IASbaba Prelims 60 Days Plan, Rapid Revision Series (RaRe)
Archives
Hello Friends
The 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series is IASbaba’s Flagship Initiative recommended by Toppers and loved by the aspirants’ community every year.
It is the most comprehensive program which will help you complete the syllabus, revise and practice tests on a daily basis. The Programme on a daily basis includes
Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday – Saturday)
- Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology.
- 20 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule.
- It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects.
Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday – Saturday)
- Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday according to the schedule.
Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday – Friday)
- CSAT has been an Achilles heel for many aspirants.
- Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published.
Note – Daily Test of 20 static questions, 10 current affairs, and 5 CSAT questions. (35 Prelims Questions) in QUIZ FORMAT will be updated on a daily basis.
To Know More about 60 Days Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – CLICK HERE
60 Day Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series Schedule – CLICK HERE
Important Note
- Comment your Scores in the Comment Section. This will keep you accountable, responsible and sincere in days to come.
- It will help us come out with the Cut-Off on a Daily Basis.
- Let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂
- You can post your comments in the given format
- (1) Your Score
- (2) Matrix Meter
- (3) New Learning from the Test
Test-summary
0 of 35 questions completed
Questions:
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
- 11
- 12
- 13
- 14
- 15
- 16
- 17
- 18
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
- 24
- 25
- 26
- 27
- 28
- 29
- 30
- 31
- 32
- 33
- 34
- 35
Information
The following Test is based on the syllabus of 60 Days Plan-2025 for UPSC IAS Prelims 2025.
To view Solutions, follow these instructions:
- Click on – ‘Start Test’ button
- Solve Questions
- Click on ‘Test Summary’ button
- Click on ‘Finish Test’ button
- Now click on ‘View Questions’ button – here you will see solutions and links.
You have already completed the test before. Hence you can not start it again.
Test is loading...
You must sign in or sign up to start the test.
You have to finish following test, to start this test:
Results
0 of 35 questions answered correctly
Your time:
Time has elapsed
You have scored 0 points out of 0 points, (0)
| Average score |
|
| Your score |
|
Categories
- Not categorized 0%
| Pos. | Name | Entered on | Points | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Table is loading | ||||
| No data available | ||||
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
- 11
- 12
- 13
- 14
- 15
- 16
- 17
- 18
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
- 24
- 25
- 26
- 27
- 28
- 29
- 30
- 31
- 32
- 33
- 34
- 35
- Answered
- Review
-
Question 1 of 35
1. Question
Which of the following statements are correct about Indian drainage system?
- Nearly 77 percent of the drainage area is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal.
- Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal drainages are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Nearly 77 per cent of the drainage area consisting of the Ganga, the Brahmaputra, the Mahanadi, the Krishna, etc. is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal while 23 per cent comprising the Indus, the Narmada, the Tapi, the Mahi and the Periyar systems discharge their waters in the Arabian Sea. Indian drainage system may be divided on various bases. On the basis of discharge of water (orientations to the sea), it may be grouped into: (i) the Arabian Sea drainage; and (ii) the Bay of Bengal drainage. They are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge, the Aravalis and the Sahyadris. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Nearly 77 per cent of the drainage area consisting of the Ganga, the Brahmaputra, the Mahanadi, the Krishna, etc. is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal while 23 per cent comprising the Indus, the Narmada, the Tapi, the Mahi and the Periyar systems discharge their waters in the Arabian Sea. Indian drainage system may be divided on various bases. On the basis of discharge of water (orientations to the sea), it may be grouped into: (i) the Arabian Sea drainage; and (ii) the Bay of Bengal drainage. They are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge, the Aravalis and the Sahyadris. -
Question 2 of 35
2. Question
With reference to drainage patterns, consider the following statements.
- Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys.
- A parallel drainage system is a pattern of rivers caused by steep slopes.
- Trellis drainage pattern is found in Chota Nagpur plateau.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct Dendritic drainage systems are the most common form of drainage system. Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys; as a result, the rock types must be impervious and non-porous. In a dendritic system, there are many contributing streams (analogous to the twigs of a tree), which are then joined together into the tributaries of the main river (the branches and the trunk of the tree, respectively). They develop where the river channel follows the slope of the terrain. A parallel drainage system is a pattern of rivers caused by steep slopes with some relief. Because of the steep slopes, the streams are swift and straight, with very few tributaries, and all flow in the same direction. This system forms on uniformly sloping surfaces, for example, rivers flowing southeast from the Aberdare Mountains in Kenya. The geometry of a trellis drainage system is similar to that of a common garden trellis used to grow vines. As the river flows along a strike valley, smaller tributaries feed into it from the steep slopes on the sides of mountains. This pattern is found usually in old degraded areas like Chota Nagpur plateau, Deccan plateau etc. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct Dendritic drainage systems are the most common form of drainage system. Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys; as a result, the rock types must be impervious and non-porous. In a dendritic system, there are many contributing streams (analogous to the twigs of a tree), which are then joined together into the tributaries of the main river (the branches and the trunk of the tree, respectively). They develop where the river channel follows the slope of the terrain. A parallel drainage system is a pattern of rivers caused by steep slopes with some relief. Because of the steep slopes, the streams are swift and straight, with very few tributaries, and all flow in the same direction. This system forms on uniformly sloping surfaces, for example, rivers flowing southeast from the Aberdare Mountains in Kenya. The geometry of a trellis drainage system is similar to that of a common garden trellis used to grow vines. As the river flows along a strike valley, smaller tributaries feed into it from the steep slopes on the sides of mountains. This pattern is found usually in old degraded areas like Chota Nagpur plateau, Deccan plateau etc. -
Question 3 of 35
3. Question
How do tributaries enter the main river in a trellis drainage system?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
The geometry of a trellis drainage system is similar to that of a common garden trellis used to grow vines. As the river flows along a strike valley, smaller tributaries feed into it from the steep slopes on the sides of mountains. These tributaries enter the main river at approximately 90degree angle, causing a trellis-like appearance of the drainage system. This pattern is found usually in old degraded areas like Chota Nagpur plateau, Deccan plateau etc. (Hence option c is correct)
Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
The geometry of a trellis drainage system is similar to that of a common garden trellis used to grow vines. As the river flows along a strike valley, smaller tributaries feed into it from the steep slopes on the sides of mountains. These tributaries enter the main river at approximately 90degree angle, causing a trellis-like appearance of the drainage system. This pattern is found usually in old degraded areas like Chota Nagpur plateau, Deccan plateau etc. (Hence option c is correct)
-
Question 4 of 35
4. Question
Which of the following statements is correct about drainage patterns?
- The streams radiate inwards from a central high point in a radial drainage system.
- There is no coherent pattern to the rivers and lakes in a deranged drainage system.
- In India small Himalayan streams show annular drainage pattern.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Correct In a radial drainage system, the streams radiate outwards from a central high point. Volcanoes usually display excellent radial drainage. In India it is nicely exhibited by Amarkantak Mountain. A deranged drainage system is a drainage system in drainage basins where there is no coherent pattern to the rivers and lakes. It happens in areas where there has been much geological disruption. The classic example is the Canadian Shield. In an annular drainage pattern streams follow a roughly circular or concentric path along a belt of weak rock, resembling in plan a ring-like pattern. It is best displayed by streams draining a maturely dissected structural dome or basin where erosion has exposed rimming sedimentary strata of greatly varying degrees of hardness. In India many small Himalayan streams show this pattern. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Correct In a radial drainage system, the streams radiate outwards from a central high point. Volcanoes usually display excellent radial drainage. In India it is nicely exhibited by Amarkantak Mountain. A deranged drainage system is a drainage system in drainage basins where there is no coherent pattern to the rivers and lakes. It happens in areas where there has been much geological disruption. The classic example is the Canadian Shield. In an annular drainage pattern streams follow a roughly circular or concentric path along a belt of weak rock, resembling in plan a ring-like pattern. It is best displayed by streams draining a maturely dissected structural dome or basin where erosion has exposed rimming sedimentary strata of greatly varying degrees of hardness. In India many small Himalayan streams show this pattern. -
Question 5 of 35
5. Question
Consider the following statements.
- The drainage basin collects all the water within the area covered by the basin and channeling it to different points.
- All drainage basins are hydrologic units but not all hydrologic units are drainage basins.
Which of the following statement given above is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct A drainage basin or catchment area is any area of land where precipitation collects and drains off into a common outlet, such as into a river, bay, or other body of water. The drainage basin acts as a funnel by collecting all the water within the area covered by the basin and channeling it to a single point. Each drainage basin is separated topographically from adjacent basins by a perimeter, the drainage divide, making up a succession of higher geographical features (such as a ridge, hill or mountains) forming a barrier. Drainage basins are similar but not identical to hydrologic units, which are drainage areas delineated so as to nest into a multi-level hierarchical drainage system. Hydrologic units are defined to allow multiple inlets, outlets, or sinks. In a strict sense, all drainage basins are hydrologic units but not all hydrologic units are drainage basins. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct A drainage basin or catchment area is any area of land where precipitation collects and drains off into a common outlet, such as into a river, bay, or other body of water. The drainage basin acts as a funnel by collecting all the water within the area covered by the basin and channeling it to a single point. Each drainage basin is separated topographically from adjacent basins by a perimeter, the drainage divide, making up a succession of higher geographical features (such as a ridge, hill or mountains) forming a barrier. Drainage basins are similar but not identical to hydrologic units, which are drainage areas delineated so as to nest into a multi-level hierarchical drainage system. Hydrologic units are defined to allow multiple inlets, outlets, or sinks. In a strict sense, all drainage basins are hydrologic units but not all hydrologic units are drainage basins. -
Question 6 of 35
6. Question
With reference to drainage basins, consider the following statements.
- Endorheic drainage basins do not drain to an ocean.
- The areas around Lakes of Rajasthan act as endorheic drainage basin.
- The Great Basin in the United States is a endorheic region.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Correct Endorheic drainage basins are inland basins that do not drain to an ocean. Around 18% of all land drains to endorheic lakes or seas or sinks. The largest of these consists of much of the interior of Asia, which drains into the Caspian Sea, the Aral Sea, and numerous smaller lakes. In endorheic bodies of standing water where evaporation is the primary means of water loss, the water is typically more saline than the oceans. An extreme example of this is the Dead Sea. In India lakes of Rajasthan, Bhopal, Bangalore acts as inland sink are area around them act as endorheic drainage basin. Endorheic drainage basins are inland basins that do not drain to an ocean. The endorheic regions include the Great Basin in the United States, much of the Sahara Desert, the drainage basin of the Okavango River (Kalahari Basin), highlands near the African Great Lakes, the interiors of Australia and the Arabian Peninsula, and parts in Mexico and the Andes. Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Incorrect Correct Correct Endorheic drainage basins are inland basins that do not drain to an ocean. Around 18% of all land drains to endorheic lakes or seas or sinks. The largest of these consists of much of the interior of Asia, which drains into the Caspian Sea, the Aral Sea, and numerous smaller lakes. In endorheic bodies of standing water where evaporation is the primary means of water loss, the water is typically more saline than the oceans. An extreme example of this is the Dead Sea. In India lakes of Rajasthan, Bhopal, Bangalore acts as inland sink are area around them act as endorheic drainage basin. Endorheic drainage basins are inland basins that do not drain to an ocean. The endorheic regions include the Great Basin in the United States, much of the Sahara Desert, the drainage basin of the Okavango River (Kalahari Basin), highlands near the African Great Lakes, the interiors of Australia and the Arabian Peninsula, and parts in Mexico and the Andes. -
Question 7 of 35
7. Question
Consider the following statements.
- The Trans-Himalayan Rivers originate beyond the Great Himalayas.
- The Himalayan drainage system comprises of all the International Rivers of India.
Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct On the basis of origin, two broad drainage systems are recognized, the Himalayan Drainage, the Peninsular Drainage. These rivers are again subdivided into two groups – Trans Himalayan and Himalayan. The Trans-Himalayan Rivers originate beyond the Great Himalayas. These are the Indus, the Sutlej and the Brahmaputra rivers. Himalayan rivers are those which originate in the Himalayas and flow through the Northern Plains, e.g., the Ganga, the Yamuna and their tributaries. These rivers are useful for irrigation and navigation and the lowlands drained by them have fertile alluvial deposits. The Himalayan drainage system comprises of all the International Rivers of India i.e., Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct On the basis of origin, two broad drainage systems are recognized, the Himalayan Drainage, the Peninsular Drainage. These rivers are again subdivided into two groups – Trans Himalayan and Himalayan. The Trans-Himalayan Rivers originate beyond the Great Himalayas. These are the Indus, the Sutlej and the Brahmaputra rivers. Himalayan rivers are those which originate in the Himalayas and flow through the Northern Plains, e.g., the Ganga, the Yamuna and their tributaries. These rivers are useful for irrigation and navigation and the lowlands drained by them have fertile alluvial deposits. The Himalayan drainage system comprises of all the International Rivers of India i.e., Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra. -
Question 8 of 35
8. Question
Which of the following is the reason for frequent change in course of Kosi River of Bihar?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
River Kosi, also known as the ‘sorrow of Bihar’, has been notorious for frequently changing its course. The Kosi brings huge quantity of sediments from its upper reaches and deposits it in the plains. The course gets blocked, and consequently, the river changes its course. (Hence option c is correct)
Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
River Kosi, also known as the ‘sorrow of Bihar’, has been notorious for frequently changing its course. The Kosi brings huge quantity of sediments from its upper reaches and deposits it in the plains. The course gets blocked, and consequently, the river changes its course. (Hence option c is correct)
-
Question 9 of 35
9. Question
Which of the following statements is correct Indus River system?
- It originates from a glacier near Bokhar Chu in the Kailash Mountain range.
- It passes through Ladakh and enters into Pakistan in the Dardistan region.
- The Indus flows in India only through Jammu and Kashmir.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (d)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct The Indus System It is one of the largest river basins of the world. The Indus also known as the Sindhu, is the westernmost of the Himalayan rivers in India. It originates from a glacier near Bokhar Chu (31°°15′ N latitude and 81°°40′ E longitude) in the Tibetan region at an altitude of 4,164 m in the Kailash Mountain range. In Tibet, it is known as ‘Singi Khamban; or Lion’s mouth. After flowing in the northwest direction between the Ladakh and Zaskar ranges, it passes through Ladakh and Baltistan. It cuts across the Ladakh range, forming a spectacular gorge near Gilgit in Jammu and Kashmir. It enters into Pakistan near Chilas in the Dardistan region. The Indus is a transboundary river of Asia and a trans-Himalayan river of South and Central Asia. The 3,180 km (1,980 mi) river rises in mountain springs northeast of Mount Kailash in Western Tibet, flows northwest through the disputed region of Kashmir, bends sharply to the left after the Nanga Parbat massif, and flows south-by-southwest through Pakistan, before emptying into the Arabian Sea near the port city of Karachi. Incorrect
Solution (d)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct The Indus System It is one of the largest river basins of the world. The Indus also known as the Sindhu, is the westernmost of the Himalayan rivers in India. It originates from a glacier near Bokhar Chu (31°°15′ N latitude and 81°°40′ E longitude) in the Tibetan region at an altitude of 4,164 m in the Kailash Mountain range. In Tibet, it is known as ‘Singi Khamban; or Lion’s mouth. After flowing in the northwest direction between the Ladakh and Zaskar ranges, it passes through Ladakh and Baltistan. It cuts across the Ladakh range, forming a spectacular gorge near Gilgit in Jammu and Kashmir. It enters into Pakistan near Chilas in the Dardistan region. The Indus is a transboundary river of Asia and a trans-Himalayan river of South and Central Asia. The 3,180 km (1,980 mi) river rises in mountain springs northeast of Mount Kailash in Western Tibet, flows northwest through the disputed region of Kashmir, bends sharply to the left after the Nanga Parbat massif, and flows south-by-southwest through Pakistan, before emptying into the Arabian Sea near the port city of Karachi. -
Question 10 of 35
10. Question
The successive confluence of the five rivers of Punjab, the Panjnad is formed by which of the following rivers?
Correct
Solution (a)
Explanation:
The Indus receives a number of Himalayan tributaries such as the Shyok, the Gilgit, the Zaskar, the Hunza, the Nubra, the Shigar, the Gasting and the Dras. It finally emerges out of the hills near Attock where it receives the Kabul river on its right bank. The other important tributaries joining the right bank of the Indus are the Khurram, the Tochi, the Gomal, the Viboa and the Sangar. They all originate in the Sulaiman ranges. The river flows southward and receives ‘Panjnad’ a little above Mithankot. The Panjnad is the name given to the five rivers of Punjab, namely the Satluj, the Beas, the Ravi, the Chenab and the Jhelum. (Hence option a is correct)
Incorrect
Solution (a)
Explanation:
The Indus receives a number of Himalayan tributaries such as the Shyok, the Gilgit, the Zaskar, the Hunza, the Nubra, the Shigar, the Gasting and the Dras. It finally emerges out of the hills near Attock where it receives the Kabul river on its right bank. The other important tributaries joining the right bank of the Indus are the Khurram, the Tochi, the Gomal, the Viboa and the Sangar. They all originate in the Sulaiman ranges. The river flows southward and receives ‘Panjnad’ a little above Mithankot. The Panjnad is the name given to the five rivers of Punjab, namely the Satluj, the Beas, the Ravi, the Chenab and the Jhelum. (Hence option a is correct)
-
Question 11 of 35
11. Question
Which of the following statements are correct about tributaries of River Indus?
- Jhelum river joins the Chenab near Jhang in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Ravi is the largest tributary of the River Indus.
- The Beas flows form gorges in the Dhaoladhar range.
- Chenab enters the Punjab plains where it meets the Satluj.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Incorrect Correct Incorrect The Jhelum, an important tributary of the Indus, rises from a spring at Verinag situated at the foot of the Pir Panjal in the south-eastern part of the valley of Kashmir. It flows through Srinagar and the Wular lake before entering Pakistan through a deep narrow gorge. It joins the Chenab near Jhang in Pakistan. The Chenab is the largest tributary of the Indus. It is formed by two streams, the Chandra and the Bhaga, which join at Tandi near Keylong in Himachal Pradesh. Hence, it is also known as Chandrabhaga. The river flows for 1,180 km before entering into Pakistan. The Beas is another important tributary of the Indus, originating from the Beas Kund near the Rohtang Pass at an elevation of 4,000 m above the mean sea level. The river flows through the Kullu valley and forms gorges at Kati and Largi in the Dhaoladhar range. It enters the Punjab plains where it meets the Satluj near Harike. The Beas river flows through the Kullu valley and forms gorges at Kati and Largi in the Dhaoladhar range. It enters the Punjab plains where it meets the Satluj near Harike. Incorrect
Solution (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Incorrect Correct Incorrect The Jhelum, an important tributary of the Indus, rises from a spring at Verinag situated at the foot of the Pir Panjal in the south-eastern part of the valley of Kashmir. It flows through Srinagar and the Wular lake before entering Pakistan through a deep narrow gorge. It joins the Chenab near Jhang in Pakistan. The Chenab is the largest tributary of the Indus. It is formed by two streams, the Chandra and the Bhaga, which join at Tandi near Keylong in Himachal Pradesh. Hence, it is also known as Chandrabhaga. The river flows for 1,180 km before entering into Pakistan. The Beas is another important tributary of the Indus, originating from the Beas Kund near the Rohtang Pass at an elevation of 4,000 m above the mean sea level. The river flows through the Kullu valley and forms gorges at Kati and Largi in the Dhaoladhar range. It enters the Punjab plains where it meets the Satluj near Harike. The Beas river flows through the Kullu valley and forms gorges at Kati and Largi in the Dhaoladhar range. It enters the Punjab plains where it meets the Satluj near Harike. -
Question 12 of 35
12. Question
Which of the following statements is correct the Ganga System?
- The Bhagirathi meets the Alaknanda at Devprayag.
- The Alaknanda has its source in the Kafni glacier above Badrinath.
- Ramganga, Gomati and Son are the left bank tributaries of river Ganga.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Ganga rises in the Gangotri glacier near Gaumukh (3,900 m) in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Here, it is known as the Bhagirathi. It cuts through the Central and the Lesser Himalayas in narrow gorges. At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi meets the Alaknanda; hereafter, it is known as the Ganga. The Alaknanda has its source in the Satopanth glacier above Badrinath. The Alaknanda consists of the Dhauli and the Vishnu Ganga which meet at Joshimath or Vishnu Prayag. Ganga river system is the largest in India having a number of perennial and non-perennial rivers originating in the Himalayas in the north and the Peninsula in the south, respectively. The Son is its major right bank tributary. The important left bank tributaries are the Ramganga, the Gomati, the Ghaghara, the Gandak, the Kosi and the Mahananda. The river finally discharges itself into the Bay of Bengal near the Sagar Island. Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Ganga rises in the Gangotri glacier near Gaumukh (3,900 m) in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Here, it is known as the Bhagirathi. It cuts through the Central and the Lesser Himalayas in narrow gorges. At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi meets the Alaknanda; hereafter, it is known as the Ganga. The Alaknanda has its source in the Satopanth glacier above Badrinath. The Alaknanda consists of the Dhauli and the Vishnu Ganga which meet at Joshimath or Vishnu Prayag. Ganga river system is the largest in India having a number of perennial and non-perennial rivers originating in the Himalayas in the north and the Peninsula in the south, respectively. The Son is its major right bank tributary. The important left bank tributaries are the Ramganga, the Gomati, the Ghaghara, the Gandak, the Kosi and the Mahananda. The river finally discharges itself into the Bay of Bengal near the Sagar Island. -
Question 13 of 35
13. Question
Which of the following river is formed by the confluence of the Kaligandak and Trishulganga?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
The Gandak comprises two streams, namely Kaligandak and Trishulganga. It rises in the Nepal Himalayas between the Dhaulagiri and Mount Everest and drains the central part of Nepal. It enters the Ganga plain in Champaran district of Bihar and joins the Ganga at Sonpur near Patna. (Hence option c is correct)
Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
The Gandak comprises two streams, namely Kaligandak and Trishulganga. It rises in the Nepal Himalayas between the Dhaulagiri and Mount Everest and drains the central part of Nepal. It enters the Ganga plain in Champaran district of Bihar and joins the Ganga at Sonpur near Patna. (Hence option c is correct)
-
Question 14 of 35
14. Question
With respect to rivers of India, consider the following statements.
- The Kosi is an antecedent river that forms Sapt Kosi after uniting with the river Arun.
- The Ramganga rises in the Garhwal hills and joins the Ganga near Haridwar.
- The Barakar is the main tributary of river Damodar.
- The Son joins the Ganga as its last left bank tributary in West Bengal.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Incorrect Correct Incorrect The Kosi is an antecedent river with its source to the north of Mount Everest in Tibet, where its main stream Arun rises. After crossing the Central Himalayas in Nepal, it is joined by the Son Kosi from the West and the Tamur Kosi from the east. It forms Sapt Kosi after uniting with the river Arun. The Ramganga is comparatively a small river rising in the Garhwal hills near Gairsain. It changes its course to the southwest direction after crossing the Shiwalik and enters into the plains of Uttar Pradesh near Najibabad. Finally, it joins the Ganga near Kannauj. The Damodar occupies the eastern margins of the Chotanagpur Plateau where it flows through a rift valley and finally joins the Hugli. The Barakar is its main tributary. The Mahananda is another important tributary of the Ganga rising in the Darjiling hills. It joins the Ganga as its last left bank tributary in West Bengal. The Son is a large south bank tributary of the Ganga, originating in the Amarkantak plateau. After forming a series of waterfalls at the edge of the plateau, it reaches Arrah, west of Patna, to join the Ganga. Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Statement 4 Correct Incorrect Correct Incorrect The Kosi is an antecedent river with its source to the north of Mount Everest in Tibet, where its main stream Arun rises. After crossing the Central Himalayas in Nepal, it is joined by the Son Kosi from the West and the Tamur Kosi from the east. It forms Sapt Kosi after uniting with the river Arun. The Ramganga is comparatively a small river rising in the Garhwal hills near Gairsain. It changes its course to the southwest direction after crossing the Shiwalik and enters into the plains of Uttar Pradesh near Najibabad. Finally, it joins the Ganga near Kannauj. The Damodar occupies the eastern margins of the Chotanagpur Plateau where it flows through a rift valley and finally joins the Hugli. The Barakar is its main tributary. The Mahananda is another important tributary of the Ganga rising in the Darjiling hills. It joins the Ganga as its last left bank tributary in West Bengal. The Son is a large south bank tributary of the Ganga, originating in the Amarkantak plateau. After forming a series of waterfalls at the edge of the plateau, it reaches Arrah, west of Patna, to join the Ganga. -
Question 15 of 35
15. Question
Which of the following statement is correct about the Brahmaputrariver system.
- It originates in the Chemayungdung glacier of the Kailash range.
- The Rango Tsangpo is the left bank tributary of Brahmaputra.
- In Bangladesh, the Tista joins Brahmaputra on its right bank.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Brahmaputra, one of the largest rivers of the world, has its origin in the Chemayungdung glacier of the Kailash range near the Mansarovar lake. From here, it traverses eastward longitudinally for a distance of nearly 1,200 km in a dry and flat region of southern Tibet, where it is known as the Tsangpo, which means ‘the purifier.’ The Rango Tsangpo is the major right bank tributary of Brahmaputra river in Tibet. It emerges as a turbulent and dynamic river after carving out a deep gorge in the Central Himalayas near Namcha Barwa (7,755 m). In Bangladesh, the Tista joins it on its right bank from where the river is known as the Jamuna. It finally merges with the river Padma, which falls in the Bay of Bengal. The Brahmaputra is well-known for floods, channel shifting and bank erosion. Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Incorrect Correct The Brahmaputra, one of the largest rivers of the world, has its origin in the Chemayungdung glacier of the Kailash range near the Mansarovar lake. From here, it traverses eastward longitudinally for a distance of nearly 1,200 km in a dry and flat region of southern Tibet, where it is known as the Tsangpo, which means ‘the purifier.’ The Rango Tsangpo is the major right bank tributary of Brahmaputra river in Tibet. It emerges as a turbulent and dynamic river after carving out a deep gorge in the Central Himalayas near Namcha Barwa (7,755 m). In Bangladesh, the Tista joins it on its right bank from where the river is known as the Jamuna. It finally merges with the river Padma, which falls in the Bay of Bengal. The Brahmaputra is well-known for floods, channel shifting and bank erosion. -
Question 16 of 35
16. Question
Which of the following statement is correct about the Peninsular drainage system?
- The Peninsular drainage system is older than the Himalayan drainage system.
- The Krishna is the east flowing Peninsular River which rises in Sahyadri
- Most of the Peninsular rivers except Narmada and Tapi flow from east to west.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect The Peninsular drainage system is older than the Himalayan one. This is evident from the broad, largely-graded shallow valleys, and the maturity of the rivers. The Western Ghats running close to the western coast act as the water divide between the major Peninsular rivers, discharging their water in the Bay of Bengal and as small rivulets joining the Arabian Sea. The Krishna is the second largest eastflowing Peninsular river which rises near Mahabaleshwar in Sahyadri. Its total length is 1,401 km. The Koyna, the Tungbhadra and the Bhima are its major tributaries. Of the total catchment area of the Krishna, 27 per cent lies in Maharashtra, 44 per cent in Karnataka and 29 per cent in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Most of the major Peninsular rivers except Narmada and Tapi flow from west to east. The Chambal, the Sind, the Betwa, the Ken, the Son, originating in the northern part of the Peninsula belong to the Ganga river system. The other major river systems of the Peninsular drainage are – the Mahanadi the Godavari, the Krishna and the Kaveri. Peninsular rivers are characterised by fixed course, absence of meanders and nonperennial flow of water. The Narmada and the Tapi which flow through the rift valley are, however, exceptions. Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Incorrect The Peninsular drainage system is older than the Himalayan one. This is evident from the broad, largely-graded shallow valleys, and the maturity of the rivers. The Western Ghats running close to the western coast act as the water divide between the major Peninsular rivers, discharging their water in the Bay of Bengal and as small rivulets joining the Arabian Sea. The Krishna is the second largest eastflowing Peninsular river which rises near Mahabaleshwar in Sahyadri. Its total length is 1,401 km. The Koyna, the Tungbhadra and the Bhima are its major tributaries. Of the total catchment area of the Krishna, 27 per cent lies in Maharashtra, 44 per cent in Karnataka and 29 per cent in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Most of the major Peninsular rivers except Narmada and Tapi flow from west to east. The Chambal, the Sind, the Betwa, the Ken, the Son, originating in the northern part of the Peninsula belong to the Ganga river system. The other major river systems of the Peninsular drainage are – the Mahanadi the Godavari, the Krishna and the Kaveri. Peninsular rivers are characterised by fixed course, absence of meanders and nonperennial flow of water. The Narmada and the Tapi which flow through the rift valley are, however, exceptions. -
Question 17 of 35
17. Question
Which of the following state has the largest portion of the Godavari River’s catchment area?
Correct
Solution (a)
Explanation:
The Godavari is the largest Peninsular river system. It is also called the Dakshin Ganga. It rises in the Nasik district of Maharashtra and discharges its water into the Bay of Bengal. Its tributaries run through the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. It is 1,465 km long with a catchment area spreading over 3.13 lakh sq. km 49 per cent of this, lies in Maharashtra, 20 per cent in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, and the rest in Andhra Pradesh. (Hence option a is correct)
Incorrect
Solution (a)
Explanation:
The Godavari is the largest Peninsular river system. It is also called the Dakshin Ganga. It rises in the Nasik district of Maharashtra and discharges its water into the Bay of Bengal. Its tributaries run through the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. It is 1,465 km long with a catchment area spreading over 3.13 lakh sq. km 49 per cent of this, lies in Maharashtra, 20 per cent in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, and the rest in Andhra Pradesh. (Hence option a is correct)
-
Question 18 of 35
18. Question
What is the primary reason for the relatively consistent water flow in the Kaveri River throughout the year?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
The Kaveri rises in Brahmagiri hills (1,341m) of Kogadu district in Karnataka. Its length is 800 km and it drains an area of 81,155 sq. km. Since the upper catchment area receives rainfall during the southwest monsoon season (summer) and the lower part during the northeast monsoon season (winter), the river carries water throughout the year with comparatively less fluctuation than the other Peninsular rivers. About 3 per cent of the Kaveri basin falls in Kerala, 41 per cent in Karnataka and 56 per cent in Tamil Nadu. Its important tributaries are the Kabini, the Bhavani and the Amravati. (Hence option c is correct)
Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
The Kaveri rises in Brahmagiri hills (1,341m) of Kogadu district in Karnataka. Its length is 800 km and it drains an area of 81,155 sq. km. Since the upper catchment area receives rainfall during the southwest monsoon season (summer) and the lower part during the northeast monsoon season (winter), the river carries water throughout the year with comparatively less fluctuation than the other Peninsular rivers. About 3 per cent of the Kaveri basin falls in Kerala, 41 per cent in Karnataka and 56 per cent in Tamil Nadu. Its important tributaries are the Kabini, the Bhavani and the Amravati. (Hence option c is correct)
-
Question 19 of 35
19. Question
Which of the following statements are correct about Indian drainage system?
- Nearly 77 percent of the drainage area is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal.
- Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal drainages are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Nearly 77 per cent of the drainage area consisting of the Ganga, the Brahmaputra, the Mahanadi, the Krishna, etc. is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal while 23 per cent comprising the Indus, the Narmada, the Tapi, the Mahi and the Periyar systems discharge their waters in the Arabian Sea. Indian drainage system may be divided on various bases. On the basis of discharge of water (orientations to the sea), it may be grouped into: (i) the Arabian Sea drainage; and (ii) the Bay of Bengal drainage. They are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge, the Aravalis and the Sahyadris. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Correct Correct Nearly 77 per cent of the drainage area consisting of the Ganga, the Brahmaputra, the Mahanadi, the Krishna, etc. is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal while 23 per cent comprising the Indus, the Narmada, the Tapi, the Mahi and the Periyar systems discharge their waters in the Arabian Sea. Indian drainage system may be divided on various bases. On the basis of discharge of water (orientations to the sea), it may be grouped into: (i) the Arabian Sea drainage; and (ii) the Bay of Bengal drainage. They are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge, the Aravalis and the Sahyadris. -
Question 20 of 35
20. Question
With reference to drainage patterns, consider the following statements.
- Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys.
- A parallel drainage system is a pattern of rivers caused by steep slopes.
- Trellis drainage pattern is found in Chota Nagpur plateau.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct Dendritic drainage systems are the most common form of drainage system. Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys; as a result, the rock types must be impervious and non-porous. In a dendritic system, there are many contributing streams (analogous to the twigs of a tree), which are then joined together into the tributaries of the main river (the branches and the trunk of the tree, respectively). They develop where the river channel follows the slope of the terrain. A parallel drainage system is a pattern of rivers caused by steep slopes with some relief. Because of the steep slopes, the streams are swift and straight, with very few tributaries, and all flow in the same direction. This system forms on uniformly sloping surfaces, for example, rivers flowing southeast from the Aberdare Mountains in Kenya. The geometry of a trellis drainage system is similar to that of a common garden trellis used to grow vines. As the river flows along a strike valley, smaller tributaries feed into it from the steep slopes on the sides of mountains. This pattern is found usually in old degraded areas like Chota Nagpur plateau, Deccan plateau etc. Incorrect
Solution (c)
Explanation:
Statement 1 Statement 2 Statement 3 Correct Correct Correct Dendritic drainage systems are the most common form of drainage system. Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys; as a result, the rock types must be impervious and non-porous. In a dendritic system, there are many contributing streams (analogous to the twigs of a tree), which are then joined together into the tributaries of the main river (the branches and the trunk of the tree, respectively). They develop where the river channel follows the slope of the terrain. A parallel drainage system is a pattern of rivers caused by steep slopes with some relief. Because of the steep slopes, the streams are swift and straight, with very few tributaries, and all flow in the same direction. This system forms on uniformly sloping surfaces, for example, rivers flowing southeast from the Aberdare Mountains in Kenya. The geometry of a trellis drainage system is similar to that of a common garden trellis used to grow vines. As the river flows along a strike valley, smaller tributaries feed into it from the steep slopes on the sides of mountains. This pattern is found usually in old degraded areas like Chota Nagpur plateau, Deccan plateau etc. -
Question 21 of 35
21. Question
With reference to Mudumulai National Park, consider the following statements:
- Mudumulai National Park is situated in Tamilnadu.
- It is a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
- It was declared as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1973.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (b)
Context:
- Recently, a survey of herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians) within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR), led to the identification of 33 reptiles and 36 amphibians that were recorded from the region for the first time. In this context, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve becomes important from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- Mudumalai National Park is a national park in the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu in southern India. It covers 321 sq km (124 sq mi) at an elevation range of 850–1,250 m in the Nilgiri District and shares boundaries with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
-
- The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected forest area in India, spreading across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. It includes the protected areas of Mudumalai National Park, Mukurthi National Park, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu; Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, in Karnataka; Silent Valley National Park, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Project Tiger is a wildlife conservation movement initiated in India to protect the endangered tiger. The project was initiated in 1973 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of the Government of India. In 1973, only 9 protected areas were designated as tiger reserves and Mudumalai National Park was not one of them. It was declared as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in April 2007 and notified as ‘Critical Tiger Habitat’ in December 2007. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Context:
- Recently, a survey of herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians) within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR), led to the identification of 33 reptiles and 36 amphibians that were recorded from the region for the first time. In this context, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve becomes important from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- Mudumalai National Park is a national park in the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu in southern India. It covers 321 sq km (124 sq mi) at an elevation range of 850–1,250 m in the Nilgiri District and shares boundaries with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
-
- The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected forest area in India, spreading across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. It includes the protected areas of Mudumalai National Park, Mukurthi National Park, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu; Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, in Karnataka; Silent Valley National Park, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Project Tiger is a wildlife conservation movement initiated in India to protect the endangered tiger. The project was initiated in 1973 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of the Government of India. In 1973, only 9 protected areas were designated as tiger reserves and Mudumalai National Park was not one of them. It was declared as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in April 2007 and notified as ‘Critical Tiger Habitat’ in December 2007. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
-
Question 22 of 35
22. Question
Consider the following statements about BharatGen Initiative:
- It is an initiative to make generative AI available to citizens in different Indian languages.
- It is the world’s first Government supported Multimodal Large Language Model Initiative.
- It is implemented by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (c)
Context:
- Recently, the BharatGen initiative was launched by the Union Ministry of Science & Technology. In this context, details about the initiative becomes important from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- BharatGen is an initiative which will create generative AI systems that can generate high-quality text and multimodal content in various Indian languages. It aims to make generative AI available to citizens in different Indian languages. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- It is the world’s first State-funded project of its kind. It is designed to process and generate multiple modalities, including text, images, and sometimes audio and video. These models are trained on large datasets containing text and image data, allowing them to learn the relationships between different modalities. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Spearheaded by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), the initiative will create generative AI systems that can generate high-quality text and multimodal content in various Indian languages. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Incorrect
Solution (c)
Context:
- Recently, the BharatGen initiative was launched by the Union Ministry of Science & Technology. In this context, details about the initiative becomes important from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- BharatGen is an initiative which will create generative AI systems that can generate high-quality text and multimodal content in various Indian languages. It aims to make generative AI available to citizens in different Indian languages. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- It is the world’s first State-funded project of its kind. It is designed to process and generate multiple modalities, including text, images, and sometimes audio and video. These models are trained on large datasets containing text and image data, allowing them to learn the relationships between different modalities. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Spearheaded by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), the initiative will create generative AI systems that can generate high-quality text and multimodal content in various Indian languages. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
-
Question 23 of 35
23. Question
With reference to Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST), consider the following statements:
- It is the world’s largest and most sensitive radio telescope.
- It is located in the Great Basin Desert of United States of America.
- It can detect neutral hydrogen at the edge of the universe and reconstruct the images of the early universe.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (b)
Context:
- China has kicked off the second phase of construction to enhance the capabilities of the Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST). In this context, the basic details about FAST become important for UPSC.
Explanation:
- Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) is the world’s largest and most sensitive radio telescope, with a receiving area equivalent to 30 football fields. A radio telescope is an astronomical instrument that is used to detect radio-frequency radiation between wavelengths of about 30 megahertz and 300 gigahertz emitted by extraterrestrial sources, such as stars, galaxies, and quasars. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) is located in the Dawodang depression, a natural basin in Pingtang County, Guizhou, southwest China. It has a 500 m (1,640 ft) diameter dish constructed in a natural depression in the landscape. It is the world’s largest filled-aperture radio telescope and the second-largest single-dish aperture, after the sparsely-filled RATAN-600 in Russia. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) can detect neutral hydrogen at the edge of the universe and reconstruct the images of the early universe. It can discover pulsars, establish a pulsar timing array, and participate in pulsar navigation and gravitational wave detection in the future. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Context:
- China has kicked off the second phase of construction to enhance the capabilities of the Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST). In this context, the basic details about FAST become important for UPSC.
Explanation:
- Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) is the world’s largest and most sensitive radio telescope, with a receiving area equivalent to 30 football fields. A radio telescope is an astronomical instrument that is used to detect radio-frequency radiation between wavelengths of about 30 megahertz and 300 gigahertz emitted by extraterrestrial sources, such as stars, galaxies, and quasars. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) is located in the Dawodang depression, a natural basin in Pingtang County, Guizhou, southwest China. It has a 500 m (1,640 ft) diameter dish constructed in a natural depression in the landscape. It is the world’s largest filled-aperture radio telescope and the second-largest single-dish aperture, after the sparsely-filled RATAN-600 in Russia. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Five-Hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) can detect neutral hydrogen at the edge of the universe and reconstruct the images of the early universe. It can discover pulsars, establish a pulsar timing array, and participate in pulsar navigation and gravitational wave detection in the future. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
-
Question 24 of 35
24. Question
Consider the following statements about Swallowtail butterflies:
- The swallowtail butterflies are special because they are found only in the Arctic region.
- They are named for the characteristic tail-like extensions of the hindwings.
Which of the above statements is/are INCORRECT?
Correct
Solution (a)
Context:
- A new study has found that overexploitation of 25 species of host plants valued for their medicinal properties has affected swallowtail butterflies in forests on the Brahmaputra’s northern bank. Thus, some of the peculiar characteristics of these butterflies become important for UPSC.
Explanation:
- Swallowtail butterflies are a group of butterflies in the family Papilionidae (order Lepidoptera). The swallowtail butterflies (Papilio) are found worldwide except in the Arctic. India hosts 77 of the 573 swallowtail butterfly species recorded across the world so far. Many swallowtails mimic the coloration and patterns of butterflies that are protected by a bad taste. Hence, statement 1 is INCORRECT.
They are named for the characteristic tail-like extensions of the hindwings, although many species are tailless. Illegal cattle farming within the protected areas, agriculture and tea cultivation near the habitats, illegal tree felling, and pesticide use to be among the crucial factors contributing to the decline in the number of these Swallowtail butterflies. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Incorrect
Solution (a)
Context:
- A new study has found that overexploitation of 25 species of host plants valued for their medicinal properties has affected swallowtail butterflies in forests on the Brahmaputra’s northern bank. Thus, some of the peculiar characteristics of these butterflies become important for UPSC.
Explanation:
- Swallowtail butterflies are a group of butterflies in the family Papilionidae (order Lepidoptera). The swallowtail butterflies (Papilio) are found worldwide except in the Arctic. India hosts 77 of the 573 swallowtail butterfly species recorded across the world so far. Many swallowtails mimic the coloration and patterns of butterflies that are protected by a bad taste. Hence, statement 1 is INCORRECT.
They are named for the characteristic tail-like extensions of the hindwings, although many species are tailless. Illegal cattle farming within the protected areas, agriculture and tea cultivation near the habitats, illegal tree felling, and pesticide use to be among the crucial factors contributing to the decline in the number of these Swallowtail butterflies. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
-
Question 25 of 35
25. Question
With reference to Solar eclipse, consider the following statements:
- During a solar eclipse, sun comes in the middle of earth and moon.
- A solar eclipse can be witnessed only during the new moon.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (b)
Context:
- An annular solar eclipse was visible in parts of South America on October 2 while a partial solar eclipse was visible in parts of South America, Antarctica, North America, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. So, a question can be asked by UPSC about solar eclipse.
Explanation:
- Solar eclipse takes place when the Moon moves in the middle of the Earth and the Sun. The Moon blocks the light of the Sun, either fully or partially, which casts a huge shadow on some parts of the world. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Solar eclipses happen only at the new moon phase, when the Moon is between Earth and the Sun. During a solar eclipse, the Moon casts a shadow on Earth, and blocks or partially blocks our view of the Sun. A new moon occurs about 29.5 days because that is how long it takes the Moon to orbit Earth. It takes place only between two to five times annually. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Context:
- An annular solar eclipse was visible in parts of South America on October 2 while a partial solar eclipse was visible in parts of South America, Antarctica, North America, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. So, a question can be asked by UPSC about solar eclipse.
Explanation:
- Solar eclipse takes place when the Moon moves in the middle of the Earth and the Sun. The Moon blocks the light of the Sun, either fully or partially, which casts a huge shadow on some parts of the world. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Solar eclipses happen only at the new moon phase, when the Moon is between Earth and the Sun. During a solar eclipse, the Moon casts a shadow on Earth, and blocks or partially blocks our view of the Sun. A new moon occurs about 29.5 days because that is how long it takes the Moon to orbit Earth. It takes place only between two to five times annually. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
-
Question 26 of 35
26. Question
Consider the following statements about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD):
- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder marked by flawed haemoglobin.
- In this disease, white blood cells (WBCs) assume a sickle or crescent shape rather than their normal round shape.
- India aims to eliminate sickle cell disease as a public health concern by 2030.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (a)
Context:
- The pharmaceutical giant Pfizer recently announced it would voluntarily withdraw its sickle cell disease therapy, Oxbryta, from worldwide markets, owing to the emergence of clinical data that links “fatal events” to the drug. In this context, the SCD becomes important from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder. It is marked by flawed hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the molecule in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen to the tissues of the body. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- Normally, RBCs are disc-shaped and flexible enough to move easily through the blood vessels. People with SCD have atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort RBCs (not WBCs) into a sickle, or crescent, shape. These sickled RBCs do not bend or move easily and can block blood flow to the rest of the body. SCD interferes with the delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
India ranks third globally in terms of the number of SCD births, following Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission is aimed at enhancing the care for all Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients and targets complete elimination of sickle cell disease as a public health concern by 2047. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
Incorrect
Solution (a)
Context:
- The pharmaceutical giant Pfizer recently announced it would voluntarily withdraw its sickle cell disease therapy, Oxbryta, from worldwide markets, owing to the emergence of clinical data that links “fatal events” to the drug. In this context, the SCD becomes important from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder. It is marked by flawed hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the molecule in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen to the tissues of the body. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- Normally, RBCs are disc-shaped and flexible enough to move easily through the blood vessels. People with SCD have atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort RBCs (not WBCs) into a sickle, or crescent, shape. These sickled RBCs do not bend or move easily and can block blood flow to the rest of the body. SCD interferes with the delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
India ranks third globally in terms of the number of SCD births, following Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission is aimed at enhancing the care for all Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients and targets complete elimination of sickle cell disease as a public health concern by 2047. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
-
Question 27 of 35
27. Question
With reference to Sahara Desert, consider the following statements:
- The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world.
- The highest peak in the Sahara Desert is Emi Koussi.
- It occupies more than 50% of the area of African continent.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (b)
Context:
- Recently, Sahara Desert witnessed first floods in 50 years. In this context, the geography and mapping around the desert becomes important for UPSC.
Explanation:
- The Sahara, located in Northern Africa, is the world’s largest hot desert and the third most extensive desert after the polar deserts of Antarctica and the northern Arctic. The countries within the Sahara Desert are Morocco, Mali, Mauritania, Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Chad, the Niger Republic, some parts of Sudan, a small portion of Nigeria, and a small part of Burkina Faso. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- The Sahara Desert encompasses a major portion of North Africa, occupying about 31% of the entire African continent. It spans over 9,200,000 sq. km (8% of the earth’s land area). The majority of the Sahara is made up of barren, rocky plateaus, as well as salt flats, sand dunes, mountains, and dry valleys. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
The highest peak in the Sahara is Emi Koussi (3,415m), a volcano located in the Tibesti Mountains, Chad. The Sahel region serves as a transition zone between the hot desert in the north and the humid savannas of Sub-Saharan Africa in the south. The large Nile and Niger rivers, along with the seasonal lakes and aquifers, provide the main source of water for the major desert oases. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Context:
- Recently, Sahara Desert witnessed first floods in 50 years. In this context, the geography and mapping around the desert becomes important for UPSC.
Explanation:
- The Sahara, located in Northern Africa, is the world’s largest hot desert and the third most extensive desert after the polar deserts of Antarctica and the northern Arctic. The countries within the Sahara Desert are Morocco, Mali, Mauritania, Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Chad, the Niger Republic, some parts of Sudan, a small portion of Nigeria, and a small part of Burkina Faso. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- The Sahara Desert encompasses a major portion of North Africa, occupying about 31% of the entire African continent. It spans over 9,200,000 sq. km (8% of the earth’s land area). The majority of the Sahara is made up of barren, rocky plateaus, as well as salt flats, sand dunes, mountains, and dry valleys. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
The highest peak in the Sahara is Emi Koussi (3,415m), a volcano located in the Tibesti Mountains, Chad. The Sahel region serves as a transition zone between the hot desert in the north and the humid savannas of Sub-Saharan Africa in the south. The large Nile and Niger rivers, along with the seasonal lakes and aquifers, provide the main source of water for the major desert oases. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
-
Question 28 of 35
28. Question
Consider the following statements about National Legal Services Authority (NALSA):
- It is a constitutional body.
- A retired judge of the Supreme Court is the is the patron-in-chief of NALSA.
- It has a mandate to provide legal aid to disadvantaged groups and spread legal literacy.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Solution (c)
Context:
- Recently, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE), Government of India, and the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) launched the SARTHIE 1.0. In this context, a question can be asked by UPSC about the initiative or NALSA itself.
Explanation:
- The NALSA was founded in 1995 under the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987 to monitor and review the effectiveness of legal aid programs and to develop rules and principles for providing legal services under the Act. So, it is a statutory body (not a constitutional body). It also distributes funding and grants to state legal services authorities and non-profit organisations to help them execute legal aid systems and initiatives. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
- The Chief Justice of India is the patron-in-chief of NALSA, while the second senior most judge of the Supreme Court of India is the Executive Chairman. It is housed at the Supreme Court of India, New Delhi. In every State, a State Legal Services Authority and in every High Court, a High Court Legal Services Committee has been constituted. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- In consonance with Art 39A, it has a mandate to provide legal aid to disadvantaged groups and spread legal literacy. Articles 14 and 22(1) also make it obligatory for the State to ensure equality before law and a legal system which promotes justice on a basis of equal opportunity to all. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Incorrect
Solution (c)
Context:
- Recently, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE), Government of India, and the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) launched the SARTHIE 1.0. In this context, a question can be asked by UPSC about the initiative or NALSA itself.
Explanation:
- The NALSA was founded in 1995 under the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987 to monitor and review the effectiveness of legal aid programs and to develop rules and principles for providing legal services under the Act. So, it is a statutory body (not a constitutional body). It also distributes funding and grants to state legal services authorities and non-profit organisations to help them execute legal aid systems and initiatives. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
- The Chief Justice of India is the patron-in-chief of NALSA, while the second senior most judge of the Supreme Court of India is the Executive Chairman. It is housed at the Supreme Court of India, New Delhi. In every State, a State Legal Services Authority and in every High Court, a High Court Legal Services Committee has been constituted. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- In consonance with Art 39A, it has a mandate to provide legal aid to disadvantaged groups and spread legal literacy. Articles 14 and 22(1) also make it obligatory for the State to ensure equality before law and a legal system which promotes justice on a basis of equal opportunity to all. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
-
Question 29 of 35
29. Question
With reference to Honey Badgers, consider the following statements:
- Honey badgers are herbivorous mammals and are found only in Asia.
- They are known for their solitary nature and their ability to twist and turn to escape predators.
- They are classified as ‘Least Concern’ as per the IUCN Red list.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (a)
Context:
- Recently, for the first time a honey badger has been captured on camera in the Terai East Forest Division (TEFD) of Uttarakhand. So, a question can be asked about honey badger by UPSC.
Explanation:
- Honey badgers are also known as the Ratel, and is related to skunks, otters, ferrets, and other badgers. They are omnivorous and nocturnal mammals that belong to the weasel family. These creatures are found in parts of Africa and Asia. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
- Honey badgers are known for their solitary nature and their ability to twist and turn to escape predators. They have powerful, curved claws, which they use to dig burrows for shelter. Their diet is diverse, consisting of small animals, fruit and honey. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Honey badgers play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by preying on smaller animals and pests, helping to control populations and protect crops. They are classified as ‘Least Concern’ as per the IUCN Red list. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
Incorrect
Solution (a)
Context:
- Recently, for the first time a honey badger has been captured on camera in the Terai East Forest Division (TEFD) of Uttarakhand. So, a question can be asked about honey badger by UPSC.
Explanation:
- Honey badgers are also known as the Ratel, and is related to skunks, otters, ferrets, and other badgers. They are omnivorous and nocturnal mammals that belong to the weasel family. These creatures are found in parts of Africa and Asia. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
- Honey badgers are known for their solitary nature and their ability to twist and turn to escape predators. They have powerful, curved claws, which they use to dig burrows for shelter. Their diet is diverse, consisting of small animals, fruit and honey. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Honey badgers play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by preying on smaller animals and pests, helping to control populations and protect crops. They are classified as ‘Least Concern’ as per the IUCN Red list. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
-
Question 30 of 35
30. Question
Consider the following statements about Monetary Policy Committee (MPC):
- Finance Minister acts as the chairperson of Monetary Policy Committee.
- MPC consists of 8 members and the quorum for a meeting of MPC is of 5 members.
- The decisions of the MPC are not binding on the RBI.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
Correct
Solution (d)
Context:
- The Central government recently appointed new monetary policy committee members with immediate effect. In this context, MPC becomes an important topic
from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- The Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (RBI Act) has been amended by the Finance Act, 2016 to provide for a statutory and institutionalized framework for an MPC. The MPC is entrusted with the task of fixing the benchmark policy rate (repo rate) required to contain inflation within the specified target level. The MPC is chaired by RBI Governor. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
- Under Section 45ZB of the amended RBI Act, 1934, the central government is empowered to constitute a six-member MPC. Monetary Policy Committee consists of six members. The quorum for a meeting shall be four Members, at least one of whom shall be the Governor and, in his absence, the Deputy Governor, who is the Member of the MPC. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
The MPC takes decisions based on a majority vote. In case of a tie, the RBI governor will have the second or casting vote. The decisions of the MPC would be binding on the RBI. RBI’s Monetary Policy Department (MPD) assists the MPC in formulating the monetary policy. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
Incorrect
Solution (d)
Context:
- The Central government recently appointed new monetary policy committee members with immediate effect. In this context, MPC becomes an important topic
from the perspective of UPSC.
Explanation:
- The Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (RBI Act) has been amended by the Finance Act, 2016 to provide for a statutory and institutionalized framework for an MPC. The MPC is entrusted with the task of fixing the benchmark policy rate (repo rate) required to contain inflation within the specified target level. The MPC is chaired by RBI Governor. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
- Under Section 45ZB of the amended RBI Act, 1934, the central government is empowered to constitute a six-member MPC. Monetary Policy Committee consists of six members. The quorum for a meeting shall be four Members, at least one of whom shall be the Governor and, in his absence, the Deputy Governor, who is the Member of the MPC. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
The MPC takes decisions based on a majority vote. In case of a tie, the RBI governor will have the second or casting vote. The decisions of the MPC would be binding on the RBI. RBI’s Monetary Policy Department (MPD) assists the MPC in formulating the monetary policy. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
-
Question 31 of 35
31. Question
Passage – 1
The Arctic Ocean, a critical component of the Earth’s climate system, is witnessing unprecedented change due to the accelerated melting of ice. This dramatic shift profoundly impacts polar bears, iconic symbols of the region, as their primary habitat, sea ice, diminishes. Melting ice forces polar bears to travel longer distances in search of food, increasing their vulnerability. Conservation efforts, sustainable policies, and international cooperation are imperative to mitigate the melting of Arctic ice, safeguard the unique ecosystem, and ensure the survival of polar bears, emblematic creatures of the Arctic facing an uncertain future in the wake of climate-induced transformations.
Q.31) Which one of the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage?
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation
Option (a) is incorrect: The context of polar bears being shifted to other oceans is not a part of the passage. The passage is about climate change and its impact on polar bears. So, this option is beyond the scope of the passage.
Option (b) is correct: The passage conveys that climate change has impacted polar bears and even threatened their survival. So, any policy for the Arctic Ocean must keep polar bears in focus. The lines “Conservation efforts, sustainable policies, and international cooperation are imperative to mitigate the melting of Arctic ice, safeguard the unique ecosystem, and ensure the survival of polar bears, emblematic creatures of the Arctic facing an uncertain future in the wake of climate-induced transformations” also carry the same essence. So, this is the most logical inference from the passage.
Option (c) is incorrect: The passage does not mention reversing climate change as the ‘only’ way to protect polar bears. It only mentions mitigation of climate change for the survival of polar bears in the lines “Conservation efforts, sustainable policies, and international cooperation are imperative to mitigate the melting of Arctic ice, safeguard the unique ecosystem, and ensure the survival of polar bears, emblematic creatures of the Arctic facing an uncertain future in the wake of climate-induced transformations.” Hence, this option is beyond the scope of the passage.
Option (d) is incorrect: The passage is about polar bears and the impact of climate change on them. The passage does not mention that polar bears are keystone species. Therefore, this option is not correct.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation
Option (a) is incorrect: The context of polar bears being shifted to other oceans is not a part of the passage. The passage is about climate change and its impact on polar bears. So, this option is beyond the scope of the passage.
Option (b) is correct: The passage conveys that climate change has impacted polar bears and even threatened their survival. So, any policy for the Arctic Ocean must keep polar bears in focus. The lines “Conservation efforts, sustainable policies, and international cooperation are imperative to mitigate the melting of Arctic ice, safeguard the unique ecosystem, and ensure the survival of polar bears, emblematic creatures of the Arctic facing an uncertain future in the wake of climate-induced transformations” also carry the same essence. So, this is the most logical inference from the passage.
Option (c) is incorrect: The passage does not mention reversing climate change as the ‘only’ way to protect polar bears. It only mentions mitigation of climate change for the survival of polar bears in the lines “Conservation efforts, sustainable policies, and international cooperation are imperative to mitigate the melting of Arctic ice, safeguard the unique ecosystem, and ensure the survival of polar bears, emblematic creatures of the Arctic facing an uncertain future in the wake of climate-induced transformations.” Hence, this option is beyond the scope of the passage.
Option (d) is incorrect: The passage is about polar bears and the impact of climate change on them. The passage does not mention that polar bears are keystone species. Therefore, this option is not correct.
-
Question 32 of 35
32. Question
Passage – 2
Democracy, a cornerstone of political systems, thrives when accompanied by political maturity among citizens. A politically mature populace actively engages in informed discourse, values the diversity of opinion, and understands the nuances of governance. However, challenges arise when political maturity falters, leading to conflicts within democratic frameworks. Misinformation, polarization, and intolerance can jeopardize the democratic spirit, fuelling internal strife. Striking a balance between individual rights and collective responsibility becomes paramount for the sustenance of a robust democracy. Political maturity acts as a stabilizing force, fostering constructive dialogue and conflict resolution, ensuring that democratic ideals withstand internal tensions and external pressures, and allowing nations to navigate challenges.
Q.32) Which one of the following is best implied by the passage?
Correct
Solution (a)
Explanation
Option (a) is correct: The option captures the main theme of the passage, which is the role of political maturity in strengthening democracy. It is visible in the lines “Democracy, a cornerstone of political systems, thrives when accompanied by political maturity among citizens … Political maturity acts as a stabilizing force, fostering constructive dialogue and conflict resolution, ensuring that democratic ideals withstand internal tensions and external pressures, and allowing nations to navigate challenges.” These lines reflect that political maturity plays an important role in strengthening democracy. Hence, this is the correct and best answer.
Option (b) is incorrect: The option is not correct because it states that a mature democracy consists of a “biologically mature population” instead of saying a “politically mature population”. The central theme of the passage focusses upon the role of political maturity in making democracy stronger. So, this option is not the correct answer.
Option (c) is incorrect: Refer to the lines “Striking a balance between individual rights and collective responsibility becomes paramount for the sustenance of a robust democracy.” The author clearly talks about balancing individual rights and collective responsibility. A democracy might become chaotic if there is no balance between individual rights and collective responsibility. Hence, this option is not the correct answer.
Option (d) is incorrect: The central theme of the passage is political maturity and its significance for strengthening democracy. However, the option talks about the elements of democracy, which is neither the main idea of the passage, nor is covered in the passage per se. Hence, this answer option is incorrect.
Incorrect
Solution (a)
Explanation
Option (a) is correct: The option captures the main theme of the passage, which is the role of political maturity in strengthening democracy. It is visible in the lines “Democracy, a cornerstone of political systems, thrives when accompanied by political maturity among citizens … Political maturity acts as a stabilizing force, fostering constructive dialogue and conflict resolution, ensuring that democratic ideals withstand internal tensions and external pressures, and allowing nations to navigate challenges.” These lines reflect that political maturity plays an important role in strengthening democracy. Hence, this is the correct and best answer.
Option (b) is incorrect: The option is not correct because it states that a mature democracy consists of a “biologically mature population” instead of saying a “politically mature population”. The central theme of the passage focusses upon the role of political maturity in making democracy stronger. So, this option is not the correct answer.
Option (c) is incorrect: Refer to the lines “Striking a balance between individual rights and collective responsibility becomes paramount for the sustenance of a robust democracy.” The author clearly talks about balancing individual rights and collective responsibility. A democracy might become chaotic if there is no balance between individual rights and collective responsibility. Hence, this option is not the correct answer.
Option (d) is incorrect: The central theme of the passage is political maturity and its significance for strengthening democracy. However, the option talks about the elements of democracy, which is neither the main idea of the passage, nor is covered in the passage per se. Hence, this answer option is incorrect.
-
Question 33 of 35
33. Question
A carton of biscuit has 50 packets in it. Each biscuit packet has 4 biscuit lines, with each line containing 15 biscuits. It is also known that 5% biscuits are broken in each packet. Find the total number of broken biscuits in the carton.
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation
Total number of biscuits in a packet = 4 x 15 = 60
Total number of broken biscuits in a packet = 5% of 60 = 3 Total number of broken biscuits in the carton = 3 x 50 = 150 Hence, option (b) is the right answer.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation
Total number of biscuits in a packet = 4 x 15 = 60
Total number of broken biscuits in a packet = 5% of 60 = 3 Total number of broken biscuits in the carton = 3 x 50 = 150 Hence, option (b) is the right answer.
-
Question 34 of 35
34. Question
In a party, 72% of the people ate roti (chapati) and 44% ate rice. If each person ate either roti or rice and 80 people ate both, then how many people were there in the party?
Correct
Solution (b)
Explanation
Let total number of people in the party be x.
Number of people who ate roti = 72x/100
Number of people who ate rice = 44x/100
Number of people who ate both = {72x/100} + {44x/100} – x
= 1.16x – x = 0.16x
According to the question,
0.16x = 80
Or x = 80/0.16
Or x = 500
So, there were 500 people in the party.
Hence, option (b) is the right answer.
Incorrect
Solution (b)
Explanation
Let total number of people in the party be x.
Number of people who ate roti = 72x/100
Number of people who ate rice = 44x/100
Number of people who ate both = {72x/100} + {44x/100} – x
= 1.16x – x = 0.16x
According to the question,
0.16x = 80
Or x = 80/0.16
Or x = 500
So, there were 500 people in the party.
Hence, option (b) is the right answer.
-
Question 35 of 35
35. Question
Two statements S1 and S2 are given below followed by a question.
S1: Number B is 30% less than number C.
S2: Number A is 37% less than number C.
Question: Number A is what percent less than number B?
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above Statements and the Question?
Correct
Solution (d)
Explanation
B is 30% less than C, and A is 37% less than C.
So, A : B : C = 63 : 70 : 100
Required percentage = [(70 – 63)/70] × 100
= (7/70) × 100 = 10%
So, it is clear that both statements are required to answer the given question. Hence, option (d) is the correct answer.
Incorrect
Solution (d)
Explanation
B is 30% less than C, and A is 37% less than C.
So, A : B : C = 63 : 70 : 100
Required percentage = [(70 – 63)/70] × 100
= (7/70) × 100 = 10%
So, it is clear that both statements are required to answer the given question. Hence, option (d) is the correct answer.
All the Best
IASbaba
