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TEST BOOKLET

GENERAL STUDIES PAPER – I

CIVILSTAP CURRENT AFFAIRS TEST SERIES

Time Allowed: Two Hours Maximum Marks: 200

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TEST - I

1. With reference to the National Knowledge Network (NKN), consider the following statements:

1. It is a multi-gigabit pan-India resource sharing network which aims to connect all universities, research institutions, libraries across the country

2. India has started to extend its KNK to research and educational networks in foreign countries

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

2. What is ‘DS Faraday’, a term recently seen in the news?

(a) Wheat variety (b) Electromagnetic wave (c) Object in the outer space (d) New element in the periodic table

3. With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), which of the following statement is/are correct?

1. It is a health insurance scheme launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

2. One of the components of PMSSY is the setting up of AIIMS like institutions in India

Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

4. What is ‘GAVI’, a term sometimes

seen in the news?

(a) a global vaccine alliance (b) a web-portal connecting all the schools in India

(c) an indigenous satellite launch vehicle (d) a government portal for defence procurement

5. Which of the following statements

is/are correct regarding ‘The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)’?

1. It is an organization coming under the Ministry of Tourism

2. It was founded in 1950 by Independent India’s first Education Minister

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

6. With reference to the Electoral Bond Scheme, consider the following statements:

1. Any Indian resident or incorporated body (such as a company) is eligible to purchase an electoral bond

2. The bonds will have to mandatorily carry the name of the purchaser

3. The bonds can be encashed by parties only through a designated account with an authorized bank

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect? (a) 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 only

7. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the New

Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC)?

1. It is a statutory body established to conduct arbitration, mediation, and conciliation proceedings

2. It subsumes the International Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution

3. It will be headed by the Union Minister of External Affairs

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 2 and 3 only




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(b) 1 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

8. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the e-Samvad portal?

1. It is an online platform for NGOs and Civil Societies to interact with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

2. It would help the government in the formulation of effective policies and measures based on the feedbacks/suggestions provided by the NGOs


9. What is 'Parker Solar Probe', recently in the news?

(a) Mankind’s first mission to touch the Sun launched by NASA

(b) Mankind’s first mission to enter the outer space launched by NASA

(c) Mission to test the presence of water on Mars launched by NASA

(d) Mankind’s first mission to touch the Sun launched by ISRO

10. The term ‘Retrotransposons’

seen in the news refers to?

(a) Small genetic sequences that can lead to mutation in their host’s genome

(b) Small genetic sequences that act as scissors to cut the sections of their host’s genome

(c) Small genetic sequences that have the ability to replicate and position themselves in new locations in their host’s genome

(d) Small genetic sequences that are responsible for divisions of cells in their host’s genome

11. With reference to India’s FDI Policy in Single Brand Retail Trading, consider the following

statements:

1. 100% FDI in Single Brand Retail Trading is allowed under the automatic route

2. A Single Brand Retail Chain is expected to sell all its products under only one label across its stores in India

3. In cases, where the FDI exceeds 51%, 30% of the value of goods purchased must be from India

Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only 1 (b) 1 and 3 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 1, 2, 3

12. The term ‘The National Register of Citizens’ seen in the news is related to which of the following states in India?

(a) Jammu and Kashmir (b) Manipur (c) Assam (d) Telangana

13. Recently, our scientists have discovered a new frog species which has been named after wildlife scientist Mewa Singh. This species belongs to a genus endemic to the Western Ghats.

This species has been discovered in which of the following wildlife sanctuary?

(a) Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary (b) Tansa Sanctuary

(c) Cotigao Sanctuary (d) Dandeli Sanctuary

14. The term, ‘Channel Stuffing’ in business refers to which of the following?

(a) A business practice wherein a company resorts to unfair means





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to sell its goods/services to the end consumers

(b) A business practice wherein a company resorts to international channels to market its goods/services

(c) A business practice wherein a company takes more credit than it can repay for the production of goods/services in a year

(d) A business practice wherein a company produces and delivers more goods to retailers than what would be sold successfully to end consumers

15. The terms, ‘Ethereum’,

‘Ripple’, ‘Monero’, ‘Dash’ often heard in news are types of which of the following?

(a) Supercomputers (b) Cryptocurrencies (c) Software Programming

Languages (d) Digital Payment Systems

16. With reference to the ‘National Clean Air Programme’, consider the following statements:

1. The goal of the NCAP is to meet the prescribed annual average ambient air quality standards at all locations in the country in a stipulated timeframe (long-term)

2. This will be a mid-term, five-year action plan to begin with keeping 2019 as the first year

3. The target of NCAP is 20-30% reduction of PM2.5 and PM10 concentration by 2024 keeping 2019 as the base year for comparison of concentration

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 3 only (b) 1 and 3 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 1, 2 and 3

17. With reference to Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana,

consider the following

statements:

1. It was launched in the year 2017 by the Ministry of Finance

2. LIC has been given the sole privilege to operate the scheme

3. It provides social security during old age and to protect elderly persons aged 55 years and above

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

18. With reference to the ‘National Tobacco Control Programme’, consider the following statement:

1. It was launched in the year 2007-08 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

2. One of the objectives of the programme is to ensure effective implementation of the provisions under COPTA, 2003

3. The National Tobacco Control Cell (NTCC) is responsible for overall policy formulation, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the different activities envisaged under the programme

Which of the statement(s) given above is/ are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

19. ‘Mission Raftar’ seen in the news relates to which of the following?

(a) Doubling the rate at which the Indian economy is growing

(b) Increasing the proportion of passengers travelling by air route

(c) Speeding up India’s progress towards achieving the SDGs

(d) Doubling of average speed of freight trains




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20. Consider the following statements in respect of the ‘Khelo India Programme’:

1. It has been introduced to revive sports culture in India at the grass-root level and to gorge tie-ups with various international sports organizations

2. The revamped Khelo India Programme aims to achieve the twin objectives of mass participation and Promotion of excellence in sports

3. The Khelo India logo has been designed by Ogilvy India

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? (a) 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

21. Consider the following statements about the Indian

Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS): 1. It has three satellites in

geosynchronous orbit and four satellites in geostationary orbit.

2. It can service regions extending up to 1500 km around India's boundary.

3. It has a total of nine satellites of which six are currently in orbit.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

22. Consider the following statements:

1. Neutrinos are tiny elementary particles that are part of atoms.

2. The India-based Neutrino Observatory is proposed to be set up in Theni district of Tamil Nadu.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

23. ‘Walong tri-junction’ was in the news recently. It is a junction between which of the following

countries?

(a) India, China, Pakistan (b) India, Bhutan, China (c) India, China, Myanmar (d) China, Russia, Mongolia


1. Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is a satellite launched by the European Space Agency to catalog exoplanets.

2. Exoplanets are planets that remain undiscovered in our solar system.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

25. Consider the following statements about the Brahmos Missile:

1. It has been indigenously developed by India.

2. It is the fastest cruise missile in the world.

3. It travels at a speed faster than the speed of sound.

Which of the above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the above

26. Consider the following statements about Pink Moon:

1. The full moon in April is called Pink Moon.

2. It is called so because it is Pink in colour.




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Which of the above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

27. Consider the following statements about North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR):

1. It is an autonomous society under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.

2. It has a vision to expand the benefits of technology for inclusive economic development of the North East.


28. Consider the following statements about the Fugitive

Economic Offenders Act, 2018:

1. It covers economic offences of at least Rs. 50 crores.

2. Counterfeiting currency is one of the offences listed in the Act.


29. Consider the following

statements about Pectinophora gossypiella:

1. It is commonly known as Pink bollworm.

2. It is a pest that attacks cotton crops.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

30. With reference to the "Student Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana

(READY), consider the following statements:

1. It is an initiative of Indian Council of Agricultural Research

2. It has been started for the rural youth employed in agriculture sector


31. With reference to the "Central

Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), consider the following statements:

1. It is designated as the Central Authority to deal with inter-country adoptions

2. It is a statutory body 3. It has allowed individuals in a

live-in relationship to adopt children within India

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

32. With reference to the "India-based Neutrino Observatory", consider the following statements:

1. The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research is the nodal institution for this project

2. 1500 crore has been allocated for this project





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33. "Regional Aviation Partnership" sometimes mentioned in the news, is related

to which of the following organization?

(a) BRICS (b) ASEAN (c) G7 (d) BIMSTEC

34. With reference to the "Chandrayaan-2", consider the following statements:

1. It is only a lunar orbiter, developed by India

2. It is India's second lunar exploration mission

3. It will be launched to the moon by GSLV Mark III

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

35. The term "Generic Drug" is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statement best describes this term?

(a) These are the drugs, which are not approved by the CDSCO

(b) These are inferior drug to brand-name drug as they are being manufactured in poor-quality facilities

(c) These are the cheaper and more effective alternative to brand-name drugs

(d) These are the copies of the brand-name drugs that have exactly the same use and effects

36. With reference to the "Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA)",

consider the following statements:

1. It is an institution of national importance

2. Vice-President of India is the ex-officio President of ICWA

Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

37. With reference to the "Swachh Survekshan Grameen, 2018", consider the following

statements:

1. It has been launched in only 100 districts of the country

2. Citizen's feedback is one of the parameters for ranking



1. Golden jackal is listed as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List

2. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

39. With reference to the "Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, consider the following statements:

1. It prescribes a prison term of up to seven years and up to ₹5 lakh in fine for calling a person witch

2. Every offense under the Act has been made “cognizable, non-bailable and non-compoundable

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only




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(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

40. With reference to the Genetically Modified (GM) Crops, consider the following

statements:

1. India ranks 2nd in global cultivation of GM crops

2. BT Cotton is the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India


41. Which one of the following best describes the term "Net

Neutrality" sometimes seen in news?

(a) It is a method to ensure that all telecom companies are charging uniform prices for internet access

(b) It is a principle that Internet Service Providers should not discriminate and treat all internet communications equally

(c) It is an initiative by Indian government to make uniform Data Privacy policies for all

(d) It is a principle that there should not be discrimination on the placement of websites on search engines

42. With reference to the "Ease of doing business ranking of states, 2018", consider the following statements:

1. It has been released by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs

2. It is based on the scores of states in Business Reform Action Plan

3. Andhra Pradesh has topped the list

Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 only (d) 1,2 and 3

43. Consider the following pairs:

Satellites sometimes mentioned in news

Objective

1. GRACE-FO Monitor changes in sea level rise and ice melt

2. ICESat-2 Measuring ice sheet elevation and sea ice thickness

3. ASNARO-2 Earth-Imaging Which of the pair(s) given above is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

44. Section 497 of Indian Penal Code is related to:

(a) Cyber Crime (b) Child Labour (c) Domestic Violence (d) Adultery

45. "Nano-technology" has applications in which of the following?

1. Precise drug delivery 2. Faster recharge of batteries 3. Improved air quality 4. Cancer treatment 5. Better packaging of food Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2, 3 and 5 only (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

46. With reference to the "Salicornia Plant", mentioned




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often in the news, consider the following statements:

1. It grows in salty marshes in the mangrove wetlands

2. It is used in the treatment of hypertension and diabetes

3. India is the largest producer of this plant

Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

47. In the Indian context, what is

the implication of becoming the "Institutions of Eminence"?

1. They would be given significant autonomy in operations

2. Grant of 1000 crore would be provided to them over 5 years

3. IIT Kharagpur has been declared as the Institution of Eminence

Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

48. With reference to "DigiLocker", consider the following statements:

1. It is available only for Indian citizens

2. It is a part of Digital India Initiative

3. Ministry of Railways has approved digital Aadhaar and Driving Licence from DigiLocker as proof of identity of passengers

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

49. With reference to the "Global Housing Technology challenge",

consider the following statements:

1. It has been launched under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban in India

2. It has been launched by the International Federation for Housing and Planning


50. With reference to the

provisions made under the DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018, consider the following statements:

1. It provides for the establishment of regional DNA data banks

2. Written consent by individuals is required to collect DNA samples from them

Which of the statements/s given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

51. With reference to the Water and Power Consultancy Services (India) Limited, consider the following statements:

1. It is a body under the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation

2. It is a Navratna company Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

52. Consider the following statements about Coal Mine




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Surveillance & Management System:

1. It is a GIS application through which the location of sites for unauthorized mining can be detected

2. It has been launched by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology

Which of the statements/s given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

53. With reference to the Recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks Scheme, which of the following statement(s) is/are

correct?

1. It will enable RRBs to maintain the minimum prescribed CRAR of 9%

2. It has been extended upto the year 2022

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

54. HSV1 virus is sometimes

mentioned in the news with reference to which of the following diseases?

(a) AIDS (b) Swine flu (c) Herpes (d) Alzheimer’s

55. Consider the following statements about the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite

System (IRNSS):

1. IRNSS 1I is the eighth satellite in the satellite system.

2. IRNSS will help in land navigation only.

Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

56. With reference to ‘North Eastern Council’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a statutory body with governors and chief ministers of all the eight north eastern states as its members.

2. Union Home-Minister is ex-officio chairman of this council.


57. With reference to ‘Swajal Scheme’, consider the following statements:

1. It has been launched by the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

2. Under this scheme, Government aims to provide villages with piped water supply powered by solar energy.


58. ‘Pinaka’ sometimes seen in news refers to:

(a) A multi-barrel rocket launcher (b) An application for grievance

redressal (c) A card payment scheme (d) A portal that enables NGOs to

enrol centrally




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59. Which of the following statement/s is/are correct in context of ‘World Blood Donors

day’?

1. It has been instituted by United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

2. It is one of the eight official global public health campaigns marked by WHO


60. With reference to ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a multi-lateral export control regime.

2. It was founded in response to the Indian nuclear test in 1974.

3. In 2018, Estonia became the first Baltic state to chair the NSG.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3

61. With reference to “SCOs

Qingdao Declaration 2018”, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It calls for implementing three-year plan to combat terrorism, separatism and extremism.

2. India is the only country to refuse to endorse One Belt, One Road (OBOR) project as part of this declaration.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

62. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct in context of ‘Nipah Virus Infection’?

1. It is transmitted to humans through animals

2. It was first identified in 1999 in Malaysia and Singapore

3. Chickens are the natural host of this virus

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

63. ‘Credit Enhancement Fund’ launched by the Union Government aims to:

(a) Provide education loan for students of economically weaker sections

(b) Facilitate Infrastructure investments by insurance and pension funds

(c) Facilitate farmers with credit availability

(d) Facilitate infrastructure for Women Safety

64. Which of the following pair/s is/are correctly matched?

Temples Places

1. Sabarimala Temple

Kerala

2. Raghavendra Swamy Temple

Tamil Nadu

3. Brahma Sarovar Temple

Haryana

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

65. With reference to ‘Composite Water Management Index’, which

of the following statement/s is/are correct?




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1. It aims to inspire States/UTs towards efficient and optimal utilization of water and recycling.

2. It is released by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.


66. Consider the following pairs and identify the correct one/s:

Regions / Cities seen in news

Country

Gaza Israel Caracas Venezuela Sulawesi China

Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 only (d) None of the above

67. Operation Samudra Maitri was in news recently, which of the following correctly describes it?

(a) It is the name of joint naval exercise held recently between India and Sri Lanka

(b) It is the name of maritime exercise held recently between India and Bangladesh

(c) It was the relief operation launched by India to provide relief assistance to earthquake and tsunami victims in Indonesia

(d) It was a rescue operation conducted by Indian navy to rescue a Bangladeshi commercial vessel in the Indian Ocean Region

68. “Wooferendum march” was seen in news recently. Which of the following correctly describes it?

(a) It was a march campaign organised by the animal activists

for seeking protection for stray dogs

(b) It was a march organised to seek protection from the menace of stray dogs

(c) It was a march by Anti-Brexit protesters for seeking new referendum on BREXIT

(d) It was a march by the people in United Kingdom to hold a new referendum on the issue of Scotland

69. In context of Index of Eight Core Industries, which of the following is/are correct?

1. Between the period 2012-13 to 2017-18, there has been a steady annual growth in the overall output of the eight core industries.

2. Among the eight core industries, ‘Petroleum Refinery production’ has the maximum and ‘fertilizer production’ the minimum weight.

Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2

70. In context of Index of Eight Core Industries, which of the following is/are incorrect?

1. Between the period from 2012-13 to 2017-18, the rate of growth in the overall output of the eight core industries has been uniform.

2. In the same time period, the overall output of the eight core industries has been increasing steadily.


71. Recently China conducted a maiden test flight of an aircraft called as AG600. Consider the




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following statements regarding it and identify the correct one/s:

1. It has been indigenously designed and built by China

2. It has been code named as ‘Kunlong’

3. It has been designed to be the world’s largest amphibious aircraft

Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only

(d) All of the above

72. Consider the following pairs and identify the correct one/s:

Cyclones recently in news

Affected Region

Leslie Arabian Peninsula

Titli Eastern Coast of India

Luban Iberian Peninsula

Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 only (d) All of the above

73. The term “ASMR” was seen in

news recently. Which of the following correctly describes it?

(a) It is an anti-aircraft missile technology.

(b) It is a type of missile defence system intended to shield a country against incoming missile.

(c) It is an experience characterized by a tingling sensation on the skin that typically begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine.

(d) None of the above

74. Consider the following statements regarding “Self4Society” platform:

1. It is the premier workspace for Electronics and IT corporates to organise employee engagements for social work.

2. It comprises of an ‘admin portal’ and a ‘mobile app’.

Which of the above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2

75. Consider the following statements regarding “Main Nahin Hum App”:

1. It is one of the components under the ‘Self4Society Platform’.

2. It provides an IT tool to track the progress of various government initiatives.

Which of the above is / are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

76. An antibody known as “p95HER2-TCB” was seen in news recently. It has been developed to

treat which of the following

(a) Tuberculosis (b) AIDS (c) Breast Cancer (d) Nipah infection

77. Cyclone Titli was in news recently, which of the following state/s was/were impacted by it?

1. Odisha 2. Andhra Pradesh 3. West Bengal 4. Tamil Nadu Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) All of the above

78. In context of Ease of Doing Business Index, which of the




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following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It ranks countries of the world across 10 indicators.

2. India jumped 77 ranks in Ease of Doing Business Index 2018.


79. Consider the following statements regarding “World Economic Outlook” and identify the incorrect one/s:

1. It is an annual flagship report of the World Bank.

2. The report of 2018 was released during annual meet of World Bank and IMF held at Bali, Indonesia.


80. National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation was

sometimes seen in news. Which of the following statement/s regarding it is/are correct?

1. It will function under Department of Health Research.

2. It will serve as institution of excellence for capacity building in human resource and research in area of mental health rehabilitation.

3. Union Cabinet has decided to set it up in Sehore District, Madhya Pradesh.

Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only

81. With reference to ‘Seva Bhoj yojana’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It has been introduced by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution

2. The scheme envisages reimbursing the Central Government share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST).

3. Under this Yojana, eligible religious institution shall first register with Darpan Portal.

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

82. Which of the following sailing vessel is related to the ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’?

(a) INSV Tarini (b) INSV Mhadei (c) INSV Tarangini (d) INSV Sudarshini

83. With reference to ‘Benami Transaction Informants Reward

Scheme’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It has been launched by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

2. Its objective is to obtain people’s participation in the efforts to unearth black money and to reduce tax evasion.

3. A person can get a reward up to Rs. 1 Lakh for giving specific information.

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

84. Consider the following pairs:




15

Islands Country Sylt Denmark Socotra Yemen Corsica France

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

85. Ensemble Prediction System’ launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences pertains to?

(a) Traffic estimation and prediction (b) Weather forecast (c) Effective heart disease prediction (d) Tsunami prediction

86. In context of ‘Kashmir Super

50’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It is a joint initiative by Indian Army, Center for Social Responsibility and Leadership (CSRL) and PETRONET LNG Limited

2. It has been launched to transform the educational status of children from economically weaker sections in the Kashmir region


87. With reference to ‘Lithium-ion

Batteries’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. These are common rechargeable batteries for portable electronics, with a high energy density, no memory effect and low self-discharge.

2. A group of students at IIT, Delhi has developed an indigenous technology of Lithium-ion cells.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

88. In context of ‘Public Credit Registry’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It is an information repository that collates all loan information of individuals and corporate borrowers.

2. It has been set up on the recommendations of a committee headed by Viral Acharya.

3. It has been set up by the Reserve Bank of India.

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

89. With reference to ‘Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project (DRIP), which of the

following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It has been launched under Ministry of Drinking water and sanitation

2. It was launched in 2012 by Central Water Commission


90. Which of the following gives ‘Global Peace Index’ ranking to the countries of the world?

(a) World Economic Forum (b) UN Human Rights Council (c) Institute for Economics and Peace (d) International Monetary Fund




16

91. Consider the following statements regarding Eco Sensitive Zones:

1. These are also called Ecologically Vulnerable Areas.

2. These are regulated by the respective state governments.

3. These zones are mentioned in the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

4. Elephant Corridors come under such zones

Which of the above statement(s) is/are incorrect? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 4 only (c) 4 only (d) All of the above

92. Consider the following statements regarding “Kamorta”:

1. It is a class of Indian Navy anti-submarine warfare stealth corvettes to be built in India

2. It is a village in the Nicobar district of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Which of the above statement(s) is/ are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2

93. The Public Sector

Undertakings (PSU) index is:

(a) listed on BSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the BSE 500 index

(b) listed on NSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the NIFTY 50 index

(c) listed on BSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the NIFTY 50 index

(d) listed on BSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the BSE 30 index

94. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has awarded Asia Environment Enforcement Award 2018 to which of the

following?

(a) World Wildlife Fund for conservation of endangered species

(b) Wildlife Crime Control Bureau for work done in combating transboundary environmental crime

(c) Food and Agriculture Organization for its efforts in defeating hunger

(d) Both a and b

95. Consider the following statements regarding Model Code of Conduct:

1) It has been given a statutory status.

2) It can come into action before polls are announced.

Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) None is correct (d) Both are correct

96. The Regional Integrated Multi Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) was in news recently.

Consider the following statements regarding RIMES:

1. It is an inter governmental body registered under the United Nations.

2. It seeks to establish an early warning system for cyclones and earthquakes only.

Which of the above statement/s is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

97. Consider the following statements related to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs):

1. These are the tribes within the ST category which are more vulnerable among the tribal groups.




17

2. These were earlier known as Primitive Tribal Groups

3. These are identified and approved by the Central Ministry of Tribal Affairs

Which of the above statement/s is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 only

98. Consider the following statements regarding “Constitution Day”:

1. It is celebrated in order to mark the coming into effect of the Constitution of India.

2. It is celebrated on 26th Nov every year.

Which of the above statement/s is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2


1. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 extends to the whole of India.

2. Election Commission of India has the power to oversee the establishment of electoral rolls as well as organize elections for legislative assembly and council in Jammu and Kashmir.

Which of the above statement/s is/are incorrect? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

100. RFID tags are being increasingly used these days for identifying and tracking objects.

What is the full form of RFID?

(a) Radio Frequency Identification Device

(b) Real Feedback Identification Device

(c) Radio Feedback Identification Device

(d) None of the above




18




19

ABHYAAS – 2019 – CURRENT AFFAIRS TEST

SERIES

SOLUTION PDF

TEST 1

• Each test contains 100 MCQs framed from the most important sources namely

The Hindu, The Indian Express, LiveMint, PIB and PRS

• Current affairs of national and international importance are covered from Jan

2018 to May 2019 for UPSC Prelims 2019 to be held on 2nd June 2019.

• All tests can be attempted online as well as offline (through downloadable

question paper)Each question is accompanied with detailed EXPLANATION

• You can get in touch with us over call and whatsapp – 8146207241 as well as

email – [email protected]

• Visit our website – www.civilstap.com




http://www.civilstap.com/

http://www.civilstap.com/



20

Question 1

DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes

With reference to the National Knowledge Network (NKN), consider the following

statements:

1. It is a multi-gigabit pan-India resource sharing network which aims to connect all

universities, research institutions, libraries across the country

2. India has started to extend its KNK to research and educational networks in

foreign countries

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a. 1 only

b. 2 only

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

• In January 2018, India kicked off the process of appointing a telecom company

that will connect and extend its state-of-the art National Knowledge Network

(NKN) to research and education networks in six South Asian Association of

Regional Cooperation member states — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan,

Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

• Pakistan is the only SAARC nation that has been left out of this initiative.

• In March 2019, India has decided to extend its National Knowledge Network to

Bangladesh.

About NKN:

• It is aimed at digitally connecting all national universities, colleges and

research establishments to create “country-wide virtual classrooms”.

• For example, it enables collaboration among researchers from different

educational networks such as TEIN4, GARUDA, CERN and Internet2.

• It also aims to connect laboratories, healthcare and agricultural institutions

across the country.

• The leading mission-oriented agencies in the fields of nuclear, space and

defence research are also part of NKN.




21

• This project was initiated in the year 2009.

• Currently, this programme is a component of umbrella, ‘Digital India

Programme’.

It provides three types of services:

• Generic services like Internet, Intranet, e-Mail, Messaging Gateways, SMS

Gateway etc.

• Community Services like Shared Storage, e-Mail List Software Application

(LISTSERV), International Collaborations with EU-India Grid, Global Ring Network

for Advanced Applications Development (GLORIAD) etc.

• Special Services like Virtual Private Network Stitching Services.

So, in one line we can sum up that KNK is a revolutionary step towards creating a knowledge society without boundaries. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-excludes-

pakistan-from-a-saarc-initiative/articleshow/62345991.cms

Question 2

DOMAIN - Science and Tech

What is ‘DS Faraday’, a term recently seen in the news? a. Wheat variety

b. Electromagnetic wave

c. Object in the outer space

d. New element in the periodic table

CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

Australian scientists have developed the world’s first ‘speed breeding’ technique that

can boost the production of the crop by up to three times.

What is DS Faraday?

• Using this ‘speed breeding’ technique, the scientists have developed a high

protein, milling wheat variety, DS Faraday which is tolerant to pre-harvest

sprouting.

About the speed breeding technique:


https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-excludes-pakistan-from-a-saarc-initiative/articleshow/62345991.cms






22

• This technique has been inspired from NASA’s experiments to grow wheat in

space.

• The NASA experiments involved using continuous light on wheat which

triggered early reproduction in the plants.

• The scientists used this idea in specially modified glasshouses to grow six

generations of wheat, chickpea and barley plants and four generations of canola

plants in a single year – as opposed to two or three generations in a regular

glasshouse, or a single generation in the field.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/nasa-inspired-speed-breeding-

method-boosts-wheat-production/articleshow/62336506.cms

Question 3


With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY)’, which of the

following statement is/are correct?

1. It is a health insurance scheme launched by the Ministry of Health and Family

Welfare

2. One of the components of PMSSY is the setting up of AIIMS like institutions in

India

Select the correct answer using the code given below. a. 1 only

b. 2 only

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

The Union Cabinet approved setting up of an AIIMS in Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh in

January 2018 under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Surakhsa Yojna (PMSSY).

The Statement No.1 is incorrect.

The Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) was announced with

objectives of correcting regional imbalances in the availability of affordable/ reliable


https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/nasa-inspired-speed-breeding-method-boosts-wheat-production/articleshow/62336506.cms






23

tertiary healthcare services and also to augment facilities for quality medical education

in the country.

PMSSY has two components:

(i) Setting up of AIIMS like Institutions

(ii) Upgradation of Government Medical College Institutions

When was the scheme launched?

In his Independence Day speech on 15th August 2003 the then Hon’ble Prime Minister

had announced the setting up of six AIIMS type hospitals under Pradhan Mantri

Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). The scheme was approved in March 2006.

What is the total number of AIIMS?

Phase and Year of

announcement in Budget

AIIMS like institutions Total number

of AIIMS

Phase I (2006) Bihar (Patna), Chhattisgarh (Raipur),

Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal), Orissa

(Bhubaneswar), Rajasthan (Jodhpur)

and Uttaranchal (Rishikesh)

6

Phase II (2009) West Bengal (Shifted to Phase IV),

Uttar Pradesh (Rae Bareli)

1

Phase III (2013) No new AIIMS 0

Phase IV (2014-15) Andhra Pradesh (Mangalagiri),

Maharashtra (Nagpur), Uttar Pradesh

(Gorakhpur), West Bengal (Kalyani)

4

Phase V (2015-16) Jammu, Kashmir, Punjab, Tamil

Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, Assam and

Bihar

7

Phase V A (2016-17) No new AIIMS 0

Phase VI (2017-18) Gujarat and Jharkhand 2

Phase VI A Telangana 1

Phase VII (2019-20) Haryana 1

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/cabinet-nod-for-aiims-in-

himachal-pradesh/article22359283.ece


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/cabinet-nod-for-aiims-in-himachal-pradesh/article22359283.ece






24

Question 4

DOMAIN - International News

What is ‘GAVI’, a term sometimes seen in the news? a. a global vaccine alliance

b. a web-portal connecting all the schools in India

c. an indigenous satellite launch vehicle

d. a government portal for defence procurement

CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

In January 2018, The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) has created

a $50-million new cold chain fund and it plans to tap the huge potential in India, which

has recently embarked on Mission Indradhanush to push vaccines for all children in

India.

What is GAVI?

Gavi, based in Geneva, Switzerland, is an international organisation that was created

in 2000 to bring together the best of what key UN agencies, governments, the vaccine

industry, private sector and civil society had to offer in order to improve childhood

immunisation coverage in poor countries and to accelerate access to new vaccines.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/gavi-to-help-modernise-vaccine-

storage-in-india-with-50million-fund/article8082674.ece


https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/gavi-to-help-modernise-vaccine-storage-in-india-with-50million-fund/article8082674.ece






25

Question 5

DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding ‘The Indian Council for

Cultural Relations (ICCR)’?

1. It is an organization coming under the Ministry of Tourism

2. It was founded in 1950 by Independent India’s first Education Minister

Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 only

b. 2 only

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context:

In January 2018, the President Ram Nath Kovind appointed Rajya Sabha MP Vinay

Sahasrabuddhe as the President of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR).

About ICCR:

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) was founded in 1950 by Maulana Abul

Kalam Azad, independent India’s first Education Minister.

It is an autonomous organisation of the Government of India, tasked with

strengthening India’s external cultural relations through exchanges with other

countries and their people.

https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/bjp-s-sahasrabuddhe-

appointed-iccr-president-117122901082_1.html


https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/bjp-s-sahasrabuddhe-appointed-iccr-president-117122901082_1.html






26

Question 6


With reference to the Electoral Bond Scheme, consider the following statements:

1. Any Indian resident or incorporated body (such as a company) is eligible to

purchase an electoral bond

2. The bonds will have to mandatorily carry the name of the purchaser

3. The bonds can be encashed by parties only through a designated account with

an authorized bank

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect?

a. 3 only

b. 1 and 2 only

c. 2 and 3 only

d. 1 only

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context:

The Scheme of electoral bonds was announced as part of the Union Budget 2017-18. It

was notified by the Ministry of Finance in January 2018.

Under the scheme, a new instrument called an electoral bond will be issued to make

donations to political parties.

Firstly, what is an electoral bond?

• It is a bond issued in the nature of promissory note which shall be a bearer

banking instrument.

• It neither carries the name of the buyer nor the payee.

• A bearer instrument is one where no ownership information is recorded and

the holder of the instrument is presumed to be the owner.

• The one (eligible political party in this case) in possession of the electoral bond is

entitled to encash the same.

Let us have a look at the features of the scheme:




27

• Any Indian citizen or an incorporated body (such as a company) will be eligible

to purchase an electoral bond.

• A person can buy electoral bonds, either single or jointly with other

individuals.

The purchaser will have to make the payment from his bank account and

comply with the Know Your Customer norms of the bank. The bonds will not

carry the name of the purchaser.

• These bonds will be issued by certain branches of the State Bank of India in

multiples of: (i) Rs 1,000, (ii) Rs 10,000, (iii) Rs one lakh, (iv) Rs ten lakh, and (v)

Rs one crore.

• Electoral bonds may only be used to make donations to registered political

parties (A party should be registered under section 29A of the Representation

of the People Act) which secured at least 1% of the votes in the last Lok Sabha

or State Assembly election. These bonds can be encashed by parties only

through a designated account with an authorised bank.

• Electoral bonds will be available for 10 days each in January, April, July and

October. Bonds will be available for purchase for another 30 days in the year of

the Lok Sabha elections.

• The bonds will have to be encashed within 15 days of issue and will not be

eligible for trading.

• The contribution made by an individual/company through an electoral bond

will be exempt from income tax as per Sections 80GGC/80GGB of the Income

Tax Act. Further, the contribution received by any eligible political party in the

form of electoral bonds will be exempt from income tax as per Section 13A of

the Income Tax act.

Important point to note:

Donations below Rs.2000 can still be received in cash by the political parties.




28

Question 7

DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the New Delhi International

Arbitration Centre (NDIAC)?

1. It is a statutory body established to conduct arbitration, mediation, and

conciliation proceedings

2. It subsumes the International Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution

3. It will be headed by the Union Minister of External Affairs

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a. 2 and 3 only

b. 1 only

c. 1 and 2 only

d. 1, 2 and 3

CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

• The New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok

Sabha in January 2018.

• But the bill lapsed as it could not get clearance from upper house before the

expiry of the budget session.

• Thus, to bring this bill into effect, the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind

promulgated the New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC)

Ordinance in March 2019.

• NDIAC would subsume the International Centre for Alternative Dispute

Resolution set-up in the year 1995, which is a society registered under the

Societies Registration Act.

What are going to be the benefits of this ordinance?

• The benefits of institutionalized arbitration will accrue to Government and its

agency and to the parties to a dispute.




29

• This shall be to the advantage of the public and the public institutions in terms

of quality of expertise and costs incurred and will facilitate India becoming a

hub for Institutional Arbitration.

What are the objectives of the Ordinance?

The NDAIC shall be established with an aim to:

✓ bring targeted reforms to develop itself as a flagship institution for

conducting international and domestic arbitration;

✓ provide facilities and administrative assistance for conciliation mediation and

arbitral proceedings;

✓ maintain panels of accredited arbitrators, conciliators and mediators both at

national and international level or specialists such as surveyors and

investigators;

✓ facilitate conducting of international and domestic arbitrations and

conciliation in the most professional manner;

✓ provide cost effective and timely services for the conduct of arbitrations and

conciliations at Domestic and International level;

✓ promote studies in the field of alternative dispute resolution and related

matters, and to promote reforms in the system of settlement of disputes; and

✓ co-operate with other societies, institutions and organisations, national or

international for promoting alternative dispute resolution.

Members of NDIAC:

• New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC) will be headed by a

chairperson who has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or a Judge of a High

Court or an eminent person, having special knowledge and experience in the

conduct or administration of arbitration law or management, to be appointed

by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India.

• There will be two Full time or Part time Members from amongst eminent

persons having substantial knowledge and experience in institutional

arbitration, both domestic and international.

• Also, one representative of a recognised body of commerce and industry shall

be chosen on rotational basis as Part time Member.

• Secretary, Department of Legal Affairs, Financial Adviser nominated by the

Department of Expenditure and Chief Executive Officer, NDIAC shall be ex-officio

Members.

Question 8




30


Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the e-Samvad portal?

1. It is an online platform for NGOs and Civil Societies to interact with the

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

2. It would help the government in the formulation of effective policies and

measures based on the feedbacks/suggestions provided by the NGOs

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

a. 1 only

b. 2 only

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context:

The e-Samvad portal was launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development

in January 2018.

What is the use of this portal?

• It is an online platform for NGOs and Civil Societies to interact with the Ministry

of Women & Child Development.

• Through e-Samvad portal, NGOs and Civil Society can provide their feedback,

suggestions, put up grievances, share best practices etc. Senior Officers within

MWCD will be able to view the inputs/suggestions received for their concerned

subject areas and appropriately respond to NGOs.

• This will help in formulation of effective policies and measures for welfare of

women and children.

Question 9




31

DOMAIN - Space in news, Science and Tech

What is 'Parker Solar Probe', recently in the news?

a. Mankind’s first mission to touch the Sun launched by NASA

b. Mankind’s first mission to enter the outer space launched by NASA

c. Mission to test the presence of water on Mars launched by NASA

d. Mankind’s first mission to touch the Sun launched by ISRO

CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context:

The world’s first mission to touch the Sun was launched by NASA in the year 2018.

What is Parker Solar Probe?

• It will perform the closest-ever observations of the Sun’s outer atmosphere,

called the crona, a region of the Sun only seen from the Earth when the Moon

blocks out the Sun’s bright face during total solar eclipses.

• The corona holds the answers to many of scientists’ outstanding questions

about the Sun’s activity and processes.

• It was launched on an unprecedented, seven-year long journey to unlock the

mysteries of the sun’s fiery outer atmosphere and its effects on space weather.

• The probe was launched from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air

Force Station in the US (Florida) using the United Launch Alliance Delta IV

Heavy Rocket (Launch vehicle).

Question 10

DOMAIN - Science and Tech




32

The term ‘Retrotransposons’ seen in the news refers to?

a. Small genetic sequences that can lead to mutation in their host’s genome

b. Small genetic sequences that act as scissors to cut the sections of their host’s genome

c. Small genetic sequences that have the ability to replicate and position themselves in

new locations in their host’s genome

d. Small genetic sequences that are responsible for divisions of cells in their host’s

genome

CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context:

Researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi

Arabia have identified special genes, called retrotransposons, which could help

SYMBIODINIUM adapt more rapidly to heat stress.

What is SYMBIODINIUM?

IT IS a unicellular alga that provides its coral host with photosynthetic products in return

for nutrients and shelter.

What is special about this gene?

The gene identified improves the heat tolerance of the algae that live symbiotically

with coral species and could potentially help the corals adapt to some warming.

Usually what happens?

Coral Bleaching:

• High sea temperatures can cause the breakdown of the symbiotic relationship

between the algae and corals and lead to the widespread expulsion of

Symbiodinium from host tissues, an event known as coral beaching.

• If bleached corals do not recover, they starve to death, leaving only their white,

calcium-carbonate exoskeleton.

Now coming to these genes, generally what are retrotransposons?

Retrotransposons are small genetic sequences that have the ability to replicate and

position themselves in new locations in their host’s genome.

Question 11

DOMAIN - Government Policies




33

With reference to India’s FDI Policy in Single Brand Retail Trading, consider the

following statements:

1. 100% FDI in Single Brand Retail Trading is allowed under the automatic route

2. A Single Brand Retail Chain is expected to sell all its products under only one

label across its stores in India

3. In cases, where the FDI exceeds 51%, 30% of the value of goods purchased must

be from India

Which of the above statements is/are correct? a. Only 1

b. 1 and 3

c. 1 and 2

d. 1, 2, 3

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

The second statement is incorrect.

Why?

What is Single Brand Product Retail Trading?

• Here there are certain conditions that have to be met:

• Products to be sold should be of a ‘Single Brand’ only.

• Products should be sold under the same brand internationally i.e. products

should be sold under the same brand in one or more countries other than

India.

• ‘Single Brand’ product-retail trading would cover only products which are

branded during manufacturing.

Let us have a look at the rules pertaining to India’s FDI Policy in Single Brand Retail

Trading:

• In respect of proposals involving foreign investment beyond 51%, sourcing of

30% of the value of goods purchased, will be done from India, preferably from

MSMEs, village and cottage industries, artisans and craftsmen, in all sectors.




34

• The quantum of domestic sourcing will be self-certified by the company, to be

subsequently checked, by statutory auditors, from the duly certified accounts

which the company will be required to maintain.

• This procurement requirement would have to be met, in the first instance, as an

average of five years’ total value of the goods purchased, beginning 1st April of

the year of the commencement of the business i.e. opening of the first store.

• Thereafter, it would have to be met on an annual basis.

• Note: The FDI Policy is released by the Department for Promotion of Industry

and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Question 12

DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news

The term ‘The National Register of Citizens’ seen in the news is related to which of the

following states in India?

a. Jammu and Kashmir

b. Manipur

c. Assam

d. Telangana

CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

The National Register of Citizens:

• The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is a list that contains names of Indian

citizens of Assam. It was last prepared after Census in 1951.

• It was prepared by recording particulars of all the persons enumerated during

that Census.

• Assam, which had faced an influx of people from Bangladesh since the early

20th century, is the only state having an NRC.

• Since 1951, the process of identification of illegal immigrants in Assam has

been debated and has become a contentious issue in the State’s politics.

• A six-year agitation demanding identification and deportation of illegal

immigrants was launched by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) in 1979. It

culminated with the signing of the Assam Accord on August 15, 1985.

• The Government of India has been working to update the list recently.




35

• The Assam government released the final draft of NRC on July 30, 2018. The list

incorporates names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants.

• The draft includes the names of Indian citizens who have been residing in Assam

before March 25, 1971.

Question 13

DOMAIN - Biodiversity in news

Recently, our scientists have discovered a new frog species which has been named

after wildlife scientist Mewa Singh. This species belongs to a genus endemic to the

Western Ghats. This species has been discovered in which of the following wildlife

sanctuary?

a. Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary

b. Tansa Sanctuary

c. Cotigao Sanctuary

d. Dandeli Sanctuary

CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Scientists have discovered a new frog species from Kozhikode’s Malabar Wildlife

Sanctuary.

• The frog species, named Mewa Singh’s Night frog, belongs to a genus endemic

to the Western Ghats.

• The frog has been named after wildlife scientist Mewa Singh, in honour of his

contributions to behavioural ecology and primate studies.

What are the important characteristics of the frog?

• It belongs to genus Nyctibatrachus (commonly known as night frogs) endemic

only to Western Ghats mountain range.

• The frog’s genetically closest relatives are the Athirappilly night frog (found

south of the Palakkad Gap in Thrissur and Idukki) and the Kempholey night frog

(found in the northern Western Ghats of Kerala and Karnataka).

• These frogs are found only in the Western Ghats mountain range. After the

latest discovery, the total number of night frogs has reached to 36.




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Question 14

DOMAIN - Terms in news

The term, ‘Channel Stuffing’ in business refers to which of the following?

a. A business practice wherein a company resorts to unfair means to sell its

goods/services to the end consumers

b. A business practice wherein a company resorts to international channels to market

its goods/services

c. A business practice wherein a company takes more credit than it can repay for the

production of goods/services in a year

d. A business practice wherein a company produces and delivers more goods to retailers

than what would be sold successfully to end consumers

CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

This refers to a business practice wherein a company produces and delivers more

goods to retailers than what could be sold successfully to end consumers.

• Companies generally resort to channel stuffing to temporarily boost sales and

profits, thus presenting a rosy picture to investors, although they have not yet

received payment in cash.

• The sale of goods is recorded under accounts receivable, and it is likely to be

reversed when the retailer returns the unsold goods back to the company, thus

eventually causing sales and profits to drop.

• Channel stuffing may fail to boost stock prices if investors begin to doubt the

quality of a company’s sales.

• Channel stuffing is not confined to the wholesale and retail trade; it can take

place in the industrial sector, high tech industry, and pharmaceutical industry as

well.

• This fraudulent practice is usually done in an attempt to raise the value of the

stock or prevent its fall upon release of quarterly or annual results.




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Question 15

DOMAIN - Terms in news

The terms, ‘Ethereum’, ‘Ripple’, ‘Monero’, ‘Dash’ often heard in news are types of which

of the following?

a. Supercomputers

b. Cryptocurrencies

c. Software Programming Languages

d. Digital Payment Systems

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

What is a cryptocurrency?

• This is an algorithm powered currency used as tokens in select online

communities and backed by certain technologies, assets or projects.

• They can be used for mostly peer to peer payments, and a few for direct, real-

life transactions.

• Their value is often determined by demand, supply, and algorithmic

parameters.

• These have their own self-regulating networks and ecosystems, are

decentralized, and aren’t reliant on third parties like banks to function and

execute transactions.

• Bitcoin is currently the most popular cryptocurrency in the market, followed

by ETHEREUM and a bunch of others like Ripple, Litecoin, Electrone, Binance

etc.

• Cryptocurrencies are a type of Virtual Currencies (VCs).

• The point to note here is that VCs don’t have any intrinsic value and are not

backed by any kind of assets.

• The price of these currencies is entirely a matter of speculation resulting in

spurt and volatility in their prices.”

Why is it a cause of concern?

• Virtual currency (VC) transactions are encrypted and are likely being used for

drug trafficking, money laundering, terror-funding and smuggling.

• Besides, VCs are not reliable as they are stored in digital/electronic format,

making them vulnerable to hacking and malware attack.




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What is the status of cryptocurrencies in India?

Since July 2018, banks have been barred by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from

undertaking any business relation with crypto bourses or traders.

Latest developments:

There is a committee which is headed by the Economic Affairs Secretary, Subhash

Chandra Garg which is in the process of coming out with the draft regulations for

virtual currencies.

Question 16


With reference to the ‘National Clean Air Programme’, consider the following

statements:

1. The goal of the NCAP is to meet the prescribed annual average ambient air

quality standards at all locations in the country in a stipulated timeframe (long-

term)

2. This will be a mid-term, five-year action plan to begin with keeping 2019 as the

first year

3. The target of NCAP is 20-30% reduction of PM2.5 and PM10 concentration by

2024 keeping 2019 as the base year for comparison of concentration

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 3 only

b. 1 and 3

c. 1 and 2

d. 1, 2 and 3

CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION Recent Context:

• In January 2018, the government had formulated National Clean Air

Programme (NCAP) as a medium-term national level strategy to tackle the

increasing air pollution problem across the country in a comprehensive manner.

• In January 2019, The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change was

launched this programme.

Why the need?

• Air pollution is one of the biggest global environmental challenges of today.




39

• Thus to tackle the increasing air pollution problem across the country in a

comprehensive manner, a time bound national level strategy for pan India

implementation has been launched.

Goal of NCAP:

It is to meet the prescribed annual average ambient air quality standards at all

locations in the country in a stipulated timeframe (long-term).

Target:

• The tentative national level target of 20%–30% reduction of PM2.5 and PM10

concentration by 2024 is proposed under the NCAP.

• This is keeping 2017 as the base year for the comparison of concentration.

Tenure:

• This will be a mid-term, five-year action plan to begin with keeping 2019 as the

first year.

• However, the international experiences and national studies indicate that

significant outcome in terms of air pollution initiatives are visible only in the

long-term, and hence the programme may be further extended to 20–25 years

in the long-term after a mid-term review of the outcomes.

Coverage:

The target has been to use the smart cities framework to launch the NCAP in the 43

smart cities falling in the list of the 102 non-attainment cities.

Approach:

Collaborative, multi-scale and cross-sectoral coordination between the relevant

central ministries, state governments and local bodies.

Implementation of NCAP:

The CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) shall, in consonance with the Air

(Prevention and control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and in particular with the provision of

Section 16(2)(b) of the Act, execute the nation-wide programme for the prevention,

control, and abetment of air pollution within the framework of the NCAP.

What are non-attainment cities?

The CPCB has identified a list of polluted cities in which the prescribed NAAQS (National

Ambient Air Quality Standards) are violated. These cities have been identified based on

the ambient air quality data obtained (2011–2015) under NAMP (National Air Quality

Monitoring Programme).

http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1515772






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Question 17


With reference to Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, consider the following statements:

1. It was launched in the year 2017 by the Ministry of Finance 2. LIC has been given the sole privilege to operate the scheme 3. It provides social security during old age and to protect elderly persons aged 55

years and above Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only

b. 1 and 2 only

c. 1 and 3 only

d. 1, 2 and 3

CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

The subscriptions for The Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) were

announced open till 3rd May 2018.

About Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY):

• The scheme was launched in the year 2017 by the Ministry of Finance.

• It is a Pension Scheme announced by the Government of India exclusively for

the senior citizens aged 60 years and above.

• The scheme enables old age income security for senior citizens through

provision of assured pension/return linked to the subscription amount based

on government guarantee to Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).

Key benefits of the scheme:

• The scheme provides an assured return of 8% per annum for 10 years.

• The differential return, i.e. the difference between return generated by LIC and

the assured return of 8% per annum would be borne by Government of India as

subsidy on an annual basis.




41

• Pension is payable at the end of each period during the policy tenure of 10

years as per the frequency of monthly/quarterly/ half-yearly/yearly as chosen by

the subscriber at the time of purchase.

• Minimum purchase price under the scheme is Rs.1,50,000/- for a minimum

pension of Rs. 1,000/- per month.

• The scheme is exempted from Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Some Important points:

• The scheme has been extended upto March 2020.

• The current investment limit is also increased to Rs. 15 lakh from the existing

limit of Rs. 7.5 lakh per senior citizen.


Question 18

DOMAIN – Government Schemes and programmes

With reference to the ‘National Tobacco Control Programme’, consider the following statement:

1. It was launched in the year 2007-08 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

2. One of the objectives of the programme is to ensure effective implementation of the provisions under COPTA, 2003

3. The National Tobacco Control Cell (NTCC) is responsible for overall policy formulation, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the different activities envisaged under the programme

Which of the statement(s) given above is/ are correct? a. 1 and 2 only

b. 2 and 3 only

c. 2 only

d. 1, 2 and 3

CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

• In January 2018, The Committee on Subordinate Legislation (COSL) 16th Lok

Sabha, on the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling)






42

Amendment Rules, 2014, in its 11thReport felt a need for framing a “National

Tobacco Control Policy” which should be equitable and pragmatic.

• An Inter-Ministerial Committee of Secretaries has been constituted at the

national level to come out with the same.

• At present, we have the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) in place.

About the National Tobacco Control Programme:

It was launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in 2007-08.

Objectives of NTCP:

(i) create awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption;

(ii) reduce the production and supply of tobacco products

(iii) ensure effective implementation of the provisions under “The Cigarettes and Other

Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and

Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003” (COTPA)

(iv) help the people quit tobacco use, and

(v) facilitate implementation of strategies for prevention and control of tobacco

advocated by WHO Framework Convention of Tobacco Control.

Implementation of the programme:

• NTCP is implemented through a three-tier structure, i.e. (i) National Tobacco

Control Cell (NTCC) at Central level (ii) State Tobacco Control Cell (STCC) at State

level & (iii) District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC) at District level. There is also a

provision of setting up Tobacco Cessation Services at District level.

• The NTCC at the National level is responsible for overall policy formulation,

planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the different activities

envisaged under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP).


Question 19






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‘Mission Raftar’ seen in the news relates to which of the following? a. Doubling the rate at which the Indian economy is growing

b. Increasing the proportion of passengers travelling by air route

c. Speeding up India’s progress towards achieving the SDGs

d. Doubling of average speed of freight trains

CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context:

• With a view to increasing speed of trains in Indian Railways, ‘Mission Raftaar’

was announced in the Railway Budget 2016-17. It was approved by the NITI

Aayog in 2017.

What is the mission all about?

• The mission envisages a target of doubling of average speed of freight trains

and increasing the average speed of all non-suburban passenger trains by 25

kmph in the next 5 years

• Principal routes have been identified for raising of speed under Mission Raftaar.

These are six routes on Golden Quadrilateral and diagonals namely, Delhi –

Mumbai, Delhi – Howrah, Howrah- Chennai, Chennai – Mumbai, Delhi – Chennai

and Howrah – Mumbai.

• These six routes carry 58% of freight traffic and 52% of coaching traffic with a

share of only 16% of the network.


Question 20


Consider the following statements in respect of the ‘Khelo India Programme’: 1. It has been introduced to revive sports culture in India at the grass-root level

and to gorge tie-ups with various international sports organizations

2. The revamped Khelo India Programme aims to achieve the twin objectives of

mass participation and Promotion of excellence in sports






44

3. The Khelo India logo has been designed by Ogilvy India

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?

a. 3 only

b. 1 and 2 only

c. 2 and 3 only

d. 1, 2 and 3

CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context:

The vibrant Khelo India logo, reflecting the freshness, agility and vitality of New India

was launched at a simple ceremony by the Union Minister of State (I/C) Youth Affairs

and Sports Col Rajyavardhan Rathore at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in January 2018.

About the Khelo India Programme:

• The Khelo India programme has been introduced to revive the sports culture in

India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports

played in our country and establishing India as a great sporting nation.

• This programme is expected to help scout young talent from the schools in

various disciplines and groom them as future sports champions.

• Talented players identified in priority sports disciplines at various levels by a

High-Powered Committee will be provided annual financial assistance of Rs. 5

lakh per annum for 8 years.

Revamped Khelo India Programme:

• The revamped Khelo India Scheme was launched during the financial year 2017-

18 with a view to achieving the twin objectives of mass participation and

promotion of excellence in sports.

• The vision of the revamped Khelo India is to infuse sports culture and achieve

sporting excellence in the country.

• The mission as stated in the revamped scheme is to encourage sports for all

thus allowing the population across gender and all age groups to harness the

power of sports.

What are the facilities/opportunities provided?

• The identified sports talents will be given the option to join SAI National Sports

Academies, State Sports Academies or Sports Academies established by

private sector.




45

• Grants-in-aid will be provided for establishment, operation and maintenance

of sports academies in respect of identified disciplines to Sports Authority of

India, State Governments or to private sector or sports person under Public

Private Partnership (PPP) mode for facilitating and supplementing Long Term

Athlete Development (LTAD) programme (for 8 years).

• A system would be developed for rating of academics to facilitate selection of

appropriate academics for support.

• At least one academy for Para Athletes will be supported.

Khelo India Logo:

• The three-stroke Khelo India logo, designed by Ogilvy India, has in-built

modularity, allowing plenty of adaptability and flexibility into endless pictorial

forms.

• The colour of the Indian flag evokes a sense of National pride and team-work.

• The logo also conveys an impression of fitness and competitiveness.


Question 21 DOMAIN - Science and Tech






46

Consider the following statements about the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS):

1. It has three satellites in geosynchronous orbit and four satellites in

geostationary orbit.

2. It can service regions extending up to 1500 km around India's boundary.

3. It has a total of nine satellites of which six are currently in orbit.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 1 and 3 only c. 2 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Why in news? IRNSS 1I satellite was launched by ISRO on April 12, 2018. What is IRNSS?

• IRNSS stands for Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System.

• It is a set of satellites which together can provide India a regional positioning

system similar to the GPS.

• According to the ISRO website, the system is designed to give position accuracy

better than 20 metres to users in its primary coverage area.

• It can also service regions extending up to 1500 km around India's boundary.

• ISRO has built a total of nine satellites in the IRNSS series of which eight are

currently in orbit.

How many IRNSS satellites are already in orbit?

• There are currently seven IRNSS satellites (1A to 1G) in orbit. IRNSS 1I will be

the eighth in the series.

• A, B, D, E, I are placed in a geosynchronous orbit, which means they seem to be

at a fixed location above the Earth and they orbit along with the Earth.

• C, F, G, are located in geostationary orbit-they seem to be at a fixed location

above the Earth along the equator and orbit along with the Earth.

Specifications of IRNSS-1I:

• The IRNSS-1I weighs 1425 kg at lift-off and is the eighth satellite in the IRNSS

satellite constellation.




47

• It will be placed in a sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit and at its closest point

will be 284 km above the Earth and at its farthest will be 20,650 km above the

Earth.

• Like all other IRNSS satellites, IRNSS-1I will also carry two payloads – navigation

payload and ranging payload - the former to transmit signals for determining

position, velocity and time and the latter for determining the frequency range of

the satellite.

What are the applications of IRNSS?

• These satellites help not just in land navigation but also in marine and aerial

navigation.

• The data from these satellites can be used to give vehicle drivers visual and

voice navigation assistance.

• They also help in disaster management and in proper time-keeping.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/navigation-satellite-irnss-1i-to-be-launched-on-april-12/article23494496.ece Question 22 DOMAIN - Science and Tech Consider the following statements:

1. Neutrinos are tiny elementary particles that are part of atoms.

2. The India-based Neutrino Observatory is proposed to be set up in Theni district

of Tamil Nadu.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Why in news? In Theni district in Tamil Nadu, the India-based Neutrino Observatory is proposed to be set up.


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/navigation-satellite-irnss-1i-to-be-launched-on-april-12/article23494496.ece






48

What are neutrinos?

• Proton, neutron, and electron are tiny particles that make up atoms. The

neutrino is also a tiny elementary particle, but it is not part of the atom. Such

particles are also found to exist in nature.

• Neutrino has a very tiny mass, no charge and spins half. It interacts very

weakly with other matter particles. So weakly that every second trillions of

neutrinos fall on us and pass through our bodies unnoticed.

• Neutrinos come from the sun (solar neutrinos) and other stars, cosmic rays

that come from beyond the solar system, and from the Big Bang from which

our Universe originated. They can also be produced in the lab.

• Neutrinos come in three types or “flavours” – electron neutrino, tau neutrino

and muon neutrino. They can change from one flavor to another as they

travel. This process is called neutrino oscillation and is an unusual quantum

phenomenon.

How are atmospheric neutrinos produced in nature? Atmospheric neutrinos are produced from cosmic rays which consist of protons and heavy nuclei. These collide with atmospheric molecules such as Nitrogen to give off pions and muons which further decay to produce neutrinos. Future applications of neutrino science:

• Properties of the sun

Chapter 2 The visible light that reaches us from the sun is emitted from the surface of the sun. The neutrinos which also take close to this time to reach us from the sun, known as solar neutrinos, were produced in the core of the sun. Therefore, they give us information about the interior of the sun. Studying these neutrinos can help us understand what goes on in the interior of the sun.

• What makes up the universe?

Chapter 3 Light coming from distant stars can be studied by astronomers, for example, to detect new planets. Light is the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum; other parts are used in for example radio astronomy. Likewise, if the properties of neutrinos are understood better, they can be used in astronomy to discover what the universe is made up of.

• Probing Early Universe

Chapter 4 Neutrinos interact very little with the matter around them, so they travel long distances uninterrupted. Since they take time to cross these distances, they are in effect uninterrupted for very long times. The extragalactic neutrinos we observe may be coming from the distant past. These inviolate




49

messengers can give us a clue about the origin of the universe and the early stages of the infant universe, soon after the Big Bang.

• Medical Imaging

Chapter 5 Apart from direct future uses of neutrinos, there are technological applications of the detectors that will be used to study them. For instance, X-ray machines, PET scans, MRI scans, etc., all came out of research into particle detectors. Hence the INO detectors may have applications in medical imaging.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/what-are-neutrinos-and-how-are-they-detected/article23546887.ece Question 23 DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news, Defence in news ‘Walong tri-junction’ was in the news recently. It is a junction between which of the following countries? a. India, China, Pakistan b. India, Bhutan, China c. India, China, Myanmar d. China, Russia, Mongolia CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Why in news? Indian troops deployed along the disputed Sino-India border in the Himalayan range of the Arunachal sector have increased their patrolling at Walong, a tri-junction of India, China and Myanmar to prevent a repeat of a Doklam-like standoff. About Walong Tri-Junction:

• The tri-junction is located around 50 kms from Walong, India’s easternmost

town in Arunachal Pradesh, near the Tibet region.

• Walong is a small cantonment and administrative town in the Anjaw District of

the state of Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India. Anjaw was carved out of

Lohit District in 2004.

• Walong's approximate position is 28 degrees 06 minutes North, 97 degrees East.

It lies on the west bank of the Lohit River (a tributary of the Brahmaputra),

approximately 20 kms south of the Chinese border. Just north of the border lies

the Tibetan trading town of Rima.


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/what-are-neutrinos-and-how-are-they-detected/article23546887.ece






50

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-steps-up-vigil-at-walong-tri-junction/article23408702.ece https://www.livemint.com/Politics/pk7ZEWPLKnYoVCO5o8SWpN/Army-increases-strength-at-IndiaChinaMyanmar-trijunction.html Question 24 DOMAIN - Science and Tech Consider the following statements:

1. Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is a satellite launched by the

European Space Agency to catalog exoplanets.

2. Exoplanets are planets that remain undiscovered in our solar system.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? a. Only 1 b. Only 2 c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Why in news? On April 18, 2018 NASA launched TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite), which will monitor more than 200,000 stars. What are exoplanets?

• All of the planets in our solar system orbit around the Sun. Planets that orbit

around other stars are called exoplanets.


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-steps-up-vigil-at-walong-tri-junction/article23408702.ece




https://www.livemint.com/Politics/pk7ZEWPLKnYoVCO5o8SWpN/Army-increases-strength-at-IndiaChinaMyanmar-trijunction.html






51

• Exoplanets are very hard to see directly with telescopes. They are hidden by

the bright glare of the stars they orbit.

Chapter 6 How can exoplanets be discovered? One way to search for exoplanets is to look for "wobbly" stars. A star that has planets doesn’t orbit perfectly around its center. From far away, this off-center orbit makes the star look like its wobbling. What is the current exoplanet count? As of now, the number of known exoplanets stands at over 3,700. Another 4,500 objects are strong contenders to become exoplanets. About 50 are believed to potentially habitable. They have the right size and the right orbit to support surface water and, at least theoretically, to support life. What will TESS do? The mission will catalog thousands of planet candidates and vastly increase the current number of known exoplanets. Of these, approximately 300 are expected to be Earth-sized and super-Earth-sized exoplanets, which are worlds no larger than twice the size of Earth. How does TESS plan to do this? TESS will look for dips in the visible light of stars, which requires that planets cross stars in our line of sight. Repetitive, periodic dips can reveal a planet or planets orbiting a star. How long is this mission? TESS will survey the entire sky over a period of two years. The satellite will do this by breaking it up into 26 different sectors and the cameras on the satellite will survey each sector for 27 days. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/the-hindu-explains-nasas-transiting-exoplanet-survey-satellite/article23583276.ece Question 25 DOMAIN - Science and Tech, Defence in news Consider the following statements about the Brahmos Missile:

1. It has been indigenously developed by India.


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/the-hindu-explains-nasas-transiting-exoplanet-survey-satellite/article23583276.ece






52

2. It is the fastest cruise missile in the world.

3. It travels at a speed faster than the speed of sound.

Which of the above is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. All of the above CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Why in news? Brahmos Aerospace CEO and MD Sudhir Mishra said that the Bhrahmos cruise missile will breach the mach 7 barrier to become a hypersonic missile system in the next decade. About Brahmos:

• Brahmos is a two-stage missile with a solid propeller booster engine as its first

stage which brings it to supersonic speed and then gets separated.

• Stealth technology and guidance system with advanced embedded software

provides the missile with special features.

• It is the fastest cruise missile in the world co-developed by India and Russia.

Features:

• The missile has flight range of up to 290-km with supersonic speed all through

the flight, leading to shorter flight time, consequently ensuring lower dispersion

of targets, quicker engagement time and non-interception by any known

weapon system in the world.

• It operates on ‘Fire and Forget Principle’, adopting varieties of flights on its way

to the target. Its destructive power is enhanced due to large kinetic energy on

impact.

• Its cruising altitude could be up to 15 km and terminal altitude is as low as 10

meters.

• It carries a conventional warhead weighing 200-300 kgs.

• The missile currently travels at mach 2.8 or 2.8 times the speed of sound and

will touch mach 5 in three years.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/brahmos-will-breach-mach-7-barrier-in-next-decade/article23717862.ece Question 26


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/brahmos-will-breach-mach-7-barrier-in-next-decade/article23717862.ece






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DOMAIN - Science and Tech Consider the following statements about Pink Moon:

1. The full moon in April is called Pink Moon.

2. It is called so because it is Pink in colour.

Which of the above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Every year, the full moon in April is called the ‘pink moon’, but it is only pink in name. It is to represent ground phlox. Phlox are ground-cover flowering plants and usually bloom around springtime. These plants are found mostly in North America. The April full moon is also known as the Sprouting Grass moon, the Egg Moon and the Fish Moon, all Native American names for the phenomenon. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/the-hindu-explains-what-is-a-pink-moon/article23730955.ece Question 27 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news Consider the following statements about North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR):

1. It is an autonomous society under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern

Region.

2. It has a vision to expand the benefits of technology for inclusive economic

development of the North East.

Which of the above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B EXPLANATION Why in news?


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/the-hindu-explains-what-is-a-pink-moon/article23730955.ece






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Despite ₹1,290 crore in funds, the research body (NECTAR) remains distant and redundant for the Northeast. What is NECTAR: NECTAR is an autonomous society, set up under Department of Science & Technology, Government of India with its headquarter at Shillong, Meghalaya. Purpose: In order to assist the northeastern region, NECTAR will be ensuring applications of appropriate technologies for development in the areas of biodiversity concerns, watershed management, telemedicine, horticulture, infrastructure planning & development, planning and monitoring, and tele-schooling using cutting-edge solutions, employment generation etc. through utilization of local products/resources and associated skill development. VISION: To be the leading Centre to foster, nurture and ensure the delivery, sustenance and use of technology applications for public and social good; and to reach and expand the benefits of technology among people, communities, institutions and governments for equitable and inclusive social and economic development of the North Eastern Region of our country. MISSION: NECTAR is conceived as a collaborative centre of excellence to resolve the last mile problem in the delivery, induction, management, use and extension of technology applications which serve public good and promote social and economic development of the North Eastern region in the broadest possible terms. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/when-nectar-turned-poison-for-bamboo/article23796544.ece Question 28 DOMAIN - Government Rules and Regulations


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/when-nectar-turned-poison-for-bamboo/article23796544.ece






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Consider the following statements about the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018: 1. It covers economic offences of at least Rs. 50 crores.

2. Counterfeiting currency is one of the offences listed in the Act.

Which of the above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Why in news? The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 came into force on 21st April, 2018. What is it? The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 is an Act of the Parliament of India that seeks to confiscate properties and assets of economic offenders that evade prosecution by remaining outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts. Economic offences with a value of more than Rs. 100 crores, which are listed in the schedule of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, come under the purview of this law. Who is a fugitive economic offender? A fugitive economic offender has been defined as a person against whom an arrest warrant has been issued for committing an offence listed in the schedule, and the value of the offence is at least Rs. 100 crore. Further, the person has: (i) left the country to avoid facing prosecution, or (ii) refuses to return to face prosecution. Which are the offences listed in the Act? Some of the offences listed in the Act are: (i) counterfeiting government stamps or currency, (ii) cheque dishonour, (iii) money laundering, and (iv) transactions defrauding creditors. Salient Features:

• A person may be declared an FEO if he leaves the country and refuses to return

to face prosecution. He may be asked to appear at a specified place at least six

weeks after notice.




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• A person’s property may be attached for 180 days. Attached properties may

include those believed to be proceeds of crime and benami properties.

• An FEO’s property may be confiscated and vested in the central government,

free of encumbrances. The central government may dispose this property only

after 90 days. The Special Court may exempt certain properties from

confiscation where any other person has a genuine interest.

• Authorities may search premises and persons on the belief that a person may be

an FEO, or has proceeds of crime, among others. They may also seize

documents.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-nod-for-fugitive-economic-offenders-bill/article24608225.ece Question 29 DOMAIN - Science and Tech Consider the following statements about Pectinophora gossypiella:

1. It is commonly known as Pink bollworm.

2. It is a pest that attacks cotton crops.

Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Why in news? Pink Bollworm attacks are a perpetual threat to the cotton farmers in India. What is Pectinophora gossypiella? Pectinophora gossypiella is the scientific name for Pink bollworm. It is an insect known for being a pest in cotton farming. The adult is a small, thin, gray moth with fringed wings. The larva is a dull white caterpillar with eight pairs of legs with conspicuous pink banding along its dorsum. The larva reaches one half inch in length. Where is it found?


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-nod-for-fugitive-economic-offenders-bill/article24608225.ece






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The pink bollworm is native to Asia, but has become an invasive species in most of the world's cotton-growing regions. It reached the cotton belt in the southern United States by the 1920s. It is a major pest in the cotton fields of the southern California deserts. How can it be controlled?

• Allowing cattle grazing of the left over green bolls on the plant at the end of

crop season. Timely crop termination to maintain closed season.

• Clean up/ destruction of cotton stubbles immediate to harvest.

• Avoiding stacking of cotton stalks for fuel purpose over long periods.

• Deep ploughing to expose the pupae of the surviving larvae.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/specials/india-file/cotton-a-seedy-story/article23953027.ece Question 30 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to the "Student Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana (READY), consider the following statements: 1. It is an initiative of Indian Council of Agricultural Research 2. It has been started for the rural youth employed in agriculture sector Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Radha Mohan Singh

addresses 90th Foundation Day ceremony of Indian Council of Agricultural Research

▪ The Agriculture Minister said the skill development of students in the Student READY (Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana) programme has now been included for one complete year to attract youth to agriculture education.

Student READY Programme:

▪ Student READY (Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana) programme is an initiative of Indian Council of Agricultural Research.


https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/specials/india-file/cotton-a-seedy-story/article23953027.ece






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▪ It aims to ensure employment to graduates of Agriculture and allied subjects and to develop entrepreneurs for emerging knowledge-intensive agriculture.

▪ This envisages the introduction of the programme in all the Agricultural Universities as an essential prerequisite for the award of degree to ensure hands on experience and practical training depending on the requirements of respective discipline and local demands.

▪ This programme includes five components 1. Experiential Learning 2. Rural Awareness Works Experience 3. In-Plant Training / Industrial attachment 4. Hands-on training (HOT) / Skill development training 5. Students Projects

http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1538731 Question 31 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news With reference to the "Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), consider the following statements: 1. It is designated as the Central Authority to deal with inter-country adoptions 2. It is a statutory body 3. It has allowed individuals in a live-in relationship to adopt children within India Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Ministry of Women and Child Development directs state governments to ensure registration of all child care institutions and linking to CARA About CARA:

▪ Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is an autonomous and statutory body of Ministry of Women and Child Development in the Government of India.

▪ It was set up in 1990.






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▪ It functions as the nodal body for the adoption of Indian children and is mandated to monitor and regulate in-country and inter-country adoptions. CARA is designated as the Central Authority to deal with inter-country adoptions in accordance with the provisions of the Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption, 1993, ratified by Government of India in 2003.

▪ CARA primarily deals with the adoption of orphaned, abandoned and surrendered children through its associated and recognized adoption agencies.

▪ In 2018, CARA has allowed individuals in a live-in relationship to adopt children from and within India.

http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1538747 Question 32 DOMAIN - Science and Tech With reference to the "India-based Neutrino Observatory", consider the following statements: 1. The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research is the nodal institution for this project 2. ₹1500 crore has been allocated for this project Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context: Centre has given its nod for building country’s first India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) at Bodi West Hills in Theni district of Tamil Nadu. Where is the India neutrino observatory being planned? At Pottipuram village, in Theni district, near the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border. What does it entail?

▪ It is an underground project and will comprise a complex of caverns. ▪ The main cavern, which will house the huge neutrino detector [50-kilo tonne

magnetised iron calorimeter], will be 130 m long, 26 m wide, and 30 m high. ▪ Two smaller caverns will be used for setting up experiments for neutrino double

detector and dark matter. Approach to this complex will be by a 2-km-long tunnel.






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What is a neutrino? Neutrinos are the smallest particles that form the universe. Who is in-charge of the project? The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research is the nodal institution. The observatory is to be built jointly with the Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Science and Technology. Why are the locals opposing it? Locals fear that the excavation and blasts needed to bore the tunnel in the mountains will endanger the biodiversity of the Western Ghats. Some of the concerns voiced range from radiation, structural damage to the mountain to emission of hazardous chemicals. What do scientists say? Scientists have junked all these claims as baseless and unfounded. https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/all-you-want-to-know-about-the-neutrino-controversy/article23554745.ece http://www.pib.nic.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1538983 Question 33 DOMAIN - International News "Regional Aviation Partnership" sometimes mentioned in the news, is related to which of the following organization? a. BRICS b. ASEAN c. G7 d. BIMSTEC CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Cabinet has approved MOU Amongst BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Nations on Regional Aviation Partnership.

▪ The objective of MoU is to benefit BRICS countries from establishing of institutional framework to cooperate in field of civil aviation.

▪ The MoU signifies important landmark in civil aviation relations between India and other BRICS member states.


https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/all-you-want-to-know-about-the-neutrino-controversy/article23554745.ece




http://www.pib.nic.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1538983

http://www.pib.nic.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1538983



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▪ It has potential to spur greater trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchanges amongst BRICS nations.

Among the areas of cooperation, following areas have been identified: 1. Public Policies and best practices in regional services; 2. Regional Airports; 3. Airport infrastructure management and air navigation services 4. Technical cooperation between regulatory agencies 5. Innovation 6. Environment Sustainability; including deliberation of global initiatives 7. Qualification and Training 8. Other fields as mutually determined

http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1539070 https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/cabinet-approves-mou-amongst-brics-nations-on-regional-aviation-partnership-118071801058_1.html Question 34 DOMAIN - Science and Tech, Space in news With reference to the "Chandrayaan-2", consider the following statements: 1. It is only a lunar orbiter, developed by India 2. It is India's second lunar exploration mission 3. It will be launched to the moon by GSLV Mark III Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is planning to deploy a rover on the lunar surface through Chandrayaan-2 mission. About Chandrayaan-2:

▪ Chandrayaan-2 is India's second lunar exploration mission after Chandrayaan-1. ▪ It has been developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). ▪ The mission is planned to be launched to the Moon by a Geosynchronous

Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III). ▪ It includes a lunar orbiter, lander and rover, all developed by India.




https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/cabinet-approves-mou-amongst-brics-nations-on-regional-aviation-partnership-118071801058_1.html






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▪ Chandrayaan-2 is scheduled to launch in April 2019. http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1538997 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrayaan-2 Question 35 DOMAIN - Terms in news, Science and Tech The term "Generic Drug" is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statement best describes this term? a. These are the drugs, which are not approved by the CDSCO b. These are inferior drug to brand-name drug as they are being manufactured in poor-quality facilities c. These are the cheaper and more effective alternative to brand-name drugs d. These are the copies of the brand-name drugs that have exactly the same use and effects CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ At a summit organized by the Organization of Pharmaceutical Producers of

India (OPPI), it was recognized that India is one of the key players in the field of generic medicines.

▪ By 2020, India is likely to be among the top three pharmaceutical markets by incremental growth and 6th largest market globally in absolute size.

➢ Generic Drugs: ▪ Generic drugs are copies of brand-name drugs that have exactly the same

dosage, intended use, effects, side effects, route of administration, risks, safety, and strength as the original drug. In other words, their pharmacological effects are exactly the same as those of their brand-name counterparts.

▪ In India, CDSCO approves all type of drugs including the Generic Drugs. http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1538588

Question 36 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news




https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrayaan-2

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrayaan-2





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With reference to the "Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA)", consider the following statements: 1. It is an institution of national importance 2. Vice-President of India is the ex-officio President of ICWA Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: President and Vice President of India has appointed Dr. T.C.A Raghavan as the Director General of ICWA. About ICWA:

▪ The Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) is a New Delhi based Indian think-tank.

▪ Established in 1943, it is devoted exclusively for the study of international relations and foreign affairs.

▪ By an Act of Parliament, it has been declared an institution of national importance in 2001.

▪ The Vice President of India is the ex-officio President of ICWA, while the Minister of External Affairs is its Vice-President.

▪ It is housed in Sapru House, the name being derived from Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru, who was also the founder President of the Council.

▪ ICWA is a member of the United Nations Academic Impact. http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=180545

Question 37 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to the "Swachh Survekshan Grameen, 2018", consider the following statements: 1. It has been launched in only 100 districts of the country 2. Citizen's feedback is one of the parameters for ranking Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 only


http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=180545




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b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation launched the Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2018. Swachh Survekshan Grameen, 2018

▪ It is a nationwide survey of rural India to rank the cleanest and dirtiest States and districts based on qualitative and quantitative evaluation.

▪ A random selection of 6980 villages across 698 districts will be surveyed for the ranking.

▪ Total 34,000 public places namely schools, anganwadis, public health centres, haat/bazaars/religious places in these villages will be visited for the survey.

▪ The rankings will be based on three basic parameters: 1. Direct observation of public places by independent surveyors (30% weightage) 2. Service-level progress using data from the Swachh Bharat Mission’s information

system (35%) 3. Citizens’ feedback (35%) ▪ The top-performing states and districts were awarded on 2nd October 2018. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/survey-launched-to-rank-states-on-rural-cleanliness/article24414126.ece

Question 38 DOMAIN - Biodiversity in news


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/survey-launched-to-rank-states-on-rural-cleanliness/article24414126.ece






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Consider the following statements: 1. Golden jackal is listed as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List 2. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Destruction of mangrove cover in the Bandar Reserve Forest is forcing the golden jackal out of its habitat, triggering a conflict with the local communities.

➢ Golden Jackal ▪ The golden jackal (Canis aureus) is a wolf-like canid that is native to Southeast

Europe, Southwest Asia, South Asia, and regions of Southeast Asia. ▪ Golden jackals are abundant in valleys and beside rivers and their tributaries,

canals, lakes, and seashores. They are rare in foothills and low mountains. ▪ It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List due to its widespread

distribution and high density in areas with plenty of available food and optimum shelter.

➢ IUCN ▪ The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is an international

organization working in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

▪ It is involved in data gathering and analysis, research, field projects, advocacy, and education.

▪ IUCN's mission is to "influence, encourage and assist societies throughout the world to conserve nature and to ensure that any use of natural resources is equitable and ecologically sustainable".

▪ IUCN has a membership of over 1400 governmental and non-governmental organizations.

▪ The organization is best known to the wider public for compiling and publishing the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, which assesses the conservation status of species worldwide.

▪ IUCN was established in 1948. It was previously called the International Union for the Protection of Nature (1948–1956) and the World Conservation Union (1990–2008).

▪ IUCN has observer status at the United Nations.




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https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/golden-jackal-faces-threat-in-its-habitat/article24428393.ece

Question 39 DOMAIN - Important Bills, Acts and Amendments With reference to the "Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, consider the following statements: 1. It prescribes a prison term of up to seven years and up to ₹5 lakh in fine for calling a person witch 2. Every offense under the Act has been made “cognizable, non-bailable and non-compoundable Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: President has given assent to the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Bill, 2015 making it an act. Provisions of the Act:

▪ It has made every offense under the Act “cognizable, non-bailable and non-compoundable.”

▪ The Act prescribes a prison term of up to seven years and up to ₹5 lakh in fine for calling a person witch.

▪ It also has provisions to come with Section 302 of the IPC (punishment for murder) if someone is killed after being branded a witch.

▪ The punishment for leading a person to suicide may be extended to life imprisonment and up to ₹5 lakh in fine.

▪ Another important person behind the legislation is the Director-General of Police Kuladhar Saikia. As Deputy Inspector-General in Kokrajhar, he launched Project Prahari in 2001, which blended normal policing with social campaigns to check the menace.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/kovind-clears-assam-bill-against-witch-hunt/article24436379.ece Question 40






https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/kovind-clears-assam-bill-against-witch-hunt/article24436379.ece






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DOMAIN - Science and Tech With reference to the Genetically Modified (GM) Crops, consider the following statements: 1. India ranks 2nd in global cultivation of GM crops 2. BT Cotton is the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ As per the report of International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech

Applications, 2018, India ranks 5th in global cultivation of GM crops.

▪ Bt. cotton is the only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in the Country.

▪ The approval of any new genetically modified crop is given on a case-to-case basis after thorough scientific evaluation of health and environment safety as per applicable guidelines made under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Rules, 1989.

▪ In India, the GM crops that are under regulatory consideration — apart from the already commercialised Bt/insect-resistant cotton — include glyphosate-tolerant cotton and biotech hybrid mustard.

Chapter 7 Chapter 8 https://indianexpress.com/article/india/indias-genetically-modified-crop-area-fifth-largest-in-world-5255662/ Question 41


https://indianexpress.com/article/india/indias-genetically-modified-crop-area-fifth-largest-in-world-5255662/






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DOMAIN - Government Rules and Regulations, Science and Tech, Terms in news Which one of the following best describes the term "Net Neutrality" sometimes seen in news? a. It is a method to ensure that all telecom companies are charging uniform prices for internet access b. It is a principle that Internet Service Providers should not discriminate and treat all internet communications equally c. It is an initiative by Indian government to make uniform Data Privacy policies for all d. It is a principle that there should not be discrimination on the placement of websites on search engines CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ Telecom Commission has approved the Net Neutrality. ▪ Net Neutrality means that telecom and Internet service providers must treat

all data on Internet equally, and not discriminate or charge differently by user, content, site, platform, or application. They cannot engage in practices such as blocking, slowing down or granting preferential speeds to any content.

▪ Telecom Commission has said, “Internet access services should be governed by a principle that restricts any form of discrimination or interference in the treatment of content, including practices like blocking, degrading, slowing down or granting preferential speeds or treatment to any content.”

▪ To implement Net neutrality, the telecom commission had recommended that the terms of license agreements that govern the provision of Internet services in India be amended “to incorporate the principles of non-discriminatory treatment of content along with the appropriate exclusions and exceptions.”

▪ India’s decision to uphold Net neutrality assumes greater significance, given that in the U.S., the rules on Net neutrality were repealed.

Chapter 9 https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/internet/telecom-commission-approves-net-neutrality-new-telecom-policy/article24391077.ece Question 42 DOMAIN – Rankings


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/internet/telecom-commission-approves-net-neutrality-new-telecom-policy/article24391077.ece






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With reference to the "Ease of doing business ranking of states, 2018", consider the following statements: 1. It has been released by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs 2. It is based on the scores of states in Business Reform Action Plan 3. Andhra Pradesh has topped the list Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 only d. 1,2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ Andhra Pradesh has topped the third edition of the government’s ‘Ease of

Doing Business’ index for States with a final score of 98.42%. ▪ A.P. got 99.73% score in reform evidence and 86.50% in feedback score. While

Telangana stood second in the final score, Haryana bagged the third position.

▪ The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in partnership with the World Bank Group, released the Business Reform Action Plan (BRAP) for implementation by States/UTs.

▪ It includes 405 recommendations for reforms on regulatory processes, policies, practices and procedures spread across 12 reform areas.

1. labour regulation enablers 2. contract enforcement 3. registering property 4. inspection reform enablers 5. single window system 6. land availability and allotment 7. construction permit enablers 8. environmental registration enablers 9. obtaining utility permits 10. paying taxes 11. access to information and transparency enablers 12. sector-specific reforms spanning the lifecycle of a typical business ▪ DIPP carry out a comprehensive business-to-government (B2G) feedback

exercise whereby the States and UTs will take feedback from businesses on the quality of implementation of the reforms claimed.




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▪ The feedback scores are used to generate a ranking of States/UTs in terms of reform implementation.

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=180491 https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/reading-ease-of-doing-business-rankings/article24400572.ece Question 43 DOMAIN - Space in news, Science and Tech Consider the following pairs:

Satellites sometimes mentioned in news

Objective

1. GRACE-FO Monitor changes in sea level rise and ice melt

2. Monitor changes in sea level Measuring ice sheet elevation and sea ice thickness

3. ICESat-2 Earth-Imaging

Which of the pair(s) given above is/are correctly matched? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent context: A twin spacecraft (GRACE-FO) to monitor the changes in sea level rise, ice melt and drought on Earth was launched aboard a SpaceX rocket, along with five communication satellites. The Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-On (GRACE-FO) is a joint mission by NASA and the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). ICESat-2 (Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite 2), part of NASA's Earth Observing System, is a satellite mission for measuring ice sheet elevation and sea ice thickness, as well as land topography, vegetation characteristics, and clouds. ASNARO-2 is a Japanese Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Earth-imaging satellite developed by NEC Corporation and USEF. It was launched on January 2018.




https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/reading-ease-of-doing-business-rankings/article24400572.ece






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https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/two-sportscar-sized-satellites-in-orbit-to-measure-earths-water/article23966601.ece Question 44 DOMAIN - Government Rules and Regulations Section 497 of Indian Penal Code is related to: a. Cyber Crime b. Child Labour c. Domestic Violence d. Adultery CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ Supreme Court has scrapped Section 497 of the Indian Penal code, which says

that adultery is a crime. ▪ Supreme Court has said that matrimonial sanctity is an issue but the penal

provision on adultery is apparently violative of the right to equality under the constitution.

▪ Chief Justice has said that how married couples deal with adultery is "absolutely a matter of privacy at its pinnacle".

Conclusion: Adultery is not a crime.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/adultery-not-a-criminal-offence-as-sc-strikes-down-section-497-of-ipc/article25055245.ece


https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/two-sportscar-sized-satellites-in-orbit-to-measure-earths-water/article23966601.ece









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Question 45 DOMAIN - Science and Tech "Nano-technology" has applications in which of the following? 1. Precise drug delivery 2. Faster recharge of batteries 3. Improved air quality 4. Cancer treatment 5. Better packaging of food Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1, 3 and 4 only b. 2, 3 and 5 only c. 1 and 4 only d. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ Scientists have developed Nano-bubbles that can deliver drugs in the body

when triggered by standard X-rays and may pave the way for a new range of cancer treatments.

▪ Initial testing has shown this technique to be highly efficient in killing bowel cancer cells.

Other Applications of Nano-technology:

▪ Precise Drug Delivery: Customized nanoparticles the size of molecules can deliver drugs directly to diseased cells in your body. When it is perfected, this method would greatly reduce the damage treatment such as chemotherapy etc.

▪ Food packaging: Companies are developing nanomaterials for food packaging that will make a difference in not only the taste of food but also in food safety and the health benefits that food delivers.

▪ Fuel Cells: Nanotechnology is being used to reduce the cost of catalysts used in fuel cells to produce hydrogen ions from fuel such as methanol and to improve the efficiency of membranes used in fuel cells to separate hydrogen ions from other gases such as oxygen

▪ Batteries: Companies have developed nanotech solar cells that can be manufactured at a significantly lower cost than conventional solar cells. Chapter 10 Companies are currently developing batteries using nanomaterials. One such battery will be good as new after sitting on the shelf for decades.




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Another battery can be recharged significantly faster than conventional batteries.

▪ Space: Nanotechnology may hold the key to making space flight more practical. Advancements in nanomaterials make lightweight spacecraft and a cable for the space elevator possible. By significantly reducing the amount of rocket fuel required, these advances could lower the cost of reaching orbit and traveling in space.

▪ Fuels: Nanotechnology can address the shortage of fossil fuels such as diesel and gasoline by making the production of fuels from low-grade raw materials economical, increasing the mileage of engines, and making the production of fuels from normal raw materials more efficient.

▪ Better Air Quality: Nanotechnology can improve the performance of catalysts used to transform vapours escaping from cars or industrial plants into harmless gasses.

▪ Textile Industry: Making composite fabric with Nano-sized particles or fibres allows improvement of fabric properties without a significant increase in weight, thickness, or stiffness, as might have been the case with previously used techniques.

▪ Chemical Sensors: Nanotechnology can enable sensors to detect very small amounts of chemical vapours.

▪ https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/nano-bubbles-triggered-by-x-ray-can-target-cancer/article24435368.ece

▪ http://www.understandingnano.com/nanotech-applications.html

Question 46


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/nano-bubbles-triggered-by-x-ray-can-target-cancer/article24435368.ece




http://www.understandingnano.com/nanotech-applications.html

http://www.understandingnano.com/nanotech-applications.html



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DOMAIN - Biodiversity in news, Science and Tech With reference to the "Salicornia Plant", mentioned often in the news, consider the following statements: 1. It grows in salty marshes in the mangrove wetlands 2. It is used in the treatment of hypertension and diabetes 3. India is the largest producer of this plant Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: The government of Andhra Pradesh is intensifying the efforts to tap commercial benefits from the Salicornia Plant through cultivation as well as extraction of the substitute to salt with low-sodium content. Salicornia Plant:

▪ This plant grows in salty marshes in the mangrove wetlands. ▪ The plant can be used as a substitute for salt with low sodium content. ▪ The patients suffering from hypertension, diabetes and gastric related ailments

prefer the Salicornia salad and salt. ▪ The production of the salt substitute has come down drastically in Gujarat with

the scarcity of the Salicornia. Thus, India is forced to import it from Israel and Scandinavian countries.

Chapter 11 https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/state-gears-up-to-tap-benefits-of-salicornia-in-krishna/article24490394.ece Chapter 12 Question 47 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news In the Indian context, what is the implication of becoming the "Institutions of Eminence"? 1. They would be given significant autonomy in operations 2. Grant of 1000 crore would be provided to them over 5 years 3. IIT Kharagpur has been declared as the Institution of Eminence Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct?


https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/state-gears-up-to-tap-benefits-of-salicornia-in-krishna/article24490394.ece






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a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ The Government has shortlisted Six Institutions of Eminence (IoEs) including 3

from Public Sector and 3 from Private Sector. ▪ Public Sector: ▪ Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka ▪ Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Maharashtra ▪ Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi ▪ Private Sector: ▪ Jio Institute (Reliance Foundation), Pune under Green Field Category ▪ Birla Institute of Technology & Sciences, Pilani, Rajasthan ▪ Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka ▪ It is expected that the above selected Institutions will come up in the top 500

of the world ranking in 10 years and in top 100 of the world ranking eventually over time.

To achieve the top world ranking, these Institutions shall be provided with- 1. Greater autonomy to admit foreign students up to 30% of admitted students 2. Recruit foreign faculty upto 25% of faculty strength 3. Offer online courses upto 20% of its programmes 4. Enter into an academic collaboration with top 500 in the world ranking

Institutions without permission of UGC 5. Free to fix and charge fees from foreign students without restriction 6. Flexibility of course structure in terms of the number of credit hours and years

to take a degree 7. Complete flexibility in fixing of curriculum and syllabus, among others. 8. Each public Institution selected, as ‘Institution of Eminence’ will get financial

assistance up to Rs. 1000 Crore over the period of five years under this scheme.




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Chapter 13 Chapter 14 https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/columns/slate/all-you-wanted-to-know-aboutinstitution-of-eminence/article24496811.ece

Question 48 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to "DigiLocker", consider the following statements: 1. It is available only for Indian citizens 2. It is a part of Digital India Initiative 3. Ministry of Railways has approved digital Aadhaar and Driving Licence from DigiLocker as proof of identity of passengers Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ Ministry of Railways has decided that while undertaking journey in a train, if a

passenger shows the Aadhaar/Driving Licence from the ‘Issued Documents’ section by logging into his/her DigiLocker account, the same should be considered as valid proof of identity.


https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/columns/slate/all-you-wanted-to-know-aboutinstitution-of-eminence/article24496811.ece






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▪ It is, however, clarified that the documents uploaded by the user himself/herself (i.e. the documents in ‘Uploaded Documents’ section) will not be considered as a valid proof of identity.

DigiLocker ▪ DigiLocker is a platform for issuance and verification of documents and

certificates in a digital format, thereby eliminating the use of physical documents. Indian citizens who sign up for a DigiLocker account get a dedicated cloud storage space that is linked to their Aadhaar or UIDAI number.

▪ The DigiLocker facility is available only for Indian citizens. To open a DigiLocker account, you must have an Aadhaar card (Aadhaar number). To activate the account, it is mandatory to link your DigiLocker account to your Aadhaar (UIDAI) number.

▪ DigiLocker is part of the government's Digital India initiative. PM Modi launched the project in 2015.

Benefits of DigiLocker: ▪ Citizens can access their digital documents anytime, anywhere and share it

online for their ease and convenience. This helps in saving time, paperwork, and helps people get their work done on the move.

▪ It reduces the administrative overhead of government departments by minimizing the use of paper, thereby making it a hassle-free and more environment-friendly way of getting things done.

▪ DigiLocker makes it easier to validate the authenticity of documents as they are issued directly by the registered issuers. Since the concerned departments verify documents, it helps a user get many other tasks done, for eg: documents required for various banking purposes, or at airports and railway stations, where IDs are needed.

▪ Self-uploaded documents can be digitally signed using the eSign facility (which is similar to the process of self-attestation of documents). Documents can thereby be shared as and when required, without it having to be manually delivered or collected.

Chapter 15 https://www.livemint.com/Technology/vt7Sx2J2DTaoyVpMqsRxiM/What-is-DigiLocker-and-how-to-use-it-to-carry-all-documents.html Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Chapter 24


https://www.livemint.com/Technology/vt7Sx2J2DTaoyVpMqsRxiM/What-is-DigiLocker-and-how-to-use-it-to-carry-all-documents.html






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Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Question 49 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to the "Global Housing Technology challenge", consider the following statements: 1. It has been launched under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban in India 2. It has been launched by the International Federation for Housing and Planning Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched the Global Housing

Technology Challenge to make the construction of houses cost-effective and innovative. Chapter 27

▪ The aim of the initiative — under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban (PMAY-U) — is to fast-track the construction of affordable housing and meet the target of constructing 1.2 crore houses by 2022.

▪ The challenge will also focus on identifying and mainstreaming proven demonstrable technologies for lighthouse projects and spotting potential future technologies for incubation and acceleration support through ASHA (Affordable Sustainable Housing Accelerators) — India.

▪ It will invite ideas from across the globe for alternative technologies that go beyond the brick-and-mortar building model used widely in Indian construction.

▪ The four parameters in the global challenge would be time, cost, quality, and sustainability. The technology will have to be better than the existing ones on all these four fronts.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/real-estate/ministry-launches-global-housing-technology-challenge-to-bring-changes-in-construction/article25992855.ece https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/government-launches-global-housing-technology-challenge-to-build-houses-in-shorter-time/articleshow/67528562.cms


https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/real-estate/ministry-launches-global-housing-technology-challenge-to-bring-changes-in-construction/article25992855.ece




https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/government-launches-global-housing-technology-challenge-to-build-houses-in-shorter-time/articleshow/67528562.cms








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Question 50 DOMAIN - Important Bills, Acts and Amendments With reference to the provisions made under the DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018, consider the following statements: 1. It provides for the establishment of regional DNA data banks 2. Written consent by individuals is required to collect DNA samples from them Which of the statements/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018 has been

passed which allows the use of technology to establish the identity of persons in matters of crime, parentage dispute, emigration or immigration and transplantation of human organs.

▪ The Bill regulates the use of DNA technology for establishing the identity of persons.

▪ The Bill establishes a National DNA Data Bank and Regional DNA Data Banks.

▪ Every Data Bank will maintain the following indices: 1. crime scene index, 2. suspects or undertrials index, 3. offenders’ index, 4. missing persons’ index, and 5. unknown deceased persons’ index.




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▪ The Bill establishes a DNA Regulatory Board. Every DNA laboratory that analyses a DNA sample to establish the identity of an individual has to be accredited by the Board.

▪ Written consent by individuals is required to collect DNA samples from them. Consent is not required for offences with punishment of more than seven years of imprisonment or death.

▪ The Bill requires consent of the individual when DNA profiling is used in criminal investigations and identifying missing persons. However, consent requirements have not been specified in case of DNA profiling for civil matters.

▪ The Bill provides for the removal of DNA profiles of suspects on the filing of a police report or court order, and of undertrials based on a court order. Profiles in the crime scene and missing persons’ index will be removed on a written request.

Question 51 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news With reference to the Water and Power Consultancy Services (India) Limited, consider the following statements: 1. It is a body under the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation 2. It is a Navratna company Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context: Water and Power Consultancy Services Limited celebrated its 50th foundation day on 26th June 2018.

▪ The Government of India incorporated WAPCOS, as a Public Sector Enterprise in 1969.

▪ It is a techno-commercial organization under the aegis of Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.




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▪ The company has contributed in the development of over 15 Million Ha

irrigation potential; more than 200 projects in ports and inland navigation; over 500 projects in water supply and sanitation, rural and urban development, roads and highway engineering.

▪ In the Hydropower sector, WAPCOS has completed almost 52 Hydro-Power Projects in 19 countries with an installed capacity of more than 20,500 MW; over 105 Hydro Power Projects in India with an installed capacity of more than 9,000 MW.

▪ WAPCOS was conferred with Mini-Ratna status in 2010. Question 52 DOMAIN - Science and tech, Government Rules and Regulations Consider the following statements about Coal Mine Surveillance & Management System: 1. It is a GIS application through which the location of sites for unauthorized mining can be detected 2. It has been launched by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Which of the statements/s given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Recently, The Ministry of Coal has launched the Coal Mine Surveillance & Management System (CMSMS) and ‘Khan Prahari’ mobile application.

▪ The basic objective of CMSMS is reporting, monitoring and taking suitable action on unauthorized coal mining activities.

▪ The CMSMS is a Web-based GIS application through which the location of sites for unauthorized mining can be detected.




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▪ The basic platform used in the system is of Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology’s (MeiTY) map, which provides village-level information.

▪ The leasehold boundary of all the coal mines are displayed on this map. ▪ The system will use satellite data to detect changes by which unauthorized

mining activity extending beyond the allotted lease area can be detected and suitable action can be taken on it.

▪ The ‘Khan Prahari’ app is for reporting any activity taking place related to illegal coal mining like rat-hole mining, pilferage etc.

▪ One can upload geo-tagged photographs of the incident along with textual information directly to the system.

Question 53 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to the Recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks Scheme, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? 1. It will enable RRBs to maintain the minimum prescribed CRAR of 9% 2. It has been extended upto the year 2022 Select the correct answer using the codes given below: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ Recently, the government has approved the extension of recapitalization

scheme for Regional Rural Banks for next 3 years upto 2019-20 with an aim to strengthen their lending capacity.

▪ This will enable the RRBs to maintain the minimum prescribed capital to risk-weighted assets ratio (CRAR) of 9 percent.

▪ A strong capital structure and minimum required level of CRAR will ensure financial stability of RRBs, which will enable them to play a greater role in financial inclusion and meeting the credit requirements of rural areas.

▪ The scheme was started in FY2010-11 and has been extended twice in the year 2012-13 and 2015-16. The last extension was up to March 31, 2017.




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▪ The identification of RRBs that require recapitalization was decided in consultation with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

▪ RRBs were set up with the objective to provide credit and other facilities, especially to the small and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers, artisans and small entrepreneurs in rural areas.

Question 54 DOMAIN - Disease in news HSV1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which of the following diseases? a. AIDS b. Swine flu c. Herpes d. Alzheimer’s CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context: Scientists have found evidence of a link between herpes infection and Alzheimer’s disease as well as the potential of antivirals in reducing the risk of the neurodegenerative disease.

▪ In the study, when people who suffered from severe herpes infection were treated aggressively with antiviral drugs, the relative risk of dementia was reduced by a factor of 10.

▪ Herpes Simplex, commonly known as Herpes is an infectious disease caused by a Herpes Simplex Virus. It appears in various parts of the body.

▪ They have been classified into two types namely: 1. HSV – 1 2. HSV – 2

Question 55 DOMAIN - Space in news, Science and Tech Consider the following statements about the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS):

1. IRNSS 1I is the eighth satellite in the satellite system.




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2. IRNSS will help in land navigation only.

Which of the above statements is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Why in news? IRNSS 1I satellite was launched by ISRO on April 12, 2018. What is IRNSS?

• IRNSS stands for Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System.

• It is a set of satellites which together can provide India a regional positioning

system similar to the GPS.

• According to the ISRO website, the system is designed to give position accuracy

better than 20 metres to users in its primary coverage area.

• It can also service regions extending up to 1500 km around India's boundary.

• ISRO has built a total of nine satellites in the IRNSS series of which eight are

currently in orbit.

How many IRNSS satellites are already in orbit?

• There are currently seven IRNSS satellites (1A to 1G) in orbit. IRNSS 1I will be

the eighth in the series.

• A, B, F, G, I are placed in a geosynchronous orbit, which means they seem to be

at a fixed location above the Earth and they orbit along with the Earth.

• C, D, E, are located in geostationary orbit-they seem to be at a fixed location

above the Earth along the equator and orbit along with the Earth.

Specifications of IRNSS-1I:

• The IRNSS-1I weighs 1425 kg at lift-off and is the eighth satellite in the IRNSS

satellite constellation.

• It will be placed in a sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit and at its closest point

will be 284 km above the Earth and at its farthest will be 20,650 km above the

Earth.

• Like all other IRNSS satellites, IRNSS-1I will also carry two payloads – navigation

payload and ranging payload - the former to transmit signals for determining




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position, velocity and time and the latter for determining the frequency range of

the satellite.

What are the applications of IRNSS?

• These satellites help not just in land navigation but also in marine and aerial

navigation.

• The data from these satellites can be used to give vehicle drivers visual and

voice navigation assistance.

• They also help in disaster management and in proper time-keeping.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/navigation-satellite-irnss-1i-to-be-launched-on-april-12/article23494496.ece Question 56 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news With reference to ‘North Eastern Council’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a statutory body with governors and chief ministers of all the eight north eastern states as its members.

2. Union Home-Minister is ex-officio chairman of this council. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ Recently, The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of Ministry of

Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) for the nomination of the Union Home Minister as ex-officio Chairman of North Eastern Council (NEC).

▪ The Cabinet also approved that Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of DoNER would serve as Vice Chairman of the Council.

About North Eastern Council:

▪ It is an apex level body for securing balanced and coordinated development and facilitating coordination with the States.

▪ It was established under the North Eastern Council Act, 1971 ▪ Subsequent to the Amendment of 2002, NEC has been mandated to

function as a regional planning body for the North Eastern Area and while








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formulating a regional plan for this area, shall give priority to the schemes and projects benefiting two or more states provided that in the case of Sikkim, the Council shall formulate specific projects and schemes for that State.

Question 57 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to ‘Swajal Scheme’, consider the following statements:

1. It has been launched by the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

2. Under this scheme, Government aims to provide villages with piped water supply powered by solar energy.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context: In June 2018, A National Consultation on the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) and Swajal was held in the Capital today to discuss the reforms needed in NRDWP and to outline a road map for the Swajal scheme. About Swajal scheme:

▪ Swajal is community-owned drinking water scheme for sustained drinking water supply.

▪ Under it, 90% of project cost is taken care by the government and remaining 10% is contributed by beneficiary community.

▪ The operations and management of the project is taken care by the local villagers.

▪ Under this scheme, government aims to provide villages with piped water supply powered by solar energy.

▪ Ministry of Drinking water and sanitation has launched Swajal scheme in 115 aspirational districts of India to provide clean water.




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Question 58 DOMAIN - Defence in news ‘Pinaka’ sometimes seen in news refers to: a. A multi-barrel rocket launcher b. An application for grievance redressal c. A card payment scheme d. A portal that enables NGOs to enrol centrally CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context: The indigenous Pinaka rocket system of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is being evolved into a precision-guided missile, with enhanced range and accuracy to hit its target. About Pinaka:

▪ Pinaka is a multiple rocket launcher produced in India and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army.

▪ The system has a maximum range of 40 km for Mark-I and 75 km for Mark-II,

and can fire a salvo of 12 HE rockets in 44 seconds. The system is mounted on a truck for mobility.

▪ Pinaka saw service during the Kargil War, where it was successful in neutralising enemy positions on the mountain tops. It has since been inducted into the Indian Army in large numbers.

Question 59 DOMAIN - International News Which of the following statement/s is/are correct in context of ‘World Blood Donors day’?

1. It has been instituted by United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)




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2. It is one of the eight official global public health campaigns marked by WHO Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ Every year on 14 June, countries around the world celebrate World Blood

Donor Day (WBDD). ▪ The theme for 2018 was ‘Be there for someone else. Give blood. Share life’.

The host was Greece. About World Blood Donors Day:

▪ The World Blood Donors day was instituted by WHO in 2004, serves to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products, and to thank blood donors for their voluntary, life-saving gifts of blood.

▪ World Blood Donor Day is one of eight official global public health campaigns marked by the World Health Organization (WHO), along with World Health Day, World Tuberculosis Day, World Immunization Week, World Malaria Day, World No Tobacco Day, World Hepatitis Day, and World AIDS Day.

Question 60 DOMAIN - International News With reference to ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a multi-lateral export control regime. 2. It was founded in response to the Indian nuclear test in 1974. 3. In 2018, Estonia became the first Baltic state to chair the NSG.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? a. 1 and 2 b. 2 and 3 c. 1 and 3 d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context:




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In June 2018, The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) plenary meeting took place in Jurmala, Latvia after Latvia assumed chairmanship of NSG for 2018-19. About NSG:

▪ The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) is a multilateral export control regime and a group of nuclear supplier countries that seek to prevent nuclear proliferation by controlling the export of materials, equipment and technology that can be used to manufacture nuclear weapons.

▪ The NSG was founded in response to the Indian nuclear test in May 1974 and first met in November 1975. The test demonstrated that certain non-weapons specific nuclear technology could be readily turned to weapons development.

▪ Initially it had 7 members, but as of 2019, NSG has 48 participating governments.

▪ In 2018, Latvia became the first Baltic state to chair the NSG. Question 61 DOMAIN - International News With reference to “SCOs Qingdao Declaration 2018”, which of the following statement/s is/are correct? 1. It calls for implementing three-year plan to combat terrorism, separatism and extremism. 2. India is the only country to refuse to endorse One Belt, One Road (OBOR) project as part of this declaration. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ SCO summit has adopted ‘Qingdao declaration’ calling for 3-year plan to

combat terrorism. ▪ Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) leaders taking part in a summit in

China’s Qingdao have signed the Qingdao Declaration. ▪ The signing ceremony involved the leaders of China, Russia, Kazakhstan,

Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan.




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▪ It also calls for implementation of the treaty on long-term good neighborliness, friendship and co-operation.

▪ The leaders adopted a total of 17 documents at the summit. ▪ India refused to endorse China’s ambitious One Belt, One Road (OBOR) project

as part of Qingdao Declaration at the 18th SCO summit. ▪ At the restricted session of the SCO Summit, Indian Prime Minister Modi floated

concept of SECURE: ‘S’ for security for citizens, ‘E’ for economic development, ‘C’ for connectivity in the region, ‘U’ for unity, ‘R’ for respect of sovereignty and integrity, ‘E for environment protection. Question 62 DOMAIN - Disease in news Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct in context of ‘Nipah Virus Infection’?

1. It is transmitted to humans through animals 2. It was first identified in 1999 in Malaysia and Singapore 3. Chickens are the natural host of this virus

Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Recently, Kerala government has lifted high alert issued in the wake of outbreak of deadly Nipah virus in May 2018 in northern Kozhikode and Malappuram district in Kerala. About Nipah Virus:

▪ Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus (it is transmitted from animals to humans) and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people.

▪ In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic (subclinical) infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. The virus can also




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cause severe disease in animals such as pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers.

▪ It was first identified in 1999 during outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore. It gets its name from a Malaysian village called ‘Sunghai Nipah’, where pig farmers became ill with encephalitis.

▪ Fruit Bats are the natural hosts of the virus. Infected bats sheds virus in their excretion and secretion.

Question 63 DOMAIN - Important Funds ‘Credit Enhancement Fund’ launched by the Union Government aims to: a. Provide education loan for students of economically weaker sections b. Facilitate Infrastructure investments by insurance and pension funds c. Facilitate farmers with credit availability d. Facilitate infrastructure for Women Safety CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ Union govt. is going to launch Rs.500 crore ‘Credit Enhancement Fund’ to

facilitate infrastructure investments by insurance and pension funds. ▪ The fund will help in raising credit rating of bonds issued by infrastructure

companies and facilitate investment from long-term investors ▪ The Asian Infrastructure and Investment Bank will take a 10 per cent equity

stake in a ₹500-crore credit enhancement fund that seeks to raise investments in operational and stabilized infrastructure projects

▪ The initial corpus of the fund, to be sponsored by IIFCL (India Infrastructure Finance Company).

Question 64 DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news Which of the following pair/s is/are correctly matched? Temples Places

1. Sabarimala Temple Kerala




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2. Raghavendra Swamy Temple Tamil Nadu 3. Brahma Sarovar Temple Haryana

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER – C

EXPLANATION

Recent context: Recently, Union ministry of Drinking water and sanitation has selected 10 more iconic places under the phase 3 of Swachh Bharat Mission. Launched in 2016, The Phase I iconic places are:

▪ Ajmer Sharif Dargah, CST Mumbai ,Golden Temple, Kamakhya Temple, MaikarnikaGhat, Meenakshi Temple, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Shree Jagannath Temple, The Taj Mahal and Tirupati Temple.

▪ Phase II of Swachh Iconic Places launched in Nov 2017 were: Gangotri, Yamunotri, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Charminar, Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assissi, Kalady, Gommateswara, BaidyanathDham, Gaya Tirth and Somnath temple.

▪ Ten new iconic sites under phase 3 are: Chapter 28 Raghavendra Swamy Temple (Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh); Hazardwari Palace (Murshidabad, West Bengal); Brahma Sarovar Temple (Kurukshetra, Haryana); VidurKuti (Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh); Mana village (Chamoli, Uttarakhand); Pangong Lake (Leh-Ladakh, J&K); Nagvasuki Temple (Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh); ImaKeithal/market (Imphal, Manipur); Sabarimala Temple (Kerala); and Kanvashram (Uttarakhand).

Question 65 DOMAIN – Indices With reference to ‘Composite Water Management Index’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It aims to inspire States/UTs towards efficient and optimal utilization of water and recycling.

2. It is released by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. Select the correct answer using the code given below:




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a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ In February 2018, NITI Aayog had released a report on “Healthy States,

Progressive India” which covered the ranking of States/ UTs in various health parameters.

▪ As a step further in direction and keeping in view the criticality of water for life, NITI Aayog has prepared a report on Composite Water Management Index (CWMI).

▪ In 2018 report, Gujarat is number one, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra.

▪ In North Eastern and Himalayan States, Tripura has been adjudged number 1, followed by Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Assam.

About Composite Water Management Index:

▪ It has been launched and developed by NITI Aayog comprising 9 broad sectors with 28 different indicators covering various aspects of ground water, restoration of water bodies, irrigation, farm practices, drinking water, policy and governance.

▪ For the purposes of analysis, the reporting states were divided into two special groups – ‘North Eastern and Himalayan states’ and ‘Other States’, to account for the different hydrological conditions across these groups.

▪ It is an important tool to assess and improve the performance of States/ Union Territories in efficient management of water resources.

▪ This has been done through a first of its kind water data collection exercise in partnership with Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation and all the States/ Union Territories.

Question 66 DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news Consider the following pairs and identify the correct one/s:

Regions / Cities seen in news Country

1. Gaza Israel 2. Caracas Venezuela




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3. Sulawesi China

Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 1 and 2 only c. 2 only d. None of the above CORRECT ANSWER – C

EXPLANATION

Pair 1 is incorrectly matched:

• The Gaza Strip or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory.

• It is situated on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea that borders Egypt on the southwest and Israel on the east and north.

• Gaza and the West Bank are claimed by the State of Palestine and often remain in news.

• The Gaza Strip has been in news due to the ongoing tensions between Palestine ad Israel.

• In October 2018, Palestinian officials claimed that Israeli forces have shot dead six Palestinians, four of them in a single incident in one of the deadliest attacks along the security fence separating Gaza and Israel.




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Pair 2 is correctly matched:

• Caracas is the capital city of Venezuela.

• It has been in news due to the recent incidents of a failed drone attack on the Venezuelan President – Nicolas Manduro.

• The incident led to a political turmoil in Venezuela including its capital city of Caracas and made the international headlines.

Venezuela shares its land boundary with:

• Columbia in the west

• Guyana in the east

• Brazil in south and south-east Venezuela shares its coast with:

• Caribbean Sea in the north west

• North Atlantic Ocean in the north east

Pair 3 is incorrectly matched:

• Sulawesi region is situated in Indonesia and not China.

• It has been in news because of a shallow earthquake of magnitude 7.5 (Richter scale) that had struck in neck of Minahasa Peninsula, Indonesia on 28 September 2018.

• Its epicentre was located in mountainous Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi.




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• This event was preceded by sequence of foreshocks, largest of which was a magnitude 6.1 tremor and followed by localised tsunami, sweeping shore-lying houses and buildings on its way.

• Sulawesi Earthquake was the deadliest earthquake to strike Indonesia since 2006 Yogyakarta earthquake, as well as deadliest earthquake worldwide in 2018.

• India launched an operation known as ‘Operation Samudra Maitri’ to provide relief assistance to Indonesia.

Question 67 DOMAIN - International Relations Operation Samudra Maitri was in news recently, which of the following correctly describes it? a. It is the name of joint naval exercise held recently between India and Sri Lanka b. It is the name of maritime exercise held recently between India and Bangladesh c. It was the relief operation launched by India to provide relief assistance to earthquake and tsunami victims in Indonesia d. It was a rescue operation conducted by Indian navy to rescue a Bangladeshi commercial vessel in the Indian Ocean Region CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

• On September 28th -2018, Indonesia was hit by an earthquake and a tsunami

• ‘Operation Samudra Maitri’ for humanitarian assistance to Indonesia was launched by India after a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

Question 68 DOMAIN - International Relations




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“Wooferendum march” was seen in news recently. Which of the following correctly describes it? a. It was a march campaign organised by the animal activists for seeking protection for stray dogs b. It was a march organised to seek protection from the menace of stray dogs c. It was a march by Anti-Brexit protesters for seeking new referendum on BREXIT d. It was a march by the people in United Kingdom to hold a new referendum on the issue of Scotland CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Wooferendum March – London 2018

• With a campaign known as “Wooferendum March” – the Britons found a new and a unique way of seeking attention to the question of BREXIT.

• With tails wagging and raucous barking, hundreds of dogs and their owners rallied in London in October 2018 to howl (seek support) for a new people’s vote on Brexit, in what organisers dubbed a “wooferendum march”.

• Although the campaigners managed to gain the attention but the British Prime Minister Theresa May has ruled out a new Brexit referendum, saying it would betray the result of the 2016 vote and destroy trust in politicians.

• However, the British politicians from all parties have joined a growing movement for Britons to have the chance to say whether they have changed their minds.

Question 69 DOMAIN - Trends of important parameters In context of Index of Eight Core Industries, which of the following is/are correct? 1. Between the period 2012-13 to 2017-18, there has been a steady annual growth in

the overall output of the eight core industries. 2. Among the eight core industries, ‘Petroleum Refinery production’ has the

maximum and ‘fertilizer production’ the minimum weight. Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 or 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION




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Statement 1 is correct

• From the figure it can be seen that the overall Index of Industrial Production of the Eight Core Industries has been increasing steadily between the period from 2012-13 to 2017-18.

Statement 2 is correct:

• The weights allotted to the respective industries are as follows: Industry Weight

Allotted Fertilizers production 2.63 %

Cement production 5.37 %

Natural Gas Production

6.88 %

Crude Oil Production 8.98 % Coal Production 10.33 %

Steel Production 17.92 % Electricity Generation 19.85 %

Petroleum Refinery Production

28.04 %

• From this table we can infer that fertilizer production has been allotted the minimum weight, while the petroleum and refinery production has been allotted the maximum weight.




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From examination point of view exact weights need not be remembered, but the trend and the order of the weights is important. Question 70 DOMAIN - Trends of important parameters In context of Index of Eight Core Industries, which of the following is/are incorrect? 1. Between the period from 2012-13 to 2017-18, the rate of growth in the overall

output of the eight core industries has been uniform. 2. In the same time period, the overall output of the eight core industries has been

increasing steadily. Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 or 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Statement 1 is incorrect




100

• From the figure, it can be seen that between the period from 2012-13 to 2017-18, the rate of growth in the overall output of the eight core industries has not been uniform.

• However, as far as the output from the eight core industries is concerned between the same time period, it is steadily increasing which is evident from the data given below.

• Between the period 2012-13 to 2017-18, the steady increase in the overall index of

the eight core industries indicates that the overall output of the eight core industries has been increasing in the same period.

Since the question has asked for the incorrect statement therefore the answer is option a.




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Question 71 DOMAIN - Science and Tech, Defence in news Recently China conducted a maiden test flight of an aircraft called as AG600. Consider the following statements regarding it and identify the correct one/s: 1. It has been indigenously designed and built by China 2. It has been code named as ‘Kunlong’ 3. It has been designed to be the world’s largest amphibious aircraft Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 1 and 2 only c. 1 and 3 only d. All of the above CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/china-built-worlds-largest-amphibious-plane-completes-maiden-flight-test/article25269405.ece Recent Context: Recently in October 2018, China-built world’s largest amphibious plane completed maiden flight test. What is AG600?

• China’s indigenously designed and built amphibious aircraft AG600 successfully carried out its first take-off and landing tests in October 2018. Hence statement 1 is correct

• The aircraft is code-named Kunlong and is also known by the name of AVIC AG600 Kunlong. (Hence statement 2 is correct)

• Designed to be the world’s largest amphibious aircraft, AG600 is powered by four domestically-built turboprop engines and has a range of 12 hours. Hence statement 3 is correct

• It will be mainly used for maritime rescue, fighting forest fires and marine monitoring.


https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/china-built-worlds-largest-amphibious-plane-completes-maiden-flight-test/article25269405.ece






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Question 72 DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news Consider the following pairs and identify the correct one/s: Cyclones recently in news

Affected Region

1. Leslie Arabian Peninsula

2. Titli Eastern Coast of India

3. Luban Iberian Peninsula

Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 1 and 2 only c. 2 only d. All of the above CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

1. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/hurricane-leslie-heading-to-portugal-spain/article25213125.ece

2. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/rimes-terms-titli-cyclone-rarest-of-rare/article25593366.ece

3. https://www.financialexpress.com/photos/business-gallery/1346817/cyclone-titli-wreaks-havoc-in-odisha-andhra-pradesh-see-devastating-pictures/

4. https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/92877/cyclones-luban-and-titli Recent Context: The month of October 2018 witnessed three major cyclones in different parts of the world. These three cyclones were: A. Cyclone Leslie – Iberian Peninsula


https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/hurricane-leslie-heading-to-portugal-spain/article25213125.ece




https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/rimes-terms-titli-cyclone-rarest-of-rare/article25593366.ece




https://www.financialexpress.com/photos/business-gallery/1346817/cyclone-titli-wreaks-havoc-in-odisha-andhra-pradesh-see-devastating-pictures/




https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/92877/cyclones-luban-and-titli

https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/92877/cyclones-luban-and-titli



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• Also called as ‘Hurricane Leslie’, it was a long-lived tropical cyclone and had a

varying nature – it means that it constantly fluctuated between tropical storm and Category 1 hurricane intensity.

• A peculiar phenomenon associated with ‘Leslie’ was that it had a tropical origin, but it made landfall in the Iberian Peninsula as an extratropical cyclone.

• It had a devastating impact on Spain and Portugal. B. Cyclone Titli – Eastern Coast of India

• In October 2018, the Eastern Coast of India was hit hard by ‘Cyclone Titli’.

• On October 6, a low-pressure area formed in the Andaman Sea.

• Over the next two days, the disaster entered the Bay of Bengal and became a depression on October 8.

• Before being named 'Cyclone Titli', it received the designation BOB 08 from the IMD.

• Afterward, the storm rapidly strengthened, becoming a ‘very severe cyclonic storm’ on October 9, with the strength of a Category 2 hurricane on the Saffir–Simpson Scale (SSHWS).




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• It tore into coastal areas of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh states with winds of up to 150km/h (93mph).

• It weakened into a depression before entering West Bengal, wreaking havoc in some parts of South Bengal.

C. Cyclone Luban

• ‘Luban’ developed on October 6 in the central Arabian Sea.

• Twelve cyclones have formed in this region since 2010, but very few reach the Arabian Peninsula at cyclone strength.

• Luban is therefore a rare cyclonic event that managed to make its way to the Arabian Peninsula.

• It was categorised as ‘very severe cyclonic storm’.

• On October 14, it made a landfall in Eastern Yemen (in Arabian Peninsula), as a cyclonic storm.

• As it progressed further, it weakened over the dry mountainous terrain of the Arabian Peninsula.

• It produced flooding rains in Somalia, Oman and Yemen. Question 73

Saffir-Simpson Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based on a hurricane's

sustained wind speed. This scale estimates potential property damage.

Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because

of their potential for significant loss of life and damage.




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DOMAIN - Science and Tech, Terms in news The term “ASMR” was seen in news recently. Which of the following correctly describes it? a. It is an anti-aircraft missile technology. b. It is a type of missile defence system intended to shield a country against incoming missile. c. It is an experience characterized by a tingling sensation on the skin that typically begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. d. None of the above CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/internet/a-new-digital-dimension/article25096676.ece Recent Context:

• ASMR videos made headlines when PayPal came under fire for banning ASMR artists and freezing their accounts, under the impression (fuelled by trolls) that the content was sexual.

• The ASMR videos that are gaining popularity on the internet is an example as to how the internet subculture fuels the scientific research.

What is ASMR?

• ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response.

• It is an experience characterized by a static-like or tingling sensation on the skin that typically begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. Option C is therefore correct.

• The term was first known to be formally coined in 2010 by cybersecurity professional Jennifer Allen, who runs the ASMR Group on Facebook.

• The research scholars at Shenandoah University USA describe it simply as a variety of soothing sensations (tingles, relaxation, calmness, sleepiness) due to gentle stimuli (whispering, soft talking, light touches, methodical sounds).

Why is it becoming popular?

• Users from across the world plug into YouTube, Patreon, and other such sites to experience ASMR videos that produce these stimuli, called ‘triggers’, to experience soothing sensations (tingles, relaxation, calmness, sleepiness).

Research on ASMR


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/internet/a-new-digital-dimension/article25096676.ece






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• Modern Life-style is full of stress and causes various lifestyle diseases like insomnia, hyper tension, anxiety etc. This has caused a need for technological developments that can soothe a person through gentle stimuli.

• This popular internet experience has encouraged the scientists to explore this field and many projects have started in this sphere.

• Projects like “Whisperlodge”, which describes itself as the very first in-person immersive ASMR experience, want to bring ASMR into the real world i.e. take it beyond social media into the real world.

Question 74 DOMAIN - Science and Tech, Government Schemes and programmes Consider the following statements regarding “Self4Society” platform: 1. It is the premier workspace for Electronics and IT corporates to organise employee

engagements for social work. 2. It comprises of an ‘admin portal’ and a ‘mobile app’. Which of the above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 or 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

1) https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/gadgets/narendra-modi-to-

launch-app-to-rope-in-volunteers/article25242381.ece 2) https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/pm-modi-to-launch-

main-nahin-hum-portal-for-it-professionals-on-wednesday-118102301203_1.html Chapter 29

3) http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=184317 Chapter 30

4) https://self4society.mygov.in/faq/ Recent Context: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recently launched an app and a portal known as “MainNahin Hum” under the platform called as “Self4Society”. What is self for society platform?


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/gadgets/narendra-modi-to-launch-app-to-rope-in-volunteers/article25242381.ece




https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/pm-modi-to-launch-main-nahin-hum-portal-for-it-professionals-on-wednesday-118102301203_1.html






https://self4society.mygov.in/faq/




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• The Self4Society platform is the premiere workspace for Electronics and IT corporates to organise employee engagements (Initiatives) for social work. (Statement 1 is therefore correct).

• Through this platform an organisation can create their own initiatives under the identified National Causes.

Components under Self for Society Platform:

• The Self4Society platform comprises of the following:

a. Self4Society Admin portal (self4society.mygov.in) – It is a portal for Electronics and IT Industry's Corporate HR or CSR representatives, who will create the organisational profile and upload initiatives.

b. Self4Society App (available on Google Play Store and App Store) – Also known as ‘Main Nahin Hum’, it is an app for the people, who will volunteer for initiatives and contribute their time to tasks on-the-ground.

Hence statement 2 is also correct. Question 75 DOMAIN - Science and Technology, Government Schemes and programmes Consider the following statements regarding “Main Nahin Hum App”: 1. It is one of the components under the ‘Self4Society Platform’. 2. It provides an IT tool to track the progress of various government initiatives. Which of the above is / are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

'Self for Society' Platform

Main Nahin Hum - Online Portal

Main Nahin Hum - Mobile App




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1) https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/gadgets/narendra-modi-to-launch-app-to-rope-in-volunteers/article25242381.ece 2) https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/pm-modi-to-launch-main-nahin-hum-portal-for-it-professionals-on-wednesday-118102301203_1.html 3) http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=184317 4) https://self4society.mygov.in/faq/ Recent Context: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recently launched an app and a portal known as “MainNahin Hum” under the platform called as “Self4Service” Components under Self for Society Platform:

• The Self4Society platform comprises of the following:

a. Self4Society Admin portal (self4society.mygov.in) – It is a portal for Electronics and IT Industry's Corporate HR or CSR representatives, who will create the organisational profile and upload initiatives.

b. Self4Society App (available on Google Play Store and App Store) – Also known as ‘Main Nahin Hum’, it is an app for the people, who will volunteer for initiatives and contribute their time to tasks on-the-ground. Hence statement 1 is correct.

Main Nahin Hum App:

• It provides a platform to the professionals keen on doing volunteer work in their free time.

(Hence statement 2 is incorrect)

• It has been developed by ‘My Gov’.

'Self for Society' Platform

Main Nahin Hum - Online Portal

Main Nahin Hum - Mobile App






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Question 76 DOMAIN - Science and Tech, Disease in news An antibody known as “p95HER2-TCB” was seen in news recently. It has been developed to treat which of the following ? a. Tuberculosis b. AIDS c. Breast Cancer d. Nipah infection CORRECT ANSWER - C EXPLANATION https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/new-antibody-for-cancer-treatment/article25145951.ece Recent Context: Recently a team of researchers in Spain, Switzerland and the U.S. have researched on a specific antibody, called the p95HER2-T cell bispecific antibody (TCB), that can successfully guide immune cells, known as lymphocytes, directly to cancerous ones for their targeted killing. More about p95HER2-T cell:

• Ensuring that the therapeutics only target cancerous cells and not the healthy tissues is one of the most critical challenge to the cancer treatment.

• The recently developed anti body called as p95HER2-T cell bispecific antibody (TCB) seeks to address this challenge by exploiting the presence of p95HER2 protein, which is only located in tumour cells.

• Each antibody molecule has a bipartite structure containing two protein-binding sites. This means that they can simultaneously attach to immune cells and cancerous ones as well as take the lymphocytes hand-in-hand directly to the malignant cells for their subsequent destruction.

• This approach can be used to tackle certain HER2+ breast cancers through its exclusive targeting of cancerous cells.

Question 77

About My Gov

• MyGov is a citizen engagement platform founded by the Government of India to promote the active participation of Indian citizens in their country's governance and development.

• It is aimed at creating a common platform to "crowdsource governance ideas from citizens".

• Its website is managed and hosted by National Informatics Centre (NIC).


https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/new-antibody-for-cancer-treatment/article25145951.ece






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DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news Cyclone Titli was in news recently, which of the following state/s was/were impacted by it? 1. Odisha 2. Andhra Pradesh 3. West Bengal 4. Tamil Nadu Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1, 2 and 3 only d. All of the above CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: The Eastern Coast of India was hit by cyclone “Titli” in October 2018. Origin

• It originated in the first week of October after the development of a low-pressure area formed in the Andaman Sea.

• Over the next two days, it entered the Bay of Bengal and became a depression on October 8.

• Afterward, the storm rapidly strengthened, becoming a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm on October 9, with the strength of a Category 2 hurricane on the Saffir–Simpson scale (SSHWS).

Affected Regions

Saffir-Simpson Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based on a hurricane's sustained

wind speed. This scale estimates potential property damage. Hurricanes reaching Category

3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for significant loss

of life and damage.




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• States affected by cyclone Titli are:

a) Odisha b) Andhra Pradesh c) West Bengal

• It tore into coastal areas of Orissa and Andhra Pradesh states with winds of up to 150km/h (93mph).

• It weakened into a depression before entering West Bengal, wreaking havoc in some parts of South Bengal.

Question 78 DOMAIN – Indices, Rankings In context of Ease of Doing Business Index, which of the following statement/s is/are correct? 1. It ranks countries of the world across 10 indicators. 2. India jumped 77 ranks in Ease of Doing Business Index 2018. Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 or 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/india-jumps-up-in-the-ease-of-doing-business-index/article25381092.ece Recent Context: Recently India has reached 77th rank in the Ease of Doing Business Index, 2018. Who releases Ease of Doing Business Index?


https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/india-jumps-up-in-the-ease-of-doing-business-index/article25381092.ece






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• It released by World Bank on an annual basis.

• The Index ranks 190 countries across 10 indicators ranged across the lifecycle of a business from 'starting a business' to 'resolving insolvency'.

Hence statement 1 is correct. Indicators under Ease of Doing Business Index The World Bank uses the following indicators to rank the countries:

1. Starting a business 2. Dealing with construction permits 3. Getting electricity 4. Registering property 5. Getting credit 6. Protecting investors 7. Paying taxes 8. Trading across borders 9. Enforcing contracts 10. Resolving insolvency

India’s performance in Ease of Doing Business Report

• India jumped 23 ranks and has reached rank 77 in the World Bank's Ease of Doing

Business Index 2018. (Hence statement 2 is incorrect).

• India was ranked 100 last year and 130 in 2016 and 2015. When Modi government took over in 2014, it was ranked 142 among 190 nations.

Performance of other countries:

• New Zealand topped the ranking for the third time consecutively.

• Among the BRICS Nation, the ranking in 2018 is as follows: BRICS Nation

Ranking




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Russia 31

China 46 India 77

South Africa

82

Brazil 109

• Among India’s Neighbouring States, the rankings of the nations are as follows:

India’s Neighbour

Ranking

Bhutan 81 Sri Lanka 100

Nepal 110 Pakistan 136

Myanmar 171 Bangladesh 176

Question 79 DOMAIN - Reports, Indices, Trends of parameters Consider the following statements regarding “World Economic Outlook” and identify the incorrect one/s: 1. It is an annual flagship report of the World Bank. 2. The report of 2018 was released during annual meet of World Bank and IMF held at

Bali, Indonesia. Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 or 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/global-growth-has-plateaued-at-37-per-cent-clouds-on-the-horizon-imf/article25163744.ece Recent Context International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its annual flagship report in October 2018 during the annual IMF and World Bank meeting in Bali, Indonesia. Hence statement 1 is incorrect and statement 2 is correct.


https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/global-growth-has-plateaued-at-37-per-cent-clouds-on-the-horizon-imf/article25163744.ece






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Overview of World Economic Outlook Report:

• IMF has projected that the Global growth has plateaued at 3.7 per cent.

• It has projected that the global growth will remain steady over 2018—19 at last year’s rate of 3.7 per cent. This growth exceeds that achieved in any of the years between 2012 and 2016.

Question 80 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation was sometimes seen in news. Which of the following statement/s regarding it is/are correct? 1. It will function under Department of Health Research. 2. It will serve as institution of excellence for capacity building in human resource and

research in area of mental health rehabilitation. 3. Union Cabinet has decided to set it up in Sehore District, Madhya Pradesh. Select the correct code: a. 1 only b. 1 and 3 only c. 3 only d. 2 and 3 only CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

http://www.pib.nic.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1548399 Recent Context: In October 2018, the Union Cabinet modified its earlier decision to establish National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation in Sehore District (Madhya Pradesh) instead of Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh). (Hence, Statement 3 is correct) About National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation (NIMHR)

• It will be established as society under Societies Registration Act, 1860.

• It will function under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. (Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect)

• It will have nine departments and centres and will conduct 12 courses to offer diploma, certificate, graduate, post graduate, M.Phil degrees in field of mental health rehabilitation.


http://www.pib.nic.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1548399

http://www.pib.nic.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1548399



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• It will serve as institution of excellence for capacity building in human resource and research in area of mental health rehabilitation. (Hence, statement 2 is correct)

• It will be also recommending body suggesting models and protocols for effective rehabilitation of persons with mental illness.

Objectives of NIMHR

• Its objective is to provide rehabilitation services to persons with mental illness, capacity development in field of mental health rehabilitation, policy framing and advanced research in mental health rehabilitation.

Question 81 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to ‘Seva Bhoj yojana’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct? 1. It has been introduced by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution 2. The scheme envisages reimbursing the Central Government share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST). 3. Under this Yojana, eligible religious institution shall first register with Darpan Portal. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 and 3 only b. 2 only c. 2 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Ministry of Culture has launched the ‘Seva Bhoj Yojana’. About Seva Bhoj Yojana: Launched by- Ministry of culture Total outlay- Rs. 325.00 Crores for Financial Years 2018-19 and 2019-20.

▪ Purpose- The objective of the scheme is to lessen the financial burden of such Charitable Religious Institutions who provide Food/Prasad/Langar (Community Kitchen)/Bhandara free of cost without any discrimination to Public/Devotees.

▪ The scheme envisages to reimburse the Central Government share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST) on purchase of raw items such as ghee, edible oil, Atta/Maida/Rava/flour , rice




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pulses, sugar, burra/jiggery etc. which go into preparation of food/Prasad/Langar/Bhandara offered free of cost by religious institutions.

Eligibility: ▪ The Charitable Religious Institutions such as Temples, Gurudwara, Mosque,

Church, Dharmik Ashram, Dargah, Math, Monasteries etc. which have been in existence for at least five years before applying for financial assistance/grant

▪ who serve free food to at least 5000 people in a month ▪ such institutions covered under Section 10( 23BBA) of the Income Tax Act or

Institutions registered as Society under Societies Registration Act ( XXI of 1860) or as a Public Trust under any law

▪ Religious bodies constituted under any Act or institutions registered under Section 12AA of Income Tax Act shall be eligible for grant under the scheme.

▪ All the eligible institutions should be registered with Darpan portal. The details of registered institutions will be available on an online portal for the viewership of public, GST authorities and entity/institution itself.

Question 82 DOMAIN - Defence in news Which of the following sailing vessel is related to the ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’? a. INSV Tarini b. INSV Mhadei c. INSV Tarangini d. INSV Sudarshini CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Recent context: ▪ The six women officers comprising the crew of INSV Tarini, who recently

completed a circumnavigation of the globe. ▪ The expedition aboard INSV Tarini was flagged off on September 10, 2017 from

Goa and ended with the return to Goa on May 10, 2018. ▪ The vessel was skippered by Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, and the crew

comprised Lieutenant Commanders Pratibha Jamwal, P Swathi, B Aishwarya and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi and Payal Gupta.

▪ During its 254 day voyage, the vessel visited Australia, New Zealand, the Falkland Islands (UK), South Africa and Mauritius.

▪ The crew also collated and updated meteorological, ocean and wave data on a regular basis for accurate weather forecast by the India Meteorological




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Department (IMD), and monitored and reported marine pollution on the high seas.

Question 83 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to ‘Benami Transaction Informants Reward Scheme’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It has been launched by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. 2. Its objective is to obtain people’s participation in the efforts to unearth black

money and to reduce tax evasion. 3. A person can get a reward up to Rs. 1 Lakh for giving specific information.

Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 and 3 only b. 2 only c. 2 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context: Income tax Department has launched Benami Transaction Informants Reward Scheme About Benami Transaction Informants Reward Scheme: Introduced by- Income Tax Department Purpose- Obtaining people’s participation in the Income Tax Department’s efforts to unearth black money and to reduce tax evasion Need:- It was found in many cases that black money was invested in properties in the names of others, even though benefits were enjoyed by the investor concealing his beneficial ownership in his tax returns.

▪ This reward scheme is aimed at encouraging people to give information about Benami transactions and properties as well as income earned on such properties by such hidden investors and beneficial owners.

▪ Under the Benami Transactions Informants Reward Scheme, 2018, a person can get reward up to Rs. One crore for giving specific Information.

▪ Information can be given to the Joint or Additional Commissioners of Benami Prohibition Units (BPUs) in Investigation Directorates of Income Tax Department about Benami transactions and properties as well as proceeds from such




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properties which are actionable under Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988, as amended by Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016.

▪ Foreigners will also be eligible for such reward. ▪ Identity of the persons giving information will not be disclosed and strict

confidentiality shall be maintained. Question 84 DOMAIN - Places, regions and communities in news Consider the following pairs:

Islands Country 4. Sylt Denmark

5. Socotra Yemen 6. Corsica France

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? a. 1 and 3 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ Recently, 38 Indians were brought back to the home by the Indian Navy after

they were rescued from the cyclone-hit Socotra Island in Yemen. ▪ The Indians were stranded in Socotra Island after a cyclone (named Mekunu) hit

the area and INS Sunayana had evacuated them in an operation named “Nistar”. ▪ Corsica is an island in the Mediterranean Sea and one of the 18 regions of the

France. ▪ Sylt is an Island in northern Germany, part of Nordfriesland district and well

known for the distinctive shape of its shoreline. Question 85 DOMAIN - Science and Tech ‘Ensemble Prediction System’ launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences pertains to? a. Traffic estimation and prediction b. Weather forecast




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c. Effective heart disease prediction d. Tsunami prediction CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent context: Ministry of Earth Sciences has introduced Ensemble Prediction system for weather forecasts. About Ensemble Prediction System: Introduced by- Ministry of Earth Sciences Purpose- For generating operational 10-days probabilistic forecasts of weather

▪ It has been developed by 3 bodies- 1. Indian Meteorological Department 2. National Centre for Medium range weather forecasting (NCMRWF) 3. Indian institute of Tropical Meteorology ▪ This systems would have a resolution of 12 km grid scale, marking a big jump

from the present level of 23 km. ▪ In addition, it will be based on a 20-point ensemble system that would generate

a range of forecasts using slightly varying initial conditions. ▪ The systems would particularly be of help to disaster management authorities

and other stakeholders in making better emergency response decisions by explicitly accounting for uncertainties in weather forecasts.

Question 86 DOMAIN - Terms in news In context of ‘Kashmir Super 50’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It is a joint initiative by Indian Army, Center for Social Responsibility and Leadership (CSRL) and PETRONET LNG Limited

2. It has been launched to transform the educational status of children from economically weaker sections in the Kashmir region

Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - C EXPLANATION Recent Context:

▪ A group of 30 students, part of Kashmir Super 50 visited New Delhi and interacted with General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff on 12 Jun 18.




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▪ The General shared his experiences while serving in these areas, with the students and motivated them to work hard & contribute actively in the nation building process.

About Project Kashmir Super 50:

▪ It is an initiative to transform the educational status of children from economically weaker sections in the Kashmir region. It was launched on 22 March 2013.

▪ It is a joint initiative by Indian Army, Center for Social Responsibility and Leadership (CSRL) and PETRONET LNG Limited (PLL).

▪ The Kashmir Super 50 program is an 11 month; completely free residential coaching for students belonging to the underprivileged section of the society.

▪ The students are prepared for IIT and other premier engineering institutes. ▪ The Students are selected for the Programme through an entrance test and

interview conducted at various colleges throughout the state in the months of April and May.

Question 87 DOMAIN - Science and Tech With reference to ‘Lithium-ion Batteries’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct? 1. These are common rechargeable batteries for portable electronics, with a high energy density, no memory effect and low self-discharge. 2. A group of students at IIT, Delhi has developed an indigenous technology of Lithium-ion cells. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER – A

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ Central Electro Chemical Research Institute (CECRI), Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu

under Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and RAASI Solar Power Pvt Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Agreement for transfer of technology for India’s first Lithium Ion (Li-ion) Battery project.




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▪ A group at CSIR-CECRI headed by Dr Gopu Kumar has developed an indigenous technology of Lithium-ion cells in partnership with CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) New Delhi, CSIR- Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CSIR-CGCRI) Kolkata and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) Hyderabad.

▪ CSIR-CECRI has set up a demo facility in Chennai to manufacture prototype Lithium-Ion cells. It has secured global IPRs with potential to enable cost reduction, coupled with appropriate supply chain and manufacturing technology for mass production.

About Lithium-ion Battery: ▪ A lithium-ion battery or Li-ion battery (abbreviated as LIB) is a type

of rechargeable battery in which lithium ions move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode during discharge and back when charging.

▪ Lithium-ion batteries are common rechargeable batteries for portable electronics, with a high energy density, no memory effect (other than LFP cells) and low self-discharge. LIBs are also growing in popularity for military, battery electric vehicle and aerospace applications.

Question 88 DOMAIN - Indian institutions and bodies in news In context of ‘Public Credit Registry’, which of the following statement/s is/are correct?

1. It is an information repository that collates all loan information of individuals and corporate borrowers.

2. It has been set up on the recommendations of a committee headed by Viral Acharya.

3. It has been set up by the Reserve Bank of India. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 CORRECT ANSWER – C

EXPLANATION




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Recent Context: RBI has announced to set up PCR for India with view to address information asymmetry, foster access to credit and strengthen the credit culture in the economy. About Public Credit Registry:

▪ Public credit registry is an information repository that collates all loan information of individuals and corporate borrowers.

▪ A credit repository helps banks distinguish between a bad and a good borrower and accordingly offer attractive interest rates to good borrowers and higher interest rates to bad borrowers.

▪ The move is based on the recommendations of a committee, headed by Y.M. Deosthalee.

▪ PCR will address issues such as information asymmetry, improve access to credit and strengthen the credit culture among consumers.

▪ It can also address the bad loan problem staring at banks, as corporate debtors will not be able to borrow across banks without disclosing existing debt.

▪ A PCR may also help raise India’s rank in the global ease of doing business index. ▪ The committee has suggested the registry should capture all loan information

and borrowers be able to access their own history. Data is to be made available to stakeholders such as banks, on a need-to-know basis. Data privacy will be protected.

Question 89 DOMAIN - Government Schemes and programmes With reference to ‘Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project (DRIP), which of the following statement/s is/are correct? 1. It has been launched under Ministry of Drinking water and sanitation 2. It was launched in 2012 by Central Water Commission Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project Scheme has now been extended till June 2020 with total cost of Rs 3466 crore.




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About Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project:

▪ Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) is a state sector scheme with central component to improve safety and operational performance of selected dams, along with institutional strengthening with system wide management approach.

▪ The project was launched in 2012 by Central Water Commission (CWC) under Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation with assistance from World Bank.

▪ Originally the scheme was scheduled for six years with closure in June 2018 with total original cost of Rs. 2100 crore.

Question 90 DOMAIN – Indices Which of the following gives ‘Global Peace Index’ ranking to the countries of the world? a. World Economic Forum b. UN Human Rights Council c. Institute for Economics and Peace d. International Monetary Fund CORRECT ANSWER - C

EXPLANATION

Recent context: India fetched 136th rank among 163 countries on the 2018 Global Peace Index that was released on June 7, 2018 by the Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP), an Australian think tank.

▪ Iceland managed to retain its position at top as the most peaceful country in the world.

▪ Iceland fetched 1st rank on the index, a position it has held since 2008, followed by New Zealand and Austria at 2nd and 3rd position.

▪ Portugal and Denmark rounded up the top five most peaceful rankings. ▪ Syria remains the least peaceful country in the world, a position it has held for

the past five years. ▪ Afghanistan, South Sudan, Iraq and Somalia round up the list of five least

peaceful countries.




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Question 91 DOMAIN - Government Rules and Regulations Consider the following statements regarding Eco Sensitive Zones: 1. These are also called Ecologically Vulnerable Areas. 2. These are regulated by the respective state governments. 3. These zones are mentioned in the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 4. Elephant Corridors come under such zones Which of the above statement(s) is/are incorrect? a. 1 and 3 only b. 4 only c. 4 only d. All of the above CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: The draft re-notification of the Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of Bannerghatta National Park (BNP) by the Centre has come as a shock to many. ▪ Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by

the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected Areas , National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.

▪ The purpose of declaring ESZs is to create some kind of “shock absorbers” to the protected areas by regulating and managing the activities around such areas. They also act as a transition zone from areas of high protection to areas involving lesser protection.

▪ They are regulated by central government through Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate change (MoEFCC). The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 does not mention the word “Eco-Sensitive Zones”.

▪ Section 3(2)(v) of the Act, says that Central Government can restrict areas in which any industries, operations or processes or class of industries, operations or processes shall not be carried out or shall be carried out subject to certain safeguards.




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Question 92 DOMAIN - Defence in news Consider the following statements regarding “Kamorta”: 1. It is a class of Indian Navy anti-submarine warfare stealth corvettes to be built in India 2. It is a village in the Nicobar district of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Which of the above statement(s) is/ are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 or 2 CORRECT ANSWER - D

EXPLANATION

Recent Context: ▪ India and Russia have sealed a $500 million deal for construction of 2 missile

frigates of Talvar Class for the Indian Navy. ▪ These are a class of guided missile frigates designed and built by Russia for the

Indian Navy. ▪ They are modified Krivak III class frigates from Russia.




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▪ The Kamorta-class corvettes or Project 28 are a class of anti-submarine warfare corvettes currently in service with the Indian Navy

▪ They are the first anti-submarine warfare stealth corvettes to be built in India. ▪ Kamorta or Kalatapu is a village on the Kamorta Island, in the Nicobar district of

Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Question 93 DOMAIN – Indices The Public Sector Undertakings (PSU) index is: a. listed on BSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the BSE 500 index b. listed on NSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the NIFTY 50 index c. listed on BSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the NIFTY 50 index d. listed on BSE and consists of all PSU stocks in the BSE 30 index CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION

Context: BSE PSU index is likely to slip into the red under Narendra Modi govt first since its inception in 1999. ▪ BSE Ltd. launched "BSE PSU Index" on 4 June 2001

▪ The S&P BSE SENSEX (S&P Bombay Stock Exchange Sensitive Index), also called

the BSE 30 or simply the SENSEX, is a stock market index of 30 well-established and financially sound companies listed on Bombay Stock Exchange.

▪ The NIFTY 50 index represents the weighted average of 50 Indian company stocks in 12 sectors and is one of the two main stock indices used in India, the other being the BSE sensex.

Question 94




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DOMAIN – Awards United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has awarded Asia Environment Enforcement Award 2018 to which of the following? a. World Wildlife Fund for conservation of endangered species b. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau for work done in combating transboundary environmental crime c. Food and Agriculture Organization for its efforts in defeating hunger d. Both a and b CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

▪ Context: UNEP has awarded Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), MoEFCC with Asia Environment Enforcement Awards, 2018 for excellent work done by the Bureau in combating transboundary environmental crime.

▪ These awards publicly recognize and celebrate excellence in enforcement by government officials and institutions/teams combating transboundary environmental crime in Asia.

▪ The awards are given to outstanding individuals and/or government organizations/teams that demonstrate excellence and leadership in enforcement of national laws to combat transboundary environmental crime in one of the following eligibility criteria areas: collaboration; impact; innovation; integrity and gender leadership.

▪ WCCB has been conferred this award in Innovation category. ▪ This is also the second time in a row the awards are being given by UNEP to India. Question 95 DOMAIN – Awards Consider the following statements regarding Model Code of Conduct: 1) It has been given a statutory status. 2) It can come into action before polls are announced. Which of the above statements is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. None is correct d. Both are correct CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION




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Recent Context: Post dissolution of Jammu Kashmir Assembly by the Governor, implementation of MCC by EC is under discussion. ▪ These are the guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India for conduct of

political parties and candidates during elections mainly with respect to speeches, polling day, polling booths, election manifestos, processions and general conduct. MCC does not have any statutory status and is only a moral code.

▪ The Model Code of Conduct comes into force immediately on announcement of the election schedule by the commission. The Code remains in force till the end of the electoral process.

▪ Its aim is to ensure free and fair elections. ▪ The poll panel had recently decided that in states where assemblies are dissolved

prematurely, the model code will come into force immediately. The poll code, which bars the caretaker government and the party in power from taking policy decisions, otherwise comes into force the day polls are announced by the EC.

▪ Telangana was the first state where the model code of conduct had come into effect before the assembly polls were announced

Question 96 DOMAIN - International news The Regional Integrated Multi Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) was in news recently. Consider the following statements regarding RIMES: 1) It is an inter governmental body registered under the United Nations. 2) It seeks to establish an early warning system for cyclones and earthquakes only. Which of the above statement/s is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER – A

EXPLANATION

• It is an international and intergovernmental institution, owned and managed by its Member States, for the generation and application of early warning information.

• It evolved from the efforts of countries in Africa and Asia, in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, to establish a regional early warning system within a multi-hazard framework.

• It was established in 2009, and was registered with the United Nations later in 2009. It operates from its regional early warning center located in Thailand.




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• Services – Weather, Climate and Hydrological Research and Development, Earthquake & Tsunami Watch Provision, Capacity Building in End-to-End Early Warning.

Question 97 DOMAIN - Terms in news Consider the following statements related to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs): 1) These are the tribes within the ST category which are more vulnerable among the tribal groups. 2) These were earlier known as Primitive Tribal Groups 3) These are identified and approved by the Central Ministry of Tribal Affairs Which of the above statement/s is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 1 and 2 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 2 only CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

▪ Context: Particularly vulnerable tribal group (earlier known as Primitive tribal group) is a government of India classification created with the purpose of enabling improvement in the conditions of certain communities with particularly low development indices

▪ The Dhebar Commission (1960-1961) stated that within Scheduled Tribes there existed an inequality in the rate of development.

▪ During the fourth 5 Year Plan a sub-category was created within Scheduled Tribes to identify groups that considered to be at a lower level of development.

▪ 75 tribal groups have been categorized by Ministry of Home Affairs as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG)s. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs implements the Scheme of “Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)” exclusively for them.




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Question 98 DOMAIN - Terms in news Consider the following statements regarding “Constitution Day”: 1) It is celebrated in order to mark the coming into effect of the Constitution of India. 2) It is celebrated on 26th Nov every year. Which of the above statement/s is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - B

EXPLANATION

▪ Constitution Day (National Law Day), also known as Samvidhan Divas, is celebrated in India on 26 November every year to commemorate the adoption of Constitution of India.

▪ The Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Constitution of India on 26 November 1949 and it came into effect on 26 January 1950.

▪ Previously this day was celebrated as Law Day. Question 99 DOMAIN - Important Bills, Acts and Amendments Consider the following statements: 1) The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 extends to the whole of India. 2) Election Commission of India has the power to oversee the establishment of electoral rolls as well as organize elections for legislative assembly and council in Jammu and Kashmir. Which of the above statement/s is/are incorrect? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 CORRECT ANSWER - A

EXPLANATION




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▪ The legal authority to conduct elections in Jammu and Kashmir is drawn from provisions in both the Constitution of India and the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir.

▪ Both constitutions give power to the ECI to oversee the establishment of the electoral rolls as well as organize the elections to both the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council in J&K.

▪ Panchayat elections in J&K are held according to the provisions in the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act 1989

▪ The 73rd Amendment 1992 added a new Part IX to the constitution titled “The Panchayats” covering provisions from Article 243 to 243(O); and a new Eleventh Schedule covering 29 subjects.

Question 100 DOMAIN - Science and Tech RFID tags are being increasingly used these days for identifying and tracking objects. What is the full form of RFID? a. Radio Frequency Identification Device b. Real Feedback Identification Device c. Radio Feedback Identification Device d. None of the above

CORRECT ANSWER - A
