IAS Prelims 2014 General Studies I : Question Paper

Smallpox is the only disease that has been eradicated in India. Diphtheria and chickenpox are still present in the country.

The decline in the population of Ganges River Dolphins can be attributed to the construction of dams and barrages on rivers, as it disrupts their natural habitat and affects their movement. Additionally, getting trapped in fishing nets accidentally is another possible reason for their decline, as it leads to their injury or death. The use of synthetic fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals in crop-fields in the vicinity of rivers can also contribute to the decline, as it pollutes the water and affects the dolphins' health.

In the 1929 Session of Indian National Congress, the adoption of Poorna Swaraj as the goal of the Congress is significant in the history of the Freedom Movement. Poorna Swaraj means complete independence, indicating that the Congress aimed to achieve full self-rule and freedom from British colonial rule. This declaration marked a shift towards a more radical and assertive approach in the struggle for independence, paving the way for future movements and actions against British imperialism.

The souring of milk is an example of a chemical change because it involves a chemical reaction. When milk sours, the lactose in the milk is broken down by bacteria, resulting in the production of lactic acid. This change in composition is a chemical change. On the other hand, the crystallization of sodium chloride and the melting of ice are both examples of physical changes. In these processes, the substances undergo a change in state or form, but their chemical composition remains the same. Therefore, the correct answer is 3 only.

Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on the Saka Era corresponds to 22 March (or 21st March) in the Gregorian calendar. This is because Chaitra is the first month of the Saka Era calendar, and it typically starts around the 21st or 22nd of March in a normal year. Therefore, the correct answer is 22 March (or 21st March).

The correct answer is 1 and 2 only. Vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy, while vitamin D deficiency causes rickets. Vitamin E deficiency does not cause night blindness, but rather can lead to other health issues such as muscle weakness and nerve damage. Therefore, only the pairs 1 and 2 are correctly matched.

The correct answer is Andaman and Nicobar. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are separated from each other by the Ten Degree Channel. This channel is a narrow stretch of water that lies between the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal. It is named so because it is located approximately 10 degrees north of the equator. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands in the Indian Ocean and are a Union Territory of India. They are known for their beautiful beaches, rich biodiversity, and indigenous tribal communities.

The Radcliffe Committee was appointed to delimit the boundaries between India and Pakistan. This means that the committee was tasked with determining the exact borders between the two newly formed countries after the partition of British India in 1947. The committee's main objective was to divide the territory in a way that would minimize conflicts and disputes between the two nations.

Oak and Rhododendron are likely to be seen naturally growing in the Himalayas.

The correct answer is Lokayata and Kapalika. Lokayata refers to the materialistic school of Indian philosophy, which denies the existence of soul and focuses on sensory perception as the only means of knowledge. Kapalika, on the other hand, is a sect of Shaivism that practices extreme rituals and is known for its association with skull-wearing ascetics. While the other pairs mentioned in the options, such as Mimamsa and Vedanta, Nyaya and Vaisheshika, and Sankhya and Yoga, are all recognized as distinct systems of Indian philosophy.

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) serves as a financial mechanism for both the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This means that it provides funding to support projects and initiatives related to these two important global environmental agreements. Additionally, the GEF also undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at a global level, further contributing to the understanding and management of environmental challenges. Therefore, both statements (a) and (b) are correct.

Biosphere reserves are the most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life. These reserves are designed to protect and conserve ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity while also promoting sustainable development and human activities. They serve as living laboratories for research, education, and monitoring. Biosphere reserves aim to reconcile the conservation of biodiversity with the needs of local communities, recognizing the importance of traditional knowledge and practices in maintaining a balanced relationship between humans and nature. By establishing biosphere reserves, we can ensure the long-term protection of biodiversity while also supporting sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

The national motto of India, 'Satyameva Jayate' inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken from the Mundaka Upanishad. The Mundaka Upanishad is one of the principal Upanishads in Hindu philosophy. It emphasizes the pursuit of truth and knowledge as the ultimate goal of life. The phrase 'Satyameva Jayate' translates to 'Truth alone triumphs' in English, reflecting the importance of truth and righteousness in Indian culture and society.

The seasonal reversal of winds is a typical characteristic of the monsoon climate. In this climate, there is a distinct change in wind direction during different seasons. During the summer, the winds blow from the sea towards the land, bringing heavy rainfall. In contrast, during the winter, the winds reverse direction and blow from the land towards the sea, resulting in dry conditions. This phenomenon is most commonly observed in regions such as South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa, where monsoon climates prevail. Therefore, the correct answer is monsoon climate.

Venture capital refers to the long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs. This type of funding is typically provided by venture capitalists or investment firms to support the growth and development of early-stage companies. It is different from short-term capital as it focuses on supporting innovative and high-potential business ideas rather than immediate financial needs. Venture capital plays a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving innovation in various industries.

The Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India contains provisions regarding anti-defection. This schedule was added to the constitution in 1985 to address the issue of political defections. It lays down the grounds on which a member of Parliament or a state legislature can be disqualified for defecting from their political party. It also provides for the procedure to be followed in such cases, including the role of the Speaker or Chairman in deciding on disqualification petitions. The Tenth Schedule aims to prevent political instability and promote party discipline by discouraging defections.

The correct answer is 2 and 3 only. The Government has declared Kannada and Telugu as 'Classical Languages'.

The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a revolutionary association of Indians with headquarters at San Francisco. This suggests that the organization was formed by Indians who were seeking to bring about radical change and revolution in their country. The fact that it had its headquarters in San Francisco implies that it had a significant presence and influence in the Indian diaspora community in the United States. This association likely aimed to mobilize Indians and fight for their freedom and rights through revolutionary means.

Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art form that originated in South India and is still practiced in some parts of the region. It is considered one of the oldest fighting systems in existence and incorporates strikes, kicks, grappling, and weaponry techniques. Kalaripayattu also includes physical conditioning exercises, meditation, and healing techniques. It has a rich cultural and traditional significance in India and is recognized as a unique form of martial art.

The terms 'Marginal Standing Facility Rate' and 'Net Demand and Time Liabilities' are used in relation to banking operations. The Marginal Standing Facility Rate is the rate at which banks can borrow funds overnight from the central bank, while the Net Demand and Time Liabilities refer to the difference between a bank's demand and time deposits and its advances and investments. These terms are important in understanding the liquidity management and borrowing options available to banks, and are therefore relevant to banking operations.

The correct answer is "2 only". This is because deforestation is a major cause of soil erosion in India. When trees are cut down, the protective covering of the soil is removed, leaving it exposed to the elements. Without the roots of trees to hold the soil in place, it is easily washed away by rainwater or blown away by wind, leading to erosion. Terrace cultivation and tropical climate are not directly associated with soil erosion in this context.

The discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State include sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President's rule and reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India. These powers allow the Governor to exercise independent judgment and decision-making in certain situations, ensuring checks and balances in the functioning of the state government. The Governor does not have the power to appoint ministers or make rules to conduct the business of the State Government. Therefore, the correct answer is 1 and 3 only.

Lichens are a symbiotic association between algae and fungi. The algae provide food through photosynthesis, while the fungi provide a protective structure and absorb water and nutrients from the environment. This mutualistic relationship allows lichens to colonize and survive in harsh environments, such as bare rocks, where neither algae nor fungi could survive alone.

Turkey is located between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. This is because Turkey is a transcontinental country, with a small part of its territory located in southeastern Europe and the majority of its land in western Asia. The Black Sea is located to the north of Turkey, while the Mediterranean Sea is located to the south. This geographical positioning gives Turkey access to both seas and allows it to serve as a bridge between Europe and Asia.

The correct answer is 1 and 2 only. The Cabinet Secretariat is responsible for the preparation of the agenda for Cabinet Meetings and providing secretarial assistance to Cabinet Committees. It does not have the authority to allocate financial resources to the Ministries, which is the responsibility of the Ministry of Finance.

The correct answer is 2 and 3 only. The Changpa community of India rears the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool. They are also kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes. However, they do not live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand, so statement 1 is incorrect.

In photosynthesis, free energy from sunlight is converted into potential energy in the form of chemical bonds, specifically in the bonds of glucose molecules. This potential energy is then stored in the plant cells and can be used later for various metabolic processes. This process allows plants to convert light energy into chemical energy, which is essential for their growth and survival.

Bhadrachalam is not famous for the production of traditional sarees/fabric, so option 1 is incorrect. Chanderi and Kancheepuram are well-known for their traditional sarees/fabric, so option 2 is correct. Kamal is not mentioned as a town famous for the production of traditional sarees/fabric, so option 3 is incorrect. Therefore, the correct answer is option 2 and 3 only.

The Partition of Bengal made by Lord Curzon in 1905 lasted until King George V abrogated Curzon's Act at the Royal Darbar in Delhi in 1911. This means that the partition was officially ended by King George V during the Royal Darbar in Delhi in 1911.

The correct answer is 3 only. The explanation for this answer is that the constraint in the wider implementation of enhancing the 'Seed Replacement Rates' is the demand-supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops. This means that there is a shortage of quality seeds for these types of crops, which hinders the achievement of food production targets. The other options, 1 and 2, do not mention constraints that would hinder the implementation of enhancing seed replacement rates.

When the interest rate is decreased in an economy, it becomes cheaper for businesses and individuals to borrow money. This encourages investment expenditure as businesses are more likely to take loans to expand their operations or invest in new projects. Lower interest rates also make it more attractive for individuals to borrow money for purchases such as homes or cars, which further stimulates investment expenditure in the economy. Therefore, the decrease in interest rates leads to an increase in investment expenditure in the economy.

The Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was the hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions. This is evident from historical records and accounts which describe how Akbar, the Mughal emperor, established the Ibadat Khana as a place for religious discourse and dialogue. Akbar was known for his interest in different religions and his efforts to promote religious tolerance and understanding. The Ibadat Khana served as a space where scholars from different faiths could come together and engage in discussions, fostering a spirit of intellectual exchange and religious harmony.

The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) has several significances. Firstly, it reduces seed cost compared to conventional methods of cultivation. Secondly, it allows for effective drip irrigation. Thirdly, it does not require the application of chemical or inorganic fertilizers. Lastly, it provides more opportunities for intercropping compared to conventional methods. Therefore, the correct answer is 1, 2, and 4 only.

Sattriya is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam that combines music, dance, and drama. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir, and Mirabai. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct as they accurately describe the nature and origin of Sattriya. Statement 3, however, is incorrect as Sattriya is not solely based on the compositions of Tulsidas, Kabir, and Mirabai, but rather draws from a wider range of devotional songs.

Business Correspondents, also known as Bank Saathis, provide banking services in branchless areas. The beneficiaries can avail two facilities from these services. Firstly, they can draw their subsidies and social security benefits in their villages. Secondly, they can make deposits and withdrawals in the rural areas. Therefore, the correct answer is "Both 1 and 2".

Denmark, Russian Federation, and United States of America are the members of the 'Arctic Council'. This can be inferred from the given options where the numbers 1, 3, and 5 correspond to Denmark, Russian Federation, and United States of America respectively.

The given pairs are correctly matched because Mahadeo Hills are indeed located in Central India and Mikir Hills are located in North-East India.

Promotion of international peace and security is included in the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Constitution of India. Directive Principles are guidelines or principles that the state should keep in mind while formulating policies and laws. They are not legally enforceable but are considered fundamental in the governance of the country. The inclusion of promotion of international peace and security in the Directive Principles highlights the importance given by the Indian government to maintain peaceful relations with other nations and contribute to global security.

The correct answer is 2 and 5 only. The Finance Commission is not directly associated with planning in India. The National Development Council, which is responsible for formulating and reviewing policies for economic and social development, is associated with planning. The Union Ministry of Rural Development and the Union Ministry of Urban Development are also associated with planning. The Parliament plays a crucial role in the planning process by enacting laws and approving budgets. Therefore, options 1, 3, and 4 are incorrect.

Maize can indeed be used for the production of starch, as it is a common source of starch used in various industries. Additionally, oil extracted from maize can be used as a feedstock for biodiesel production, making statement 2 correct. Lastly, maize can be used in the production of alcoholic beverages, such as corn-based whiskey or corn-based vodka, making statement 3 correct as well. Therefore, all three statements are correct.

The Integrated Watershed Development Programme has several benefits. It helps in preventing soil runoff, which is important for soil conservation and preventing erosion. It also focuses on rainwater harvesting and recharging the groundwater table, which helps in water conservation and maintaining a sustainable water supply. Additionally, the programme aims at regenerating natural vegetation, which is crucial for biodiversity conservation and maintaining ecological balance. Therefore, the correct answer is 1, 3 and 4 only.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Kachchh, and Gulf of Mannar have coral reefs. Sunderbans, on the other hand, does not have coral reefs.

The rivers Lohit and Subansiri flow through Arunachal Pradesh. Barak does not flow through Arunachal Pradesh.

The given answer "1 only" is correct because Chechnya is indeed a region in the Russian Federation. However, Darfur is not in Mali but in Sudan, and Swat Valley is in Pakistan, not Iraq. Therefore, only the first pair is correctly matched.

The correct answer is 1 only. This means that statement 1, which states that Agni-IV Missile is a surface-to-surface missile, is correct. The other statements, 2 and 3, are incorrect. Statement 2 states that the missile is fueled by liquid propellant only, which is not mentioned in the question. Statement 3 states that it can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away, which is also not mentioned in the question. Therefore, only statement 1 is correct.

Photovoltaics is a technology that directly converts light into electricity, while Solar Thermal utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat for electricity generation. This means that statement 1 is correct. However, statement 2 is incorrect because photovoltaics actually generates Direct Current (DC), not Alternating Current (AC). Statement 3 is not mentioned in the question, so it cannot be determined whether it is correct or not. Therefore, the correct answer is 1 only.

The Integrated Watershed Development Programme has several benefits. Firstly, it helps in the prevention of soil runoff, which reduces erosion and helps in conserving soil fertility. Secondly, it focuses on rainwater harvesting and the recharge of the groundwater table, which helps in addressing water scarcity issues. Lastly, it contributes to the regeneration of natural vegetation, which is important for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services. Therefore, the correct answer is 1, 3 and 4 only.

The correct answer is 2 and 5 only. The Finance Commission is not directly associated with planning in India. The National Development Council (NDC) is a planning body that is responsible for formulating and implementing development plans in India. The Union Ministry of Rural Development and the Union Ministry of Urban Development are also involved in planning and implementing various development schemes and programs. The Parliament plays a crucial role in approving and allocating funds for the implementation of these plans and programs. Therefore, options 1, 3, and 4 are incorrect.

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Constitution of India does not mention a No-Confidence Motion explicitly. However, the motion can be introduced in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament) only. This means that statement 1 is correct. Additionally, statement 2 is also correct as the No-Confidence Motion can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and not in the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament). Therefore, the correct answer is "Both 1 and 2."

Garba is a traditional folk dance form that originated in the state of Gujarat, making the first pair correctly matched. Mohiniattam, on the other hand, is a classical dance form from the state of Kerala, not Odisha, making the second pair incorrectly matched. Yakshagana is a traditional dance-drama form from the state of Karnataka, making the third pair correctly matched. Therefore, the correct answer is 1 and 3 only.