Correct Answer: B Your Answer: B Explanation

Exam Title : 3) ANCIENT HISTORY
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QUESTION 1.
the study of inscriptions on rocks, pillars and building is called:
a) Linguilogy
b) Epigraphy
c) Numismatics
d) Archeology
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (b)
Source: Old NCERT Ancient history Class XI
Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions or epigraphs as writing; it is the science of identifying graphemes,
clarifying their meanings, classifying their uses according to dates and cultural contexts, and drawing
conclusions about the writing and the writers.
QUESTION 2.
Which of the following are chalcolithic cultures?
1. Jorwe
2. Malwa
3. Harappan
Select the code from below:
a) 1 and 3
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 2
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (d)
Source: Old NCERT Ancient history Class XI
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Chalcolithic age is the age of copper. Men had discovered metal and started using it to make tools and
utensils. Jorwe, Malwa, Prabhas and Harappa are important chalcolithic cultures.
For more detail, read ancient history value add.
QUESTION 3.
In many chalcolithic sites, the burial process was followed. Material belongings like utensils, jewelry etc
were buried with the dead. This was probably done because:
a) They believed in life after death

b) People were scared of keeping the belongings of the dead
c) Sick people were buried alive
d) None of the above
Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (a)
Source: Value Add
Personal belongings were buried with the dead because probably people believed in life after death. They
believed that dead will need these items in the afterlife in the other world.
QUESTION 4.
Consider the following:
City Characteristic
1. Harappa Great Bath
2. Mohenjodaro 12 granaries
3. Kotdigi Bricked port
Which of the above are correctly matched?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
Correct Answer: D
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Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (d)
None of the above are correctly matched.
Great Bath and a great granary is at Mohenjodaro.
12 granaries are at Harappa. (6 in each row)
Kotdigi is an industrial town. Bead factory was found there.
Bricked port was found a Lothal.
QUESTION 5.
Harappan script is boustrophedon. Boustrophedon scripts are:
a) All pictographic scripts.

b) Written from right to left
c) Written from left to right
d) Written from right to left in first line and left to right in other and so on.
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (d)
Source: Value Add
boustrophedon : the writing of alternate lines in opposite directions (as from left to right and from right to
left)
QUESTION 6.
Marrakesh Treaty/Agreement is related to
a) World Trade Organization

b) World Intellectual Property Organization
c) Both ( and (
d) Climate Change
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: D
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Explanation
Solution (c)
The Marrakesh Agreement, manifested by the Marrakesh Declaration, was an agreement signed in
Marrakesh, Morocco, by 124 nations on 15 April 1994, marking the culmination of the 12-year-long
Uruguay Round and establishing the World Trade Organization , which officially came into being on
January 1, 1995.
Treaty international law (binding)
Agreement -an understanding between entities to follow a specific course of conduct
QUESTION 7.
SAFAR India, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at
a) providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs

b) disseminating information regarding air quality on real time
c) promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas
d) financial inclusion scheme monitored by business correspondents (BC) in rural areas
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (b)
A dedicated Air Quality Information Service for Indian Metropolitan Cites to make India self-sufficient in
providing frontier research based scientific accredited robust Air Quality Forecasting system.
Indias first air quality checking Mobile App, SAFAR-Air was launched on 17 February 2015 at the Indian
Institute of Tropical Meteorology in Pune, Maharashtra.
SAFAR is an acronym for System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research which was first
launched in Delhi in 2010 during the Commonwealth Games.
It is under the Ministry of Earth Science, Govt. of India.
The app will provide current data and a forecast for air quality in the users current location through a
colour-coded system- green is good, yellow is moderately polluted, orange is poor, red is very poor and
maroon is critical.
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Source:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/Fortnight-after-Diwali-Mumbai-air-quality-hits-very-poor-mark/ar
QUESTION 8.
With reference to the Non-banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India, consider the following
statements
1. They cannot engage in the acquisition of securities issued by the government.
2. They cannot accept demand deposits like Savings Account.
3. They do not lend to agricultural activity
4. They do not lend to industrial activity
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 4 only
c) 2, 3 and 4
d) 1, 2 and 4
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (c)
A Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) is a company registered under the Companies Act, 1956 and is
engaged in the business of loans and advances, acquisition of shares/stock/bonds/debentures/securities
issued by Government or local authority or other securities of like marketable nature, leasing,
hire-purchase, insurance business, chit business but Does not include any institution whose principal
business is that of agriculture activity, industrial activity, sale/purchase/construction of immovable property.
Source:
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-business/nbfcs-urge-rbi-to-allow-them-to-accept-old-currency-notes/
QUESTION 9.
Consider the following pairs
1. Dampa Tiger Reserve : Mizoram
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2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary : Sikkim
3. Saramati Peak : Nagaland
Choose the appropriate code
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (b)
Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary - Tripura
Saramati Peak - Nagaland
Dampa Tiger Reserve - Mizoram
QUESTION 10.
Which of the following is published by Central Statistics Office (CSO)?
1. National Income
2. Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
3. Annual Survey of Industries (ASI)
4. Wholesale Price Index (WPI)
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2 and 3
c) 2, 3 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: D
Explanation
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Solution (b)
WPI is released by DIPP
National Income, CPI and ASI is released by CSO
Source:
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/advance-gdp-estimates-will-be-released-on-jan
QUESTION 11.
Which of the following metals were used by the Harappan people?
1. Copper
2. Tin
3. Silver
4. Gold
a) 1,2 and 3
b) 2,3 and 4
c) 1,2 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (d)
Harappan civilization is a bronze age civilization. Bronze is an alloy of Copper and tin.
Also gold and silver was used.
The Harappan gold is of light colour indicating high silver content. On the basis of alloys, it has been
suggested that gold may have come from Karnataka. Silver was relatively more common than gold which is
indicated by the occurrence of a number of large vessels and other objects. (NCERT)
QUESTION 12.
Consider the following statements:
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1. Rig Veda is the oldest Veda and written completely in prose form.
2. Yajurveda is the second veda written both in prose and poetry form.
Which of the above statements are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (b)
Source: Value Add
Rig Veda is written in the form of Shlokas (Poetry) and not prose.
Yajurveda:
This was the second Veda to be composed after the Rig Veda. It consists of rituals of sacrifices and yajna.
It is broadly divided into two parts Sweta Yajurveda and Shyam Yajurveda.
Shweta Yajurveda is in Poetic form while Shyama Yajurveda is in prose form.
QUESTION 13.
Consider the following statements about Rig vedic (early Vedic) society:
1. The early Vedic people settled in lower Ganga plains.
2. Iron was widely used by early vedic people to make tools, utensils and weapons.
3. Society was divided on the basis of hereditary castes.
Which of the above statements are incorrect?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 3 only
d) All of the above
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Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (d)
Source: Value Add
The early vedic people settled in Indus basin, thats why in Rig Vedic society, Ganga was not a holy river. It
is mentioned only once in Rig Veda.
Iron was not discovered in early vedic society and evidences of iron are found only in later Vedic period.
A reference for caste is found only in the last chapter of Rig Veda. Even though the society was divided by
different castes, they were not hereditary but occupational.
QUESTION 14.
The slogan Satya Meva Jayate , in our emblem has been taken from which of the following Upanishads.
a) Mundaka
b) Brihadranayaka
c) Katha
d) Aitreya
Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (a)
Source: Value Add
Note: This is a previous year UPSC question.
Satyameva Jayate is a mantra from the ancient Indian scripture Mundaka Upanishad . Upon independence
of India, it was adopted as the national motto of India.
QUESTION 15.
Sir I Akbar is the Persian translation of 50 Upanishads. It was done by
a) Akbar
b) Shah Jehan
c) Dara Shikon
d) Jehangir
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Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (c)
Sirr I Akbar is the collection of translation of 50 upanishads done by Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Shah
Jehan. He was the crowned prince but later killed by Aurangzeb.
QUESTION 16.
Ken- Betwa river linking project has become a stage for a unique man-animal conflict. The
environmentalists fear that one of the tiger reserve/national park may get submerged. Which is the tiger
reserve that we are referring to?
a) Panna
b) Pench
c) Kanha
d) Bandhavgarh
Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (a)
An ambitious project to link Ken and Betwa rivers has become a stage for a unique man-animal conflict.
Proponents of the project, led by the Union Water Ministry, say that the proposed Daudhan dam and the
2.5 km canal the key structures of the project that will transfer surplus water from the Uttar Pradesh section
of the Ken to the Betwa in Madhya Pradesh are critical to irrigate nearly 7,00,000 hectares in
drought-ravaged Bundelkhand.
However, environmentalists say that such a dam will submerge at least 4,000 hectares of Madhya
Pradeshs Panna tiger reserve, whose tigers were almost lost to poaching in 2009 and have only recently
been partially replenished. They allege that most districts in Madhya Pradesh will not actually get the
promised water. There are vultures in the region, whose nests will be threatened by the height of the dam.
Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/ken-betwa-river-linking-project-wildlife-clearance-panna-tiger-reserve
QUESTION 17.
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Which of the following is/are the new vaccines introduced in the Universal immunization program (UIP) in
India?
1. Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV)
2. Measles, Rubella (MR) vaccine
3. Adult Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine
4. Rotaviru vaccine
Select the correct code
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 2, 3 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (d)
Universal Immunization Programme is a vaccination program launched by the Government of India in

1985. It became a part of Child Survival and Safe Motherhood Programme in 1992 and is currently one of
the key areas under National Rural Health Mission(NRHM) since 2005. The program consists of
vaccination for nine diseases- tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, poliomyelitis,
measles, Hepatitis B, Diarrhoea, Japanese Encephalitis, Rotavirus and Pneumonia. Hepatitis B was added
to the UIP in 2007. Rotavirus was added to the UIP in March 2016
Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/pneumonia-vaccines-to-be-introduced-in-5-states-43642
QUESTION 18.
There is a concern over the increase in harmful algal blooms in the seawater of India. What could be the
causative factors for this phenomenon?
1. Mixing of warm and cold water currents in oceans.
2. Run-off from the land during the monsoon.
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3. Upwelling in the seas.
4. Discharge of phosphorus-containing sewage in oceans.
5. Increase of salt in sea.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below
a) 2, 3, 4 and 5
b) 2, 4 and 5
c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
d) 1,2,and 3
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (c)
Eutrophication would increase nutrient supply resulting in growth of algal bloom
Phytoplankton (algae and blue-green bacteria) thrive on the excess nutrients and their population explosion
covers almost entire surface layer. This condition is known as algal bloom.
Algal Blooms restrict the penetration of sunlight resulting in death of aquatic plants , and hence restricts
the replenishment of oxygen.
Algae are referred to large seaweeds which grow in water with large nutrients added through different
sources. When algal blooms block vital sunlight from reaching beneficial underwater plants that provide
food and a place to live and grow for fish and other animals, the ecosystem can be negatively impacted.
Further, algae when dead; their decay requires large oxygen; thus increasing the Biological Oxygen
Demand of water and killing many marine animals.
Algae become stressed and die when they deplete the nutrient supply or move from freshwater into saltier
waters.
• Eutrophication is the response to the addition of nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates naturally or
artificially, fertilizing the aquatic ecosystem.
• Algal blooms are the consequence of Eutrophication.
Source:
http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/indous-collaboration-to-focus-on-pelagic-fish-resources/article93385
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QUESTION 19.
With regard to Lalit Kala Akademi , consider the following statements
1. Lalit Kala Akademi is the Indias apex cultural body in the field of visual arts
2. It is an autonomous body, which promotes Indian art, in and outside the country
3. It promotes study and research in folk, tribal and traditional arts
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
a) 2 only
b) 1 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (d)
Lalit Kala Akademi is the Governments apex cultural body in the field of visual arts in India. It is an
autonomous body, which is fully funded by the Ministry of Culture.
It is an autonomous organisation, established in New Delhi in 1954 by Government of India to promote and
propagate understanding of Indian art, in and outside the country. It is fully funded by the Ministry of
Culture.
Objectives - To promote study, research and survey of folk, tribal and traditional arts and crafts techniques,
preserve and project their art forms and to organize regional surveys of and to encourage surviving
indigenous craftsmen, painters and sculptors.
Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/cabc-meets-for-first-time-discusses-promoting-indian-cu
http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/plumage/earth-songs-exploring-tribal-art/
QUESTION 20.
United Nations Development Programme ( UNDP ) focuses on
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1. Sustainable development
2. Democratic governance
3. Climate resilience
4. Disaster management
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1, 3 and 4
c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (d)
UNDP focuses on helping countries build and share solutions in three main areas:
Sustainable development
Democratic governance and peacebuilding
Climate and disaster resilience
Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/india-pledges-10-95-million-for-un-development-activitie
QUESTION 21.
1. Santhara is a process of conversion of a person into a Jain monk.
2. Chandragupta Maurya went Shravanbelagola and performed Santhara.
Which of the above statements are incorrect?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (a)
Santhara is a voluntary Jain practice of fast unto death. A person stops eating and drinking till his death.
The aim is to remove all karma from once life to attain Nirvana from the life cycles.
According to a legend, Chandragupta Maurya went to South (Karnataka), Shravanbelagola with a Jain
monk Bhadrabahu. There he performed Santhara.
Santhara is a kind of suicide and is banned in India. Recently it was in the news as a girl tried to perform
Santhara. It again started a debate for Euthanasia (voluntary death).
QUESTION 22.
1. Historically, Jainism as a faith is older than Buddhism.
2. Historically, Buddha is older than Mahavira .
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (c)
Both the statements are correct.
Source: Value Add
Jainism had 24 Tirthankars. Historically, evidence is there for 23 rd Parsavnath and 24 th Mahavira. The gap
between Parsavnath and Mahavira is around 250 years. This way Jainism is older than Buddhism.
Historically, Buddha and Mahavira are contemporary. But Buddha is a bit older than Mahavira.
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Buddha was born in 563 BC (widely accepted) and Mahavira was born in 540 BC.
QUESTION 23.
1. Buddhist believes in the theory of triratnas Right knowledge, Right faith, Right conduct.
2. Mahavira gave an eight fold path for salvation.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (d)
Jainism believes in the philosophy of Triratnas (Three jewels)
Right knowledge
Right Faith
Right Conduct
The eight fold path or the Ashtangika marg was given by Buddha.
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QUESTION 24.
In which of the following Buddhist councils did Buddhism got divided into two sects Hinayana and
Mahayana?
a) 1 st Council
b) 2 nd Council
c) 3 rd Council
d) 4 th Council
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (d)
Famous Buddhist Councils:
1 st Council:
Period: 483 BC- just after the death of Buddha.
Place Rajgriha
Presided by Mahakasappa
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2 nd Council:
Period: 383 BC
Place: Vaishali
Presided by Shatakhambri
3 rd Council:
Period: 250-262 BC
Place: Patliputra
Presided by Moghiputta Tissa
4 th Council:
Period: 1 st Century AD
Place: Kunzalwar
Presided by Vasumitra and Ashwaghosha
At the fourth council the Buddhism got divided into two sects: Hinayana and Mahayana
QUESTION 25.
Who of the following rulers defeated the Successor of Alaxander Selucus Necator
a) Porus
b) Chandragupta Maurya
c) Bindusara
d) Ashoka
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (b)
Chandragupta Maurya (Sandrochotus/Androchotus in Greek records):
He was trained by Chanakya or Vishnugupta, a Brahmin Guru at Taxila.
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He defeated Seleucus Necator, the successor of Alaxander, and conquered Kabul, Kandhahar, Herat and
Baluchistan.
Later, they became friend and exchanged gifts. In one record it is mentioned that Chandragupta gifted 500
elephants to Seleucus Necator.
For the first time in Indian history, he laid down the foundation of a centralized Administration.
According to a Jain text, he came to Shravanbelagola, in Karnataka, with the Jain monk Bhadrabahu and
performed Santhara. (Covered in the previous section.)
QUESTION 26.
With regard to Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), consider the following statements
1. India and Japan are the founding members of AIIB
2. Headquarters is in Beijing, China
3. All members of AIIB have equal voting rights unlike IMF
a) 2 only
b) 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (a)
AIIB mainly focuses on infrastructure projects in Asia-Pacific region
India is a founding member, Japan is not.
China, India and Russia are the three largest shareholders of AIIB, taking 30.34%, 8.52%, 6.66% stake
respectively. Their voting shares are 26.06%, 7.5% and 5.92% respectively.
Source: http://www.business-standard.c...
QUESTION 27.
Consider the following statements with regard to Minimum Support Price (MSP) in India
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1. MSP is announced by government is based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural
Costs and Prices (CACP)
2. Cereals , Pulses and Oilseeds are covered under MSP
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (c)
The Minimum Support Prices were announced by the Government of India for the first time in 1966-67 for
Wheat
Minimum Support Price is the price at which government purchases crops from the farmers, whatever may
be the price for the crops. The MSP is announced by the Government of India for 25 crops currently at the
beginning of each season viz. Rabi and Kharif: Paddy, wheat, Moong, urad, sunflower seed, groundnut
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approves MSP
Source:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-increases-msp-for-rabi-crops/article9350089.ece
QUESTION 28.
Consider the following statements about Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
1. It is an atmosphere-ocean coupled phenomenon in the tropical Indian Ocean characterized by a

difference in sea-surface temperatures (SST)
2. Positive IOD is characterized by warmer than normal SSTs in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and
cooler than normal SSTs in the western tropical Indian Ocean
3. Negative IOD is characterized by cooler than normal sea-surface temperatures in the eastern equatorial
Indian Ocean and warmer than normal sea-surface temperatures in the western tropical Indian Ocean
4. Negative IOD has a more direct and immediate impact on the North-East monsoon
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Which of the following statements is/are correct?
a) Only 1
b) 1, 2 and 4
c) 1 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (c)
IOD It is an atmosphere-ocean coupled phenomenon in the tropical Indian Ocean (like the El Nino is in the
tropical Pacific), characterized by a difference in sea-surface temperatures (SST).
Positive IOD It is associated with cooler than normal sea-surface temperatures in the eastern equatorial
Indian Ocean and warmer than normal sea-surface temperatures in the western tropical Indian Ocean.
Negative IOD It is characterized by warmer than normal SSTs in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and
cooler than normal SSTs in the western tropical Indian Ocean.
According to India Met Department (IMD), the North-East monsoon is likely to extend its deficient run for
next three days thanks to misdirected weather systems in the Bay of Bengal/Indian Ocean.
This is in turn attributable to the persisting negative phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), which causes
the Indian Ocean just south to Bay of Bengal to warm up abnormally.
This has direct implications for the North-East monsoon, since the warmth builds up lower pressure over
the Indian Ocean where most of the moisture gets directed.
Source:
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/is-the-northeast-monsoon-headed-for-a-washout
QUESTION 29.
Consider the following statements about Hypersaline lakes
1. The water of hypersaline lakes has minimum buoyancy
2. Dead Sea is the largest hyper saline lake in the world
3. Araruama Lagoon in Brazil is the deepest hyper saline lake in the world
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4. The salinity of hyper saline lakes is always less than that of ocean water
Which of the following statements is are incorrect ?
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 1, 3 and 4
c) 1 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (d)
A hypersaline lake is a landlocked body of water that contains significant concentrations of sodium chloride
or other salts, with saline levels surpassing that of ocean water (3.5%, i.e. 35 grams per litre).
The most saline water body in the world is the Don Juan Pond, located in the McMurdo Dry Valleys in
Antarctica. Its volume is some 3,000 cubic meters, but is constantly changing. The Don Juan Pond has a
salinity level of over 44%, (i.e. 12 times saltier than ocean water). Its high salinity prevents the Don Juan
from freezing even when temperatures are below −50 C (−58 F). There are larger hypersaline water
bodies, lakes in the McMurdo Dry Valleys such as Lake Vanda with salinity of over 35% (i.e. 10 times
saltier than ocean water). They are covered with ice in the winter.
The water of hypersaline lakes has great buoyancy due to a high salt content.
The Dead Sea, dividing Israel and the Palestinian West Bank from Jordan, is the world's deepest
hypersaline lake and the Araruama Lagoon is the world's largest hypersaline lake.
Source:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Climate-humans-caused-decline-of-once-2nd-
QUESTION 30.
Green GDP means
1. Conventional GDP figures adjusted for the environmental costs of economic activities
2. Monetary value of the Forests
3. Growth of Green Investments in economy
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4. Accounts showing the monetized loss of biodiversity, costs caused by climate change
Select the correct code:
a) 1 and 3
b) 1 and 4
c) 1, 3 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (b)
Green Gross Domestic Product is the index of the Economic growth of a particular country which enshrines
the environment consequences of the economic growth.
Green GDP does not mean the monetary value of the Forests etc.
Green GDP does not mean the growth of Green Investments.
Green GDP means that it accounts the monetized loss of biodiversity, costs caused by climate change.
Green GDP is conventional gross domestic product figures adjusted for the environmental costs of
economic activities. Its a measure of how a country is prepared for sustainable economic development.
This means that GDP may have some indicators such as Waste per capita or CO2 emissions growth/
decline.
Source:
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/green-gdp-plans-gathering-dust-in-government-corridors/articl
QUESTION 31.
Which of the following statements are mentioned in Ashokan Dhamma ?
1. It made Buddhism the state religion
2. Non violence against man as well as animals
3. Loving your neighbours and slaves
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4. Protection of trees
a) 1,2 and 3
b) 2,3 and 4
c) 1,3 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (b)
Ashokan Dhamma:
Dhamma is a Pali word which is written as Dharma in Sanskrit. In correct sense, Ashokan Dhamma, is not
exactly a religion, but a Moral code of conduct.
Through this Ashoka wanted to establish a peaceful and coherent society in which every sect should
respect and honour the other sect.
Non Violence against man as well as animals.
Protection of trees
Obeying the parents
Respecting elders and teachers
Loving the neighbours and slaves.
To implement this code, he appointed a new officer called Dhamma Mahamatya.
Note: It can be understood that Ashokan Dhamma was not exactly the extension of the Buddhism
as new officers were appointed for preaching rather than using the Buddhist monks.
QUESTION 32.
What according to Arthashastra are the eligibility conditions for a person to become a king?
1. He should belong to a noble family.
2. He must have the knowledge of economics ( artha ) and war ( shastra )
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3. He should be married to a royal girl.
4. He should have a son.
a) 2 only
b) 1 and 2
c) 1,2 and 4
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (b)
According to Arthashastra, conditions required for becoming a King are:
1. Must belong to a noble family.
2. Must have the knowledge of Artha (Economics) and Shastra (war).
QUESTION 33.
The name of Ashoka written as Ashoka is found on which of the following sources?
a) Major Rock edicts

b) Minor Rock edicts
c) Cave Rock edicts
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: Unanswered
Explanation
Solution (b)
The name Ashok was discovered for the first time on a minor rock edict. In 1915, Maski in Karnataka, the
name Ashoka was mentioned along with his title Ashoka Devanampiya Piyadassi. (Devanampiya dear to
Gods; Piyadassi Good looking).
Otherwise in all other edicts only the title Devanampiya Piyadassi is mentioned.
QUESTION 34.
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Which of the following statements are correct about MilindPanho ?
1. It is a book written by Nagasena in Sanskrit.
2. It discusses the victories of Menander (Milind), the Bactrian king, in India.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (a)
Milindpanho was written by the great Buddhist scholar Nagasena in Sanskrit. The book is on Buddhist
philosophy. Its literal meaning is Questions of Milind, where Milind is asking questions to a Buddhist monk
about life.
QUESTION 35.
Consider the following statements regarding Kushans :
1. They introduced gold coins in India.
2. They introduced new fashion like pantaloons, hat, overcoats, boots etc.
3. Use of stirrup, saddle and reins was introduced
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (b)
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Contribution of Kushans:
They accepted Indian religion and language. As they themselves were tribesmen they did not have an
organized religion before.
They also followed Vaishnavism as it was more liberal than Shaivism. For the first time there is a mention
of Vasudev Krishna in Mathura.
Horse riding was introduced by them. Use of stirrup, saddle and reins was introduced. Chariots became
outdated.
A new fashion and costumes were introduced. Hat, leather boots, pants and overcoat .
They patronized Mathura and Amravati school of art.
They introduced the tradition of worshipping ancestors called Dev Kul tradition.
They issued numerous gold coins. They metal was found to be the purest amongst all gold coins even that
of Gupta period.
NOTE: the gold coins were introduced by the Bactrians.
QUESTION 36.
Consider the following statements with respect to Golden Mahseer Fish.
1. It is the longest-living freshwater fish
2. It is native to mountain and sub-mountain regions
3. It inhabit only rivers
4. It is an omnivore
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 1, 2 and 4
c) 1 and 2
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: B
Explanation
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Solution (b)
Golden Mahseer Fish is the longest-living freshwater fish and is native to mountain and sub-mountain
regions.
It inhabit both rivers and lakes and is an omnivore
Source:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/International-angling-meet-kicks-off-in-Pancheswar/articlesho
Read More
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Himachal-Pradesh-propagating-mahseer-fish-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahseer
QUESTION 37.
Consider the following statements about International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas
(ICARDA)
1. ICARDA has been temporarily headquartered in Beirut, Lebanon
2. ICARDA, hosts the largest collection of seeds in Morocco
Select the correct statements
a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (c)
The International Centre for Agriculture Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), a member of the CGIAR,
supported by the CGIAR Fund, is a non-profit agricultural research for development institute that aims to
improve the livelihoods of the resource-poor across the worlds dry areas.
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ICARDA has been temporarily headquartered in Beirut, Lebanon, since leaving Aleppo, Syria, in 2012.
Support is provided by research centres and offices in Jordan, Morocco, Ethiopia, Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey,
Afghanistan, India, Iran, Oman, Pakistan, Sudan, Uzbekistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
The International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas, or ICARDA, hosts the largest collection
of seeds in Morocco.
The crucial role of seed banks in protecting biodiversity is receiving increasing attention because of climate
change, which threatens to wipe out crops as dry areas of the world get even hotter and drier.
The Rabat centre holds tens of thousands of seeds spanning from wheat and barley to lentils and
chickpeas inside a vault in near-freezing temperatures.
The seed bank not only preserves these essential staples but develops them to become more resistant to
disease and a warming climate.
The site in Rabat has become primary centre of storage and research after its previous hub in Aleppo,
Syria, was seized by an Islamist rebel group in September 2015.
Source:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/moroccan-vault-preserves-seeds-if-climate-change-or-doomsday-s
QUESTION 38.
Which of the following statements concerning Solanum nigrum is/are correct?
1. A compound derived from the leaves of Solanum nigrum Uttroside B can treat liver cancer
2. The compound has foaming characteristics
3. It is also called as Bittersweet Nightshade
Select the correct code:
a) 1 and 2
b) 1 and 3
c) 2 and 3
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: A
Explanation
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Solution (a)
Solanum nigrum
A compound derived from the leaves of Solanum nigrum, has remarkable efficacy in treating liver cancer.
The compound saponin named Uttroside B, has shown that it is 10 times more effective than Sorafenib, the
only drug currently available for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (common type of liver cancer).
Saponins are glucosides with foaming characteristics
Solanum nigrum belongs to the family Solanaceae. It is also called as Black Nightshade.
It is widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments such as inflammation, jaundice, bronchitis,
asthma, leprosy, and skin disorders. It is a rich source of anticancer molecules.
Source:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Thiruvananthapuram/herbal-compound-promises-cure-for-liver-cancer/art
QUESTION 39.
Consider the following statements
1. India is the largest recipient of Japanese official development assistance (ODA)
2. India is the first non-member of the non-proliferation treaty (NPT) to have signed nuclear deal with Japan
Which of the following statements is/are incorrect ?
a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (d)
Both the statements are correct.
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Official development assistance (ODA) is a term coined by the Development Assistance Committee (DAC)
of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to measure aid. The DAC first
used the term in 1969. It is widely used as an indicator of international aid flow. It includes some loans.
Most ODA comes from the 28 members of the DAC, or about $135 billion in 2013. A further $15.9 billion
came from the European Commission and non-DAC countries gave an additional $9.4 billion. Although
development aid rose in 2013 to the highest level ever recorded, a trend of a falling share of aid going to
the neediest sub-Saharan African countries continued.
Source:
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/india-agrees-to-link-nuclear-testing-to-termination-of-dea
QUESTION 40.
Which of the following is true about Psyche?
a) Saturns biggest moon

b) Largest metallic asteroid
c) A Kuiper belt object
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (b)
Source:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/water-detected-on-metallic-asteroid-psyche/articleshow/55289
QUESTION 41.
1. Tolakappiam treatise on grammar
2. Ettitugai anthologies
3. Shilapadikaram Epic
Which of the above are correctly matched?
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
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Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: D
Explanation
Solution (d)
Sangam literature:
Tolkappiyam By tolkappiyar
It is a treatise on Grammar.
Collection of 18 Anthologies (collection of poems):
Ettitugai 8 anthologies
Padipattu 10 anthologies
Two great Epics:
Shilapaddigram (Jeweled Anklet): by Ilango Idigal
Manimekalai
QUESTION 42.
Who amongst the following rulers got their accounts inscribed on Prayag Prashasti ?
1. Ashoka
2. Samudragupta
3. Akbar
4. Jehangir
a) 1 and 2
b) 1 and 3
c) 2 and 3
d) 1,2 and 4
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: A
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Explanation
Solution (d)
The best source to know about Samudragupta is the Prayag Prashasti in Allahabad. It is written on an
Ashokan piller. It is of great historical importance as details of three kings are engraved on it. First,
Ashoka , who initially established it. Samudragupta , who got his account written on it in Sanskrit and
finally, Jehangir , who got his account inscribed in Persian.
QUESTION 43.
Vincent Arthur Smith called him the Napoleon of India .
He returned the kingdoms of most of the kings on three conditions:
The defeated king had to pay tribute to Samudragupta .
The defeated king had to come personally to his court at least once in a year, generally on his birthday.
They had to get their daughter married to Samudragupta .
He minted several types of gold coins with different images. His own image with goddess Lakshmi as he
claimed he is an Avatar of Vishnu on earth.
Who of the following kings is being discussed in the above paragraph?
a) Chandragupta Maurya
b) Chandragupta II
c) Samudragupta
d) Kanishka
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (c)
Samudragupta:
The best source to know about Samudragupta is the Prayag Prashasti in Allahabad.
According to Prayag prashasti:
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Samudragupta defeated
Nine kings of Aryavrata, the most famous of them being Nag dynasty.
Eighteen kings of central India most famous being Atvika (a forest tribe)
Twelve kings of Southern India most famous of them being Pallavas.
Vincent Arthur Smith called him the Napoleon of India .
According to the Prayag Prashasti he returned the kingdoms of most of the kings on three
conditions:
The defeated king had to pay tribute to Samudragupta.
The defeated king had to come personally to his court at least once in a year, generally on his birthday.
They had to get their daughter married to Samudragupta.
He minted several type of gold coins with different images. His own image with goddess Lakshmi as he
claimed he is an Avatar of Vishnu on earth.
QUESTION 44.
Which of the following books was codified as the The Gentoo Laws by the British Government?
a) Rig Veda
b) Manusmriti
c) Mundaka Upanishad
d) Adi Purana
Correct Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (b)
In 18 th C the British Government codified some laws of Manusmriti under the title, A code of Gentoo laws.
It was drafted in 1776.
QUESTION 45.
Which of the following school of Arts have got Greeco Roman influences?
a) Gandhara School
b) Mathura School
c) Amravati School
d) Both a and c
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Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (a)
Gandhara School of Art:
Hellenistic = Greek + Persian + Indian
Themes Buddha and his life were themes of this art.
These statues were found in Kabul Banmiyan (this was destroyed by Taliban few years ago), Kandahar,
Bagram, Heart and Taxila.
They were mostly made of mud, schist, sandstone and plaster .
The statues were mostly made in standing position .
They depicted Buddha in Greco Roman style .
Hairstyle Curly (Greek)
Ears Long elongated (Roman)
Eyes Sharp (Greek)
Faces Flat and expressionless (Greek)
Muscles muscular (Roman and Greek Gods like apolo and Zeus)
QUESTION 46.
Chanakya Niti of Sam, Daam , Dand and Bheda is mentioned in which of the following books?
a) Mudrarakshas
b) Devichandraguptam
c) Arthashastra
d) Buddhacharita
Correct Answer: A
Your Answer: A
Explanation
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Solution (a)
Chanakya Niti is mentioned in Mudrarakshas. In order to get the work done, one need to use the following
tools Sam (agreement), Dam (bribe), Dand (attack) and Bheda(divide).
It was written by VIshakhadutta in Sanskrit during Gupta Period.
QUESTION 47.
Which of the following statements regarding Harshavardhan are correct?
1. Harsha made Nalanda as his Capital.
2. He patronized Shaivism as well as Buddhism.
3. He defeated Pulakesin II on the banks of Narmada. This is first time a South Indian king is defeated by a
North Indian king.
Select the code from following:
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3
c) 2 only
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: C
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (c)
Important points regarding Harshavardhan:
He belonged to Pushyabhati dynasti.
His elder brother, Rajya Vardhan, was killed by Shashank, the king of Bengal. He is the same Shashank
who chopped off the Bodhi tree.
Harsha took revenge and defeated Shashank.
Harsha made Kannauj as his capital.
The main source of Harsha is Harshacharita his biography written by Banbhatta. Its the first biography of
an Indian king. (Remember, the first biography ever written in India is that of Buddha that we have
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discussed before.) Banbhatta also wrote Kadambri a Sanskrit play.
Harsha himself wrote three dramas:
Priyadarshika
Nagananda
Ratnavali
According to the Aihole Inscription, Pulakesin II (A chalukyan king) defeated Harsha on the banks of river
Narmada. This is the first instance when a South Indian king had defeated a north Indian king.
Harshavardhan was a Shaivite and later converted to Buddhism by Huen Tsang. He patronized both
Shaivism and Buddhism.
QUESTION 48.
A festival called Mahamokshaparishad held at every 5 years at Prayag (Allahabad) in which Shiva,
Ganesha and Buddha were worshipped. The fourth day was reserved for donations. Who of the following
kings patronized this festival?
a) Kanishka
b) Samudragupta
c) Chandragupta II
d) Harshavardhan
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: C
Explanation
Solution (d)
Harshavardhan was a follower of Shiva and Buddha Both. He was a Shaivite and later converted to
Buddhist by Huin Tsang.
He organized Mahamokshaparishad , a festival held at every 5 years at Prayag.
QUESTION 49.
Which of the following statements are correct differences between Huen Tsang and Fa Hien?
1. Fa Hien came through land route and returned from the same route while Huen Tsang came from land
route and returned from sea route.
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2. Fa Hein came to India to collect Buddhist texts while Huen Tsang came to India to study at Nalanda .
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: B
Your Answer: A
Explanation
Solution (b)
The first statement is wrong. Fa Hien came through the land route from China. He travelled across India
and collected sacred Buddhist texts and returned from sea route. While Huen Tsang came to India to study
at Nalanda. He taught at Nalanda for 9 years as well and returned from the same land route.
QUESTION 50.
Huen Tsang wrote in great detail about Nalanda University. Which of the following points did he mention
about Nalanda ?
1. There was an entrance test for Nalanda .
2. 10,000 monks lived there including teachers and students.
3. 200 villages were assigned for the maintenance of Nalanda .
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 2
d) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Your Answer: B
Explanation
Solution (d)
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Huen Tsang came to study at Nalanda, where he studied Yogashastra and also taught for 9 years. He
wrote in detail about Nalanda.
There was an entrance test for Nalanda.
10,000 monks lived there, included teachers and students. (based on archeological findings, modern
historians believe that this was an exaggerated number.)
200 villages were assigned for the maintenance of Nalanda.
This institution attracted large number of scholars from SE Asia.
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Correct Answer: B Your Answer: B Explanation

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Exam Title : 3) ANCIENT HISTORY

Source: Old NCERT Ancient history Class XI

Select the code from below:

Source: Old NCERT Ancient history Class XI

For more detail, read ancient history value add.

a) They believed in life after death

Source: Value Add

1. Harappa Great Bath

3. Kotdigi Bricked port

Which of the above are correctly matched?

None of the above are correctly matched.

Great Bath and a great granary is at Mohenjodaro.

12 granaries are at Harappa. (6 in each row)

Kotdigi is an industrial town. Bead factory was found there.

Bricked port was found a Lothal.

a) All pictographic scripts.

Source: Value Add

a) World Trade Organization

Treaty international law (binding)

Agreement -an understanding between entities to follow a specific course of conduct

a) providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs

It is under the Ministry of Earth Science, Govt. of India.

1. They cannot engage in the acquisition of securities issued by the government.

2. They cannot accept demand deposits like Savings Account.

3. They do not lend to agricultural activity

4. They do not lend to industrial activity

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. Dampa Tiger Reserve : Mizoram

2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary : Sikkim

3. Saramati Peak : Nagaland

Choose the appropriate code

Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary - Tripura

Saramati Peak - Nagaland

Dampa Tiger Reserve - Mizoram

2. Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

3. Annual Survey of Industries (ASI)

4. Wholesale Price Index (WPI)

Choose the appropriate code

WPI is released by DIPP

National Income, CPI and ASI is released by CSO

Select the code from below:

Also gold and silver was used.

Which of the above statements are correct?

Source: Value Add

Shweta Yajurveda is in Poetic form while Shyama Yajurveda is in prose form.

1. The early Vedic people settled in lower Ganga plains.

3. Society was divided on the basis of hereditary castes.

Which of the above statements are incorrect?

Source: Value Add

Source: Value Add

Note: This is a previous year UPSC question.

1. Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV)

2. Measles, Rubella (MR) vaccine

3. Adult Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine

Select the correct code

Universal Immunization Programme is a vaccination program launched by the Government of India in

1. Mixing of warm and cold water currents in oceans.

2. Run-off from the land during the monsoon.

3. Upwelling in the seas.

4. Discharge of phosphorus-containing sewage in oceans.

5. Increase of salt in sea.

Select the correct answer from the codes given below