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Master every single map-based question asked by UPSC over the last 14 years. From critical straits, rivers, and conflict zones to national parks and geopolitical chokepoints—practice all PYQs (2013–2026) with detailed explanations. High-yield, interactive, and 100% free.
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Category: History
[UPSC CSE 2025]
With reference to ancient India (600-322 BC), consider the following pairs: Territorial region | River flowing in the region I. Asmaka | Godavari II. Kamboja | Vipas III. Avanti | Mahanadi IV. Kosala | Sarayu
How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
Correct Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:• Pair I is correct (Asmaka on Godavari).• Pair II is incorrect (Kamboja is in Pamir/NW; Vipas is Beas in Punjab).• Pair III is incorrect (Avanti was centered around Malwa on Sipra/Betwa).• Pair IV is correct (Kosala on Sarayu river).
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Category: Geography
Consider the following countries: I. Austria II. Bulgaria III. Croatia IV. Serbia V. Sweden VI. North Macedonia
How many of the above are members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization?
Correct Answer: (b) Only four
Explanation:• Bulgaria, Croatia, North Macedonia, and Sweden are NATO members (4 countries). Austria and Serbia are non-members.
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Consider the following countries: I. Bolivia II. Brazil III. Colombia IV. Ecuador V. Paraguay VI. Venezuela
Andes mountains pass through how many of the above countries?
Explanation: • The Andes traverse seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
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Consider the following water bodies: I. Lake Tanganyika II. Lake Tonle Sap III. Patos Lagoon
Through how many of them does the equator pass?
Correct Answer: (d) None
Explanation:• Lake Tanganyika is south of the Equator (3°S-9°S).• Lake Tonle Sap is north of the Equator in Cambodia (12°N-13°N).• Patos Lagoon is in southern Brazil (31°S-32°S).
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India is one of the founding members of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multimodal transportation corridor, which will connect:
Correct Answer: (a) India to Central Asia to Europe via Iran
Explanation: • INSTC connects Mumbai (India) to Bandar Abbas/Chabahar (Iran), Baku (Azerbaijan), and Moscow (Russia) onwards to Europe.
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Category: Economy
Consider the following countries: I. United Arab Emirates II. France III. Germany IV. Singapore V. Bangladesh
How many countries amongst the above are there other than India where international merchant payments are accepted under UPI?
Correct Answer: (b) Only three
Explanation:• UAE, France, and Singapore enable merchant UPI payments.
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Consider the following countries: I. United Kingdom II. Denmark III. New Zealand IV. Australia V. Brazil
How many of the above countries have more than four time zones?
Explanation:• UK (9 zones), Denmark (5 zones), Australia (>4 zones) have more than 4 time zones. Brazil has 4 time zones.
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Consider the following statements: I. Anadyr in Siberia and Nome in Alaska are a few kilometers from each other, but when people are waking up and getting set for breakfast in these cities, it would be different days. II. When it is Monday in Anadyr, it is Tuesday in Nome.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer: (a) I only
Explanation:• Statement I is correct: Separated by IDL.• Statement II is incorrect: Anadyr (Russia) is west of IDL and ahead by a day (When Tuesday in Anadyr, it is Monday in Nome).
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Consider the following pairs: Country | Resource-rich in I. Botswana | Diamond II. Chile | Lithium III. Indonesia | Nickel
In how many of the above rows is the given information correctly matched?
Correct Answer: (c) All the three
Explanation:• All 3 are correctly matched: Botswana (Diamonds), Chile (Lithium in Atacama), Indonesia (Nickel reserves).
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Consider the following pairs: Region | Country I. Mallorca | Italy II. Normandy | Spain III. Sardinia | France
Explanation:• Mallorca belongs to Spain.• Normandy belongs to France.• Sardinia belongs to Italy.
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Category: Polity
Consider the following statements in respect of BIMSTEC: I. It is a regional organization consisting of seven member States till January 2025. II. It came into existence with the signing of the Dhaka Declaration, 1999. III. Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Nepal are founding member States of BIMSTEC. IV. In BIMSTEC, the subsector of ‘tourism’ is being led by India.
Correct Answer: (d) I only
Explanation:• BIMSTEC was established in 1997 via Bangkok Declaration with 7 members. Statement I is correct.
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Category: Science & Tech
Consider the following statements regarding AI Action Summit held in Grand Palais, Paris in February 2025: I. Co-chaired with India, the event builds on the advances made at the Bletchley Park Summit held in 2023 and the Seoul Summit held in 2024. II. Along with other countries, US and UK also signed the declaration on inclusive and sustainable AI.
Explanation:• Statement I is correct. US did not sign the joint declaration.
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Consider the following statements with regard to BRICS: I. 16th BRICS Summit was held under the Chairship of Russia in Kazan. II. Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS. III. The theme of the 16th BRICS Summit was Strengthening Multiculturalism for Just Global Development and Security.
Correct Answer: (a) I and II
Explanation: • Statements I and II are correct. Theme was Strengthening Multilateralism (not Multiculturalism).
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[UPSC CSE 2024]
Which of the following is/are correct inference/inferences from isothermal maps in the month of January? 1. The isotherms deviate to the north over the ocean and to the south over the continent. 2. The presence of cold ocean currents, Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Drift make the North Atlantic Ocean colder and the isotherms bend towards the north.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Correct Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: In January, continents cool down faster; isotherms bend equatorward (south) over land and poleward (north) over oceans.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Drift are warm currents.
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Which of the following countries are well known as the largest cocoa producers in the world?
Correct Answer: (c) Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana
Explanation:• Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana produce ~60% of the world cocoa.
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With reference to the Himalayan rivers joining the Ganga downstream of Prayagraj from West to East, which one of the following sequences is correct?
Correct Answer: (b) Gomati – Ghaghara – Gandak – Kosi
Explanation:• West to east order: Gomati → Ghaghara → Gandak → Kosi.
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Consider the following countries: 1. Finland 2. Germany 3. Norway 4. Russia
How many of the above countries have a border with the North Sea?
Explanation:• Germany and Norway border the North Sea. Finland and Russia do not.
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Consider the following information: Waterfall | Region | River 1. Dhuandhar | Malwa | Narmada 2. Hundru | Chota Nagpur | Subarnarekha 3. Gersoppa | Western Ghats | Netravati
Correct Answer: (a) Only one
Explanation:• Row 1 is incorrect (Jabalpur/Mahakoshal, not Malwa).• Row 2 is correct (Hundru on Subarnarekha in Chota Nagpur).• Row 3 is incorrect (Gersoppa is on Sharavati).
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Consider the following information: Region | Name of the mountain range | Type of mountain 1. Central Asia | Vosges | Fold Mountain 2. Europe | Alps | Block mountain 3. North America | Appalachians | Fold mountains 4. South America | Andes | Fold mountain
Explanation:• Rows 3 and 4 are correct (Appalachians and Andes are fold mountains).
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Consider the following airports: 1. Donyi Polo Airport 2. Kushinagar International Airport 3. Vijayawada International Airport
In the recent past, which of the above have been constructed as Greenfield projects?
Correct Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:• Donyi Polo (Itanagar) and Kushinagar are greenfield projects.
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Consider the following description: 1. Annual and daily range of temperature is low. 2. Precipitation occurs throughout the year. 3. Precipitation varies between 50 cm – 250 cm.
What is this type of climate?
Correct Answer: (d) Marine West coast climate
Explanation:• Marine West Coast climate has low temperature ranges and year-round rain.
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On June 21 every year, which of the following latitude(s) experience(s) a sunlight of more than 12 hours? 1. Equator 2. Tropic of Cancer 3. Tropic of Capricorn 4. Arctic circle
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct Answer: (d) 2 and 4
Explanation:• On June 21, all areas north of Equator experience >12 hours of sunlight.
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Category: Environment
One of the following regions has the world’s largest tropical peatland, which holds about three years’ worth of global carbon emissions from fossil fuels; and the possible destruction of which can exert detrimental effect on the global climate. Which one of the following denoted that region?
Correct Answer: (b) Congo Basin
Explanation:• Cuvette Centrale in Congo Basin is the world’s largest tropical peatland.
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Consider the following pairs: Country | Animal found in its natural habitat 1. Brazil | Indri 2. Indonesia | Elk 3. Madagascar | Bonobo
Explanation:• Indri is in Madagascar, Elk is in North America/Asia, Bonobo is in Congo.
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Consider the following information: Archaeological site | State | Description 1. Chandraketugarh | Odisha | Trading Port Town 2. Inamgaon | Maharashtra | Chalcolithic site 3. Mangadu | Kerala | Megalithic site 4. Salihundam | Andhra Pradesh | Rock-cut cave shrines
In which of the above rows is the given information correctly matched?
Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3
Explanation:• Chandraketugarh is in WB. Inamgaon (Maharashtra) and Mangadu (Kerala) are correctly matched.
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Category: Art & Culture
Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO: 1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya
How many of the above properties were included in 2023?
Explanation:• Shantiniketan and Hoysala temples were inscribed in 2023.
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The longest border between any two countries in the world is between:
Correct Answer: (a) Canada and the United States of America
Explanation:• Canada-USA border is the longest land border (8,891 km).
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Consider the following pairs: Country | Reason for being in the news 1. Argentina: Worst economic crisis 2. Sudan: War between the country’s regular army and paramilitary forces 3. Turkey: Rescinded its membership of NATO
Correct Answer: (b) Only two pairs
Explanation:• Argentina crisis and Sudan conflict are correctly matched.
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[UPSC CSE 2023]
Consider the following statements: 1. Jhelum River passes through Wular Lake. 2. Krishna River directly feeds Kolleru Lake. 3. Meandering of Gandak River formed Kanwar Lake.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Jhelum River enters Wular Lake and leaves it at Sopore in Jammu & Kashmir.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Kolleru Lake is fed directly by seasonal rivers Budameru and Tammileru; Krishna and Godavari water reaches it via irrigation canals, not directly.• Statement 3 is correct: Kanwar (Kabar) Lake in Bihar is Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake, formed by the meandering of the Burhi Gandak River.
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Consider the following pairs: Port | Well known as 1. Kamarajar Port: First major port in India registered as a company 2. Mundra Port: Largest privately owned port in India 3. Visakhapatnam Port: Largest container port in India
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Kamarajar Port (Ennore, Tamil Nadu) is India’s first corporate port registered under the Companies Act.• Pair 2 is correct: Mundra Port (Gujarat) is India’s largest private commercial port operated by APSEZ.• Pair 3 is incorrect: Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPA, Nhava Sheva in Maharashtra) is India’s largest container port, not Visakhapatnam.
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Which one of the following is the best example of repeated falls in sea level, giving rise to present-day extensive marshland?
Correct Answer: (d) Rann of Kutch
Explanation:• The Great and Little Rann of Kutch in Gujarat were once shallow gulf inlets of the Arabian Sea. Repeated regressions and falls in sea level, combined with tectonic uplifts, turned them into seasonal salt marshlands.
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About three-fourths of world’s cobalt, a metal required for the manufacture of batteries for electric motor vehicles, is produced by:
Correct Answer: (c) the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Explanation:• The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) produces more than 70% of the world’s total cobalt supply, predominantly from the Katanga copper belt.
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Which one of the following is a part of the Congo Basin?
Correct Answer: (a) Cameroon
Explanation:• The Congo River basin spans six primary countries: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon.
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Consider the following statements: 1. Amarkantak Hills are at the confluence of Vindhya and Sahyadri Ranges. 2. Biligirirangan Hills constitute the easternmost part of Satpura Range. 3. Seshachalam Hills constitute the southernmost part of Western Ghats.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Amarkantak lies at the junction of Vindhya and Satpura (Maikal Range), not Sahyadri (Western Ghats).• Statement 2 is incorrect: BR Hills (Karnataka) form a bridge between the Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats, far away from Satpura.• Statement 3 is incorrect: Seshachalam Hills are in Andhra Pradesh and belong to the Eastern Ghats.
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With reference to India’s projects on connectivity, consider the following statements: 1. East-West Corridor under Golden Quadrilateral Project connects Dibrugarh and Surat. 2. Trilateral Highway connects Moreh in Manipur and Chiang Mai in Thailand via Myanmar. 3. Bangladesh – China – India – Myanmar Economic Corridor connects Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Kunming in China.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: East-West Corridor connects Silchar (Assam) to Porbandar (Gujarat).• Statement 2 is incorrect: India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway connects Moreh (India) to Mae Sot (Thailand).• Statement 3 is incorrect: BCIM corridor connects Kolkata (West Bengal) with Kunming (China).
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In which one of the following regions was Dhanyakataka which flourished as a prominent Buddhist centre under the Mahasanghikas located?
Correct Answer: (a) Andhra
Explanation:• Dhanyakataka (Dharanikota/Amaravati) in Andhra region on the banks of Krishna river was the capital of Satavahanas and a renowned Mahasanghika Buddhist center.
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With reference to ancient South India, Korkai, Poompuhar and Muchiri were well known as:
Correct Answer: (b) ports
Explanation:• Korkai was the primary port of Pandyas, Poompuhar was the chief port of Cholas, and Muchiri was the ancient port of Cheras.
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Consider the following countries: 1. Bulgaria 2. Czech Republic 3. Hungary 4. Latvia 5. Lithuania 6. Romania
How many of the above-mentioned countries share a land border with Ukraine?
Correct Answer: (a) Only two
Explanation:• Ukraine shares land borders with Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova.• From the list, only Hungary and Romania share a land border with Ukraine.
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Consider the following sites: Site | Well known for 1. Besnagar: Shaivite cave shrine 2. Bhaja: Buddhist cave shrine 3. Sittanavasal: Jain cave shrine
Explanation:• Pair 1 is incorrect: Besnagar (Vidisha, MP) has Heliodorus Pillar (Vaishnavism).• Pair 2 is correct: Bhaja Caves are Buddhist.• Pair 3 is correct: Sittanavasal is a Jain rock-cut cave complex.
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Consider the following pairs: Regions often mentioned in news | Reason for being in news 1. North Kivu and Ituri: War between Armenia and Azerbaijan 2. Nagorno-Karabakh: Insurgency in Mozambique 3. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia: Dispute between Israel and Lebanon
Explanation:• North Kivu/Ituri are in DRC.• Nagorno-Karabakh is Armenia-Azerbaijan.• Kherson/Zaporizhzhia are in Ukraine.
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Consider the following pairs: Area of conflict mentioned in news | Country where it is located 1. Donbas: Syria 2. Kachin: Ethiopia 3. Tigray: North Yemen
Explanation:• Donbas is in Ukraine, Kachin is in Myanmar, and Tigray is in Ethiopia.
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In recent years Chad, Guinea, Mali and Sudan caught international attention for which one of the following reasons common to all of them?
Correct Answer: (d) Successful coups
Explanation:• Chad, Guinea, Mali, and Sudan all experienced military takeovers (coups d’état) in recent years.
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[UPSC CSE 2022]
Consider the following pairs: Site of Ashoka’s major rock edicts | Location in the State of 1. Dhauli : Odisha 2. Erragudi : Andhra Pradesh 3. Jaugada : Madhya Pradesh 4. Kalsi : Karnataka
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Dhauli is in Khordha district, Odisha.• Pair 2 is correct: Erragudi is in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh.• Pair 3 is incorrect: Jaugada is in Ganjam district, Odisha (not Madhya Pradesh).• Pair 4 is incorrect: Kalsi is in Dehradun district, Uttarakhand (not Karnataka).
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Consider the following pairs: King | Dynasty 1. Nannuka : Chandela 2. Jayashakti : Paramara 3. Nagabhata II : Gurjara-Pratihara 4. Bhoja : Rashtrakuta
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Nannuka founded the Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti.• Pair 2 is incorrect: Jayashakti (Jeja) belonged to the Chandela dynasty (not Paramara).• Pair 3 is correct: Nagabhata II was an imperial Gurjara-Pratihara ruler.• Pair 4 is incorrect: Mihira Bhoja was a Gurjara-Pratihara king (not Rashtrakuta).
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With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following statements: 1. White marble was used in making Buland Darwaza and Khankah at Fatehpur Sikri. 2. Red sandstone and marble were used in making Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza at Lucknow.
Correct Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Buland Darwaza is primarily made of red and buff sandstone, with inlay work of white and black marble.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza in Lucknow were built using Lakhori bricks and stucco/plaster, without structural red sandstone and marble.
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The Gandikota canyon of South India was created by which one of the following rivers?
Correct Answer: (c) Pennar
Explanation:• The Gandikota Canyon (often celebrated as the Grand Canyon of India) was carved by the Pennar River cutting through the Erramala hills in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh.
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Consider the following pairs: Peak | Mountains 1. Namcha Barwa : Garhwal Himalaya 2. Nanda Devi : Kumaon Himalaya 3. Nokrek : Sikkim Himalaya
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
Correct Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:• Pair 1 is incorrect: Namcha Barwa is situated in eastern Tibet/Arunachal border (Assam Himalaya), far east of Garhwal.• Pair 2 is correct: Nanda Devi is the highest peak situated entirely in Uttarakhand within the Kumaon/Garhwal division.• Pair 3 is incorrect: Nokrek is the highest peak of the Garo Hills in Meghalaya (not Sikkim Himalaya).
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The term ‘Levant’ often heard in the news roughly corresponds to which of the following regions?
Correct Answer: (a) Region along the eastern Mediterranean shores
Explanation:• The ‘Levant’ historical geographical term refers broadly to the large area along the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea (modern Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria).
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Consider the following countries: 1. Azerbaijan 2. Kyrgyzstan 3. Tajikistan 4. Turkmenistan 5. Uzbekistan
Which of the above have borders with Afghanistan?
Correct Answer: (c) 3, 4 and 5 only
Explanation: • Afghanistan shares borders with various countries: Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, China, India • Azerbaijan (separated by the Caspian) and Kyrgyzstan do not share a land border with Afghanistan.
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With reference to India, consider the following statements: 1. Monazite is a source of rare earths. 2. Monazite contains thorium. 3. Monazite occurs naturally in the entire Indian coastal sands in India. 4. In India, Government bodies only can process or export monazite.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Correct Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 4
Explanation:• Statements 1 & 2 are correct: Monazite sand contains rare earth elements as well as Thorium phosphate.• Statement 3 is incorrect: Extreme word ‘entire’—it does not occur uniformly throughout the whole coast, but in specific beach placers (Kerala, Odisha, TN, AP).• Statement 4 is correct: Being a prescribed atomic substance, its processing/export is regulated exclusively through state-owned IREL.
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In the northern hemisphere, the longest day of the year normally occurs in the:
Correct Answer: (b) Second half of the month of June
Explanation:• The Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere occurs on June 20 or June 21, which lies precisely in the second half of the month of June.
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Consider the following pairs: Wetland | Location 1. Hokera Wetland : Punjab 2. Renuka Wetland : Himachal Pradesh 3. Rudrasagar Lake : Tripura 4. Sasthamkotta Lake : Tamil Nadu
Explanation:• Pair 1 is incorrect: Hokera Wetland is in Jammu & Kashmir (near Srinagar).• Pair 2 is correct: Renuka Wetland is in Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh.• Pair 3 is correct: Rudrasagar Lake is in Sipahijala, Tripura.• Pair 4 is incorrect: Sasthamkotta Lake is in Kollam, Kerala (not Tamil Nadu).
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Consider the following pairs: Reservoirs | States 1. Ghataprabha : Telangana 2. Gandhi Sagar : Madhya Pradesh 3. Indira Sagar : Andhra Pradesh 4. Maithon : Chhattisgarh
How many pairs given above are not correctly matched?
Correct Answer: (c) Only three pairs
Explanation (Identify NOT correctly matched):• Pair 1 is incorrect: Ghataprabha Reservoir (Hidkal dam) is in Karnataka (not Telangana).• Pair 2 is correct: Gandhi Sagar is on Chambal River in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh.• Pair 3 is incorrect: Indira Sagar is on Narmada River in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh (not AP).• Pair 4 is incorrect: Maithon Dam is on Barakar River in Jharkhand (not Chhattisgarh).
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Consider the following rivers: 1. Brahmani 2. Nagavali 3. Subarnarekha 4. Vamsadhara
Which of the above rise from the Eastern Ghats?
Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 4
Explanation:• Nagavali and Vamsadhara both originate from the Eastern Ghats in Kalahandi/Rayagada districts of Odisha.• Brahmani: Formed by the confluence of Sankh and South Koel near Rourkela (Chota Nagpur plateau).• Subarnarekha: Originates near Ranchi in the Chota Nagpur plateau.
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Consider the following: 1. Golden Mahseer 2. Indian Nightjar 3. Spoonbill 4. White Ibis
Which of the above are birds?
Correct Answer: (d) 2, 3 and 4
Explanation:• Golden Mahseer: An endangered freshwater fish species inhabiting Himalayan coldwater rivers.• Indian Nightjar, Eurasian Spoonbill, and Black-headed (White) Ibis are all bird species.
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Consider the following pairs: Country | Important geographical feature / Border 1. Chad : Borders Mediterranean Sea 2. Mali : Completely landlocked in West Africa 3. Mauritania : Borders Atlantic Ocean
Explanation:• Pair 1 is incorrect: Chad is a landlocked nation in Central/North Africa (Libya and Egypt separate it from Mediterranean).• Pair 2 is correct: Mali is completely landlocked in the Sahel/West Africa.• Pair 3 is correct: Mauritania has a long western coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
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Consider the following pairs: Region often mentioned in the news | Country 1. Anatolia : Turkey 2. Amhara : Ethiopia 3. Cabo Delgado : Spain 4. Catalonia : Italy
Correct Answer: (b) only two pairs
Explanation: • Anatolia: The vast Asian peninsula comprising majority of modern Turkey. • Amhara: Northern regional state in Ethiopia, active in Tigray civil conflict. • Cabo Delgado: Northernmost province of Mozambique affected by Islamist insurgency. • Catalonia: Autonomous region in northeast Spain known for independence referendum.
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‘Climate Action Tracker’ which monitors the emission reduction commitments of different countries was created by:
Correct Answer: (d) An independent scientific analysis produced by two research organisations
Explanation:• Climate Action Tracker (CAT) is an independent scientific project established by Climate Analytics and NewClimate Institute to track governmental climate actions against Paris Agreement targets.
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Which one of the following lakes of West Africa has become dry and turned into a desert?
Correct Answer: (b) Lake Faguibine
Explanation:• Lake Faguibine in northern Mali (West Africa), fed historically by the Niger River, completely dried up following severe Sahel droughts and turned into desert land.
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[UPSC CSE 2021]
Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?
Correct Answer: (a) Dholavira
Explanation:• Dholavira (Khadir Bet, Rann of Kutch, Gujarat) is world-renowned for its sophisticated water engineering system, featuring massive rock-cut reservoirs, cascading check-dams on the Mansar and Manhar channels, and integrated stormwater drains.
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With reference to the Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements: 1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of the Kachchhapaghata Dynasty. 2. It is the only circular temple built in India. 3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region. 4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration for the Indian Parliament building.
Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 4 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Built by King Devapala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty in the 14th century at Mitawali, Morena (MP).• Statement 2 is incorrect: There are other circular temples in India (e.g., Chausath Yogini at Ranipur Jharial, Hirapur in Odisha).• Statement 3 is incorrect: It is dedicated to 64 Yoginis associated with Shiva and Shakti (Tantric cult, not Vaishnavism).• Statement 4 is correct: Its circular hypaethral colonnade resembles the old Indian Parliament House (Sansad Bhavan).
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With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is common to Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla and Kshemeshwara?
Correct Answer: (b) Playwrights
Explanation:• Bhavabhuti (wrote Malatimadhava, Uttararamacharita), Hastimalla (Jain Sanskrit playwright who wrote Vikrantakaurava), and Kshemeshwara (wrote Chandakaushika) were all prominent ancient and early medieval dramatists/playwrights.
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Which of the following phrases defines the nature of the ‘Hundi’ generally referred to in the sources of the post-Harsha period?
Correct Answer: (c) A bill of exchange
Explanation:• A Hundi is a traditional credit instrument and bill of exchange used across Indian trade hubs for financial transactions, credit, and remitting money without physical coin transit.
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‘Didwana, Kuchaman, Sargol and Khatu’ are the names of:
Correct Answer: (d) Saline lakes
Explanation:• Didwana, Kuchaman, Sargol, and Khatu are famous playa lakes / inland saline lakes located in the arid region of Rajasthan (Nagaur/Didwana-Kuchaman district).
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With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which joins the Indus direct. Among the following, which one is such river that joins the Indus direct?
The correct answer is Option 4
Key Points
Indus river system:
Confusion Points
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The vegetation of savannah consists of grassland with scattered small trees, but extensive areas have no trees. The forest development in such areas is generally kept in check by one or more or a combination of some conditions. Which of the following are such conditions? 1. Burrowing animals and termites 2. Fire 3. Grazing herbivores 4. Seasonal rainfall 5. Soil properties
Correct Answer: (c) 2, 3 and 4
Explanation:• In Savanna ecosystems, tree growth is primarily held in check by the interplay of seasonal precipitation cycles (droughts), recurrent periodic fires, and intensive browsing/grazing by large herbivores.
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With reference to the water on the planet Earth, consider the following statements: 1. The amount of water in the rivers and lakes is more than the amount of groundwater. 2. The amount of water in polar ice caps and glaciers is more than the amount of groundwater.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Groundwater (~0.68% of hydrosphere) contains far more fresh water than all lakes and rivers (~0.01%) combined.• Statement 2 is correct: Glaciers and polar ice caps contain the largest share of freshwater (~1.74% to 2%), surpassing groundwater reserves.
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Consider the following statements: 1. Moringa (drumstick tree) is a leguminous evergreen tree. 2. Tamarind tree is endemic to South Asia. 3. In India, most of the tamarind is collected as minor forest produce. 4. India exports tamarind and seeds of moringa. 5. Seeds of moringa and tamarind can be used in the production of biofuels.
Correct Answer: (b) 3, 4 and 5
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Moringa belongs to family Moringaceae (not a legume/Fabaceae) and is deciduous in dry conditions.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Tamarind is native/endemic to tropical Africa (not South Asia).• Statements 3, 4 & 5 are correct: Tamarind is gathered as MFP, both seeds yield oils suitable for biodiesel, and India is a major exporter.
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The black cotton soil of India has been formed due to the weathering of:
Correct Answer: (b) Fissure volcanic rock
Explanation:• Regur (black cotton soil) of the Deccan Plateau was formed by long-term weathering and denudation of basaltic lava sheets extruded through fissure volcanic eruptions during the Cretaceous period.
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With reference to the ‘Palm Oil’, consider the following statements: 1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia. 2. The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes. 3. The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.
Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is native to West and Southwest Africa (not Southeast Asia).• Statements 2 & 3 are correct: Extensively used in cosmetics/toiletries and processed as a feedstock for biodiesel.
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Correct Answer: (d) Sutlej
Explanation:• Jhelum and Ravi join Chenab; the combined flow (Trimab) then joins the Sutlej near Uch Sharif to form the Panjnad, which flows as a single stream directly into the Indus at Mithankot.
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At which one of the following places do the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats meet?
Correct Answer: (c) Nilgiri Hills
Explanation:• The Nilgiri Hills (Blue Mountains) in Tamil Nadu/Karnataka/Kerala junction form the knot and physical meeting ground of the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats.
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Consider the following pairs: City | Country 1. Aden : Yemen 2. Benghazi : Libya 3. Kirkuk : Iraq
Correct Answer: (c) All three pairs
Explanation:• Aden is a port city in southern Yemen.• Benghazi is the second-largest city in Libya.• Kirkuk is a major historical and petroleum-rich city in Iraq.
74 / 174
[UPSC CSE 2020]
Siachen Glacier is situated to the:
Correct Answer: (d) North of Nubra Valley
Explanation:• Siachen Glacier lies in the eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas, immediately to the north of the Nubra Valley (from where the Nubra river originates from its snout at snout of Siachen).
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With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs: 1. Bhilsa : Madhya Pradesh 2. Dwarasamudra : Maharashtra 3. Girnagar : Gujarat 4. Sthaneshwara : Uttar Pradesh
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
Correct Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Bhilsa is Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh.• Pair 2 is incorrect: Dwarasamudra (Halebidu) was the capital of Hoysalas in Karnataka (not Maharashtra).• Pair 3 is correct: Girnagar (Girnar/Junagadh) is located in Gujarat.• Pair 4 is incorrect: Sthaneshwara (Thanesar) is in Kurukshetra, Haryana (not Uttar Pradesh).
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With reference to the water reservoir / river linking projects in India, which of the following pairs of rivers originate in the Amarkantak Hills?
Correct Answer: (a) Narmada and Son
Explanation:• The Amarkantak plateau in Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh is the source of two major radial drainage rivers: Narmada (flowing west) and Son (flowing northeast towards Ganga).
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Consider the following statements: 1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only. 2. Only some cyclones develop an eye. 3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10°C lesser than that of the surroundings.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Jet streams occur in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.• Statement 2 is correct: An eye forms typically in mature, intense tropical cyclones; not in all cyclones or extra-tropical cyclones.• Statement 3 is incorrect: The eye is a region of calm, subsiding air which makes it warmer (by 5°C to 10°C) than surrounding air, not cooler.
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Which of the following Protected Areas are located in the Cauvery basin? 1. Nagarhole National Park 2. Papikonda National Park 3. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve 4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Correct Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
Explanation:• Nagarhole (Kabini river), Sathyamangalam (Moyar river), and Wayanad (Kabini tributaries) all drain into the Cauvery basin.• Papikonda National Park is situated in Andhra Pradesh along the Godavari River basin.
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With reference to India’s Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct? 1. It is spread over two districts. 2. There is no human habitation inside the Park. 3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard.
Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Spread across Jaisalmer and Barmer districts in Rajasthan.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Several traditional villages and human habitations exist inside the park boundaries.• Statement 3 is correct: It is the most critical stronghold and breeding ground of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard.
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Steel slag can be the material for which of the following? 1. Construction of base road 2. Improvement of agricultural soil 3. Production of cement
Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:• Steel slag is utilized in road base construction aggregate, as an agricultural soil conditioner (neutralizing acidic soils and adding trace elements), and blended in Portland Slag Cement manufacture.
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Consider the following statements: 1. Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury. 2. Coal-fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment. 3. High ash content is observed in Indian coal.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Fly ash carries toxic heavy metals including arsenic, lead, selenium, and mercury.• Statement 2 is correct: Major sources of SO2 and NOx emissions.• Statement 3 is correct: Non-coking Indian Gondwana coal is high in ash content (30%–45%).
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What is/are the advantage/advantages of zero tillage in agriculture? 1. Sowing of wheat is possible without burning the residue of previous crop. 2. Without the need for nursery of rice seedlings, direct planting of paddy seeds in the wet soil is possible. 3. Carbon sequestration in the soil is possible.
Explanation:• Zero tillage enables direct drilling of wheat into crop residue (using Happy Seeder), facilitates Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), and prevents oxidation of soil organic matter, locking carbon into the soil.
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What is the use of biochar in farming? 1. Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in vertical farming. 2. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it promotes the growth of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. 3. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it enables the growing medium to retain water for longer time.
Explanation:• Porous biochar provides ideal structural anchor and moisture retention in soilless vertical hydroponics, improves soil water holding capacity, and provides safe micro-habitats for beneficial nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria.
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With reference to the Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26°C isotherm which is 129 meters in the southwestern Indian Ocean during January — March. 2. OMT collected during January — March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: The 26°C isotherm depth varies between 50 to 100 meters (mean ~59m), not 129 meters.• Statement 2 is correct: Researchers showed that upper-ocean heat content via OMT has a much stronger correlation and predictive accuracy (80%) for summer monsoon precipitation than simple sea surface temperature (SST).
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With reference to India, which one of the following statements is correct regarding titanium-bearing minerals?
Correct Answer: (a) Ilmenite and rutile are the sources of titanium.
Explanation: • Ilmenite ($) and Rutile ($) are the primary mineral sources of titanium dioxide and titanium metal. In India, heavy mineral placers occur widely along the coastlines of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
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Which one of the following protected areas is well-known for having the largest area under ‘Critical Tiger Habitat’?
Correct Answer: (c) Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam
Explanation:• Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (spread over Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) has the largest notified Critical Tiger Habitat (Core Area) in India, measuring approximately 3,721 sq km.
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[UPSC CSE 2019]
Consider the following statements: 1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only. 2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only. 3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: The wild population of Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) is strictly endemic to the Gir Protected Area Network in Gujarat, India.• Statement 2 is incorrect: The wild Bactrian camel (double-humped) is native to Central Asian steppes (Mongolia, China, Gobi Desert). In India, domesticated ones are in Nubra.• Statement 3 is incorrect: The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros is found in both India and Nepal (Chitwan, Bardia).
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Consider the following pairs: Famous place | River 1. Pandharpur : Chandrabhaga 2. Tiruchirappalli : Cauvery 3. Hampi : Malaprabha
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Pandharpur (Maharashtra) is on the banks of Bhima River, which is locally called Chandrabhaga due to its crescent shape.• Pair 2 is correct: Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu) is situated on the banks of the Cauvery River.• Pair 3 is incorrect: Hampi was the capital of Vijayanagara, situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River (not Malaprabha).
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Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve?
Correct Answer: (a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Explanation:• Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve straddles the southern Western Ghats across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It encompasses Neyyar, Peppara, and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries along with Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR).
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Consider the following pairs: Glacier | River 1. Bandarpunch : Yamuna 2. Bara Shigri : Chenab 3. Milam : Mandakini 4. Siachen : Nubra 5. Zemu : Manas
Correct Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 4
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Yamuna originates from Yamunotri Glacier on Bandarpunch peak.• Pair 2 is correct: Bara Shigri (Himachal Pradesh) feeds the Chandra river (tributary of Chenab).• Pair 3 is incorrect: Milam Glacier (Kumaon) feeds Gorithganga (not Mandakini, which originates from Chorabari).• Pair 4 is correct: Nubra originates from the snout of Siachen Glacier.• Pair 5 is incorrect: Zemu Glacier (Sikkim) feeds the Teesta River (not Manas).
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Consider the following pairs: Sea | Bordering country 1. Adriatic Sea : Albania 2. Black Sea : Croatia 3. Caspian Sea : Kazakhstan 4. Mediterranean Sea : Morocco 5. Red Sea : Syria
Correct Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Adriatic Sea is bordered by Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania.• Pair 2 is incorrect: Croatia borders the Adriatic Sea, not the Black Sea.• Pair 3 is correct: Caspian Sea borders Kazakhstan, Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkmenistan.• Pair 4 is correct: Morocco has coasts on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean.• Pair 5 is incorrect: Syria borders the Mediterranean Sea, not the Red Sea.
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Consider the following: 1. Deodhai 2. Mahseer 3. Irrawaddy Dolphin
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
Correct Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:• Mahseer: Large freshwater fish species inhabiting Indian rivers.• Irrawaddy Dolphin: Found in coastal/lagoonal habitats including Chilika Lake in Odisha.• Deodhai is an ancient script/cultural term, not a wild animal species.
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Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment?
Correct Answer: (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.
Explanation:• Microbeads are tiny manufactured solid plastic particles (<5mm) used in exfoliating cosmetics. They pass unfiltered through sewage treatment plants and enter ocean ecosystems, where they are ingested by aquatic fauna, causing severe biomagnification.
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Which of the following National Parks lies completely in the temperate alpine zone?
Correct Answer: (d) Valley of Flowers National Park
Explanation:• Valley of Flowers National Park in Chamoli, Uttarakhand lies entirely within the temperate and alpine zones (3,200m to 6,600m above sea level) in the West Himalayan region.
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With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements: 1. Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country. 2. State Governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules for the grant of the minor minerals lie with the Central Government. 3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Sand is declared a minor mineral under Section 3(e) of the MMDR Act, 1957.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Section 15 of MMDR Act empowers the State Governments (not Central Government) to make rules for regulating the grant of quarry leases/mining leases for minor minerals.• Statement 3 is correct: Section 23C empowers State Governments to make rules for preventing illegal mining.
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Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last five years?
Correct Answer: (b) India
Explanation:• India has consistently been the world’s largest rice exporter, accounting for around 40% of the global rice trade (exporting both basmati and non-basmati varieties to over 140 countries).
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What is common to the places known as Aliyar, Isapur and Kangsabati?
Correct Answer: (d) Water reservoirs
Explanation:• Aliyar: Dam/reservoir in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.• Isapur: Major earthen dam across Penganga River in Yavatmal/Hingoli, Maharashtra.• Kangsabati (Mukutmanipur): Massive earthen dam/reservoir in Bankura, West Bengal.
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Consider the following statements: 1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India. 2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention. 3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.
Correct Answer: (c) 3 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: The Ramsar Convention mandates wise use and protection of designated ‘Ramsar Sites of International Importance’, not ‘all’ wetlands in the entire national territory.• Statement 2 is incorrect: The 2010 Rules were framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 pursuant to the National Environment Policy, 2006.• Statement 3 is correct: The 2010 Rules expressly included the wetland zone along with its surrounding catchment or drainage area.
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The Aral Sea has shrunk dramatically due to diversion of rivers. Which two countries surround the Aral Sea?
Correct Answer: (a) Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan
Explanation:• The Aral Sea was an endorheic lake lying between Kazakhstan in the north and Uzbekistan in the south, fed by the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers.
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[UPSC CSE 2018]
Consider the following statements: 1. The Barren Island volcano is an active volcano located in the Indian territory. 2. Barren Island lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar. 3. The last time the Barren Island volcano erupted was in 1991 and it has remained inactive since then.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Barren Island is the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia, located in the Andaman Sea (Indian territory).• Statement 2 is incorrect: Barren Island lies about 138 km northeast of Port Blair (Andaman Islands), not Great Nicobar.• Statement 3 is incorrect: It erupted in 1991, but continued to show recurrent explosive activity and lava emissions in 2005, 2017, and later years.
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Consider the following pairs: Towns sometimes mentioned in news | Country 1. Aleppo : Syria 2. Kirkuk : Yemen 3. Mosul : Palestine 4. Mazar-i-Sharif : Afghanistan
Correct Answer: (b) 1 and 4
Explanation:• Aleppo: Historic city in northwestern Syria.• Kirkuk & Mosul: Major cities located in northern Iraq (not Yemen or Palestine).• Mazar-i-Sharif: Fourth-largest city of Afghanistan.
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Which of the following countries border the Mediterranean Sea? 1. Jordan 2. Iraq 3. Lebanon 4. Syria
Correct Answer: (c) 3 and 4 only
Explanation:• Lebanon and Syria have direct coastlines along the eastern Mediterranean Sea.• Jordan (opens into Gulf of Aqaba/Red Sea) and Iraq (Persian Gulf) do not touch the Mediterranean.
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Which of the following Indian States share a land border with Myanmar?
Correct Answer: (a) Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram
Explanation:• Four northeast Indian states share the 1,643 km border with Myanmar: Arunachal Pradesh (longest, 520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km), and Mizoram (510 km).
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Consider the following pairs: Region | Description 1. Rann of Kutch : Salt marsh formed by sea regression 2. Terai : Marshy lowland zone parallel to Bhabar 3. Sunderbans : Largest mangrove delta in the world
Correct Answer: (c) All three
Explanation:• Rann of Kutch: Vast salt desert and tidal marsh created by coastal regression and siltation.• Terai: Ill-drained, wet, and marshy belt south of the porous Bhabar pebble tract.• Sunderbans: World’s largest continuous deltaic mangrove forest across Ganga-Brahmaputra confluence.
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Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is located in:
Correct Answer: (a) Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation:• Pakhui (Pakke) Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve is situated in the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the Himalayan foothills.
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Why are dewdrops not formed on a cloudy night?
Correct Answer: (b) Clouds reflect back the Earth’s radiation.
Explanation:• Clear skies are essential for dew formation so that terrestrial longwave radiation escapes freely into space, chilling the ground below dew point. Clouds act as a blanket and reflect the terrestrial radiation back, keeping surface temperatures above condensation threshold.
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Which one of the following is geographically closest to Great Nicobar?
Correct Answer: (a) Sumatra
Explanation:• Indira Point at the southern tip of Great Nicobar is separated from the northern tip of Sumatra (Indonesia, near Banda Aceh) by the Great Channel (approx. 145 km), making Sumatra the closest geographical landmass.
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In which one of the following regions of India are you most likely to encounter the double-humped camel in its domestic habitat?
Correct Answer: (a) Cold desert of Ladakh (Nubra Valley)
Explanation:• In India, Bactrian camels (double-humped) are found exclusively in the cold desert of Nubra Valley (Ladakh), remnants of ancient Silk Route caravans.
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With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs: 1. Famous shrine of Bodhisattva Padmapani : Ajanta Caves 2. Huge rock-cut image of Varaha rescuing mother earth : Udayagiri Caves (MP) 3. Monolithic Kailash Temple : Ellora Caves
Explanation:• Ajanta Cave 1: Houses the masterpiece mural of Bodhisattva Padmapani.• Udayagiri Cave 5 (Madhya Pradesh): Famous monumental Gupta-period rock sculpture of Varaha avatar.• Ellora Cave 16: The world’s largest monolithic rock excavation temple (Kailasanatha temple, Rashtrakuta period).
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With reference to the circumstances in Indian agriculture, the concept of ‘Conservation Agriculture’ assumes significance. Which of the following fall under Conservation Agriculture? 1. Avoiding the monoculture practices 2. Adopting minimum tillage 3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops 4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface 5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations
Correct Answer: (c) 2, 4 and 5
Explanation:• FAO defines Conservation Agriculture by three pillars: (1) Minimum mechanical soil disturbance (zero/minimum tillage), (2) Permanent organic soil cover with crop residues/mulch, and (3) Diversified crop rotations and crop sequencing.
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Which of the following countries has the largest proven crude oil reserves in the world?
Correct Answer: (b) Venezuela
Explanation:• Venezuela holds the largest proven crude oil reserves globally (over 300 billion barrels, largely in the Orinoco belt), surpassing Saudi Arabia.
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[UPSC CSE 2013]
Which of the following is/are unique characteristic/characteristics of equatorial forests?
1. Presence of tall, closely set trees with crowns forming a continuous canopy.
2. Coexistence of a large number of species.
3. Presence of numerous varieties of epiphytes.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
The correct answer is 1,2 and 3.
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[UPSC CSE 2017]
With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements: 1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim. 2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta. 3. River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Brahmaputra originates near Mansarovar lake (Tibet), while Teesta originates from Tso Lhamo lake / Pahunri glacier in North Sikkim.• Statement 2 is correct: Rangeet River is the largest tributary of Teesta, rising within Sikkim.• Statement 3 is incorrect: Teesta joins the Jamuna (Brahmaputra) in Bangladesh; it does not reach the Bay of Bengal independently.
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If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit?
Correct Answer: (b) Chambal River
Explanation:• The National Chambal Sanctuary (spanning Rajasthan, MP, and UP along the Chambal River) is the primary wild refuge sustaining over 80% of the surviving wild Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) population.
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From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats?
Correct Answer: (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
Explanation:• Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (Erode district, Tamil Nadu) serves as an essential contiguous wildlife corridor linking the Biligirirangan Hills (Eastern Ghats) with the Nilgiris (Western Ghats).
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Which of the following has/have occurred in India after its liberalization in 1991? 1. Share of agriculture in GDP increased enormously. 2. Share of India’s exports in world trade increased. 3. FDI inflows increased. 4. India’s foreign exchange reserves increased enormously.
Correct Answer: (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: The share of agriculture in India’s GDP steadily decreased post-1991.• Statements 2, 3, and 4 are correct: India’s global export share, FDI inflows, and forex reserves all expanded dramatically.
117 / 174
With reference to the ‘Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)’ sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. IOD phenomenon is characterized by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean. 2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Niño’s impact on the monsoon.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: IOD is the temperature difference between the tropical Western Indian Ocean (Arabian Sea) and the Eastern Indian Ocean (south of Indonesia), not Pacific Ocean.• Statement 2 is correct: A positive IOD can counteract and mitigate the adverse deficit effects of El Niño on the southwest monsoon.
118 / 174
With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them. 2. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron. 3. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal.
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Which of the following National Parks is unique in being a swamp with floating vegetation that supports a rich biodiversity?
Correct Answer: (b) Keibul Lamjao National Park
Explanation:• Keibul Lamjao National Park on Loktak Lake (Manipur) is the world’s only floating national park, composed of floating decomposed biomass mats called ‘Phumdis’, and is the exclusive refuge of the endangered Sangai (brow-antlered deer).
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Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural home in Gujarat to which one of the following sites?
Correct Answer: (b) Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary
Explanation:• Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary (now Kuno National Park) in Madhya Pradesh was identified and prepared as the secondary reintroduction habitat for the Asiatic Lions from Gir.
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Which of the following is/are tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra? 1. Dibang 2. Kameng 3. Lohit
Explanation:• All three are major tributaries of the Brahmaputra River. Dibang and Lohit join from the east/left bank in Assam, while Kameng joins from the right bank after descending through Arunachal Pradesh.
122 / 174
With reference to agricultural soils, consider the following statements: 1. A high content of organic matter in soil drastically reduces its water holding capacity. 2. Soil does not play any role in the sulphur cycle. 3. Salinization occurs when the irrigation water accumulated in the soil evaporates, leaving behind salts and minerals.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: High organic matter content improves soil porosity and significantly increases water-holding capacity.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Soil is a primary reservoir where organic sulphur is mineralized by soil bacteria into sulfates.• Statement 3 is correct: Over-irrigation in arid/semi-arid regions causes waterlogging; when it evaporates, capillary action brings dissolved mineral salts to the surface.
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In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following? 1. Terrace cultivation 2. Deforestation 3. Tropical climate
Explanation:• Terrace cultivation: An effective soil conservation method that arrests water runoff on slopes (prevents erosion, not causes it).• Deforestation: Direct major cause of sheet, rill, and gully erosion by removing protective vegetative cover.
124 / 174
Consider the following statements: 1. In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only. 2. Western Ghats are spread over six States only. 3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Indian Himalayan Region spans over 10+ states/UTs (J&K, Ladakh, HP, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Assam, WB hills).• Statement 2 is correct: Western Ghats run across 6 states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.• Statement 3 is correct: Pulicat Lagoon is shared by Andhra Pradesh (major part) and Tamil Nadu.
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[UPSC CSE 2016]
Which of the following national parks is unique in being a swamp with floating vegetation that supports a rich biodiversity?
Correct Answer: (a) Keibul Lamjao National Park
Explanation:• Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur is the world’s only floating wildlife sanctuary, consisting of continuous floating mats of vegetation, soil, and organic debris called ‘phumdis’ on Loktak Lake.
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Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Mediterranean climate? 1. It is characterized by dry summers and wet winters. 2. In summer, the region is under the influence of westerly winds.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: The defining feature of Mediterranean climate (Cs) is warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.• Statement 2 is incorrect: In summer, subtropical high-pressure belts shift poleward, placing these regions under dry offshore trade winds. Westerlies bring rain during winter, not summer.
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Which of the following water bodies is connected to the Red Sea by the Bab-el-Mandeb strait?
Correct Answer: (c) Gulf of Aden
Explanation:• The Bab-el-Mandeb strait (Gate of Tears) connects the southern entrance of the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, between Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and Djibouti/Eritrea in the Horn of Africa.
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What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India?
Correct Answer: (c) India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Explanation:• Chabahar Port in southeastern Iran gives India direct maritime access to Afghanistan (via the Zaranj-Delaram highway) and Central Asian republics, completely bypassing Pakistani overland transit denial.
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Which of the following is/are the correct characteristics of mangrove plants? 1. Vivipary mode of seed germination 2. Presence of stilt roots and pneumatophores 3. High sensitivity to saline water
Explanation:• Statements 1 & 2 are correct: Mangroves (halophytes) exhibit specialized adaptations including viviparous germination (seeds germinate while still attached to tree) and respiratory roots (pneumatophores) / stilt roots to survive anaerobic muddy soils.• Statement 3 is incorrect: Mangroves are salt-tolerant halophytes with ultrafiltration mechanisms, not sensitive to salinity.
130 / 174
Consider the following pairs: Region / Island | Water body 1. Paracel Islands : South China Sea 2. Spratly Islands : South China Sea 3. Scarborough Shoal : South China Sea
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
Explanation:• All three (Paracel Islands, Spratly Islands, and Scarborough Shoal) are major contested archipelagic and reef features situated in the South China Sea, central to regional maritime boundary disputes.
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Palk Strait connects which of the following water bodies?
Correct Answer: (a) Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mannar
Explanation:• Palk Strait separates Tamil Nadu (India) and Jaffna district (Sri Lanka), connecting the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with Palk Bay and the Gulf of Mannar in the southwest.
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Between which two landmasses does the Strait of Malacca run?
Correct Answer: (a) Malay Peninsula and Sumatra
Explanation:• The Strait of Malacca is a narrow maritime chokepoint between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra, linking the Indian Ocean with the South China Sea.
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Which of the following river valleys accounts for the largest reserves of Gondwana coal in India?
Correct Answer: (a) Damodar Valley
Explanation:• Damodar Valley (spanning Jharkhand and West Bengal) contains India’s premier prime coking and non-coking Gondwana coal deposits, housing major fields such as Jharia, Raniganj, Bokaro, and Karanpura.
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[UPSC NDA 2017]
Which of the following are the major coral reef areas of India?
1. Gulf of Kachchh
2. Gulf of Mannar
3. Lakshadweep
4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation: • India has four major coral reef formations: Fringing reefs (Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Kutch, A&N Islands), Barrier reefs (Andaman), and Atolls (Lakshadweep Islands).
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Which of the following was inscribed as India’s first and only ‘Mixed’ World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2016?
Correct Answer: (b) Khangchendzonga National Park
Explanation:• Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim was inscribed in 2016 under both natural criteria (Himalayan ecology, Mt. Kanchenjunga) and cultural criteria (sacred Beyul landscape of Tibetan Buddhism), making it India’s only mixed UNESCO site.
136 / 174
[UPSC CSE 2015]
Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic?
Correct Answer: (d) Namdapha National Park
Explanation:• Namdapha National Park in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh exhibits an extreme altitudinal gradient ranging from 200 m to 4,571 m (Dapha Bum peak), displaying climate and vegetation zones from tropical wet evergreen to subtropical, temperate, and arctic/alpine alpine tundra.
137 / 174
With reference to ‘Dugong’, a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It is an herbivorous marine animal. 2. It is found along the entire coast of India. 3. It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: Dugongs (‘sea cows’) are the only strictly herbivorous marine mammals, feeding almost exclusively on seagrass beds.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Extreme word ‘entire coast’—dugongs are restricted to specific sheltered shallow coastal areas: Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Gulf of Kutch, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.• Statement 3 is correct: Conferred maximum protection under Schedule I.
138 / 174
Which of the following rivers originates beyond the Himalayas in the Tibetan plateau?
Correct Answer: (c) Sutlej
Explanation:• The Sutlej River is an antecedent trans-Himalayan river originating from Lake Rakshastal (near Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar in Tibet) before entering India through Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh.
139 / 174
With reference to ‘Changpa’ community of India, consider the following statements: 1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand. 2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield fine wool. 3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: The semi-nomadic Changpas inhabit the high-altitude Changtang plateau of Ladakh (not Uttarakhand).• Statements 2 & 3 are correct: They rear the indigenous Changthangi (Pashmina) goats in sub-zero altitudes and are officially classified as a Scheduled Tribe in Jammu & Kashmir / Ladakh.
140 / 174
In India, in which one of the following areas are tidal power resources found in maximum abundance?
Correct Answer: (a) Gulf of Cambay (Khambhat)
Explanation:• The funnel-shaped Gulf of Khambhat (Cambay) in Gujarat experiences tidal amplitudes exceeding 8 to 11 meters, representing the highest tidal energy potential (~7,000 MW) in India, followed by the Gulf of Kutch.
141 / 174
In India, in which one of the following types of forest is teak a dominant tree species?
Correct Answer: (a) Tropical moist deciduous forest
Explanation:• Tropical deciduous forests (both moist and dry) are the most widespread forest type in India. Teak (Tectona grandis) along with Sal, Shisham, and Mahua are characteristic dominant trees of the tropical moist deciduous ecosystem.
142 / 174
With reference to the Buddhist rock-cut architecture, what is common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram? 1. Both were built in the same period. 2. Both belong to the same religious denomination. 3. Both have rock-cut monuments.
Correct Answer: (b) 3 only
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Ajanta caves date from 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE (Satavahana/Vakataka), while Mahabalipuram was developed in 7th–8th century CE by the Pallavas.• Statement 2 is incorrect: Ajanta is purely Buddhist, whereas Mahabalipuram is predominantly Hindu (Vaishnava/Shaiva).• Statement 3 is correct: Both are world-renowned for monumental rock-cut excavations.
143 / 174
Tropical cyclones in the southern hemisphere rotate in a clockwise direction, whereas in the northern hemisphere they rotate counter-clockwise. What is the reason for this difference?
Correct Answer: (b) Coriolis force acting in opposite directions in the two hemispheres
Explanation:• Due to Earth’s rotation, the Coriolis force deflects moving air to the right of its direction of motion in the Northern Hemisphere (producing counter-clockwise inward spiral around low pressure) and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere (producing clockwise rotation).
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Which of the following are the primary reasons why iron and steel industries in India are predominantly located in the Chota Nagpur plateau and adjacent regions? 1. Proximity to iron ore reserves 2. Availability of coking coal 3. Abundant availability of limestone and dolomite flux 4. Dense network of rail transport and access to ports
Explanation:• The iron and steel manufacturing industry is a bulk weight-losing industry. The Chota Nagpur belt provides proximate co-location of high-grade hematite iron ore (Singhbhum, Mayurbhanj), Gondwana coking coal (Jharia, Bokaro), fluxes (limestone/dolomite), and connectivity to eastern ports (Kolkata/Haldia).
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Consider the following countries: 1. China 2. Myanmar 3. Thailand 4. Vietnam
Through how many of the above countries does the Mekong River flow?
Correct Answer: (d) All four
Explanation:• The Mekong River originates on the Tibetan Plateau (China, as Lancang) and flows successively through or along the borders of 6 countries: China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, discharging into the South China Sea.
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Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve, known for the conservation of red sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus), is located in which of the following States?
Correct Answer: (a) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:• The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is located in the southern Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh (Chittoor and YSR Kadapa districts), and serves as the endemic natural habitat of the precious red sanders (Red Sandalwood) tree.
147 / 174
Which of the following is currently the only active primary gold-producing mine in India?
Correct Answer: (b) Hutti Gold Mines
Explanation:• Following the closure of the historic Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) in 2001, the Hutti Gold Mines located in Raichur district, Karnataka (run by HGML) remains the only operating primary gold extraction mine in India.
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[UPSC CSE 2014]
Consider the following pairs: Wetlands | Confluence of rivers 1. Harike Wetlands : Confluence of Beas and Satluj 2. Keoladeo Ghana National Park : Confluence of Banas and Chambal 3. Kolleru Lake : Confluence of Musi and Krishna
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Harike wetland (Punjab) is located at the confluence of Beas and Sutlej rivers.• Pair 2 is incorrect: Keoladeo Ghana (Bharatpur, Rajasthan) is fed by the confluence of Gambhir and Banganga rivers (not Banas and Chambal).• Pair 3 is incorrect: Kolleru Lake (Andhra Pradesh) is located between Godavari and Krishna deltas, fed by seasonal streams Tammileru and Budameru (not Musi and Krishna).
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Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the ‘Ten Degree Channel’?
Correct Answer: (a) Andaman and Nicobar
Explanation:• The Ten Degree Channel lies at 10° N latitude in the Bay of Bengal, separating the Andaman Islands (Little Andaman) to the north from the Nicobar Islands (Car Nicobar) to the south.
150 / 174
Consider the following pairs: 1. Dampa Tiger Reserve : Mizoram 2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary : Tripura 3. Saramati Peak : Nagaland
Explanation:• Dampa Tiger Reserve is situated in western Mizoram.• Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary is in south Tripura.• Saramati Peak is the highest mountain peak in Nagaland.
151 / 174
Consider the following statements regarding ‘Earth Hour’: 1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO. 2. It is a movement in which participants turn off lights for one hour on a certain day every year. 3. It is a movement to raise awareness about climate change and the need to save the planet.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Earth Hour is organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), not UNEP/UNESCO.• Statements 2 & 3 are correct: Held annually towards the end of March, encouraging individuals and cities to switch off non-essential lights for one hour to demonstrate commitment to the planet.
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Turkey is located between:
Correct Answer: (b) Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea
Explanation:• The Anatolian peninsula of Turkey is bounded by the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean Sea to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south.
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Which of the following phenomena can be considered as evidence that the Himalayas are still young fold mountains? 1. Deep gorges 2. U-turn river courses 3. Parallel mountain ranges 4. Steep gradients causing landslides
Explanation:• Deep gorges (like Kali Gandaki and Indus), acute hairpin/U-turn bends of antecedent drainage (e.g. Tsangpo/Brahmaputra at Namcha Barwa), parallel longitudinal relief folds, and high slope-instability/landslides all signify active tectonic uplift and youthfulness.
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Which of the following have coral reefs? 1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands 2. Gulf of Kutch 3. Gulf of Mannar 4. Sunderbans
Correct Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation:• Coral reefs in India exist in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar, and Lakshadweep. Sunderbans lacks coral reefs due to massive fresh-water and turbid sediment runoff from the Ganges.
155 / 174
Consider the following rivers: 1. Barak 2. Lohit 3. Subansiri
Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?
Explanation:• Lohit and Subansiri traverse Arunachal Pradesh before meeting the Brahmaputra in Assam. Barak originates in Manipur and drains into Bangladesh without crossing Arunachal Pradesh.
156 / 174
What is the correct sequence of occurrence of the following cities in South-East Asia as one proceeds from south to north? 1. Bangkok 2. Hanoi 3. Jakarta 4. Singapore
Correct Answer: (c) 3 – 4 – 1 – 2
Explanation:• Latitudes from South to North:1. Jakarta (Indonesia): ~6°12′ S2. Singapore: ~1°17′ N3. Bangkok (Thailand): ~13°45′ N4. Hanoi (Vietnam): ~21°02′ N
157 / 174
Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct? 1. They are generally red in colour. 2. They are rich in nitrogen and potash. 3. They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP. 4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.
Explanation:• Statements 1 & 4 are correct: Laterite soils develop due to intense leaching in high temperature/rainfall zones, are reddish due to iron oxides, and support cashew and tapioca plantation.• Statements 2 & 3 are incorrect: They are severely deficient in nitrogen, phosphate, and potash, and are found along the Western Ghats, Odisha, and northeastern hills (not arid Rajasthan/UP).
158 / 174
With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called ‘coal bed methane’ and ‘shale gas’, consider the following statements: 1. Coal bed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks. 2. In India, abundant coal bed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is incorrect: Shale gas consists predominantly of methane (not just propane and butane).• Statement 2 is incorrect: Extensive shale gas prospective blocks have been identified in India in Cambay, Gondwana, Krishna-Godavari, and Cauvery basins.
159 / 174
If you travel through the Himalayas, you are likely to see which of the following plants naturally growing there? 1. Oak 2. Rhododendron 3. Sandalwood
Explanation:• Oak and Rhododendron: Characteristic native temperate and sub-alpine flora of the Himalayan ranges.• Sandalwood (Santalum album): Native to tropical dry deciduous forests of southern India (Karnataka, Tamil Nadu), not the Himalayas.
160 / 174
Consider the following international agreements: 1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture 2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification 3. The World Heritage Convention
Which of the above have a bearing on the biodiversity?
Explanation:• All three instruments directly or indirectly protect biodiversity: ITPGRFA conserves crop genetic diversity, UNCCD prevents soil degradation preserving terrestrial ecosystems, and the World Heritage Convention protects extraordinary natural ecological sites.
161 / 174
The Narmada river flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why? 1. It occupies a linear rift valley. 2. It flows between the Vindhyas and the Satpuras. 3. The land slopes to the west from Central India.
Explanation:• Statement 1 is correct: The Narmada flows westward because it flows through a fault depression/rift valley formed by tectonic forces.• Statement 2 is factually correct but not the reason: It does flow between Vindhyas and Satpuras, but that is merely its position within the rift valley, not the mechanical reason for westward slope flow.• Statement 3 is incorrect: The general slope of peninsular India is from west to east (which is why Godavari, Krishna, Mahanadi, and Cauvery flow eastward).
162 / 174
In which of the following states is the lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat? 1. Tamil Nadu 2. Kerala 3. Karnataka 4. Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:• Lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) is endemic to the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats across southwestern India, namely Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. It is not found naturally in Andhra Pradesh.
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Consider the following pairs: National Park | River flowing through the Park 1. Corbett National Park : Ramganga 2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas 3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Ramganga flows through Corbett National Park.• Pair 2 is incorrect: Kaziranga is bordered by the Brahmaputra, Diphlu, Mora Diphlu, and Mora Dhansiri (Manas flows through Manas NP in Assam).• Pair 3 is incorrect: Kunthipuzha (tributary of Bharathapuzha) drains Silent Valley, not Kaveri.
164 / 174
Which of the following hills are located where the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats meet?
Explanation:• The Nilgiri Hills form the geographical hub and knot where the Western Ghats meet the Eastern Ghats at the border convergence of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.
165 / 174
Consider the following pairs: 1. Nokrek Biosphere Reserve : Garo Hills 2. Logtak (Loktak) Lake : Barail Range 3. Namdapha National Park : Dafla Hills
Explanation:• Pair 1 is correct: Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is located in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya (Nokrek is the highest peak of Garo Hills).• Pair 2 is incorrect: Loktak Lake is located in Manipur valley (bounded by Manipur hills, not Barail Range).• Pair 3 is incorrect: Namdapha NP is in Changlang district between Patkai range and Mishmi hills, not Dafla Hills.
166 / 174
In the grasslands, trees do not replace the grasses as a part of an ecological succession because of:
Correct Answer: (c) water limits and fire
Explanation:• Periodic natural/anthropogenic fires and limited seasonal moisture/rainfall prevent tree saplings from establishing canopy dominance, thereby maintaining the grassland climax community.
167 / 174
Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
Correct Answer: (c) Gangetic dolphin
Explanation:• The South Asian river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica), commonly called the Ganges River Dolphin or ‘Susu’, was notified as the National Aquatic Animal of India in 2009.
168 / 174
Consider the following fauna of India: 1. Gharial 2. Leatherback turtle 3. Swamp deer
Which of the above is/are endangered?
Correct Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:• Gharial (Critically Endangered), Leatherback turtle (Vulnerable/Endangered regionally), and Swamp deer (Barasingha – Vulnerable/Endangered) are protected wildlife facing significant extinction risk in Indian wetlands/rivers.
169 / 174
Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used in:
Correct Answer: (d) None of the above
Explanation:• Contour bunding is applied on sloping terrain/hilly farmland (up to 6% slope) where bunds are constructed across the land contour to reduce surface runoff velocity and arrest water erosion.
170 / 174
During a thunderstorm, the thunder in the skies is produced by the: 1. meeting of cumulonimbus clouds in the sky 2. lightning that separates the nimbus clouds 3. violent upward movement of air and water particles
Correct Answer: (d) None of the above produces the thunder
Explanation:• Thunder is an acoustic shockwave created by the rapid expansion and heating of air along the lightning strike channel (heating air to ~30,000 K). None of the 3 listed mechanical cloud motions directly causes the thunder sound wave.
171 / 174
Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?
Correct Answer: (b) Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks
Explanation:• Chaitya refers to the prayer hall or shrine housing a stupa, while Vihara refers to the monastic residential quarters with individual cells around a central hall.
172 / 174
Consider the following pairs: National Park | State 1. Bandipur National Park : Karnataka 2. Keibul Lamjao National Park : Manipur 3. Similipal National Park : Odisha
Explanation:• Bandipur is in Chamarajanagar, Karnataka.• Keibul Lamjao is in Bishnupur, Manipur.• Similipal is in Mayurbhanj, Odisha.
173 / 174
Which of the following bodies is/are involved in declaring Biosphere Reserves in India?
Correct Answer: (b) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Explanation:• In India, Biosphere Reserves are officially designated and notified by the Central Government through MoEFCC. Some are subsequently recognized internationally under UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).
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Explanation:• Indira Point in Great Nicobar is roughly 145–150 km from the northern tip of Sumatra (Indonesia, near Aceh across the Great Channel), making Sumatra the nearest landmass.
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