
19
Q Source:SET A: Q116: CAPF 2011
TS
IA
28 Consider the following about the World Economic Forum (WEP).

1. It is an intergovernmental organization committed to improving economic ppolicy
making.
2. All its meetings are conducted in Geneva.
3. It publishes the annual report "Global Economic Prospects".
4. The Global Health Initiative was launched at one of its meetings.
ngs.
A. 1 only
B. 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Justification:Statement 1: It iss a Swiss non-pro

non-profit fo
foundation, based in Cologny,
Geneva. Recognized by thee Swiss authorities as the international institution for
public-private cooperation,
on,
n, its mission is ccited as "committed to improving the state
of the world by engaging
political, academic, and other leaders of society
ging business, politic
politica
to shape global, regional,
egional,
gional, and industry agendas".
SI
Statement 2: The Forum is best kknown for its annual winter meeting in Davos, a
mountain
Graubnden, in the eastern Alps region of Switzerland. The
n resort in Graubnden
organization
nization also conve
convenes some six to eight regional meetings each year in
locations
cations
ions such as Latin America and East Asia, as well as undertaking two further
China and the United Arab Emirates.
annual meetings in C
IN
Statement 3: It is published by the World Bank.

Statement 4: The Global Health Initiative was launched by Kofi Annan at the annual
Statemen
Statem
meeting in 2002. The GHI's mission was to engage businesses in public-private
meet
meeti
partnerships to tackle HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and health systems. So, 4 is
pa
correct.
Q Source:SET A: Improvisation: Q113: CSP 2009
29 Consider the following events in Indian economic history.

1. Life insurance in India was completely nationalized even before major commercial
www.insightsias.com
20
IA
banks were nationalized.

2. Banking regulation Act was passed before the establishment of the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI).
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
TS
Justification: Statement 1: The Insurance Act

ct of 1938 was the fi
first legislation
vide
ide strict state control
contro over insurance
governing all forms of insurance to provide
business. Life insurance in India was completely
mpletely nationalized
natio
nationaliz in 1956, through the
Life Insurance Corporation Act. All 245 insurance co
companies operating then in the
com
country were merged into one entity, the Life Insurance
Corporation of India.
Insura
Statement 2: The Banking

ng Regulation Act, 194
11949 regulates all banking firms in India.
RBI commenced its operations
perations from 1935 dduring the British Rule in accordance
with the provisionss off the Reserve Ban
Bank of India Act, 1934.
Q Source: SET
2009
ET A: Q119: CSP 220
IN
SI
30 Which off the following may hhave caused Dugong dugon numbers to decline in oceans?
1. Loss and degradat
degradation oof Seagrass meadows
2.. Fishing-related fata
fatalities
3. Coastal polluti
pollution
answer using the codes below.
Select the correct
cor
A. 1 aand 2 only
B.
B 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : d
Justification:Statement 1: The dugong is largely dependent on seagrass
communities for subsistence and is thus restricted to the coastal habitats which
support seagrass meadow.
www.insightsias.com
21
Sewage, detergents, heavy metal, hypersaline water, herbicides, and other waste
products all negatively affect seagrass meadows. Human activity such as mining,
trawling, dredging, land-reclamation, and boat propeller scarring also cause an
increase in sedimentation which smothers seagrass and prevents light from reaching
it.
IA
Statement 2: Entanglement in fishing nets has caused many deaths. As dugongs

cannot stay underwater for a very long period, they are highly prone
rone to
o deaths due tto
entanglement.
Statement 3: The fact that they live in shallow waters puts
uts them under great pressure
from human activity, especially coastal pollution.
TS
Other reasons: The dugong has been hunted for

or thousands of years for its meat and
oil. Traditional hunting still has great cultural
countries in its
ural
al significance in several
sev
modern range, particularly northern Australia
ustralia
stralia and the Paci
Pacific Islands.
Q Source:SET A: Q132: CSP 2009
0099
IN
SI
31 Which of these can be found at Ajanta Caves?

Caves
1. Boddhisatva Images
2. Mahaparinibbana image
mage of Buddha
3. Tales from Avadanas
danas
nas
Select the correct
orrect
rrect answer using tthe codes below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C.. 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3
D.
User Answer :
Correct A
Answer : D
Answe
Answer Jus
Justification :
Justi
JJustification:
ustif
The themes of the paintings are the events from the life of the
Bu
Buddha, the Jatakas and the Avadanas. Some paintings such as Simhala Avadana,
Mahajanaka Jataka and Vidhurpundita Jataka cover the entire wall of the cave.
The other important paintings are the famous Padmapani and Vajrapan.
Figures in these caves are painted with considerable naturalism and there is no overstylisation.
www.insightsias.com
22
Q Source: Page 38-40: Chapter 4: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts
IA
32 The Anushilan Samiti formed in 1906 propounded

A. Constitutional methods to achieve administrative reforms
B. British support for bringing social reforms in India
C. Revolutionary violence as means for ending British rule in
n India
D. The doctrine of 'Council entry' to weaken the British raj from
rom within
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Learning:It was a Bengali Indian organisation

on and arose
ose from co
con
conglomerations of
local youth groups and gyms in Bengal.
TS
It had two prominent if somewhat independent

East and West Bengal
ndependent arms iin E
identified as Dhaka Anushilan Samiti
amiti and the Jugantar
Juganta group respectively.
Between its foundations to

dissolution
o its gradual disso
dissolutio through 1930s, the Samiti
collaborated with other revolutionary
organisations in India and abroad.
olutionary organi
organis
SI
Led by notable revolutionaries

of Aurobindo Ghosh, Rash Behari Bose
evolutionaries
volutionaries of the likes
lli
and Jatindranath
Samiti was involved in a number of noted
ath Mukherjee, the Sam
incidences of revolutionary terro
terrorism against British interests and administration in
India. These
hese included the early
ea
earl attempts to assassinate Raj officials, the 1912
attempt
Viceroy of India, as well as the Sedetious conspiracy during
mpt on the life of Vice
World War I.
Source:SET
Q Source
Source:
SET A:
A Q115: CAPF 2011
IN
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is

33 The Organ
Organis
A An intergovernmental organisation that verifies the adherence to the
A.
Chemical Weapons Convention
B. An international non-profit body that monitors global proliferation of
chemical weapons
C. A subsidiary organization of the UN reporting to the UNSC on matters
related to Chemical weapons
D. An arm of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) to prevent access of harmful
chemical weapons in wrong hands
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
www.insightsias.com
23
Learning:The organisation was awarded the 2013 Nobel Peace Prize.
ibe in the
The activities of the OPCW and its core organisational structure are described
Chemical Weapons Convention (whose members are all in OPCW).
The principal body is the conference of states parties, which normally

mally
y is convened
yearly, and in which all countries participate and have equal voting rights.
IA
All States Parties make contributions to the OPCW budget,

modified UN
dget,
get, based on a modif
scale of assessments.
TS
Q Source: Page 85: Chapter 6: 12th NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
SI
34 UNESCO's Memory of the World Register

err lists documentary hheritage of world
significance. It includes which of these from
om India
India?
1. Rigveda
2. Mundaka Upanishad
3. Saiva Manuscript
Select the correct answer
below.
wer using
sing the codes bbe
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
y
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and
nd 3
User Answer :
Correct
rrect
ect Answer : C
Answer Justificatio
Justification :
IN
Justification:T Institute of Asian Studies Tamil Medical Manuscript Collection

Justification:The
Justification:T
was the firs
first to be included.
Manuscript in Puducherry in 2005, and then Rigveda in 2007 was
Then Saiva
S
included.
inc
Saiva siddhanta, considered normative tantric Shaivism, provides the normative
rites, cosmology and theological categories of tantric Shaivism.
To date, 238 documentary heritages have been included in the Register, among them
recordings of folk music, ancient languages and phonetics, aged remnants of
religious and secular manuscripts, collective lifetime works of renowned giants of
www.insightsias.com
24
literature, science and music, copies of landmark motion pictures and short films,
and accounts documenting changes in the world's political, economic and social
stage.
TS
IA
35 Methane is emitted by
1. Wetlands
2. Raising of livestock
3. Landfills
4. Coal Mining
5. Oceans
A. 1, 2 and 5 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
n:
Q Source:CSP 2008
Justification: Statement 1 and 55: W

Wetlands are the largest source, emitting CH4
eria that decompose oor
from bacteria
organic materials in the absence of oxygen. Smaller
oc
oce
sourcess include termites, oceans,
sediments, volcanoes, and wildfires.
SI
Statement
tatement 2: Dom
Domestic livestock such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and camels
produce large amounts
amou of CH4 as part of their normal digestive process.
IN
Methane is generated in landfills as waste decomposes and in the

Statement 3: M
treatm of wastewater.
treatment
Statement 4: Methane (CH4) is a gas formed as part of the process of coal
State
S
fformation. When coal is mined, methane is released from the coal seam and the
fo
surrounding disturbed rock strata. Methane can also be released as a result of natural
erosion or faulting.
Q Source:CSP 2008
36 Consider the following hills and their locations.

1. Shevroy Hills: Eastern Ghats
www.insightsias.com
25
IA
2. Cardamom Hills: Western Ghats

3. Anaimalai Hills: Garhjat Range
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification:Statement 1: The Servarayans form part off the southern ran

ranges of the
hest
est peak in southern ppart of the
Eastern Ghats System. it also represents the highest
Eastern Ghats, with the Solaikaradu peak.
TS
Statement 2: They conjoin the Anaimalai

northwest, the Palni Hills to
lai Hills to the north
northw
the northeast and the Agasthyamalai
aii Hills to the south as far as the Aryankavu. The
crest of the hills forms the boundary
dary between Kerala aand Tamil Nadu. Anamudi in
Eravikulam National Park, is the
Western Ghats and also the highest
he highest peak in W
point in India south of the Himalayas
Statement 3: They form

orm a southern portio
portion of the Western Ghats. Anamala /
Anaimalai Hills are
re south of where th
the Western Ghats are broken by the Palakkad
Gap, which in
Nilgiri Hills. They border the state of Kerala on
n turn is south of th
the N
the Southwest
west
st and the Cardamom
Cardamo Hills to the southeast.
SI
Q Source:
ource:
urce: CSP 2008
IN
37 Consider
following statements.
ider the followin
1. Human blo
blood iis normally acidic.
saliva is highly basic in nature.
2. Human sali
Which oof the above is/are correct?
Whic
A. 1 only
A
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Justification:Statement 1: Human blood stays in a very narrow pH range around
www.insightsias.com
26
(7.35 - 7.45 ). Below or above this range means symptoms and disease. If blood pH
moves to much below 6.8 or above 7.8, cells stop functioning and the patient dies.
The ideal pH for blood is 7.4
Statement 2: The pH of saliva is usually between 6.5 - 7.5. After we che

chew and
swallow food it then enters the upper portion of the stomach which
h has a pH
between 4.0 - 6.5.
IA
Q Source: CSP 2008
TS
38 The Yom Kippur War began when

A. An Arab coalition launched a joint surprise
Israeli-occupied
prise attack
ack on the IIsr
territories
B. Assad's program of reform was severely
everely protested by the Arab states
C. The Kurds rebelled against the
he central authorit
authority of Iraq
D. A general uprising rose against
occupations in Syria and Lebanon
gainst French occupa
occupat
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification: What
hat is it? Probiotics ar
are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for
specially your dige
digestiv system. When you lose "good" bacteria in
your health, especially
digestive
your body (like
for example), probiotics can help replace
ke after you take antibiotics,
an
them.
IN
SI
Statement
help move food through your gut. Commonly claimed
tatement 1: Probiotics
Prob
probiotics include the decrease of potentially pathogenic gastrointestinal
benefits of probioti
probiotic
microorganism the reduction of gastrointestinal discomfort, the improvement of
microorganisms,
function and the improvement of bowel regularity.
the skin's fun
Statement 2: The consumption of probiotics may actually effect a modest benefit in
Stateme
Statem
hhelping to control high blood pressure.
help
Q Source: CSP 2008
39 Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that primarily line your gut. They are also responsible
for
1. Nutrient absorption
2. Causing high blood pressure
www.insightsias.com
27
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
IA
Justification: What is it? Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts

asts
sts that are good for
bacteria in
your health, especially your digestive system. When you lose "good" bacteri
),, probiotics can help replace
your body (like after you take antibiotics, for example),
them.
TS
Statement 1: Probiotics help move food through

Commonly claimed
ugh your gut. Commo
Common
benefits of probiotics include the decreasee off potentially ppathog
pathogenic gastrointestinal
microorganisms, the reduction of gastrointestinal
ointestinal discomfort,
discomfort the improvement of
discomf
the skin's function and the improvement
ment of bowel regularity.
regular
Statement 2: The consumption

actually effect a modest benefit in
n of probiotics may ac
helping to control high blood
ood
od pressure.
Q Source: CSP 20088
IN
SI
40 Krills are central

all to the survival of tthe marine life in Antarctica. Why?
A. They
overconcentration of iron in the ocean beds
hey prevent overconce
B. They connect th
marine food chain from phytoplanktons to larger marine
the ma
fishes
animals and fishe
source
of nutrition for the corals and seagrass
C They are a sou
C.
s
D. They filter the ocean water keeping it healthy for other marine animals
User Answ
Answer :
Correct An
Answer : B
Ans
Answ Justification :
Answer
Justification:They do not process iron in the ocean. Moreover, some concentration
Ju
of iron in the ocean is good for phytoplankton growth on which the Krills feed. So,
(a) would be wrong.
Krill are considered an important trophic level connection - near the bottom of the
food chain - because they feed on phytoplankton and to a lesser extent zooplankton,
converting these into a form suitable for many larger animals for whom krill makes
up the largest part of their diet. So, (b) is correct.
www.insightsias.com
28
They are not consumed by seagrass and corals. So, (c) is wrong.
Fig: Krill
TS
IA
Krills filter out their food from the water, not the water itself. So, (d) is also wrong.
SI
urce:
ce: Page 121: Chap
Q Source:
Chapter 8: 12th NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
IN
41 Babasaheb Ambedkar Special Collective Incentive Scheme has been launched by the
Maharashtra
aharashtra Governm
Government for
Economically backward Dalit entrepreneurs
A. Econ
Below Poverty Line (BPL) Dalits living in slums
B. Be
C Promoting rational inquiry in the institution of caste
C.
D. Widow Dalits who are a part of Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Learning:
Under it, special facilities will be given to Dalit entrepreneurs besides the
present Collective Incentive Scheme 2013.
www.insightsias.com
29
20% plots for small and medium scale industries will be reserved for the
Dalits within Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).
Businessmen in Service and Commodities sector would be able to avail the
benefits of this scheme. It will be limited for only those industries where
people from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) have 100%
investment.
Only one person from each family will be entitled to benefits
ts under the
scheme and there will be no cap on income to launch any
y business.
ness.
IA
Maharashtra-Dalits
arashtra-Dalits
Q Source:http://www.newsbharati.com/Encyc/2016/2/3/Maharashtra-Dalits
TS
42 Consider the following statements in respect of a jet engine and

nd a rocket.
1. Both a jet engine and a rocket engine function by expelling hot gases
gase opposite to the
direction of desired acceleration.
2. A rocket carries its own supply of oxygen
en for combustion.
combustion
3. A jet engine requires oxygen from the
hee atmosphere for combustion.
com
Which of the statements given above
ove
ve is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer
er : D
tification
ification :
IN
SI
Learning:
ning: A rocket car
carries both fuel (which may be solid or liquid) and oxygen in
ontrast
ast to a jet engine. Therefore it does not suck in air from the front. It burns the
contrast
oxygen, and eject it at very high velocities backward. This momentum
fuel with the oxyge
oxygen
lift and propel the rocket. There are no wings for uplift. Any wings
is used to both lif
steering
are for stee
steerin purposes.
rocket is generally much more powerful and wasteful than a jet engine. Most
A roc
rocke
airplanes cannot possibly climb vertically, while rockets are designed to do that. A
airpl
jet airplane cannot function outside the atmosphere, but a rocket can since it carries
je
its own fuel and oxygen.
Q Source:CSP 2008
43 Mahamastakabhisheka, a festival held once every twelve years, is related to

A. Jainism
www.insightsias.com
30
B. Buddhism
C. Alvars
D. Nayanars
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
IA
Learning: It is held in the town of Shravanabelagola in Karnataka.

rnataka.
ka. The festival
festiva is
ubali.
held in veneration of 57 ft high statue of the siddha Bahubali.
He was the son of Rishabhanatha, the first tirthankara
kara
ara of Jainism
The anointing last took place in 2006, and the

to take place
he next ceremony
emony is going
ggo
in 2018
TS
Jain rituals play a prominent part in

like in Hinduism, plays an
n Jainism. Worship
Worship, lik
important role in Jainism too.
Adhara Abhisheka, a temple
is another important event.
ple
le purification ceremony,
ce
cerem
Q Source: SET A: Improvisation:

CSP 2009
mprovisation: Q1
Q17: C
IN
SI
44 The Nobel Prizee in Physics 2015 wa

was awarded for
A. Showing
electromagnetic waves can be transmitted in plasma like
howing that electrom
electroma
temperatures.
emperatures.
level phenomenon using Quantum Physics.
B. Explaining micro-scale
micro
micr
C The discove
C.
discovery of neutrino oscillations, which shows that neutrinos have mass.
out a distribution formula that measures the extent of both short and
D. Finding ou
wavelengths from an underground source.
long w
wa
Answer :
User Answ
Correc Answer : C
Correct
Answ
Learning: The Nobel Prize in Physics 2015 was awarded jointly to Takaaki Kajita
and Arthur B. McDonald.
The sun was theorised to be powered by nuclear reactions in its core and these
produced neutrino particles.
Measurements of solar neutrino types were not consistent with models of the Sun's
interior that showed more neutrino production.
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31
They demonstrated that the neutrinos from the Sun were not disappearing on their
way to Earth and can change their mass becoming undetected. This resolved the sun
neutrino problem.
Q Source: CSP 2007 and Current Affairs
TS
IA
45 Who among the following is/are the members of the Shanghai Cooperation
eration
on
Organization (SCO)?
1. Japan
2. Saudi Arabia
3. Afghanistan
4. South Korea
w.
A. 1 and 4 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Justification: It iss a Eurasian politica

political, economic and military organisation which
n 2001
001 in Shanghai by the leaders of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,
was founded in
ikistan,
kistan, and Uzbekist
Uzbekista
Russia, Tajikistan,
Uzbekistan.
SI
Thesee countries, except

excep for Uzbekistan had been members of the Shanghai Five,
founded
unded
ded in 1996; after the
tth inclusion of Uzbekistan in 2001, the members renamed
the organisation.
IN
In 2015, the
th SCO
SC decided to admit India and Pakistan as full members, and they are
expected to join by 2016.
Q So
Source:CSP 2007
46 Consider the following about Participatory Notes (PN).

1. It is investment by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) that have relaxed KYC
norms.
2. Only individuals investing from tax havens are allowed to invest through PN in
India.
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32
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
IA
Justification: Statement 1: For a person to invest even in

n one share, several K
KYC
d PAN
N numbers and pproof of
(know your customer) forms have to be filled up, and
ystem
stem is totally silent on
o even
address, etc., provided. For the PN investor the system
elementary information. The FIIs issue PNs to funds/companies
whose identity is
s/companies who
not known to the Indian authorities.
SI
G
H
TS
Statement 2: It can be invested from anywhere.

ywhere.
Read these two links to understand
and recent trends.
and more about PN an
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/why-participatory-notes-are-dan
nessline.com/todays-p
essline.com/today
gerous/article1672845.ece
.e
.ece
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Participatory_note#Trends
edia.org/wiki/Particip
edia.org/wiki/Participa
Q Source: CSP
SP 2007
IN
der the following abo

47 Consider
about the International Date Line.
1. It is a straight line that
tth connects North Pole and South Pole.
2 Itt demarcates tthe change of one calendar day to the next.
2.
passes through the Indian Ocean.
3. The line passe
answer using the codes below.
Select the correct
c
A. 2 only
B.
B 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification:Statement 1: It is not a straight line. For parts of its length, the IDL
follows the meridian of 180' longitude, roughly down the middle of the Pacific
Ocean. To avoid crossing nations internally, the IDL deviates west around the US
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33
Aleutian Islands, separating them from islands in the far east of Russia, and further
south, it deviates east around various island nations in the Pacific such as Kiribati,
Samoa, Tonga and Tokelau.
IA
Statement 2: A person who goes around the world from east to west (the sam
same
direction as Magellan's voyage) would gain or set their clock back onee hour fo
for
every 15' of longitude crossed, and would gain 24 hours for one circuit
cuit
it of the globe
from east to west if they did not compensate by setting their clock
ck forward
ward one day
when they crossed the IDL.
In contrast, a west-to-east circumnavigation of the globe
every 15'
bee loses an hour for ev
of longitude crossed but gains back a day when crossing
IDL must
ssing
g the IDL. Th
The ID
therefore be observed in conjunction with the Earth's
arth's time zones: on ccrossing it in
either direction, the calendar date is adjusted by one day.
Q Source: CSP 2007
TS
Statement 3: It passes through the middle

ocean.
dle
le of the pacific oc
ocean
IN
SI
48 The Wavell Plan arrived at the

hee Simla Confere
Conference 11945 provided for which of the
following?
1. Indianization of thee Viceroy's Execut
Executive Council
2. Removing any caste
based quota in the Executive Council
ste and religion bas
3. Partition of India
nd
ndia
Select thee correct
rrect answer using the codes below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B.. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answ
Answer :
Correct An
Answer : C
Ans
Answ Justification :
Answer
Justification: Statement 1: As per the Plan, all the members of the Council, except
Ju
the Viceroy and the Commander-in-Chief, would be Indians.
Statement 2: It said, in the Council there would be equal representation of high-caste
Hindus and Muslims. Other minorities including low-caste Hindus, Shudders and
Sikhs would be given representation in the Council.
Statement 3: It proposed for a future constitution of India, not its partition.
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34
Q Source: CSP 2007
IA
49 Which of the following statements about the species Slow Loris is INCORRECT?
A. They can be found in Southeast Asia.
B. They have a toxic bite.
C. They are covered under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Enda
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
TS
Justification:Option A: They are found in

n Southeast Asia and bbordering areas, they
ndia in the west
w to the
th Sulu Archipelago in
range from Bangladesh and Northeast India
m Yunnan province in China in the north to the
the Philippines in the east, and from
island of Java in the south.
Option B: Slow lorises have

ve a toxic bite, a ttrait rare among mammals and unique to
lorisid primates. The toxin
licking a gland on their arm, and the
oxin
xin is obtained by lic
secretion is activated
saliva. Their toxic bite is a deterrent to
d by mixing with ssaliv
predators, and the
hee toxin is also applied to the fur during grooming as a form of
protection forr their infants.
infants
SI
Option C: Each of the slow loris

lo species that had been identified prior to 2012 is
listed
"Vulnerable" or "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List.
d as either "Vulnerabl
2007
Q Source: CSP 20
200
IN
following with regard to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research

50 Consider the fo
(CSIR).
President of CSIR is the Union Minister of Science and Technology.
1. Presid
Union Minister of Finance and Minister of Commerce and Industry are its members.
2 Un
2.
U
3 It works as an attached office under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
3.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : B
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35
Justification:Statement 1: Prime Minister is the President of CSIR. Minister for
S&T is its Vice- President.
Statement 2: Here is the list of members:
IA
S
http://www.csir.res.in/External/Heads/aboutcsir/org_structure_files/members.pdf
les/members.pdf
members.pdf
Statement 3: Although it is mainly funded by the Ministry of Science and
Technology, it operates as an autonomous body registered
Registration of
red under the Registra
Societies Act of 1860.
Q Source: CSP 2006
TS
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), established in 1942, is the

largest research and development (R&D) organisation
rganisation
ganisation in India.
SI
51 Seventh Schedule of the Constitution

with
ution
on of India deals w
wi
A. Protection of the rights
ghts of tribals in hilly and forest areas
B. Powers of the Executive
utive branch of tthe
th government
C. Allowances of the President, Vice
Vice-President and Supreme Court Judges
D. Division off powers between th
the Union and the States
User Answer :
Correct Answer
nswer
wer : D
Answerr Justification :
IN
Learning:The legisla
Learning:The
legislat
legislative section is divided into three lists: Union List, State List
and Concurrent Li
Lis Unlike the federal governments of the United States,
List.
Australia, residual powers remain with the Union Government, as
Switzerland or A
Canadian federal government
with the Ca
Can
Union
List or List-I is a list of 100 items given in Seventh Schedule in the
The Un
U
Constitution of India on which Parliament has exclusive power to legislate.
Co
Con
You may read
thishttp://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/art-of-the-state-2/
Q Source:CSP 2006
52 Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (FRBMA) exhorts the Union
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36
IA
Government to
1. Stop borrowing from markets to finance budget deficit
2. Allow State Governments to borrow from International markets
3. Reduce the size of the Foreign Exchange Reserves to reduce Budget Deficit
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 2 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
TS
Justification: Statement 1: The Act provided

vided that the Central Government shall not
dia (RBI) except unde
borrow from the Reserve Bank of India
under exceptional
circumstances where there is temporary
cash in particular financial year.
porary shortage of ccas
It was not about restricting market
rket borrowing.
Statement 2: It has no such
ch provi
provision.
Statement 3: Foreign
Reserves related budget financing is not covered by
gn Exchange Reserv
Reserve
the Act. Moreover,
reserves and reducing budget deficit are two
ver, reducing Forex re
different things.
ngs.
gs.
SI
We will
on the Act since the 14th Finance Commission
illl be covering more questions
q
has recommended replacing
the Act with a new one.
replac
2006
Q Source:CSP
Source:CSP 20
200
IN
difference
between the CMYK and RGB colour modes that are used in
53 What is the di
dif
graphic display
displa and printing?
model is a colour additive model, whereas CMYK is a subtractive model.
1. RGB
R
2. Im
IImage made in CMYK mode cannot be printed, whereas under RGB mode it can be
printed.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
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37
Justification & Learning:RGB stands for the colors red, green, and blue, the colors
widely recognized in design fields as the primary colors. The RGB model is known
as an additive model, where colors are added together to make up what we se
see on
the screen.
TS
IA
Basically, pixels on a television set or computer monitor createe tiny pixels

that, if viewed under a magnifying glass, are one of those
ose three colors. Ligh
Light
is projected through them, blending the colors on the
create the
he eye's
ye's retina to crea
creat
desired colors.
CMYK, on the other hand, stands for the colors
yellow, and
ors cyan,
yan, magenta,
magenta ye
black. CMYK is a subtractive model. Thiss gets a bit complicat
complicate
complicated, but the idea
with subtractive models like CMYK iss that colors from the spectrum are
subtracted from natural white light into
dyes. These pigments,
to pigments oor dyes
then, are printed onto paper in tiny
magenta, yellow, and black
iny
ny little cyan, mage
magent
dots.
If you were to take a magnifying
magazine cover, for example, you
nifying glass to a mag
would see that the main
n image is really just
ju a bunch of dots spread out, some
closer than others, to
o appear like the colors
colo we want.
Images made in bothh colour modes cca
can be printed, but the printers generally
only use the CMYK mode to print
print.
P 2006
006
Q Source:CSP
IN
SI
hana wa
was
54 Naqqar khana
A.. A drum house fro
from where ceremonial music was played in Mughal palaces
B A prayer ha
B.
hall indicating the direction of Mecca
discussion hall for secret courtly affairs in the Mughal palaces
C. The discus
D. Mad
Made to host foreign dignitaries in Mughal complexes
Answer :
User Answ
Corre Answer : A
Correct
Answer
A
Answ
nsw Justification :
Learning:It was usually situated over the gate.
They are a distinct sign of Mughal architecture and were constructed under areas
their influence in India, Pakistan and nearby countries.
The pavilion named Naubat Khana in Red Fort in Delhi is near the entrance on the
eastern side of the ten pillars lane, next to a different pavilion where royal
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38
TS
IA
palanquins and other paraphernalia were placed. It housed 18 kinds of musical

instruments that used to form part of the royal entourage.
Q Source:
rce:
ce: Page 128: Chapt
Chapter 8: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts
Chapte
IN
SI
nsider
sider the following aabout the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).
55 Consider
body functioning with quasi-judicial status.
1 It is a statutory bo
1.
2. It regulates the
th tariff of only state owned power Generating companies.
3 It approves and executes major government investment projects in electricity
3.
industry.
industr
industry
Selec
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 2 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Justification:Statement 1: a key regulator of power sector in India, is a statutory
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39
body functioning with quasi-judicial status under sec ' 76 of the Electricity Act
2003.
Statement 2: CERC was instituted primarily to regulate the tariff of Power
Generating companies owned or controlled by the government of India, and
nd any
other generating company which has a composite scheme for
power generation and interstate transmission of energy, including

g tariffs
ffs of
generating companies. So, 2 would be wrong.
IA
Statement 3: It does not approve and execute, but advisee in promoting invest
investment in
the electricity sector in the economy. So, 3 would bee wrong.
rong.
TS
Q Source: CSP 2006: On Appellate Tribunal for Ele

Electricity
SI
56 Consider the following about Abdul Hamid

id Lahori.
1. He was the court historian of Shah Jahan.
2. He wrote the book Padshahnama.
a.
3. He was admitted to the Mansabdari
sabdari
dari sy
system.
Select the correct answer using the codes below
below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 onlyy
C. 1 and 3 only
y
D. 1, 2 and
nd 3
User Answer
werr :
Correct
ct Answer : A
Answer
swer
wer Justification :
IN
Learning:Abdul H
Learning:Abdul
Hamid Lahori was a traveller and historian during the period of
Shah Jahan wh
who later became a court historian of Shah Jahan.
He w
wrote the book Padshahnama also referred as Badshahnama, about the reign of
Shah JJahan. He has described Shah Jahan's life and activities during the first twenty
years of his reign in this book in great detail.
ye
yea
In his own preface to the text, Lahori mentions that he called from his retirement in
Patna to write official history as the Emperor wanted someone who could emulate
the style of Akbarnama of Abul Fazl which he too greatly admired.
Q Source:CSP 2006
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40
TS
IA
57 Consider the following statements about Madam Bhikaji Cama.

1. She co-founded the Paris Indian Society.
2. She has once served as the president of the British Committee of the Indian National
Congress (INC).
3. She unfurled the National Flag at the International Socialist Conference
nce in Paris in
1907.
4. She has served as the Secretary General of the Indian Home Rulee Society.
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 4 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification:Statement 1: Shee co-founded the Paris Indian Society together with
Burjorji Godre.
Singh Rewabhai Rana and Munchershah B
Statement 2 and 4: She

private secretary of Dadabhai Naoroji, the
he served as the privat
president of the British
the Indian National Congress. Together with
ritish
h Committee of tth
Naoroji and Singh
Cama supported the founding of Varma's Indian
ngh Rewabhai Rana, C
Home Rule Society
ociety in 1905.
1905
SI
Statement
ment
ent 3: In her appeal for
f human rights, equality and for autonomy from Great
Britain,
what she called the "Flag of Indian Independence"
itain, she unfurled wh
2006
Q Source:CSP
Source:CSP 20
IN
58 In the Nag
Nagara (North Indian temple style)
Elaborate boundary walls or gateways are usually not constructed.
1. Elabora
Elabor
2. The
T garbhagriha is always located directly under the tallest tower.
S
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
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41
Justification:In North India it is common for an entire temple to be built on a stone

platform with steps leading up to it.
Further, unlike in South India it does not usually have elaborate boundary walls or
gateways. While the earliest temples had just one tower, or shikhara, laterr tem
temples
had several. The garbhagriha is always located directly under the tallest
st tower
tower.
There are many subdivisions of nagara temples depending on thee shape

pe of the
shikhara.
IA
Q Source: Page 71: Chapter 6: 11th NCERT: An Introduction

duction to Indian Art
Arts
SI
TS
59 The central government is promoting Nagpur in Maharashtra

aharashtra as the tiger
tige capital. It is for
which of the following reason(s)?
1. To promote tiger conservation as their numbers
umbers have decli
declined to alarming levels in
the State in the past few decades.
2. There are many notified tiger parks
kss and reserves in its cclose proximity.
g the codes below
below.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer
wer : B
fication :
IN
Justification:Statement
stification:
fication:Statement
Statement 1: As per a official statement, Maharashtra has done
exceptionally well in the growth of tigers- which has prompted the government to
promote
romote Nagpur, which is the central most city of the country. So, 1 is wrong.
Statement 22: It is promoted as the tiger capital of the world given the city's closeness
several tiger reserves and its infrastructure that can support a large tourist
with sseve
industry.
indus
Maharashtra has a tiger population of 169 according to latest census. Nagpur and its
nearby reserves in Maharashtra have 148 of these. In addition, the city was close to
many tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh like Kanha, Pench, and Satpuda.
Q Source: CAPF 2011
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42
60 Who/Which of the following is empowered to alter the name of a State?

1. Governor of the State concerned
2. State Legislative Assembly
3. Parliament
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Justification: Parliament may by law
tion of territory from any
a State or by uniting two
form a new State by separation
or more States or parts off States or by uniting any territory to a part of any
State;
increase the area of any St
State;
diminish the area
rea
ea of any State;
State
alter the boundaries
undaries
aries of any Stat
State;
alter the name of any State; Pr
P
Provided that no Bill for the purpose shall be
introduced
duced
uced in either House of Parliament except on the recommendation of
thee President
Presid
Q Source:
Source:CAPF
CAPF 2011
1 The hydraulic brake

bra is an arrangement of braking mechanism which uses brake fluid to
61
transfer
sfer
1. Pressu
Pressure ffrom the controlling mechanism to the braking mechanism
Momentum from the angular belts to the wheel base
2 Mome
2.
S
Sele
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
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43
Justification: Hydraulic brakes transfer energy to stop an object, normally a

rotating axle. In a very simple brake system, with just two cylinders and a disc
brake, the cylinders could be connected via tubes, with a piston inside the cylinders.
The cylinders and tubes are filled with incompressible oil. The two cylinders
ders have
the same volume, but different diameters, and thus different cross-section
ion areas.
area The
one with the smallest diameter is called the master cylinder.
IA
The spinning disc brake will be placed down at[clarification needed] the piston wi
with
wit
the larger cross-section. Suppose the diameter of the master
er
cylinder is half the diameter of the slave cylinder, so
has
o thee master cylinder
cylin
h a crosssection four times smaller.
Q Source:CSP 2006
TS
Now, if the piston in the master cylinder is pushed down 40 mm

mm, with 10 newtons
(N) of force, the slave piston will then move 10 mm, with a force
of 40 N.
f
IN
SI
62 Which of the following was/were

were the objective(s)
objectiv
oof the Theosophical Society?
1. To investigate the unexplained
nature and the powers latent in man
xplained
ned laws of natu
2. To encourage the study
tudy of comparati
comparative rreligion
Select the correct
codes below.
ct answer using the co
A. 1 onlyy
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D.. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
Answer Justifi
Justification :
Justific
Justifica
Justification
Justi
& Learning: After several iterations the Society's objectives evolved
to be:
To form a nucleus of the universal brotherhood of humanity without
distinction of race, creed, sex, caste, or colour.
To encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy, and science and
rational enquiry into the unexplained
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44
IA
63 Consider the following about the Red panda.

1. It is native to the eastern Himalayas and south-western China.
2. It has been classified as endangered by the IUCN.
3. It is highly active during the day.
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1 and 2 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
TS
Justification:Statement 1: Distribution of the red panda is dis

disjointed, with two
extant subspecies:
Western red panda lives in the western part of its range, in Nepal, Assam,
Sikkim, and Bhutan.
Styan's red panda lives
east-north-eastern
part of its range, in southern
ves in the east-nor
east-north
China and northern
hern Burma.
Statement 2: It is also covered under CITES. Habitat loss, poaching and hunting are
the biggest threats
hreats
reats to red panda.
SI
Statement
ment
ent 3: It is a solitary aanimal, mainly active from dusk to dawn, and is largely
sedentary
day.
dentary
entary during the day
Q Source: SET A:
A Q150: CSP 2009
IN
non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) are

64 The non-perm
Elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly
A. E
B. Nominated by the permanent members of UNSC
B
C. Appointed by the UN Secretary General
D. Selected on rotation basis from the members of the General Assembly
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Learning:The Council is composed of 15 Members:
five permanent members: China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom,
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45
and the United States, and ten non-permanent members.

More than 60 United Nations Member States have never been Members of the
Security Council.
A State which is a Member of the United Nations but not of the Security
Council
ty Coun
Counc
may participate, without a vote, in its discussions when the Council considers
onsiders that
that country's interests are affected.
IA
Both Members and non-members of the United Nations, iff they

ey are parties to a
dispute being considered by the Council, may be invited
d to take part, without
withou a vote,
in the Council's discussions; the Council sets the conditions
participation
nditions
ions for partic
participati by a
non-member State.
TS
Q Source: SET A: Improvisation: Q91: CSP

SP
P 2009
IN
SI
65 Consider the following statements about

ut Neutri
Neutrinos.
1. They can be found only under the
he earth's crust.
2. Human body cannot tolerate exposure
Neutrinos.
posure to Neutrin
Neutrino
3. They are used to trigger fission
reactors.
ssion in nuclear reac
4. They are completely massless.
5. They have the ability
information from one part of the Universe to the other.
ity to carry inform
informatio
6. They cannot reach
neutral states.
ach
h electrically neutra
Choose the correct answer using tthe codes below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 5 only
C.. 3 and 4 only
D 2, 4 and 6 oonly
D.
User Answer :
Correct A
Answer : B
Answe
Answer Jus
Justification :
Justi
JJustification:Neutrinos
ustif
are the information bearers of the universe ' which are
alm
almost never lost in their path. India's effort in studying neutrinos at INO may help
us unravel the deepest mystery of the universe ' why there is more matter than
antimatter in the universe. So, 5 is correct.
Neutrinos are the least harmful of all elementary particles (so, 1 is wrong), as
they almost never react with solid bodies. So, 2 is incorrect.
Also, people tend to confuse the 'neutrino' for the 'neutron'. This has also led
to the confusion that neutrinos can be weaponised, which is far from the truth.
www.insightsias.com
46
They are not used to trigger fission reactions, but are instead produced as a
result of the reactions. So, 3 is incorrect.
Neutrinos have mass and as shown recently, they change their masses too. So,
4 is incorrect.
Neutrinos, named as such because they are electrically neutral,
are leptons,
l, ar
and so are not affected by the strong force either. So, 6 is wrong.
TS
IA
ebellion.
66 Consider the following statements about the Malabar rebellion.
uthority and Hi
Hindu landlords.
1. It was an armed uprising in 1921 against British authority
2. It began as a reaction against a heavy-handed
Khilafat Movement
d crackdown
wn on the K
Kh
by the British authorities in Kerala.
3. The "Wagon tragedy" was related to this
hiss rebellion.
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
fication
ication :
SI
Learning:It
ing:
ng:It
It was launched bby Mappila Muslims and was the culmination of a series
re
of Mappila revolts that recurred
throughout the 19th century and early 20th century.
attacked and took control of police stations, British government
The Mappilas attac
attack
and government treasuries.
offices,
ffices, courts an
IN
In the later stages of the uprising, Mappilas committed several atrocities against the
Hindu community, who they accused of helping the police to suppress their
rrebellion.
rebe
67 Public Choice Theory stresses on

1. Single monolithic institution should deliver all public services.
2. Only those services should be given for which a citizen can pay.
3. Bureaucracy should be strengthened and there should be a single centre of power.
www.insightsias.com
47
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
IA
Learning:All statements go against the philosophy of Publicc Choice Theory.

ureaucratic model of
Public Choice Approach Theory strictly opposes the bureaucratic
administration.
TS
As per the theory, 'Perfection in the hierarchical

professionally trained
cal ordering of a prof
profe
public service accountable to a single centre
reduce the capability of a
re of power wil
will reduc
larger administrative system to respond
preferences among citizens for
d to diverse preferen
preference
many different public goods and services
rvices
vices and cope with ddiverse environmental
conditions."
It supports institutional pluralism

uralism
ralism and says that iif market forces are allowed to
operate freely, than there
re are full chances tthat they will function with much higher
efficiency than the Government. Presence of market forces will reduce the
unnecessarily inflated
Government /Bureaucracy and make the delivery
lated
ated size of the Gove
Gov
of goods and services
customers more transparent, cost-effective, simpler and
ices to the cust
custom
economical.
l.
SI
Q Source:Improvisation:
ource:
urce:Improvisation:
Improvisatio SET A: Q65: CAPF 2012
IN
68 What
at is Byssinosis?
occupational lung disease caused by exposure to cotton dust in
A. An occu
inadequately ventilated working environments
inad
inade
B A disease prevalent in those working in deep coal mines that are cutoff from
B.
sunlight
C. A nutrient deficiency among asbestos miners and those who work with
asbestos insulation
D. A symptom common among persons working in the information technology
sector
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
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48
Learning: It is also called "brown lung disease" or "Monday fever".

Byssinosis commonly occurs in workers who are employed in yarn and fabric
manufacture industries. It is now thought that the cotton dust directly causes the
disease and some believe that the causative agents are endotoxins that
come from
at co
the cell walls of gram negative bacteria that grow on the cotton.
IA
Q Source: Improvisation: SET A: Q73: CAPF 2012

12
Although bacterial endotoxin is a likely cause, the absence of similar

milar symptoms
symptom in
workers in other industries exposed to endotoxins makess this uncertain.
TS
69 In India, wild animals can be declared as vermin

min if
1. They have become dangerous to human
n life or prop
property
2. Make the ecology aesthetically unclean
ean
3. Become disabled or diseased as too be beyond recovery
recover
ngg the codes below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer
nswer
wer : C
SI
Learning:The Un
Learning:The
Learning
Union M
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC) has dec
declared Wild Pig as vermin in Uttarakhand for a year.
IN
This decision will allow state forest authorities and people to carry out an
extermination (hunting/poaching) of wild pigs outside the reserve forest on a large
extermina
exterminat
scale.
To do so, they will no longer require permission from the forest or wildlife officials
T
and thus their actions cannot attract penal provisions of the WPA.
It will seek to balance local population of the wild pigs to mitigate the damage to
human life, crops and other properties in the state for ensuring conservation of
wildlife in forests.
Q Source:
http://www.livemint.com/Politics/TSea6J0X9dNMS2eibTMW9M/Wild-pigs-declar
www.insightsias.com
49
ed-vermin-in-Uttarakhand-for-a-year.html
TS
IA
70 India and United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed bilateral agreements related to
cooperation in which of the following?
1. Exploration and use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes
2. Bilateral Currency Swap Arrangement
3. Technical Cooperation in Cyber Space and Combating Cyber Crime
ime
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Learning: Some of the agreements
ntss and their details:
IN
SI
ion and
nd use of Outer Space
S
MoU in the Exploration
for Peaceful Purposes:
Framework for cooperation
ooperation
peration in space technology,
tec
science and applications
including satellite
llite
lite communication, rremote sensing and satellite based
navigation.
MoU on
Arrangement: Promotes currency swap
n Bilateral
ilateral Currency Swap
S
arrangement
ngement
gement between the RBI
R & Central Bank of UAE for bilateral financial
relations.
lations.
ns.
signed a crucial MoU on establishing a framework for
Both sides also ssign
facilitating the ppa
participation of UAE institutional investors in Infrastructure
Investments in India.
This would see investments from UAE's sovereign wealth fund. However, the
quan
quantum
of investment was yet to be worked out.
Q
Source:http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/money-and-banking/india-uae-sign-p
Sour
aact-for-bilateral-currency-swap/article8224369.ece
ac
71 Apart from the Permanent members of the UNSC, who/which among the following
have the right to use veto power to stall key decisions in the United Nations (UN)?
1. Founding members of the UN
2. UN Secretary General
3. Countries that contribute substantially to the UN Budget
www.insightsias.com
50

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
IA
Justification:Power of veto" refers to the veto powerr wielded

elded solely by th
the five
tyy Council (China, Fra
Fr
permanent members of the United Nations Security
France, Russia,
United Kingdom, and United States), enabling them to prevent the
of any
th adoption
a
"substantive" resolution, as well as decide which issues fall unde
under "substantive" title.
TS
This de facto control over the UN Security

curity
rity Council by
b the five
f governments is seen
by critics, since its creation in 1945,
undemocratic character of the UN.
5, as the most unde
undemo
The veto is exercised when any permanent member'the

so-called "P5"'casts a
membe
memb
"negative" vote on a "substantive"
resolution. Abstention or absence from the
bstantive"
tantive" draft reso
resolut
vote by a permanent member does not prev
prevent a draft resolution from being adopted.
Q Source:Chapter
Contemporary World Politics
pter 6: 12th NCERT: C
IN
SI
72 Indian Handloom
dloom Tag has been ggiven to which of the following?
1. Pedana
na Fabric
2. Chettinad
hettinad Cotton
3. Ronda Wool
Select the correct
correc answer using the codes below.
corr
A.. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 on
only
C. 2 and 3 only
D.
D 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
U
Correct Answer : A
Learning: The Union textile Ministry has bestowed the Indian Handloom Brand tag
on Chettinad cotton saris for its unique designs and identity. This tag was bestowed
under the India Handloom Brand Scheme after checking its various quality
parameters stipulated by the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). The Ministry also
has offered a logo to use the brand for marketing the product. It will also enable
www.insightsias.com
51
weavers of these saris to promote the material in the international market.

Chettinad cotton saree is also known as 'kandaangi'. It is the traditional sari of the
Chettinad region in Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu. It is characterised by its silklike texture, contrasting border and body colours with intricate designs along
ong the
border.
IA
S
Q
Source:http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/india-handloom-br
desh/india-handloom-b
esh/india-handloom-b
and-tag-for-pedana-fabric/article7743387.ece
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/chettinad-cotton-saree-wins-ind
/chettinad-cotton-sare
ttinad-cotton
ia-handloom-tag/article8204692.ece
SI
TS
73 Scientists recently successfully converted paper

aper
per waste into gre
green nnontoxic cellulose
aerogels. Aerogels find potential application
n in
1. Improving drug delivery
2. Oil spill cleaning
3. Heat insulation materials forr buildings
ldings
Select the correct answerr using the codes below.
bbelo
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 onlyy
C. 3 only
D. 1, 2 and
nd 3
User Answer
swer :
Correct
ct Answer : D
Answer
nswer
wer Justification :
IN
Justification:
Justification:Statement
ustification:Stat
Stat
1: It can be used in a drug delivery system owing to its
biocompat
biocompatibili
biocompatibility. Due to its high surface area and porous structure, drugs can be
from supercritical CO2. The release rate of the drugs can be tailored by
adsorbed fr
varyin the properties of the aerogel.
varying
Statement 2: It can be used as a chemical adsorber for cleaning up spills.
St
Statement 3: Aerogel is a synthetic porous ultralight material derived from a gel, in
which the liquid component of the gel has been replaced with a gas. The result is a
solid with extremely low density and low thermal conductivity. It is nearly 98% air.
So, it fits as a heat insulation material. 3 is correct.
Q
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52
Source:http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/paper-waste-turned-intonontoxic-aerogel/article8207322.ece
IA
74 The 12th edition of South Asian Games (SAG) was conducted in Guwahati which saw
participation of foreign nationals. For India, hosting such a game amountss to
A. Exports
B. Imports
C. Foreign Arbitrage
D. Foreign Institutional Investment
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
TS
Justification:Instead of consuming Indian

dian
ian production
productio from abroad, these participant
foreign nationals would consume it here in India.
In a way, it amounts to increased
India.
ased
sed exports from Indi
It cannot be Foreign Institutional

stitutional
ional Investmen
Investment as that is an investment in the country's
security markets from
India is not needed.
m abroad. A visit to In
SI
G
Q Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/south-asian-games-in-guwahati-ch
anexpress.com/article/
xpress.com/article/
andigarh-swimmer-wins-first-medal-in-international-competition/
h-swimmer-wins-fir
h-swimmer-wins-first
IN
75 Which
hich
ch of the following sstatements is INCORRECT about Asia Pacific Economic
Cooperation
operation (APEC)
(APEC)?
members are from the Northern Hemisphere.
A All its m
A.
promotes free trade throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
B. It pro
India is not its member country.
C. In
D. It was established before the World Trade Organization (WTO).
D
User Answer :
U
Correct Answer : A
Justification:Australia, Chile, New Zealand are from the Southern Hemisphere. So,
(a) is wrong.
It was established in 1989 (WTO in 1995) in response to the growing
interdependence of Asia-Pacific economies and the advent of regional trade blocs in
www.insightsias.com
53
other parts of the world to establish new markets for agricultural products and raw
materials beyond Europe. It promotes free trade between the rim countries of Asiapacific. So, (b) and (d) are correct.
India has requested for APEC membership. So, (c) is correct.
Q Source:SET A: Improvisation: Q3: CSP 2009
TS
IA
76 Why is the PQP certification granted by the World Health Organization

anization
ization (WHO)
important for Indian pharmaceutical companies?
A. It allows them to do business in nations with frequent
quent epidemic outbreaks
outb
B. It removes restrictions on export of genericc drugs to
o developing
developin countries
C. It allows these companies to claim domestic
estic patents globally
D. It helps them participate in the globall immunisation progr
programme which is
progra
facilitated through international procurement
rocurement agencies
agenc like UNICEF
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
Learning: Every year, billions

illions
llions of US doll
dollars w
worth of medicines are purchased by
nal procurement agencies
agenc - such as UNICEF, the Global Fund
or through international
to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis
Malaria, and UNITAID - for distribution in
uberculosis
berculosis and Mal
Malari
resource-limited
d countries.
ountries.
IN
SI
The
of Medicines Programme (PQP) helps ensure that
he WHO Prequalification
Prequalificat
medicines supp
supplied bby procurement agencies meet acceptable standards of
quality, safety an
and efficacy.
At the end oof 22012, the WHO List of Prequalified Medicinal Products
contained 316
3 medicines for priority diseases.
list of prequalified medicinal products is used by international
WH
WHO's
procurement agencies and increasingly by countries to guide bulk purchasing
proc
procu
of medicines.
PQP also prequalifies active pharmaceutical ingredients and quality control
laboratories.
Q Source:
http://www.thehindu.com/business/who-certifies-vaccine-maker-greensignal-bio/arti
cle8194263.ece
77 Countries that are party to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement are
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54
Australia
China
Japan
Germany
Chile
A. 1, 3 and 5 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 3, 4 and 5 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
IA
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
TS
Justification & Learning:All 12 Pacific

cific
ic Rim countries
countr have
ha recently signed Transent in New Zealand m
Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement
making it one of the biggest
trade deals in history.
These 12 countries are: Singapore,

Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Japan,
ngapore, Malaysia
Malaysia, V
Canada, United States,
Chile, Australia and New Zealand.
s, Mexico, Peru, Chile
TPP is Free Trade

member countries across the Pacific Rim are
de Area and these me
home to 800 million people and ac
account for 40% of global trade.
Objectives
tives
ves of TPP are:
IN
SI
(i) Lower trade

tra barriers such as tariffs.
(ii) Establis
Establish a common framework for intellectual property
(iii) Enforce
Enfo standards for labour law and environmental law
En
(iv) E
Establish an investor-state dispute settlement mechanism.
Q Sou
Source:
hhttp://www.thehindu.com/business/12-nations-sign-transpacific-partnership-trade-de
http
al/article8191992.ece
78 The Union Government has constituted the Tax Policy Council (TPC) to streamline the
taxation policy and administration on the recommendation of the Tax Administration
Reform Commission (TARC). Apart from selected Union Ministers and Secretaries, TPC
member(s) is/are
1. NITI Aayog Chairman
2. Chief Economic Advisor
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55
IA
3. RBI Governor
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Justification & Learning:The council will be headed by Union Finance M

Minister. It
ce, Commerce
ommerce Minister,
Min
Ministe NITI
shall have 9 members - Minister of State for Finance,
Aayog Vice-Chairman (and not Chairman who iss the Prime Minister)
Minister), Chief
Economic Advisor and Finance Secretary.
TS
It would also have secretaries from the department of Revenue,

Reven DEA, DIPP and
Rev
Ministry of Commerce.
Another Tax Policy Research Unit (TPRU) will bbe headed by Revenue Secretary. It
will carry out studies on various
arious topics of fiscal and tax policies. It will assist the
TPC in taking appropriate
ate policy decisions and
an shall prepare tax proposal and
analysis of legislative
ve inten
intent.
IN
SI
G
Q Source:
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/govt-sets-up-two-new-tax-committe
w.thehindubusinessline
thehindubusinesslin
es-to-bring-coherence-in-policies/article8184415.ece
ring-coherence-in-poli
79 Albedo
bedo
edo is the fraction of solar energy which is
A. Reflected ffrom the Earth back into space
Absorbed by autotrophic organisms
B. Absorbe
Abs
Directly incident on Goldilocks zones
C Direc
C.
Dire
Captured by clouds
D C
D.
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
C
Co
Learning: It is a measure of the reflectivity of the earth's surface. Ice, especially
with snow on top of it, has a high albedo: most sunlight hitting the surface bounces
back towards space.
Water is much more absorbent and less reflective. So, if there is a lot of water, more
www.insightsias.com
56
solar radiation is absorbed by the ocean than when ice dominates.

Albedo is not important at high latitudes in winter: there is hardly any incoming
sunlight to worry about. It becomes important in spring and summer when the
radiation entering through leads can greatly increase the melt rate of the sea ice.
Q Source: CSP 2008
TS
IA
80 The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has

BGR-34. It is
as launched BGR-34
the country's first
A. Fast Breeder Thorium Reactor
B. Anti-diabetic ayurvedic drug
C. Centralized database system for tackling
kling cyber crimes
D. Molecular distillation technology
y to process shale gas from rocks
User Answer :
Correct Answer : B
Learning: BGR-34 stands

nds for Blood Glucos
Glucost Regulator and offers effective, safe,
ution
ion for managing type
typ two Diabetes.
patient-friendly solution
The drug has been jointly develo

developed by National Botanical Research Institute
(NBRI) and
d Central Institute for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) and CSIR
institutess based in Lucknow
Lucknow.
IN
SI
It contains 34 identifi
identified active phyto-constitutes from herbal resources and works by
sugar and limiting the harmful effects of other modern drugs.
controlling blood su
Q
Source:http://www.huffingtonpost.in/2015/10/26/rs-5-herbal-drug-diabetes_n_8387
Source:htt
Source:
ht
388.html
388.htm
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/ayurvedic-antidiabetichttp:
ddrug-launched/article8191078.ece
81 Which among the following is the world's largest producer of Uranium?

A. Canada
B. Australia
C. Russia
D. Kazakhstan
User Answer :
www.insightsias.com
57
Correct Answer : D
Learning:Canada was the world's largest uranium producer for many years,
accounting for about 22% of world output, but in 2009 was overtaken by
Kazakhstan,which now accounts for nearly 37% of world production.
IA
Production comes mainly from the McArthur River and Cigar Lake
ake mines in
northern Saskatchewan province, which are the largest and highest-grade
ighest-grade
ghest-grade in the
world.
Australia is the third largest accounting for nearly 10%;
5%.
0%; Russia nearly 5%
TS
SI
82 Consider the following about the Bharhutt Stupa.

Stupa
1. The Shungas improvised the art work
ork at Bharhut.
2. Jataka tales have been depicted on its railings.
3. Queen Maya's dream has been
en depicted at Bharhut.
Bharh
Bharhu
Select the correct answerr using the codes below
below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 onlyy
C. 1 and 3 only
y
D. 1, 2 and
nd 3
User Answer
werr :
Correct
ct Answer : D
Answer
swer
wer Justification :
IN
Justification: Stat
Statement 1: The Bharhut stupa (in MP) may have been first built by
Sta
the Maurya ki
kin
king Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, but many works of art were
during the Shunga period, with many friezes from the 2nd century
apparently added
a
BCE
BCE.
Statement 2: They contain numerous birth stories of the Buddha's previous lives, or
Sta
St
Jataka tales. Many of them are in the shape of large, round medallions.
Statement 3: Queen Maya's dream, preceding the birth of the Buddha, is also a
major theme on the railing of the Bharhut "stupa".
www.insightsias.com
58
S
IA
TS
Q Source: Page 28: Chapter

pter
er 4: 11th NCER
NCERT: An
A Introduction to Indian Arts
IN
SI
ttana Sutta is
83 Dhammacakkappavattana
A. A set of secular codes fo
Buddhist monks
for Bu
B. Considered
sidered
dered to be a record of the first teaching given by Gautama Buddha
after
enlightenment.
fter he attained enlig
enligh
C. The compilation of philosophical work on Buddhist teachings by religious
scholars
given by the Buddha before his Mahaparinirvana
D The last teaching
D.
teach
teac
User Answer :
Correct Answ
Answer : B
Answer Ju
Justification :
Lear
Learning:
The Setting in Motion of the Dharmachakra Sutra or Promulgation of the
L
Law Sutra) is a Buddhist text that is considered to be a record of the first teaching
given by Gautama Buddha after he attained enlightenment.
According to tradition, the Buddha gave this teaching in Sarnath, India, to the "five
ascetics", his former companions with whom he had spent six years practicing
austerities.
The main topic of this sutra is the Four Noble Truths, which are the central
teachings of Buddhism that provide a unifying theme, or conceptual framework, for
www.insightsias.com
59
all of Buddhist thought. This sutra also introduces the Buddhist concepts of the
Middle Way, impermanence, and dependent origination.
Q Source: Page 26: Chapter 3: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts
IA
84 Which among the following statements about South Asia is correct?

A. The institution of monarchy has been completely abolished
d in South Asia.
B. Other than Sri Lanka, there is no island state in South Asia.
Asia
C. The combined Nominal GDP of South Asia is less than
han
n that of China.
D. All countries fall under the same time zone.
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
TS
Justification: Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a parl

parliamentary form of
government. So, (a) is wrong.
Maldives is also a part of South
island state. So, (b) is wrong.
h Asia, which is an isl
The combined Nominal GDP of South As

Asia is nearly $ 3 trillion whereas that of
China is around $11.3 trillion! So, (c) is cor
correct.
co
The time zones cary

ary from UTC +4:30 to UTC+6:00. So, (d) is incorrect.
SI
Q Source:: Chapter 5: 12th NC

NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
NCE
IN
85 Consider
about the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize.
iderr the following abo
1. The purpose of the pprize is to recognize outstanding work in science and technology.
2 It can be awarded to any Indian or foreign citizen.
2.
by the Prime Minister of India.
3. The prize is distributed
d
awardee is bound to give a lecture in the area of the award.
4 The award
4.
Select the
t correct answer using the codes below.
A. 1 only
A
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
www.insightsias.com
60
Justification: Statement 1: It is a science award in India given annually by the

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for notable and outstanding
research, applied or fundamental, in biology, chemistry, environmental science,
engineering, mathematics, medicine and Physics.
Statement 2: Any citizen of India engaged in research in any field

science and
d of scien
scienc
technology up to the age of 45 years is eligible for the prize.
IA
Statement 3 and 4: The names of the recipients are traditionally

ionally declared by the
th
Director General of CSIR. The prize is distributed by the Prime Minister oof India.
The awardee is bound to give a lecture in the area of the award, general
generally outside
generall
his/her city of work.
TS
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/11-selected-for-shanti-swarup-bhatnagar-a
11-selected-for-shant
11-selected-for-shanti
ward/article7692862.ece
Q Source: SET A: Q138: CSP 2009
SI
hitecture is a com
comb
86 The Vesara style of temple architecture
combination of mainly
A. Dravida and Nagara
agara styles
B. Hoysala and
ndd Halebidu styles
C. Nagara and Hoysala Style
Styles
D. Dravida
Styles
vida
da and Halebidu Sty
User Answer
nswer
swer :
Correct
ect Answer : A
Answer
nswer Justificat
Justification :
IN
Learning: The
Learning
Th Vesara
V
style contain elements of both Dravida and Nagara styles.
The Vesara st
style is also described in some texts as the 'Central Indian temple
architecture style' or 'Deccan architecture'.
architectu
architectur
However many historian agree that the vesara style originated in what is today
How
Karnataka.
K
The trend was started by the Chalukyas of Badami (500-753AD) who built temples
in a style that was essentially a mixture of the nagara and the dravida styles, further
refined by the Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (750-983AD) in Ellora, Chalukyas of
Kalyani (983-1195 AD) in Lakkundi, Dambal, Gadag etc. and epitomized by the
Hoysala empire
Q Source: Page 69: Chapter 6: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts
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61
IA
87 Consider the following about the Treaty of Madras 1769.

1. It was signed between the Mysore and the British East India Company.
2. The treaty allowed for the annexation of the signing Kingdom by the British.
3. It brought an end to the First Carnatic War.
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
TS
Justification & Learning:The Treaty of Madras

adras
dras was a peace agre
agreement which
brought an end to the First Anglo-Mysoree War. Fighting hhad br
broken out in 1767 and
the forces of Hyder Ali had come closee to capturing Madr
Madras at one point.
The Treaty contained a clause requiring
equiring
quiring the B
British to assist Hyder Ali if he was
attacked by his neighbours.
Hyder felt this agreement

ent was broken when hhe didn't receive any help when Mysore
went to war with the Marathas in 11771.
Bad faith arising

clause may have been a reason behind the
ng from the broken cl
outbreak off the Second Anglo-M
Anglo-Mysore War a decade later
SI
Q Source:
ource:
urce: CAPF 2011
IN
88 Peitra
ra Dur
Dura is
decorative art made using polished coloured stones
A. A decor
decora
royal weaving pattern mentioned in Akbarnama
B A ro
B.
roy
C A handmade decorative blade fitted with gemstones to showcase military
C.
victories
D. A miniature painting of natural colours often found in Mughal Darbars
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Learning: It is an art that flourished in the late 16th and 17th centuries and involved
the fashioning of highly illusionistic pictures out of cut-to-shape pieces of coloured
stone.
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62
The resulting decorative mosaics were used primarily for tabletops and small wall
panels.
TS
IA
The term pietra dura signifies the requisite hardness and durability of the materials
used in this work
Q Source: Pagee 112: Chapter 8: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts
IN
SI
ritten over a light bulb

bu denotes which of the following?
89 "2000K" written
A.. Longevity
bulb
ongevity of the bu
consumption of the bulb
B. Electricity cconsu
ability of the bulb
C. Recycling ab
Temperature of the Light
D. Colour Te
User Answer :
Correct A
Corre
Answer : D
Answe
Learning: Every light source has a distinct character, from the warm, dim glow of a
L
candle to the blue, bright beam of a street light.
Brightness, measured in lumens, is one part of that character; the other part is color
temperature.
Measured in degrees Kelvin, color temperature is not the ambient hot/cold
temperature of our surroundings. In fact, the Kelvin scale goes backwards: The
higher the color temperature, the cooler light gets, and the lower the color
www.insightsias.com
63
temperature, the warmer light gets.

2000K is a warm colour temperature light.
TS
IA
90 Consider the following statements about the Cabinet Secretary.

1. She is the ex-officio Chairman of the Civil Services Board.
2. She chairs the Cabinet in the absence of the Prime Minister.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Q Source: CSP 2006
Justification & Learning: Cabinet

net Secretary is aalso the head of the civil services.
cessary
essary to keep th
the Ca
The Secretaries felt it necessary
Cabinet Secretary informed of
developments from time
correct.
me to time. So, 1 is cco
SI
Meetings of Cabinet
binet
net are chaired by the
th Prime Minister (or the next most senior
Minister present,
Minister
is absent). Cabinet committees are chaired by
sent, if the Prime M
Min
the designated
nated
ed chair (or, in the chair's absence, the most senior committee member
present).
nt). So, 2 is incor
incorrect.
IN
for discussing specific matters and proposals emanating

Committees are constituted
const
co
Secretaries to the Government and meetings are held under the
from various Secr
Secre
chairmanship oof the Cabinet Secretary.
Among th
the inter-Ministerial matters, the coordination is required for:
Amo
Removing difficulties.
Removing differences.
Overcoming delays.
Coordination in administrative action.
Coordination of policies.
These are achieved with the help of the Cabinet Secretary.
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64
IA
91 Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) is

A. The Global War on Terrorism by the Government of the United States of
America
B. 2003 Invasion of Iraq by the USA
C. Bombings of Afghanistan and Sudan bases by American
can forces
D. The Gulf War operations leading to the buildup off troops in Saudi Arab
Arabia
Arabi
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
TS
Learning: The U.S. government used the term "Operation End

Enduring Freedom Afghanistan, from the period between
Afghanistan" to officially describe the War in Afgha
October 2001 and December 2014.
Continued operations in Afghanistan
hanistan
anistan by the United States' military forces, both noncombat and combat, now occur
ccur under the nname Operation Freedom's Sentinel.
Q Source: Page 50: Chapter 3: 12th N

NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
NCE
IN
SI
92 Consider the following

about the European Union.
llowing
owing statements ab
1. It is a political
litical Union.
2. It is a sub-agency
NATO.
ub-agency of NATO
3. It has a common constit
constitution.
4. There is a common fflag and anthem.
A. 1 and 4 only
B.
and 3 only
B 2 an
C. 11, 3 and 4 only
D.
D 4 only
User Answer :
U
Correct Answer : D
Justification: Statement 1: It is an economic Union, not a political Union, as all
member states are autonomous units.
Statement 2: Some EU members are also NATO members, but EU is not its subagency.
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65
Statement 3: The Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (TCE), (commonly

referred to as the European Constitution or as the Constitutional Treaty), was an
unratified international treaty intended to create a consolidated constitution for the
European Union (EU). It would have replaced the existing European Union treaties
with a single text. But it was rejected by the French and Dutch voters.
IA
Statement 4: It has its own flag, anthem, founding date, and currency.
cy.. It also has
some form of a common foreign and security policy in its dealings
ngs with
th other
nations.
Q Source: Page 52: Chapter 3: 12th NCERT: Contemporary
porary World Politics
SI
TS
93 Which of the following is/are landlocked countriess with a monarchy?

1. Afghanistan
2. Bolivia
3. Kyrgyzstan
4. Zimbabwe
g the codes below
below.
A. 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer
wer : D
fication :
Justification:
stification:
fication: All count
countries are landlocked countries.
IN
Zimbabwe is a Do
Dominant-party presidential republic.
Kyrgyzstan is a unitary parliamentary republic.
Bolivia is a unitary presidential constitutional republic. Afghanistan is a unitary
Bolivi
Boliv
presidential Islamic republic.
pr
pre
Q Source: Chapter 5: 12th NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
94 Which of the following is/are related to Buddhism?

1. Kanheri Caves
2. Karla Caves
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66
IA
3. Bhaja Caves
4. Junnar Caves
5. Bedse Caves
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 3, 4 and 5 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
TS
Justification: The stupas in the fourth and fifth

ifth centuries CE have
hav Buddha images
cavations
avations more than two
tw hundred caves
attached. Junnar has the largest cave excavations
around the hills of the townwhereas Kanheri
has a hundred and eight
nheri in Mumb
Mumbai ha
excavated caves.
The most important sites aree Ajanta, Pital
Ellora, Nashik, Bhaja, Junnar,
Pitalkhora, E
Karla, Kanheri. Ajanta, Ellora,
to flourish.
ora, and Kanheri continue
co
Earlier it was presumed

umed
ed that because of
o tthe absence of the Buddha image, the caves
were considered
faith of Buddhism, i.e., the Thervadins,
d belonging to the orthodox
orth
but with the discovery of the Kon
Konkan Maurya inscription mentioning the Saka era
Konk
322, i.e., 400 CE, it is now ssati
satisfactorily proved that the cave activity in western
Deccan
process.
an was an ongoing pro
SI
Chapter 4: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts

Q Source: Page 37
37: C
IN
95 To implement Basel
Ba III norms, Indian banks will have to
government control completely
1. Relinquish
Relinq
2. Float aall their capital in money markets
Allow a minimum foreign holding in every bank
3. Allo
A
S
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
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67
Justification: The Basel III framework, whose main thrust has been enhancing the
banking sector's safety and stability, emphasises the need to improve the quality and
quantity of capital components, leverage (lending debt) ratio, liquidity standards,
and enhanced disclosures (transparency).
It does not recommend a clean sweep privatization of banks or floating

reserves
g all res
reser
in markets or necessary FDI stockholding in the bank. So, all statements
ments
nts are
incorrect.
IA
Q Source: CSP 2007
TS
96 Consider the following statements about the Non-alignment

(NAM) Summit.
gnment Movement (N
(NA
1. It is customary for the United Nations (UN) Secretary
ecretary General to chair
ch the summit.
2. Serving or Former Heads of the State cannot
Secretary General of
ott be appointed
appointe as Sec
the summit.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : D
cation
on :
SI
Justification:
tion: The countries oof the Non-Aligned Movement represent nearly twoNation
thirds of the United Na
Nation's members. The UN Sec. Gen. can attend NAM summits,
but
ut iss not mandatory fo
for them to attend it under any convention or international law.
Nor is it customary ffor them to chair it. So, 1 is wrong.
IN
Many head
heads of states have been appointed as NAM Sec. Gen, e.g. Neelam Sanjeev
Reddy, Zail
Zai Singh etc. So, 2 is also wrong.
Learning: Since the end of the Cold War and the formal end of colonialism, the
Lear
Non-Aligned
Movement has been forced to redefine itself and reinvent its purpose
N
No
in the current world system.
In recent years the organization has criticized certain aspects of US foreign policy.
The 2003 invasion of Iraq and the War on Terrorism, its attempts to stifle Iran and
North Korea's nuclear plans, and its other actions have been denounced by some
members of the Non-Aligned Movement as attempts to run roughshod over the
sovereignty of smaller nations.
www.insightsias.com
68
TS
IA
97 Consider the following statements about the Cabinet Secretariat.

1. It is under the direct charge of the Union Minister of Personnel.
2. It is the custodian of the papers of the Cabinet meetings.
3. It watches the implementation of the decisions taken by the Cabinet.
binet.
net.
4. Management of major crisis situations in the country is one of itss functions.
A. 2, 3 and 4 only
B. 3 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
User Answer :
Correct Answer : A
Justification & Learning: The

he Cabinet Secretariat
Secretaria is responsible for the
ernment
rnment of India (Transaction
((Tra
administration of the Government
of Business) Rules, 1961
and the Government off India (Allocation of Business) Rules 1961, facilitating
smooth transaction off business in Min
Ministries/ Departments of the Government by
Ministr
ensuring adherence
nce to these rules. It iis under the Direct Charge of the Prime
Minister. So, 1 is wrong.
IN
SI
The Secretariat assists

assis in decision-making in Government by ensuring InterMinisterial coordin
coordination, ironing out differences amongst Ministries/
Departments and
Department
an evolving consensus through the instrumentality of the
Committees of Secretaries.
standing/ adhoc
ad
The Cabinet
Cabi Secretariat ensures that the President, the Vice President and
Ca
Ministers are kept informed of the major activities of all
Minis
Ministries/Departments by means of monthly summary of their activities.
Mi
Management of major crisis situations in the country and coordinating
activities of various Ministries in such a situation is also one of the functions
of the Cabinet Secretariat.
The administrative head of the Cabinet Secretariat is the Cabinet Secretary.

98 The source(s) of exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) for humans is
1. Leaching into food from food storage containers
2. Through air and skin absorption
www.insightsias.com
69

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer :
Correct Answer : C
IA
Justification: What is it: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical

al produced
oduced in large
arbonate
rbonate plastics and eepoxy
quantities for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate
resins.
TS
Statement 1: Bisphenol A can leach into food

epoxy
d from the protective internal
i
resin coatings of canned foods and from consumer
such as polycarbonate
onsumer
sumer produc
products suc
tableware, food storage containers, water
ter bottles, and baby bbottles. The degree to
which BPA leaches from polycarbonate
nate bottles into liquid
liqui may depend more on the
temperature of the liquid or bottle,
le,
e, than the ag
age of the container.
Statement 2: Besides diet, exposure can also occ

occur through air and through skin
absorption. Free BPA iss found
concentration in thermal paper and carbonless
ound in high conc
concen
copy paper, which would be expected to bbe more available for exposure than BPA
bound into resin orr plastic. Popular uuse
uses of thermal paper include receipts, event and
cinema tickets,
tickets
s, labels, and airlin
airline ti
SI
Q Source:
A: CSP 2008
ce: Q on Bisphenol A
IN
99 Which
hich
ich of the following iis/are NOT banned in India concerning Internet?
tariffs for data services on the basis of content accessed by
1. Charging discriminatory
discrimi
a consumer.
consume
free content on websites to selected consumers.
2. Providing ffr
Select the
th correct answer using the codes below.
A. 1 only
A
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. None
User Answer : D
Correct Answer : B
Justification: Statement 1: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has
www.insightsias.com
70
barred telecom service providers (TSPs) from offering or charging such

discriminatory tariffs, as it went against Net Neutrality.
Statement 2: It is a standard practice. For e.g. EPW magazine provides free access
and content to academic scholars and students from selected universities,
ties whereas
for the same content it charges others.
The concept of net neutrality has been covered in a test earlier.

ier.
IA
Q Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/technology/tech-news-technology/trai-differential-p
ews-technology/trai-d
ricing-order-explained-its-beyond-facebook-and-free-basics/
d-free-basics/
ee-basics/
TS
100 The term North-South divide in the context

xtt of International affairs
aff
affa is related to
A. A socio-economic and political
cal
al divide between the Developed and
Developing World
B. Differentiating between
n the Aggressor states and invaded states
C. Former colonial occupations
cupations
upations of Wes
Western ppowers in the Southern Hemisphere
D. Diplomatic groupings
pingss formed within tthe Asian nations
User Answer : A
Correct Answer : A
ication
cation :
Learning:
ng: The
he North mostl
mostly covers the West and the First World, along with much
econd World, whil
of thee Second
while the South largely corresponds with the Third World.
IN
SI
No may be defined as the richer, more developed region and the

N
While the North
South aas th
the poorer, less developed region, many more factors differentiate
between the two global areas. 95% of the North has enough food and shelter.
betwee
Similarly, 95% of the North has a functioning educational system. In the
Si
Sim
South, on the other hand, only 5% of the population has enough food and
S
shelter.
It "lacks appropriate technology, it has no political stability, the economies
are disarticulated, and their foreign exchange earnings depend on primary
product exports".
As nations become economically developed, they may become part of the
"North", regardless of geographical location, while any other nations which
do not qualify for "developed" status are in effect deemed to be part of the
"South".
Q Source: Chapter 8: 12th NCERT: Contemporary World Politics
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71

Insight Test 12

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IA

Justification & Learning:Though established

The IAEA serves as an intergovernment

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Statement 2: Chapter XIV of the United Nations Charter authorizes the UN

Statement 3 and 4: The ICJ is composed of fifteen judges elected

According to Article 9, the membershipp of the Court is supposed

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Q Source: SET A: Improvisation: Q4: CSP 2009

It is the source of most of Rajasthan's salt production.

4 CNX Nifty is used extensively by investors in India and

Learning: The NIFTY

set up by a group of leading Indian financial institutions at the behest of

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Some of its proposals are as follows:-

It was also expected to suggest changes in the business environment

Establish a PPP model for power distribution,

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Statement 1: It is located in the Tabo village of Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It

Statement 2: Kardang Monastery or Gompa is a famous Drukpa

Statement 3: The monastery is currently the largest

7 India has recently ratified thee Convention

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

8 Which of the following best describes 'Gatka'?

Learning: It an integral part

9 Bhimbetaka rock art and paintings belong to which of these periods?

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Justification: The drawings and paintings can be classified

Period I - (Upper Paleolithic): These are linear

Page 7: Chapter 1: 11th NCERT: An Introduction to Indian Arts

Capricorn passes through which of these countries?

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

2. They can give an idea about the age of the Universe.

Justification: White dwarfs are one of the densest

A low or medium mass star (with mass

White dwarfs can tell us about

13 Considerr thee following about the Third Round Table Conference.

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Statement 2: The recommendations of conference were published in a White Paper

14 Which among the following is/are member(s) of the

is the Chairman, Union Minister of Water Resources is the

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15 The origins of Anekantavada can be traced back to the teachings of Mahavira.

Learning: Jains contrast all attempts to arrogantly

All the men claimed to understand

This principle is more formally

Improvisation: Q57: CSP 2009

was associated with which of the following?

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

In 1954, she helped form the National Federation of Indian Women,

17 Camphor tree is most likely to be naturally found

Nativee to the wet fores

18 Consider the following about Shompen tribe.

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Select the correct answer using the codes below.

Justification:Statement 1: They are the indigenous peoplee of the interio

Statement 2 and 4: The Shompen are a designated

Statement 3: The Shompen languages,

9 Consider the followi

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved.

Justification: ILO is an autonomous organization working with the United Nations

20 Consider the following with reference to the Cartagena

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