Insight 10 Xfd

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TEST - 10(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 1

1 It has been suggested that we should plant eucalyptus trees for arresting ecological

degradation. This is because

1. These trees absorb wastewater and release pure water vapour into the atmosphere.

2. They can be used for phytoremediation of soil polluted with heavy metals.

Which of the above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer :

Correct Answer : C

Answer Justification :

Justification: Statement 1: Growing eucalyptus along sewage ponds absorbs all

surplus wastewater. It is said that these trees are thirsty of water and guzzle a lot of

water. The waste water is utilized for tree growth which then could yield fuelwood,

helping in many ways. So, 1 is correct.

Statement 2: When grown using wastewater, eucalyptus plantations can remove

toxic metals, since the trees are known to sequester, tolerate and accumulate high

levels of various heavy metals. So, 2 is correct.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: Test 1: 6th Social Science NCERT

2 The Upanishads talk about finding out "the nature of the Self". The "Self" here refers to

A. Personality of human beings

B. Human body and mind

C. Human Ego

D. None of the above

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : D


Justification: The Upanishads tell us that the core of our own self is not the body,

or the mind, but atman or "Self". It is neither the ego. So, (a), (b) and (c) are all

wrong.

Atman is the core of all creatures, their innermost essence. It can only be perceived

by direct experience through meditation. It is when we are at the deepest level of ourexistence.


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B. 2 only

INSIGHTS IAS TEST - 10(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 3

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1 and 3 only

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : B

Answer Justification :Justification: Lokayatas are also known as the materialists.

As per them, "A human being is made up of the four elements. When he dies the

earthy in him returns to the earth, the fluid to water, the heat to fire, the windy to air,

and his senses pass into space." So, 2 is correct.

As per them, there is no this world or that world or this life or that life. What exists

is only what can be seen here and now. So, Consciousness, God, Karma, rebirth,

incarnation etc do not exist and are mere fallacies. So, 1 and 3 would be incorrect.

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 87: Chapter 4: 12th NCERT: Themes in Indian

History - I

5 How are plants that use C4 pathways different from the ones that use C3 pathways?1. C4 pathway plants tolerate higher temperatures.

2. C4 plants do photorespiration which is absent in C3 plants.

3. C4 plants have greater productivity of biomass than C3 plants.

Select the correct answer using the codes below.

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1 and 3 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Justification: Plants that are adapted to dry tropical regions have the C4 pathway.

C4 carbon fixation is one of three biochemical processes, along with C3 and CAM

photosynthesis, used to fix carbon in plants. It is believed to have evolved more

recently.

C4 plants are special: They have a special type of leaf anatomy, they tolerate higher


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User Answer : C

Correct Answer : A



Justification: The Buddha's followers came from many social groups including

kings as well as workers and slaves. Once within the sangha, all were regarded as

equal, having shed their earlier social identities on becoming bhikkhus andbhikkhunis. So, (d) cannot be correct.

Advice of senior-most monks or the Buddha himself was sought on difficult matters.

Generally the internal functioning of the sangha was based on the traditions of ganas

and sanghas, where consensus was arrived at through discussions.

If that failed, decisions were taken by a vote on the subject. So, (a) is a more

appropriate option than (b) or (c).

Q Source: Page 92: Chapter 4: 12th NCERT: Themes in Indian History - I

8 The Economic Survey 2014-15 mentions that banks are in a situation of "Double

financial repression". This repression for banks mean

A. Government regulation of private banks as well as securities marketsB. Government control of both money and capital markets

C. Imposition of Basel norms on the banking sector despite structural

bottlenecks

D. Financial repression on both the assets and liabilities side of banks

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Justification & Learning: Financial repression happens when government

borrowing crowds out private sector investment. For e.g. if government borrows too

much from the market, too little credit will be available at high interest rates thathurt corporate sector credit deployment and profitability.

Policy problem is exhibited by banks suffering from "Double repression". It means

crowding out private sector investments from both asset and liability side.

On the asset side, high SLR requirements and PSL obligations (45% of total lending

to agriculture) force less-efficient resource (credit) deployment.

On the liability idea, high inflation since last decade has lead to negative real interest


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rates, and a sharp reduction in savings.

Therefore, (d) is the most appropriate option.

INSIGHTS IAS TEST - 10

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 6Option (c) is not a form of financial repression.

Q Source: Revision of important Past Year Current Affairs: Economic Survey

2014-15

9 Consider the following about the Barabar Caves.

1. These are rock-cut caves.

2. The caves were used by ascetics from the Ajivika sect.

3. Mauryas constructed some of these caves.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3 only

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Justification & Learning: The Barabar Caves are the oldest surviving rock-cut

caves in India, mostly dating from the Maurya Empire (322-185 BCE), some with

Ashokan inscriptions. So, 1 and 3 are correct.

The caves were used by ascetics from the Ajivika sect, founded by Makkhali

Gosala, a contemporary of Gautama Buddha and Mahavira. So, 2 is also correct.

At the site several rock-cut Buddhist and Hindu sculptures are also present.

Barabar Hill contains four caves, namely, Karan Chaupar, Lomas Rishi,

Sudama and Visva Zopri. Sudama and Lomas Rishi Caves are the earliest

examples of rock-cut architecture in India


10 Protected areas are located on which of the following lakes in India?

1. Kolleru Lake

2. Loktak Lake

3. Pulicat Lake

4. Pichola Lake


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A. 1, 2 and 3 only

B. 1 and 2 only


C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

User Answer :Correct Answer : A


Justification: Atapaka Bird Sanctuary is a bird sanctuary located on the Kolleru

Lake in Andhra Pradesh. It is home to pelicans. The Kolleru Lake is a Ramsar Site.

So, 1 is correct.

Keibul Lamjao National Park is located on the Loktak lake. So, 2 is also correct.

Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is located in Nellore, AP. Pulicat Lake is the second

largest brackish-water eco-system in India after Chilka lake in Orissa. So. 3 is also

correct.

Lake Pichola is an artificial fresh water lake situated in Udaipur city in Rajasthan.So, 4 is incorrect.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus - Important lakes covered earlier

11 Which of these tribes in India are matrilineal?

1. Garo

2. Khasi

3. Lepchas

4. Dongaria Kondhs


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 3 and 4 onlyC. 1, 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification: Statement 1 and 2: Matriliny is closely interwoven in Garo and Khasi


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cultures. In both the societies the jural rights of the women to inherit the land, and

other privileges of matriliny raise the status of womenfolk considerably.

The inheritance in both the Khasi and the Garo societies is through the mother and it

is restricted to the female line. Thus, in these societies the descent of every


(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 8

individual is always reckoned and traced through the mother alone.Statement 3 and 4: The families are patrilineal and patrilocal. The details about these

tribe have been covered in previous tests.

Q SourceImprovisation: Combination of the question on tribal sex-ratio in GS-1

Civil Services (mains) 2015 and Page 55: Chapter 3: 12th NCERT: Themes in

Indian History - I

12 The Young Bengal Movement by Louis Vivian Derozio did NOT

A. Encourage its followers to question all authority

B. Demand education for women

C. Campaign for the freedom of thought and expression

D. Promote the ideal of salvation through social service and selfless action

User Answer : C

Correct Answer : D


Justification: Option (d) was the path of the Ramakrishna Mission.

The Young Bengal movement was a group of radical Bengali free thinkers emerging

from Hindu College, Calcutta.

The Young Bengals were inspired and excited by the spirit of free thought and

revolt against the existing social and religious structure of Hindu society.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus - 8th NCERT History

13 While drilling a petroleum and natural gas deposits, you would first come across

A. Gas

B. Oil

C. Water

D. Reservoir Rocks

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


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Justification & Learning: The order of occurrence is as follows: Impervious rocks

then gas, then oil and then water followed by the reservoir rocks.



So, (a) is the answer.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus - 8th NCERT Science

14 Ashokan inscriptions can be found in

1. Sannati

2. Kandahar

3. Sopara

4. Ujjayini


A. 1 and 3 only

B. 2 and 4 only

C. 1, 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Learning: There were five major political centres in the empire - the capital

Pataliputra and the provincial centres of Taxila, Ujjayini, Tosali and Suvarnagiri, all

mentioned in Ashokan inscriptions.

These inscriptions were dispersed throughout the areas of modern-day Bangladesh,




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India, Nepal, Afghanistan and Pakistan and represent the first tangible evidence of

Buddhism.

The edicts describe in detail the Ashoka's view about dhamma, an earnest attempt to

solve some of problems that a complex society faced.

Just go through the list of major Ashokan inscriptions in the image below or as in

the Q source.

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 31 (Fig 2.2): Chapter 2: 12th NCERT: Themes in

Indian History - I

15 The Samanta system in the Gupta Empire refers to


A. Landlordship of large areas affiliated to farmers

B. Hierarchical lordship of villages and municipalities in the empire

C. The system of a closed cabinet that advised the King

D. Independent rulership of an adjoining territory providing military support to

the emperor

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Learning: It can refers to a territorial vassal or governor (a person who provides

military support and governs a territory) under a king or monarch in exchange for

certain guarantees)

The institution of Samanta finds mention for the first time in epigraphs of northern

India dating to the 6th century century.

The institution is considered to belong properly to the Gupta Empire and is closely

associated with the origin and growth of feudalism in India.

From the Harshacharitra, we understand that the Samanta had 5 duties. They are:

Paying yearly tributes to the emperor.Paying homage to the emperor in person.

Defeated Samantas had to offer their sons and minor princes to the Emperor

so that they are groomed in the imperial traditions and grow to be loyal to the

emperor.

Render military aid to the emperor.

Perform administrative and judicial functions in times of peace.


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Q Source: Improvisation: Page 40: Chapter 2: 12th NCERT: Themes in Indian

History - I

16 Rain water harvesting has which of the following benefits?

1. It improves the quality of groundwater through dilution of contaminants like

fluoride and nitrates.

2. It arrests salt water intrusion in coastal areas if used to recharge aquifers.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

INSIGHTS IAS TEST - 10(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 12User Answer : D

Correct Answer : C


Justification: Statement 1: Rain water harvesting increases recharge of

groundwater, and excessive flow of water dilutes the concentration of contaminants

like fluoride and nitrates.

Statement 2: In coastal areas, where there is excessive groundwater extraction,

recharge of rainwater into the ground through harvesting would prevent sea-water

ingress into fresh water aquifers.

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 67: Chapter 6: 12th NCERT: India, People and

Economy

17 Consider the following about the governance of Atomic Energy in India.

1. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is under the direct charge of the Prime

Minister.

2. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of India is the governing body of the DAE.

3. Cabinet Secretary is the ex-officio Chairman of the AEC.


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3


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User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification & Learning: Statement 1: The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)

came into being in 1954 under the direct charge of the Prime Minister through a

Presidential Order.

Statement 2: The Atomic Energy Commission was set up in 1948 to look after

atomic energy activities in the country. The functions of the Atomic Energy

Commission are:

to organise research in atomic scientists in the country;

to train, atomic scientists in the country;

to promote nuclear research in commission's own laboratories as well as in

India;


to undertake prospecting of atomic minerals in India and to extract such

minerals for use on industrial scale.

Statement 3: The Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of AtomicEnergy is ex-officio Chairman of the Commission. The other Members of the AEC

are appointed for each calendar year on the recommendation of the Chairman, AEC

and after approval by the Prime Minster.

Q Source: Page 82: Chapter 7: 12th NCERT: India, People and Economy

18 Consider the following major Political and Economic Developments in ancient India.

1. Rulers of Magadha consolidate power

2. Invasion of Alexander of Macedon

3. Rise of the Chalukyas in Karnataka and of the Pallavas in Tamil Nadu

4. Chinese pilgrim Xuan Zang travels to India in search of Buddhist texts

Which of these is the correct chronological order of the above?A. 1234

B. 2143

C. 4132

D. 1423

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


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Justification: Rulers of Magadha consolidated power around 500-400 BCE.

Alexander invaded around 327-325 BCE. So, 2 must come after 1, which eliminates

option (b).

Chalukyas rose around 500-600 CE (much later than Maghadhas), and Xuan Zang

visited around 600-650 CE. So, 4 must come after 3. The only answer possible is

(a).


19 Consider the following about crop yields in India.

1. Crop yield of Jowar increases South of Vindhyachal as it becomes an irrigated crop

there.

2. Maize is not grown in southern states but its yield starts increasing towards central

India.



(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 14A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer :

Correct Answer : D


Justification: Statement 1: Bajra is sown in southern states as both Kharif and Rabi

crops. But it is a kharif crop in northern India where it is mostly grown as a fodder

crop. South of Vindhyachal it is a rainfed crop and its yield level is very low in this

region. So, 1 is wrong

Statement 2: The leading producers of maize are the states of Madhya Pradesh,

Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Yield level of maize is

higher than other coarse cereals. It is high in southern states and declines towards

central parts. So, 2 is correct.


20 The over-use of ground water resources has led to decline in ground water table in some

states. It has led to which other problems in some states?


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1. Increased fluoride concentration in ground-water in states like Rajasthan

2. Increase in concentration of arsenic in parts of West Bengal and Bihar


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : C

Correct Answer : C


Justification & Learning:

Abnormal level of fluoride in water is common in fractured hard rock zone

with pegmatite (intrusive igneous rock) veins.

Fluoride ions from these minerals leach into the groundwater and contribute

to high fluoride concentrations

The incidence of fluoride above permissible levels of 1.5ppm occur in 14

Indian states, namely, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka,



Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil

Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

So, 1 is correct.

Arsenic contamination of groundwater is a form of groundwater pollution

which is often due to naturally occurring high concentrations of arsenic in

deeper levels of groundwater.

High levels of arsenic above the permissible levels of 50 parts per billion

(ppb) are found in the alluvial plains of Ganges.Presence of heavy metals in groundwater is found in 13 states, viz., Andhra

Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya

Pradesh, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal,

and five blocks of Delhi.

So, 2 is also correct.



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Economy

21 Urban smog or photochemical smog found in cities l ike Delhi is formed due to

A. Chemical reaction of sunlight, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic

compounds in the atmosphere

B. Reaction of volatile organic compounds with lead and nitrogen in the

atmosphere

C. Reaction of sunlight with nitrogen and sulphur dioxides in the atmosphere

D. Chemical reaction of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide in the atmosphere

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Learning: Photochemical smog is the chemical reaction of sunlight, nitrogen oxides

and volatile organic compounds in the atmosphere, which leaves airborne particles

and ground-level ozone. This noxious mixture of air pollutants may include the

following:

Aldehydes

Nitrogen oxides, particularly nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide

Peroxyacyl nitrates

Tropospheric ozone

Volatile organic compounds

INSIGHTS IAS TEST - 10(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 16All of these harsh chemicals are usually highly reactive and oxidizing.

Photochemical smog is therefore considered to be a problem of modern

industrialization.

It is present in all modern cities, but it is more common in cities with sunny, warm,

dry climates and a large number of motor vehicles like in Delhi.


Economy

22 If you happen to visit the Chotanagpur plateau, you could come across

1. Sal forests

2. Bamboo grasslands

3. Chinkaras



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A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1 only

C. 2 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Learning: The Chota Nagpur dry deciduous forests, a tropical and subtropical dry

broadleaf forests ecoregion, encompasses the plateau.

The plateau is covered with a variety of different habitats of which Sal forest

is predominant. So, 1 is correct.

The plateau is also swampy in some places and in other parts is covered with

bamboo grasslands and shrubs. So, 2 is correct.

Tigers, Asian elephants, four-horned antelope, blackbuck, chinkara, dhole

wild dog and sloth bear are some of the animals found here while birds

include the threatened lesser florican, Indian grey hornbill and other

hornbills. So, 3 is correct.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus - 9th NCERT Geography-Chapter 2:

Contemporary India - I: Page 13

23 Which type of areas can be classified as wastelands?

1. Steep sloping land


2. Coastal sands

3. Land with weed growth


A. 1 and 2 onlyB. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : A



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Justification: Statement 1: Steep sloping land can be declared unfit for any

agricultural activity. Crops like tea or coffee are grown on mild slopes. Even if you

are in doubt about statement 1, you should look at other statements and options to

finalize your answer.

Statement 2: Coastal sands are unfit for growing crops and thus classified as a

wasteland. So, 2 is correct.

Statement 3: High weed growth shows that the land is still productive but not

maintained. It can be used for agricultural activities if maintained well. So, 3 will be

incorrect.

So, if 2 is correct and 3 is incorrect, the only appropriate option will be (a).


24 Consider the following statements about India's foreign trade.

1. More of India's foreign trade is carried through the sea routes than land routes.

2. More of India's foreign trade is carried with South Asian neighbours than the rest of

the world.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : A


Justification: Statement 1: Most of India's foreign trade is carried through sea and



air routes. However, a small portion is also carried through land route to

neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Pakistan. So, 1 is

correct.

Statement 2: India's global trade was worth an estimated $800 billion in 2012-13, of

which only about $17 billion was with the South Asian Association for Regional

Cooperation (SAARC) partners. SAARC includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the

Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.


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25 Formation of coastal lagoons is facilitated by

1. Presence of indented coastline

2. Gently sloping coasts

3. High range of tides


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer :

Correct Answer : A


Justification: Coastal lagoons form along gently sloping coasts where barrier

islands or reefs can develop off-shore, and the sea-level is rising relative to the land

along the shore. So, 1 is correct.

India has a vast coastline and the coast is very indented in some states. Due to

this, a number of lagoons and lakes have formed. So, 2 is also correct.

Coastal lagoons do not form along steep or rocky coasts, or if the range of

tides is more than 4 metres. Due to the gentle slope of the coast, coastal

lagoons are shallow.

A relative drop in sea level may leave a lagoon largely dry, while a rise in sea

level may let the sea breach or destroy barrier islands, and leave reefs too

deep under water to protect the lagoon. So, 3 is incorrect.


Economy



26 Consider the following domestic freight transport modes.

1. Roadways

2. Railways

3. Inland waterways

Arrange the above in order of decreasing share in domestic freight traffic?


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A. 123

B. 213

C. 231

D. 132

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : A


Justification:Statement 1 and 2: Railways accounted for about 42% and roadways

for about 58% of India's total freight traffic in 2011-12. This is partly l inked to an

increase in the share of manufactured goods like white goods, fast moving consumer

(FMC) goods etc. These cargos move over shorter distances and are time sensitive.

So, 1>2, and options (b) and (c) are eliminated.

Statement 3: Inland waterways in India makes up a paltry 3% of the total transport,

compared with China's 47%; in the European Union it stands at 44%.

Q Source:Page 114: Chapter 10: 12th NCERT: India, People and Economy

27 How the development of cotton industries in Britain affected textile producers in India

in the colonial period?

1. Very high duties were imposed on Indian textiles imported into Britain.

2. Englishmade cotton textiles ousted Indian goods from their traditional markets in

Africa, America and Europe.

3. An export promotion obligation was imposed on domestic cotton textiles in India

which increased imports at the expense of exports.


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1 and 3 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : A



Justification:After the development of British textile industries, Indian textiles had

to compete with British textiles in the European and American markets. British


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slowly displaced traditional Indian markets. So, 2 is correct.

Exporting textiles to England also became increasingly difficult since very high

duties were imposed on Indian textiles imported into Britain. So, 1 is correct.

No such export promotion obligations were put. They would have actually hurt

British interests. So, 3 is incorrect.

Learning:By the beginning of the nineteenth century, thousands of weavers in India

were now thrown out of employment. Bengal weavers were the worst hit.

English and European companies stopped buying Indian goods and their agents no

longer gave out loans and advances.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus - 8th NCERT History

28 The State/Union territory (UT) with the highest road density in India is

A. Tripura

B. Goa

C. Kerala

D. Delhi

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Justification & Learning:Kerala with a road network of 5,268.69 km per 1,000 sq

km surpasses all other states while Tripura with a road density of 3,026.23 km per

1,000 sq km ranks second, as per figures of the year 2008 in economic survey

2011-12.

Goa has the fourth highest road density in the country among states with a

road network stretching 2,854.94 km per 1,000 sq km of area.

But the union territories have even better road density than bigger states.

Delhi ranks first among the states and union territories with a density of

19,931.89 km per 1,000 sq km while Chandigarh is a close second with

18,578.95 km per 1,000 sq km. Puducherry and Lakshadweep have road

density of more than 5,000 km per 1,000 sq kms.

Q Source:Page 116: Chapter 10: 12th NCERT: India, People and


Economy

29 Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) can be used for


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1. Meteorology

2. Search and rescue services

3. Telecommunications

4. Remote Sensing


A. 1 and 3 only

B. 2 and 4 only

C. 1, 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : C


Justification: Statement 1: The services of both INSAT and IRS are

being taken by the IMD for meterological purposes.

Statement 2: INSAT helps provides location information of the

distress signals transmitted by beacons mounted on board ships,

aircraft or those carried by individuals.

The location information is determined instantaneously and informed

to rescue coordination centres for carrying out search and rescue

operations of the affected ship, aircraft or individuals. So, 2 is correct.

Statement 3: It is as well-known fact that transponders carried on the

satellites of INSAT enable telecommunication and broadcasting.

Statement 4: It is done by Indian remote Sensing (IRS) satellites.

Q Source: Page 123: Chapter 10: 12th NCERT: India, People and

Economy

30 The Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan is primarily intended to

A. Family-oriented income-generation schemes in sectors of

agriculture and allied activities

B. Develop tribal markets for better promotion of indigenous tribal

arts and culture

C. Provide independent grants to Gram Sabhas only for creation of

critical infrastructure




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D. Open primary schools in remote tribal hamlets

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Learning:The Special Central Assistance (SCA) is provided by the

Ministry of tribal Affairs to the State Government as an additive to the

State TSP.

SCA is primarily meant for family-oriented income-generation

schemes in sectors of agriculture, horticulture sericulture and animal

husbandry cooperation.

A part of SCA (not more than 30%) is also permitted to be used for

development of infrastructure incidental to such income generating

schemes. So, (c) is incorrect.

Tribal populace Below Poverty Line should alone be supported with

SCA financed activities.

Q Source:Improvisation: Page 106: Chapter 9: 12th NCERT: India,

People and Economy

31 Petroleum refineries are preferably located near to the markets and not the

oil fields, why?

1. The industry uses a non-weight-losing raw material.

2. Several products derived from crude oil can be used as raw material in

other industries.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : C


Concept:In weight-losing industries, the weight of the final product is

less than the weight of the raw material going into making the product.

For example, in the copper industry, it would be very expensive to

haul raw materials to the market for processing.

INSIGHTS IAS


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TEST - 10


So, industries using weight-losing raw materials are located in the

regions where raw materials are located.

Justification:Since Crude oil is not a weight losing raw material,

industries should ideally be located close to the market then. 1 will be

correct.

Transport of crude oil is easier and several products derived from them

are used as raw material in other industries nearby in the market.

Koyali, Mathura and Barauni refineries are typical examples. 2 will be

correct.


People and Economy

32 Bulk of the valuable minerals in India are

1. Products of Hadean age

2. Mainly associated with Sedimentary rocks


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : D


Justification: Bulk of the valuable minerals in India are products of

pre-Palaeozoic age spanning from 541 to 252.17 million years ago.

Hadean age refers to the one right after formation of earth. So, 1 is

incorrect.

These minerals are mostly associated with metamorphic and igneous

rocks of the peninsular India, and not sedimentary rocks. So, 2 is

incorrect too.

The vast alluvial plain tract of north India is devoid of minerals of

economic use.


Economy


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33 The Northern Black Polished Ware culture (NBPW) is an urban culture

belonging to the

A. Iron Age

B. Copper Age

C. Bronze Age

D. Gold Age

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Learning: It is an urban Iron Age culture of the Indian Subcontinent,

lasting c. 700-200 BCE, succeeding the Painted Grey Ware culture and

Black and red ware culture.

It developed beginning around 700 BC, or in the late Vedic period, and

peaked from c. 500-300 BC, coinciding with the emergence of 16

great states or mahajanapadas in Northern India, and the subsequent

rise of the Mauryan Empire.

After recent excavations at Gotihwa in Nepal, archaeologist Giovanni

Verardi by radiocarbon datings says that proto-NBPW is at least from

900 BC.


34 Maitri and Dakshin Gangotri are

A. Indian research stations in Antarctica

B. Observatories placed by IOR-ARC in the South China Sea

C. Ice tracking mechanism in the Arctic

D. Indian defence bases in the proposed MAUSAM project

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Learning:The Indian Antarctic Program is a multi-disciplinary, multiinstitutional program under the

control of the National Centre for

Antarctic and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences,

Government of India.


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It was initiated in 1981 with the first Indian expedition to Antarctica.


The program gained global acceptance with India's signing of the

Antarctic Treaty and subsequent construction of the Dakshin Gangotri

Antarctic research base in 1983, superseded by the Maitri base from

1990.

Under the program, atmospheric, biological, earth, chemical, and

medical sciences are studied by India, which has carried out several

scientific expeditions to the Antarctic.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus- 6th NCERT

geography - Chapter 5: Page 33

35 Consider the following about the mineral distribution in the Himalayan

belt.

1. No metallic minerals are found in the belt.

2. Minerals are found only on the eastern side of the belt.

3. Oil deposits can be found in the belt.


A. 3 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification:In the Himalayan belt copper, lead, zinc, cobalt and

tungsten are known to occur. So, 1 is wrong. However, in general, theHimalayan belt is poor in metallic minerals.

They occur on both the eastern and western parts. For e.g. Assam

valley has mineral oil deposits. So, statement 2 is wrong, but 3 will be

correct.


Economy


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36 Which one among the following is an online initiative of the Union

government in the field of healthcare tourism?

A. MediConnectIndia.com

B. Indiahealthcaretourism.com



C. Aarogya.com

D. MedicalIndia.com

User Answer : C

Correct Answer : B


Learning:http://www.indiahealthcaretourism.com/ was inaugurated in

2015 at the 'SAAARC Trade Mart'.

The portal is a comprehensive one-point information site and covers

hospital-related and travel-related information on India.

It covers several accredited medical facilities which include medical

centres, Ayurveda and Wellness centres etc. Facilities are located both

in Tier I and Tier II cities.

The Healthcare Portal was developed by the Department of

Commerce, Govt of India and the Services Export Promotion Council

(SEPC).

You may visit the website once to get acquainted with it. It is a nicely

designed website too.

Q Source: Important Current Affairs of Past year + Revision of

Previous Tests Syllabus (Topic Medical Tourism covered in 12th

NCERT Human Geography)

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=118665

37 Patidevakas in the ancient times were

A. Officers who reported the activities in the country to the

government

B. Male village headmen who also supervised local village court

functioning

C. Male performers in the royal courts

D. Owner of large land deeds given as a gift by the government


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User Answer : D

Correct Answer : A


Learning:The duty of these officers was to superintend or oversee all

that occurred in town or country and to make private reports to the


government.Arian notes that similar officers were employed by the authorities of

the independent nations as well as by the monarchical governments of

India.

King Devanampiya says, "the patidevakas should report to me about

the affairs of the people at all times, anywhere, whether I am eating, in

the inner apartment, in the bedroom or in the garden. And I will

dispose of the affairs of the people everywhere."

Q Source:Page 47: Chapter 2: 12th NCERT: Themes in Indian

History-I

38 Tides can be helpful in1. Removing polluted water from river estuaries

2. Generating electric power

3. Deep Sea mineral explorations


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Justification:Statement 1: Because most estuaries are influenced by

lunar tides, the once-daily (diurnal) or twice-daily (semidiurnal) rise

and fall of water results in a net flow out of the estuary. This helps

clean the estuary. So, 1 is correct.

Statement 2: Tidal power plants harness the rise and fall of water to


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store water and release it for generating hydel power. A 3 MW tidal

power project at Durgaduani in Sunderbans of West Bengal is under

way. So, 2 is correct.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: 9th Geography

NCERT

39 Why the groundwater potential in the Northern, Western and Peninsular


(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 28regions of India is lesser as compared to valleys and other lower lying areas?

1. The mountainous and hilly regions in the north and west do not allow

adequate infiltration of groundwater.

2. The underlying geology limits the formation of large continuous

aquifers in the peninsular part of the country.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : C


Justification & Learning:The presence and availability of

groundwater varies greatly with changes in topography, subsurface

geology and the prevailing climate in the region. In some areas,

groundwater exists in deep aquifers while in others the water is stored

near the surface. The location of the aquifer also affects its recharge

rate and its susceptibility to pollution and overuse.

Statement 1: In general, the mountainous and hilly regions in the north

and west do not allow adequate infiltration and thus formation of

aquifers is very limited and potential is less. As a consequence,

groundwater is mostly limited to valleys and other lower lying areas.

So, 1 is correct.

Statement 2: Almost the entire peninsular region is covered by a

variety of hard rock and fissure formations. So, the aquifers are


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discontinuous and as a result the yield is very limited.

If the rock formation is porous, formation of large aquifers is possible

and yield will be high.


People and Economy

40 Which of the following ports are major ports managed by the Central

government?

1. Tuticorin

2. Kandla


3. Paradwip

4. Trombay

5. Port Blair


A. 1, 3 and 5 only

B. 2 and 4 only

C. 1, 2 and 3 onlyD. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : C


Learning: Kandla Port is located on the Gulf of Kutch. It is the largest

port of India by volume of cargo handled - nearly 87 million tonnes

annually. Second largest is Visakhapatnam.

Paradip Port is an artificial and deep-water port.

Tuticorin Port is an artificial deep-sea harbour of India.

Trombay and Port blair are minor ports managed by the stategovernment. So, 4 and 5 are incorrect.


Economy

41 Surface salinity of ocean water in Polar Regions is most influenced by

A. Freezing and thawing of ice

B. Heavy precipitation


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C. Fresh water flow from rivers

D. Biomass upwelling from the ocean bed

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : A


Justification:The thawing of large icebergs (made of frozen fresh

water and lacking any salt) will decrease the salinity while the actual

freezing of seawater will increase the salinity temporarily. So, (a) is

correct.

Heavy precipitation occurs in tropical areas affecting ocean water


salinity. Same is true for fresh water flow from rivers. Effect is

minimal in Polar Regions. So, (b) and (c) are not as appropriate as (a).

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: 11th Fundamental

Physical Geography NCERT

42 Apart from compounds like carbon dioxide, which of the following are

involved in air pollution?

1. Beryllium

2. Ammonia

3. Asbestos


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

User Answer :

Correct Answer : D


Justification:Statement 1: Inhalation exposure to beryllium primarily

occurs in the workplaces where it is mined, processed, or converted

into alloys and chemicals, or from the burning of coal or fuel oil and in

tobacco smoke. Acute (short-term) inhalation exposure to high levels

of beryllium has been observed to cause inflammation of the lungs.


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Statement 2: Both gaseous and particulate ammonia contribute to

eutrophication of surface waters, soil acidification, fertilization of

vegetation, changes in ecosystems and smog and decreased visibility

in cities and pristine areas.

Statement 3: Instead of forming dust particles when crushed, asbestos

divides into millions of fine fibers in the manufacturing process.

Asbestos fibers can have serious effects on human health if inhaled.


Economy

43 Consider the following about Agrahara of the ancient period.

1. It was land granted to a Brahmana who was usually exempted from

paying land revenue.



2. The land holder could collect land dues from the local people.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : C


Justification:An agrahara was land granted to a Brahmana, who was

usually exempted from paying land revenue and other dues to the king,

and was often given the right to collect these dues from the local

people. So, both 1 and 2 are correct.Learning:Agraharams were also known as Chaturvedimangalams in

ancient times. They were also known as ghatoka, and boya.

In the medieval period Agraharas became the foremost educational

institutions in southern India during the medieval period.

They were group settlements of brahmins who formed a corporate

body and administered all affairs of the agrahara, including education.


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Q Source:Improvisation: Page 41: Chapter 2: 12th NCERT: Themes

in Indian History-I

44 Share of land use in India is highest in which of these categories?

A. Forests

B. Area under non-agricultural use

C. Permanent Pastures

D. Net Sown Area

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Learning:The figure below (or in the Q source) mentions land use

percentages. The data is old, but the broad patterns are likely to be the

same.



Land use pattern qt any given time is determined by several factors

including size of human and livestock population, the demand pattern,

the technology in use, the cultural traditions, the location and

capability of land, institutional factors like ownership pattern and

rights and state regulation.

Agricultural land in India totals a little over 50 percent of the total

geographical area in the country. This is the highest among the large

and medium-sized countries of the world.


Economy

45 The distinction between Kharif, Rabi and Zaid seasons is not as marked in

South India as it in Northern India, and tropical crops can be grown during

any period in the year in Southern India. This is due to

A. Appropriate year-round temperature for crop growth in

Southern India

B. Soil in southern India is more nutrient rich than any part of

Northern India

C. High incidence of inter-cropping in South India as compared to

Northern India


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D. All of (a), (b) and (c)

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification:In Southern India, the temperature is high enough to

grow tropical crops during any period in the year provided the soil

moisture is available.

INSIGHTS IAS TEST - 10(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 33Therefore, in this region same crops can be grown thrice in an

agricultural year provided there is sufficient soil moisture. So, (a) is

correct.

Even if intercropping is followed and there is insufficient temperature,

crops cannot be grown. So, (c) is incorrect.

Option (b) is wrong.


Economy

46 Consider the following about the Permanent Settlement of 1793.1. The British recognized rajas and taluqdars as zamindars.

2. The zamindars collected rent from the peasants to pay revenue to the

East India Company.

3. The revenue amount to be paid was fixed only for a financial year and

then revised accordingly.


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1 and 3 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification:Statement 3: The amount to be paid was fixed

permanently, that is, it was not to be increased ever in future.

It was felt that this would ensure a regular flow of revenue into the


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Company's coffers and at the same time encourage the zamindars to

invest in improving the land.

Since the revenue demand of the state would not be increased, the

zamindar would benefit from increased production from the land.


47 Which of the following can give some evidence of the social differences

existing in the Harappan period?

1. Studying burial grounds


(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 342. Studying artefacts


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : C


Justification:Statement 1: Differences could be found in the way the

burial pit were made. For e.g. in some instances, the hollowed-out

spaces were lined with bricks. Some graves contained pottery and

ornaments. These can indicate differences in social status. So, 1 is

correct.

Statement 2: Another strategy to identify social differences is to study

artefacts, which archaeologists broadly classify as utilitarian and

luxuries.

If we study the distribution of such artefacts, we find that rare

objects made of valuable materials are generally concentrated in

large settlements like Mohenjodaro and Harappa and are rarely

found in the smaller settlements.

For example, miniature pots of faience, perhaps used as

perfume bottles, are found mostly in Mohenjodaro and Harappa,

and there are none from small settlements like Kalibangan.


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Gold too was rare. These too indicate differences in social

status. So, 2 is also correct.

Q Source:Page 9: Chapter 1: 12th NCERT: Themes in Indian HistoryI

48 As per the philosophy of Ramanuja

A. All the objects in creation are illusory

B. God, soul and matter are real

C. Only the privileged ones can attain salvation

D. God is without attributes and far from human grasp

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : B



Learning:Ramanuja preached Visishtadvaita in the twelfth century.

According to him God is Sagunabrahman (with attributes).

The creative process and all the objects in creation are real but

not illusory as was held by Sankaracharya.

Therefore, God, soul, matter are real. But God is innersubstance and the rest are his attributes.

He also advocated prabattimarga or path of self-surrender to

God.

He invited the downtrodden to Vaishnavism.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus- TamilNadu History

Textbook - Class 11th

49 Indian cities are classified as metropolitan or non-metropolitan based on

which criterion?

A. Geographical extent

B. Level of manufacturing activityC. Population size

D. Per capita income

User Answer : C

Correct Answer : C


Learning:The Classification of Indian cities comprises a ranking


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system used by the Government of India to allocate House Rent

Allowance (HRA) to public servants employed in different cities in the

country.

HRA is also used by the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) to provide

income tax exemptions. Cities are classified on HRA and on the basis

of their population, as recommended by the Sixth Central Pay

Commission in 2008 and Reserve Bank of India respectively

A Metropolitan area has a population of ten lakhs (one million) or

more, and comprises one or more districts comprising two or more

Municipalities or Panchayats or other contiguous area, specified by the

Governor by public notification. So, (c) is correct.

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 36: Chapter 4: 12th NCERT: India,

People and Economy



50 Restricted Service (RS) and Standard Positioning Service (SPS) provided

under Indian Regional Navigation Satellite system (IRNSS) differ with

respect to?

A. Geographical area coverage

B. User base and authorization

C. Extension to ocean routes

D. Timing of service

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : B


Justification:RS is an encrypted service provided to authorised users

such as military.

Standard Positioning Service (SPS) is made available to all users. So,

most appropriate option would be (b).

Learning:IRNSS consists of constellation of seven satellites of which

three are geostationary and four are non-geostationary.

This satellite system aims to provide real-time data on the position of

objects to aid road, air and maritime traffic. It will also provide

mapping and tracking services.


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Q Source:

http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Xj5BV6RhvppEUrrQk4629N/Isro-s

uccessfully-launches-Indias-fifth-navigation-satellit.html

51 Which of the following arguments cannot be given by the tradition of the

Ajivikas?

A. All events are entirely preordained and a function of cosmic

principles.

B. There is an atman in every living being.

C. Good deeds only will lead to salvation.

D. Human beings do not have free will.

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : C


Justification:Even if you haven't read Ajivika sect philosophy, you

can logically eliminate options and reach the right answer.


Suppose if (a) is correct, then (d) follows, because if everything ispredestined based on universal principles, human beings cannot have

free will.

Also, if everything is predetermined, salvation or moksha cannot

depend on your deeds. It must be predestined too, which is the point

made in (c). You get salvation when universal principles align in a

particular way, and not just by your good or bad deeds.

So, the only answer here can be (c). We did not even need to eliminate

option (b).

Learning: It was founded in the 5th century BCE by Makkhali

Gosala.It is known for its Niyati doctrine of absolute determinism, the

premise that there is no free will, that everything that has

happened, is happening and will happen is entirely preordained

and a function of cosmic principles.

It considered the karma doctrine as a fallacy. Ajivika

metaphysics included a theory of atoms similar to the


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Vaisheshika school, where everything was composed of atoms,

qualities emerged from aggregates of atoms, but the aggregation

and nature of these atoms was predetermined by cosmic forces.

Followers of the sect were atheists and rejected the authority of

the Vedas, but they believed that in every living being is an

?tman-a central premise of Hinduism and Jainism.

Q Source:Improvisation: Page 87: Chapter 4: 12th NCERT: Themes

in Indian History-I

52 The Deccan trap was formed due to

A. Volcanic action

B. Filling of Geosynclinal depression

C. Deposition of river sediments

D. Filling of ocean depression

User Answer :

Correct Answer : A


Learning: One of the distinct features of the peninsular plateau is the



black soil area known as Decean Trap.

This is of volcanic origin hence the rocks are igneous. Actually these

rocks have denuded over time and are responsible for the formation of

black soil.

The release of volcanic gases, particularly sulfur dioxide, during the

formation of the traps contributed to contemporary climate change.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus-9th NCERT

Geography

53 Consider the following statements about a river.

1. Recently the Union Government has signed a Financing Agreement

with World Bank for the river basin development.

2. The river is known as sorrow of Bihar.

The above refer to?

A. Gandak


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B. Kosi

C. Nirmala

D. Damodar

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : B


Learning:The WB loan Project objective is to enhance:

Resilience to floods from Kosi River which is infamously

dubbed as sorrow of Bihar and increase agricultural production

and productivity of targeted districts along the river basin.

State's capacity to respond promptly and effectively to an

eligible crisis or emergency.

Five components of Project are:

Improving Flood Risk Management.

Augmenting Connectivity.

Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Competitiveness.

Implementation Support

Contingent Emergency Response.

The primary beneficiaries of this Project are rural households and


producers in the Kosi River Basin who are regularly exposed to floods.

It will mainly include farmers who have lost their agricultural lands by

the devastating 2008 Kosi River Flood due to the silt deposition.

Q

Source:http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/infrastruc

ture/world-bank-to-provide-250-mn-loan-for-kosi-basinproject/articleshow/50658360.cms

54 The Union Cabinet has recently given its approval to Policy on Promotionof City Compost. How will this policy help in circulating compost produced

from city waste for the purpose of farming and agriculture?

1. Farmers will be benefitted from lower MRP of city compost as result

of Market development assistance.

2. All registered fertilizer companies will receive free city compost for

conversion to fertilizer to exclusively supply agricultural farms.


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A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : A


Justification: Composting is process of recycling of organic matter or

waste into useful fertilizers for soil. Compost obtained from city

garbage will provide primary as well as secondary nutrients to soil

improving its productivity.

Statement 1: For increasing production and consumption of City

Compost, provision for Market development assistance of Rs. 1500

per tonne of city compost has been added. This assistance will reduce

MRP for farmers. So, 1 is correct.

Statement 2: It is wrong. Instead, fertilizer companies will co-market

City Compost along with chemical fertilizers. For promoting the use of

compost, these companies will adopt villages.

Q Source: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=134638


55 Which one of the following States/Union Territories (UTs) of India has

the highest rank in the Human Development Index after Kerala?

A. Goa

B. Maharashtra

C. TamilNadu

D. Delhi

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Learning:These are old figures, but the trend is likely to be the same.

Kerala has the highest HDI at about 0.790, Delhi has around 0.750,


41/75

and next is Himachal Pradesh at 0.652. Rest all states and UTs other

than Goa and Punjab, have HDI lesser than 0.6.

So, Kerala and Delhi qualify as high HDI states, and others as either

medium HDI or low HDI states.


People and Economy

56 Sikkim has formally become India's first fully organic state as it has

A. Banned the production of meat in the state

B. Increased the forest cover to the stipulated legal requirement

C. Allowed business expansion in the state by way of new product

development as opposed to mergers and acquisitions


User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Learning: Sikkim has successfully implemented organic farming

practices on around 75,000 hectares of agricultural land.

Formal declaration in this regard was made by the Prime

Minister.

The state government had banned entry and sale of chemical

inputs for farmland in phases and also moved away from

subsidies to farmers for purchasing chemical inputs.

It forced farmers in state to organic cultivation.

Since then agricultural land in state was gradually converted to



certified organic land by using organic practices. For this statehad implemented principles ad guidelines prescribed in

National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP).

Q

Source:http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/sikkim-becomes-indi

as-first-organic-state/article8107170.ece

57 Krishi Karman awards are given by the Union government to


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A. Best performer States for raising country's food grain

production

B. States that protect farms from vagaries of droughts and floods

most successfully

C. Best performer states in agricultural research

D. States that add the largest labour population to non-farm

employment

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Learning: Madhya Pradesh has been recently conferred the Union

Government's prestigious Krishi Karman Award in maximum food

grains production category for year 2014-15 for the 4th consecutive

year.

Other winners have been:

Chhattisgarh: Chosen for achieving growth in production of pulses.

West Bengal: Chosen for good agriculture production.

Odisha: Chosen for being the best performing state in overall

foodgrains production among category-II states.

These awards were instituted in 2010-11 for recognising the

meritorious efforts of the states in foodgrains production.

It comprises of three awards for total food grain production and

four awards for production of crops that constitute the food

grain viz. rice, wheat, coarse cereals and pulses.

Q

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/M-P-bags-awar



d-for-4th-year-2-farmers-to-get-Krishi-KarmanAward/articleshow/50673411.cms

58 What is the role of Governor of a State in the Indian polity?

1. She ensures that the State Government works within the provisions

laid down in the Constitution.

2. She chairs the State Legislative Assembly.


43/75


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification: The Head of the State is the Governor. She/He is

appointed by the Central Government to ensure that the State

Government works within the rules and regulations of the

Constitution. So, 1 is correct.

If it is not so, s/he can submit a report to the Central government

which can then consider taking action against the State government

including President's rule.

The chairman of the Legislative assembly is elected by the assembly

itself. So, 2 is incorrect.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: Test 1: 6th Social

Science NCERT

59 Within the district administration land disputes can be heard at the office

of

A. Patwari

B. Tehsildar

C. Village Land Committee

D. Village Ward Councillors

User Answer : B

Correct Answer : B



Justification & Learning:At the head is the District Collector and

under her are the revenue officers, also known as tehsildars.

They have to hear disputes. They also supervise the work of the

Patwaris and ensure that records are properly kept and land revenue is


44/75

collected.

They make sure that the farmers can easily obtain a copy of their

record, students can obtain their caste certificates etc.

The Tehsildar's office is where land disputes are also heard.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: Test 1: 6th Social

Science NCERT

60 Shahmina refers to

A. A type of shawl made from Pashmina wool

B. A fabric made of both cotton and silk in the Deccan region of

India

C. A type of bark cloth made from hardwood trees found in

Jammu and Kashmir


User Answer :

Correct Answer : A


Learning: Shahmina shawls are hand spun, woven on only handlooms

and embroidered by hand in Kashmir, and made from fine cashmere

fibre which is textured and processed exactly as Shahtoosh.

It is made without artificial chemicals.

The purest shahmina, which is made on handlooms, does not have a

consistent weave and may have flaws which are characteristic of the

fabric.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: Test 1: 6th Social

Science NCERT

61 Consider the following statements.

1. It is known as Kakanaya and Bota-Sriparvata in ancient times.

2. It has the singular distinction of having specimen of Buddhist art and



architecture from the early Mauryan period.

3. It is a world heritage site.

The above refer to?


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A. Ajanta Caves

B. Bodh-Gaya

C. Elephanta Caves

D. Sanchi

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Learning:The Great Stupa at Sanchi is the oldest stone structure in

India and was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashoka in 3rd

Century BCE.

He erected the Great Stupa here after redistribution of mortal remains

of Lord Buddha for erecting several stupas all over the country in

order to spread Buddhism. This stupa was originally a low structure of

brick.

It is also known as Kakanava and Kakanadabota.

Since the fourteenth century Sanchi remained deserted and uncared for

till 1818 when General Taylor rediscovered the site. Sir John Marshall

established an archaeological museum in 1919, which was later

transformed into the present site museum at Sanchi.

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 83: Chapter 4: 12th NCERT: Themes

in Indian History-I

62 Why do we get muscle cramps after heavy exercise?

A. Anaerobic respiration of muscle cells

B. Improvement in the blood flow in the body

C. Drying of joint movement fluids

D. All of the above

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : A


Justification:Synovial fluid is the slippery fluid that fills most of the

body's joints. If it dries up it can cause a pain/fracture in joints. It is not


the reason for the cramps. So, (c) is not correct.


46/75

The cramps occur when muscle cells respire anaerobically. The partial

breakdown of glucose produces lactic acid. The accumulation of lactic

acid causes muscle cramps.

Learning:We get relief from cramps after a hot water bath or a

massage.

Hot water bath or massage improves circulation of blood.

As a result, the supply of oxygen to the muscle cells increases. The

increase in the supply of oxygen results in the complete breakdown of

lactic acid into carbon dioxide and water.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: 8th Science NCERT

63 Which of these states have imposed a ban on use of plastic bags for

environmental protection?

1. Sikkim

2. Uttar Pradesh

3. Gujarat

4. Bihar


A. 1, 2 and 3 only

B. 2, 3 and 4 only

C. 1 and 4 only

D. 2 and 3 only

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : A


Learning: Under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 selling of

merchandise into polythene bags is banned.

Sikkim is among the first few states in India to have banned

plastic bags in 1998, following several landslides that occurred

due to blocked drains, leading to human casualties in the capital

city of Gangtok.

Gujarat has announced ban on the use of plastic in the State.

Uttar Pradesh also has recently enforced the blanket ban on all




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varieties of polythene bags, irrespective of their thickness. ?

Q

Source:http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/uttar-pradesh-gove

rnment-bans-polythene-bags/1/553256.html

64 Which river basin has the highest total replenishable ground water

resource?

A. Ganga

B. Pennar

C. Kaveri

D. Brahmaputra

User Answer :

Correct Answer : A


Justification: Brahmaputra has nearly 27 cubic km per year, Ganga

has 171, Kaveri nearly 12, and the Pennar has the least at nearly 4. So,

(a) is the answer

Learning: Groundwater levels across India are falling and the quality

of ground water is also declining. The decline is particularly sharp

around Delhi, Western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan.

Construction around the Aravalli hills has severely disturbed the

ground water recharge in the entire region.


Economy

65 By the first century CE, there is evidence of changes in Buddhist ideas and

practices. Under the new Mahanaya tradition, Bodhisattas were perceived as

A. the ones who wish for the salvation of others before attaining

final nirvana

B. the ones who transcended the world of senses

C. those who have just begun their spiritual journey

D. the ordained worshippers of Buddhist idols and sculptures

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : A




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Learning:The term Boddhisatvas have been subject to multiple

interpretations.

In early Indian Buddhism, the term bodhisattva was primarily

used to refer specifically to Gautama Buddha in his former life.

From this Jataka tales, Bodhisattva originally meant theBuddhism practitioner of austerities.

In later Theravada literature, the term "bodhisatta" is used fairly

frequently in the sense of someone on the path to liberation.

According to some Mah?y?na sources a bodhisattva is someone

on the path to full Buddhahood. Others speak of bodhisattvas

renouncing Buddhahood.

However, under the new tradition most accepted definition is

the one who aspires to become buddha as soon as possible and

then help sentient beings in full fledge.

Q Source: Page 103: Chapter 4: 12th NCERT: Themes in Indian

History-I

66 The continental shelves become the source of fossil fuels due to

A. Sediments brought down by rivers

B. Sea-floor spreading

C. Formation of coral reefs at bay

D. Movement of fossil fuel from ocean bed to the shelves

User Answer :

Correct Answer : A


Justification: A continental shelf is the edge of a continent that lies

under the ocean.

A continental shelf extends from the coastline of a continent to a dropoff point called the shelf break.

From the break, the shelf descends

toward the deep ocean floor in what is called the continental slope.

Even though they are underwater, continental shelves are part of the

continent. So, (d) cannot be correct.

Sea-floor spreading occurs at mid-oceanic ridges far from the shelves,

as also covered in the previous tests. So, (b) is not correct.

INSIGHTS IAS


49/75

TEST - 10

(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 48The continental shelves are covered with variable thicknesses of

sediments brought down by rivers, glaciers, wind, from the land and

distributed by waves and currents. Massive sedimentary depositsreceived over a long time by the continental shelves, become the

source of fossil fuels. So, (a) is correct.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus: 11th Fundamental

Physical Geography NCERT

67 Uranium reserves in India occur in

1. Himachal Pradesh

2. Rajasthan

3. Chattisgarh

4. West Bengal

5. Uttar Pradesh6. Andhra Pradesh


A. 1, 4 and 5 only

B. 1, 2, 3 and 6 only

C. 2, 3, 5 and 6 only

D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

User Answer :

Correct Answer : B


Justification:Uranium deposits occur in the Dharwar rocks.

Geographically, uranium ores are known to occur in several locations

along the Singbhum Copper belt.

It is also found in Udaipur, Alwar and Jhunjhunu districts of

Rajasthan, Durg district of Chhattisgarh, Bhandara district of

Maharashtra and Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh.

Recently uranium reserves were discovered in pockets of

Mahbubnagar, Karimnagar and Nalgonda districts in Telangana and

Guntur and Kadapa districts in Andhra Pradesh.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Major-uranium-reserves-foun

d-in-Srisailam-forests/articleshow/48181983.cms

You can refer to the link to know the emerging trends in Uranium


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INSIGHTS IAS TEST - 10(C) Insights Active Learning. | All rights reserved. www.insightsias.com 49mining.

http://www.ucil.gov.in/pdf/myth/Emerging%20trend%20in%20U%20

mining.pdf

Q Source: Page 80: Chapter 7: 12th NCERT: India, People and

Economy

68 The terms-Build Operate Transfer (BOT) and Engineering ProcurementModel (EPC)-are related to

A. Public Private Partnership (PPP) models usually in

infrastructure

B. Delegation of responsibilities within government departments

concerning mineral exploration projects

C. New techniques of eco-friendly construction

D. Models for construction in seismically sensitive zones

User Answer :

Correct Answer : A

Answer Justification :Learning: BOT is a type of arrangement in which the private sector

builds an infrastructure project, operates it and eventually transfers

ownership of the project to the government. In many instances, the

government becomes the firm's only customer and promises to

purchase at least a predetermined amount of the project's output. This

ensures that the firm recoups its initial investment in a reasonable time

span.

This type of arrangement is used typically in complicated longterm projects as seen in power plants and

water treatment

facilities.In some arrangements, the government does not assume

ownership of the project. In those cases, the company continues

running the facility and the government acts as both the

consumer and regulator.

EPC- The engineering and construction contractor will carry out the

detailed engineering design of the project, procure all the equipment


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and materials necessary, and then construct to deliver a functioning

facility or asset to their clients.



Q Source: Frequently in news due to PPP + Revision of Previous

Tests Syllabus-11th NCERT Indian Economic Development-Chapter

8-Page 14369 India is a member of which of these trading blocs?

1. SAFTA

2. ASEAN

3. Commonwealth of Independent States Free Trade Area (CISFTA)

4. South African Free Trade Area


A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1 and 3 only

C. 2, 3 and 4 only

D. 1 only

User Answer : A

Correct Answer : D


Justification: SAFTA created a free trade area of nearly 1.8 bill ion

people in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal,

Pakistan and Sri Lanka. So, 1 is correct.

India is a member of the ASEAN+6 group, not ASEAN. So, it cannot

be a member of the trading bloc. 2 will be wrong.

CISFTA is a free trade area between Russia, Ukraine, Belarus,

Uzbekistan, Moldova, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Five

CISFTA participants, all except Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Moldova are

members of the Eurasian Economic Union, comprising a single

economic market.

Q Source: Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus-Page 87: Chapter 9:

NCERT XIIth: Fundamentals of Human Geography

70 Which of the following about Kalamkari paintings is/are correct?


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1. Natural themes are not depicted.

2. Natural materials are not used in the paintings.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2



D. None

User Answer : D

Correct Answer : D


Justification & Learning: Kalamkari or vrathapani from Andhra

Pradesh demonstrates the variety of natural materials used to create a

work of art.

Kalamkari means epen worki in Persian and refers to both printed and

painted cloth.

In the seventeenth century Persian influences led to artists

experimenting with the depiction of trees, fruits, flowers and

ornamental birds.

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus-Living Craft Traditions

of India-11th NCERT

71 Which of the following can obliterate the process of nitrogen fixation in

the soil?

1. Displacing leguminous crops from the cropping pattern

2. Increasing the fallow duration of land leading to sparse cropping

Which of the above is/are correct?A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer :

Correct Answer : A


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Justification:Leguminous crops help fix nitrogen in the soil. If they

are displaced, then the process of nitrogen fixation would reduce or

slow down to totally end depending on the nutrient availability in the

soil. So, 1 is correct.

If the duration of fallow is substantially reduced owing to multiple

cropping, the soil does not get enough time to recuperate and allow

natural fertilization like nitrogen fixation. If fallow is increased, it will

help in nutrient replenishment. So, 2 is incorrect.




People and Economy

72 Khalisa land under Delhi sultanate was

A. Lands assigned to officials as payment for their services

B. Land under royal control from which revenues collected were

spent for the maintenance of royal court

C. Land assigned or granted to religious leaders or religious

institutions

D. Land granted to peasants in rural hinterlands for reducing

poverty

User Answer : C

Correct Answer : B


Justification & Learning: After consolidating their position in India,

the Delhi Sultans introduced reforms in the

Iqta land-lands assigned to officials as iqtas instead of payment

for their services.

Khalisa land-land under the direct control of the Sultan and the

revenues collected were spent for the maintenance of royal

court and royal household.

Inam land-land assigned or granted to religious leaders or

religious institutions.

The peasantry paid one third of their produce as land revenue, and


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sometimes even one half of the produce

Q Source:Revision of Previous Tests Syllabus-TamilNadu History

Textbook-Class 11th

73 How does Ethylene help crops?

1. It promotes rapid stalk elongation in deep water rice plants.

2. It helps promotes root growth and root hair formation.


A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None

User Answer :


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