test 1 2016

TEST-1

User Name : Mehaboob T

Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67

https://www.insightsias.com 1

1 Consider the following.Foggy weather1.High biological productivity2.Plentiful fish catch3.The above are associated with which of the following?

Inter-tidal zonesA.Meeting of Warm and Cold currentsB.Marine upwelling zonesC.Shallow seasD.

User Answer : BCorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation: Inter-tidal zones are regions between the high tide and low tide area.They are biologically productive, but foggy weather is not experienced there. So,option (a) is wrong.

Marine upwelling zones are rich in nutrients, as nutrient rich water is upwelled tocome to the top. But, again foggy weather is not experienced. So, option (c) iswrong.

Learning:

Areas where warm and cold currents meet tend to have regular foggyconditions, as the overlying warm and cold air come in contact with eachother.They also tend to have high biological productivity, because plankton growthis encourage by the mixing of warm and cold currents.Some of the world's most productive fishing grounds are located where warmand cold currents converge.For example, where Labrador current (cold) and Gulf stream (warm) meet, adense fog is there and it is one of the richest fishing grounds of the world.

Q Source: Page 37: Chapter 5: Our Environment

2 When the grains of sand are very fine and light, the wind can carry it over very longdistances. When such sand is deposited in large areas in a desert, it is called

Dune barriersA.HemiborealB.DunestackC.None of the aboveD.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


User Answer : DCorrect Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Explanation & Learning: You may call sand dunes as Dune barriers. But,technically dune barrier is not a term. So, option (a) is wrong.

Hemiboreal means halfway between the temperate and subarctic (or boreal) zones.So, option (b) is also wrong.

There is no such term as Dunestack. So, option (c) is also wrong.

The correct answer is Loess. Large deposits of ‘Loess’ is found in China.

Q Source: Page 89: Chapter 9: Our Pasts-I

3 Which of the following factors may affect air circulation?Density of air1.Air Temperature2.Air Pressure3.Height of air column4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 2 and 3 onlyA.1 and 4 onlyB.2 and 3 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer : CCorrect Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Explanation: When air is heated, it expands, becomes lighter and goes up. Cold airis denser and heavy.Lighter air tends to rise, and denser air tends to sink. Since itaffects air circulation, statement 1 is correct.

Air temperature is one of most important factors affecting its density. Other factor ismoisture. So, statement 2 is also correct.

Air pressure is an outcome of the total atmospheric conditions in an area. Fromhigher pressure areas, air flows to lower pressure areas. So, statement 3 is alsocorrect.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


High air columns (in which Jet streams etc. flow) blow at the height of 2-8 kms introposphere. Their characteristics like temperature, pressure or density is notaffected by the near earth air. However, they have a peculiar air circulation pattern.So, statement 4 is also correct.

Learning: When hot air rises, cold air from surrounding area rushes there to fill inthe gap. That is how air circulation takes place. This can be affected by the factorsas mentioned above.


4 Why a higher growth can be reaped, despite a reduction in fixed capital (FC) formation inthe Indian economy?

FC is not directly correlated with economic growth rate.A.FC includes construction of dwellings as a sub-component which may notB.add to the productive capacity of the economy.Long-term growth can still be achieved if resources from FC are divertedC.towards consumption.All of the aboveD.

User Answer :Correct Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation: Fixed capital formation (growth of productive infrastructure etc) isdirectly related with economic growth rate. So, option (a) is incorrect.

Option (c) is incorrect, as only short-term growth may be achieved if such diversionoccurs. In the long-term quality and quantity of infrastructure is a major determinantof economic growth.

Dwellings form more than 50% of the fixed capital formation in India.

Since dwellings do not add to the productive capacity of the economy, even if itsgrowth rate reduces, the economy can still grow. So, option (b) is correct.

Learning:Fixed capital is assets used in the productive process.

As per the new formula, there are changes both in the variables included/excluded aswell as the weights assigned to them.

Examples of Fixed Capital Formation

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Building or expanding existing factoryRoad and bridge constructionPurchase of transport equipmentOffice equipment, such as computers, printersMachinery used in the productive processEnergy infrastructure etc

Generally, the higher the capital formation of an economy, the faster an economycan grow its aggregate income. Increasing an economy's capital stock also increasesits capacity for production, which means an economy can produce more. Producingmore goods and services can lead to an increase in national income levels.

Q Source:Economic Survey 2014-15: Volume 2: Chapter 1: Page 11

5 The earliest Tamil compositions are known as 'Sangam'. Why these texts are called'Sangam'?

These texts were the meeting of the best of the ancient wisdom andA.contemporary values.The poets composing the texts named it so.B.They were composed in the city of Sangam.C.They were composed and compiled in assemblies of poets which were knownD.as Sangams.


Explanation: Option (c) is incorrect as these poet Sangams were held in the city ofMadurai.

Learning: Sangam literature, were composed around 2300 years ago. Sangamliterature deals with emotional and material topics such as love, war, governance,trade and bereavement. These poems were later collected into various anthologies,edited, and with colophons added by anthologists and annotators around 1000 AD.Sangam literature fell out of popular memory soon thereafter, until they wererediscovered in the 19th century by scholars such as Arumuga Navalar, C. W.Thamotharampillai and U. V. Swaminatha Iyer.

Q Source: Page 89: Chapter 9: Our Pasts-I

6 Consider the following statements.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


World Water day is celebrated on 22nd March.1.UN recommends at least 50 litres of water per person per day.2.The decade 2005-15 was declared as the International Decade for Action3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.2 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer :Correct Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Explanation & Learning : According to the UN & World Health Organization(WHO), between 50 and 100 litres of water per person per day are needed to ensurethat most basic needs are met and few health concerns arise.

Refer to the following link for more information:http://www.un.org/waterforlifedecade/quality.shtml

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 193: Chapter 16: VIIth Science

7 The Fourteenth Finance Commission (FFC) has proposed a new horizontal formula forthe distribution of the divisible pool among the States. The new criterion includes

Population as per 2011 Census1.Forest Cover2.Fiscal discipline of the states3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 and 3 onlyC.1 and 2 onlyD.


Explanation: Fiscal discipline was a criterion used by earlier Finance Commissions.It has been discontinued by the 14th FC. So, statement 3 is wrong.

Learning:The finance Commission is responsible for distribution of resources(taxes) between the Centre and the states (vertical distribution), and between thestates (horizontal distribution). It does so using an objective formula which contains

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


several factors such as backwardness of a state; SC, ST population etc.

As per the new formula, there are changes both in the variables included/excluded aswell as the weights assigned to them.

Relative to the Thirteenth Finance Commission, the FFC has incorporated two newvariables: 2011 population and forest cover; and excluded the variable relating tofiscal discipline.

Q Source:http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/unequal-states/

8 Consider the following statements about Sangam literature.It is primarily secular in nature.1.Women poets did not participate in composing the literature.2.It does not deal with matters of governance.3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer : CCorrect Answer : CAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Statement 2 is incorrect, as poems belonging to Sangam literaturewere composed by both men and women, from various professions and classes ofsociety.

Statement 3 is incorrect as it deals with matters of war, governance and trade. It alsodeals with ethics, and on the various issues of life like wealth, virtue and love.

Q Source:Wikipedia: Improvisation from Chapter 9: Our Pasts-I

9 Earliest Viharas were built for Buddhist monks and nuns becauseIt was to be the Central place for all monks and nuns for meditation andA.contemplation.It served as a permanent shelter for the wandering monks and nuns duringB.rainy season.It served as a centre for propagation of Buddhist ideas.C.It was used to organize the Sangha.D.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67



Explanation:All other options (a), (c) and (d) refer to the purposes served bypresent-day monasteries, and not earliest Viharas.

Learning:Buddhist monks went from place to place throughout the year, teachingpeople. The only time they stayed in one place was during the rainy season, when itwas very difficult to travel. Then, their supporters built temporary shelters for themin gardens, or they lived in natural caves in hilly areas.

As time went on, many supporters of the monks and nuns, and they themselves, feltthe need for more permanent shelters and so monasteries were built. These wereknown as viharas.

Q Source:Chapter 7: Our Pasts-I

10 If you do not gave a GPS, you can still know the latitude of your place byMeasuring angle of Pole star from your placeA.Measuring the angle between Pole star and Big dipper constellation fromB.your placeLooking at the direction of your CompassC.None of the aboveD.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation & Learning Before we explain it in words here, do watch this videohttp://study.com/academy/lesson/using-the-sun-stars-to-determine-latitude-longitude.html

Latitude is basically the angle of your place from the centre of the Earth (equatorialposition). Now, you can either find out this angle OR find out the angle of yourplace with respect to the North Pole. Finding the latter is easier as Pole Star isalways found vertically above the North Pole.

If you can find your place’s angle from the Pole star (North Pole), just subtract itfrom 90 degrees to arrive at your place’s latitude.

This cannot be done using a compass, as it merely shows North direction, and not

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


the direction vertically above towards Pole star. So, option (c) is incorrect.

Other options can be eliminated in the same way.

Q Source: Page 11: Chapter 2: The Earth Our Habitat

11 South-Asia is considered a sub-continent for which of the following reasons?It occupies a very large geographical area.1.It is self-sufficient in resources.2.It is well separated geographically from rest of Asia.3.Geographical features and climate vary substantially.4.It is on a different tectonic plate from the rest of the Asian continent.5.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

2 and 5 onlyA.1, 3 and 4 onlyB.1, 3, 4 and 5 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer : BCorrect Answer : CAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Statement 2 is wrong, as being self-sufficient in resources is not anaccepted criterion. Arabian Peninsula is also recognized as a sub-continent, but isnot self-sufficient in resources. Moreover, South Asia is not self-sufficient in allresources for e.g. minerals.

Learning:Certain parts of continents are recognized as subcontinents, particularlythose on different tectonic plates from the rest of the continent. The most notableexamples are the Indian subcontinent and the Arabian Peninsula. Greenland,generally reckoned as the world's largest island on the northeastern periphery of theNorth American Plate, is sometimes referred to as a subcontinent.

South Asia is often called a subcontinent because although it is smaller than acontinent, it is very large, and is separated from the rest of Asia by seas, hills andmountains.

Q Source:Page 3: Our Pasts-I, VIth NCERT.

12 In 18th century India, what was the practice of 'ijaradari'?Using revenue-farmers for the collection of state revenue.A.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Association of merchants and bankers in the management of the CentralB.Mughal treasuryAuctioning of the right to collect taxes by the British to the highest bidders.C.Military positions in Mughal state being given on the basis of patronage, andD.not merit.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : CAnswer Justification :

Explanation:If you see a question on Mughal military, look for the keyword ‘fauj’.If its not there, you can safely remove such option, such as (d) here.

You can also eliminate option (b) as Mughals would have never allowed anyexternal intervention in the management of treasury.

Learning:The ijaradari system was introduced by Warren Hastings according to thisthe right to collect revenue was given to the highest bidder called contractor for aperiod of five years. Once they got the right to collect the taxes, the bankers had topromise to pay a fixed some of amount to the state.

This system was a failure because bidding was often not related to the actualproductivity of the land.The ijaradars were not interested in making improvements in land since theland was auctioned periodically.The peasants were exploited by the contractors to extract more and morerevenue.

Q Source:Improvisation: Page 146: Chapter 10: Our Pasts-II, VIIth NCERT

13 Which of the following are examples of Fold Mountains?Ural Mountains, Russia1.Appalachians, North America2.Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa3.Vosges Mountain, Europe4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 and 4 onlyC.2 and 4 onlyD.

User Answer : CCorrect Answer : A

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Answer Justification :

Explanation: Mt. Kilimanjaro is a volcanic mountain. So, statement 3 is wrong.Vosges, Europe is a block mountain. So, statement 4 is also wrong. Other two areold and new fold mountains.

Learning: There are three types of mountains- Fold Mountains, Block Mountainsand the Volcanic Mountains. The Himalayan Mountains and the Alps are young foldmountains with rugged relief and high conical peaks.

Block Mountains are created when large areas are broken and displaced vertically.The uplifted blocks are termed as horsts and the lowered blocks are called graben.The Rhine valley and the Vosges mountain in Europe are examples of suchmountain systems.

Volcanic mountains are formed due to volcanic activity. Mt.Kilimanjaro in Africaand Mt.Fujiyama in Japan are examples of such mountains.

Q Source: Chapter 6: The Earth Our Habitat

14 Which of the following you can use to form a real image of the Sun on a paper?Convex mirror and Concave lensA.Convex lens and Concave mirrorB.Convex and Concave lensC.Convex and Concave mirrorD.


Explanation & Learning : A convex lens converges (bends inward) the lightgenerally falling on it. Therefore, it is called a converging lens. On the other hand, aconcave lens diverges (bends outward) the light and is called a diverging lens.

The opposite is true in case of mirrors, i.e. concave mirror will converge light fallingon it, and convex mirror will diverge the same.

Q Source: Chapter 15: VIIth Science

15 How does Ozone protect us from the harmful ultraviolet radiation?By reflecting the UV radiation back to spaceA.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


By absorbing the UV radiation and breaking down into oxygenB.By converting the harmful UV radiation into useful UV radiationC.By changing the frequency of UV radiation coming to earthD.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation & Learning: The ozone layer acts as a filter for the shorterwavelength and highly hazardous ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun,protecting life on Earth from its potentially harmful effects. Ozone absorbs this UVradiation and breaks down to oxygen. Oxygen is different from ozone.

There is an inverse relationship between stratospheric ozone and solar UVRmeasured at the Earth's surface, i.e. the lower the ozone levels, the higher the solarUVR. The formation of ozone holes severely affects ozone's ability to filter UVrays.

Q Source: Page 63:Chapter 6: VIIth Science

16 Which funds are managed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF)?Least Developed Countries Fund1.Special Climate Change Fund2.Carbon Credit Fund3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 and 3 onlyC.2 onlyD.

User Answer :Correct Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Multilateral Carbon Credit Fund (MCCF) is maintained by theEuropean Investment Bank (EIB) with the European Bank for Reconstruction andDevelopment (EBRD). So, statement 3 is incorrect.

Learning:An independently operating financial organization (with 183 countries),the GEF provides grants for projects related to biodiversity, climate change,international waters, land degradation, the ozone layer, and persistent organicpollutants. It was established in 1992 on the eve of Rio Summit.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


The GEF also serves as financial mechanism for the following conventions:

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)Minamata Convention on Mercury

The GEF, although not linked formally to the Montreal Protocol on Substances thatDeplete the Ozone Layer (MP), supports implementation of the Protocol in countrieswith economies in transition.

The GEF also manages two separate adaptation-focused funds under theUNFCCC— the Least Developed Countries Fund and the Special Climate ChangeFund— which mobilize funding specifically earmarked for activities related toadaptation.

QSource:Improvisation:http://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/indias-great-barrier-reef/

17 As per the Nathpanthis and Siddhacharas, the way to salvation lies inRenouncing the world and meditating on formless realityA.Absolute devotion to a personal god, which is the path of BhaktiB.Severe penance, self-inflicted pain and leaving all desiresC.following moderation in everythingD.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Path of Bhakti was suggested by Alvars, Nayanars, Vaishnavites,Virashaivas, Ramanuja, Kabir, Mira and others. Therefore, option (b) can beeliminated.

Option (c) can also be eliminated as no path prescribes self-inflicted pain to attainsalvation.

Option (d) was the path of the Buddha. So, this can be eliminated too.

The word ‘Siddha’ in Siddhacharas should then straight lead you to option (a).

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Learning:A number of religious groups emerged during 13th-17th century thatcriticised the ritual and other aspects of conventional religion and the social order,using simple, logical arguments. Among them were the Nathpanthis, Siddhacharasand Yogis.

They advocated renunciation of the world. To them the path to salvation lay inmeditation on the formless Ultimate Reality and the realisation of oneness with it.To achieve this they advocated intense training of the mind and body throughpractices like yogasanas, breathing exercises and meditation.

These groups became particularly popular among “low” castes. Their criticism ofconventional religion created the ground for devotional religion to become a popularforce in northern India.

Q Source:Page 110: Chapter 8: Our Pasts-II

18 Consider the following about the'Re-Invest Summit 2015' convened recently bygovernment.

It was convened to bring back Indian manufacturing investment from abroad.1.Government announced a new IPR policy in the summit to protect investment.2.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 onlyA.2 onlyB.Both 1 and 2C.NoneD.


Explanation & Learning:RE-Invest 2015 was the first Renewable Energy GlobalInvestors Meet & Expo. The meet was organised by the Union Ministry of New andRenewable Energy as a follow-up to the Make in India initiative of the PrimeMinister.

The central theme of RE-Invest is to attract large scale investments for therenewable energy sector in India.

The aim of the meet is to evolve innovative financial models for funding and toensure the partnership of states and the Centre in harnessing renewable energy.Germany is the partner country for Re-Invest 2015.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


QSource:http://www.narendramodi.in/pms-address-at-the-inauguration-of-re-invest-2015-the-first-renewable-energy-global-investors-meet-and-expo-7260

19 Buddhacharita, written by Ashvaghosha, isa treatise of all Buddhist teachingsA.a critical commentary Buddhist ideas on MahayanaB.a biography of the Gautama BuddhaC.a treatise drawing parallels between Buddhist teachings and Vedic ideasD.


Explanation:UPSC may trick you by giving close options. Biography of Buddha isnot the same thing as a treatise of his teachings. Please bear this is mind whileattempting UPSC questions.

Moreover, you can clearly discard option (b) as Mahayana Buddhism startedspreading a little later, and it would be impossible for Ashvaghosha to comment onthem in his book published before.

Learning:Buddhacharita is an epic poem in the Sanskrit mahakavya style on the lifeof Gautama Buddha by Avaghoa, composed in the early second century CE

Q Source:Page 103: Chapter 9: Our Pasts-I

20 Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) isa joint Arab private firm that manages oil exports from Middle-eastA.an oil cartel that jointly changes prices and supply of oilB.a conglomeration of Arab-American companies with the exclusive right toC.extract and export petroleum from Arab nationsa political entity setup by all Arab oil companies to supervise extraction andD.production of oil and natural gas from middle-east


Explanation: : OPEC is a cartel of countries. So, it is incorrect to refer to it as ajoint private firm. Hence, option (a) is incorrect.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Other options can be eliminated as it does not confirm to the definition of a cartel.

Learning: A cartel is a collection of businesses or countries that act together as asingle producer and agree to influence prices for certain goods and services bycontrolling production and marketing. A cartel has less power than a monopoly.This is because cartels do not control the entire market, as monopolists usually do.

OPEC was formed when the international oil market was largely dominated by agroup of multinational companies known as the 'seven sisters'. The formation ofOPEC represented a collective act of sovereignty by oil exporting nations, andmarked a turning point in state control over natural resources.

OPEC's mandate is to "coordinate and unify the petroleum policies" of its membersand to "ensure the stabilization of oil markets in order to secure an efficient,economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income toproducers, and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry.

In 2014 OPEC comprised twelve members: Algeria, Angola, Ecuador, Iran, Iraq,Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, andVenezuela.

Q Source:Improvisation:http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/markets/commodities/arab-opec-producers-brace-for-oilprice-weakness-for-rest-of-2015/article7600332.ece

21 Which of the following factors were responsible for the crisis in Mughal empire towardsthe end of 17th century?

Depletion of military and financial resources in wars with Deccan during1.Aurangzeb's tenureGrowing power of Mansabdars2.Peasant and zamindari rebellions3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.1 and 3 onlyB.2 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Explanation:In statement 3, peasant revolts were sometimes caused by the

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


pressures of mounting taxes.

Learning:Other reasons were:

The Mughals did not follow any definite law of succession. After the death ofevery emperor, there ensued a bloody war of succession amongst his sons.The successors of Aurangzeb were both weak and incompetent. This reducedthe effectiveness of imperial administration.New powers such as the Sikhs, Jats and Marathas came onto the scene.Gradually they broke off from the Mughal domination and established theirown independent states.Governors (subadars) often controlled the offices of revenue and militaryadministration (diwani and faujdari) as well. This gave them extraordinarypolitical, economic and military powers over vast regions of the MughalEmpire. As the governors consolidated their control over the provinces, theperiodic remission of revenue to the capital declined.The Europeans, especially the British, by way of diwani rights; fortificationetc played an important role in putting an end to the Mughal Empire.The invasions of Nadir Shah and Ahmad Shah Abdali proved fatal for theMughal Empire

22 Indradhanush strategy recently launched by the government relates toimproving the vaccination rates in rural IndiaA.making solar power more accessible to canal irrigated areasB.revamping of Public sector Banks in IndiaC.increasing rain in water deficient areas through cloud seedingD.


Explanation:Option(a) related to Mission Indradhanush which was launched inDecember 2014. Hence, it is incorrect. Options (b) relates to solar park projects, thusincorrect.Option (d) is also incorrect as GoI does not have any mission/scheme thattargets increasing rain in water deficient areas through cloud seeding.

Learning: Major points under the Indradhanush strategy are:

Bank Investment Company will be setup. It will have holding interest inPSBs.Bank Boards bureau to be setup to search for head of banks; advise banks onways to raise capital; and monitor key performance indicators.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Repeal of the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer ofUndertakings), 1969State-owned banks will be incorporated under the Companies ActCapitalization of state-owned banksSpeedy project approvals to reduce the NPAs of banksMore flexibility to banks for hiring staff

QSource:http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-16/news/65525479_1_public-sector-banks-rating-agency-crisil-raman-uberoi

23 Consider the following statements.Excessive use of Chemical fertilizers makes the soil basic.1.If the soil is basic, organic matter is added to rejuvenate it.2.Which of the above is/are correct?



Explanation & Learning : Excessive use of chemical fertilisers makes the soilacidic. Plants do not grow well when the soil is either too acidic or too basic.

When the soil is too acidic, it is treated with bases like quick lime (calcium oxide) orslaked lime (calcium hydroxide). If the soil is basic, organic matter is added to it.Organic matter releases acids which neutralises the basic nature of the soil.


24 Quartz clocks display time more precisely than ordinary mechanical clocks. Which ofthe following mechanisms explainsthe working of the quartz clock?

Oscillation of the quartz crystal recorded electronicallyA.Replacement of ordinary metal gears by more efficient quartz gearsB.Use of an electronic transition frequency in the electromagnetic regionC.Counting radio pulses emitted by quartz crystalsD.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : A

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67



Explanation: Option (b) is not used in quartz clocks, hence wrong. Option (c) isused in atomic clocks, hence wrong. Option (d) is used in pulsar clocks, hence alsowrong.

Learning : A quartz clock is a clock that uses an electronic oscillator that isregulated by a quartz crystal to keep time. This crystal oscillator creates a signalwith very precise frequency, so that quartz clocks are at least an order of magnitudemore accurate than mechanical clocks.

Chemically, quartz is a compound called silicon dioxide. Many materials can beformed into plates that will resonate. However, quartz is also a piezoelectricmaterial: that is, when a quartz crystal is subject to mechanical stress, such asbending, it accumulates electrical charge across some planes. In a reverse effect, ifcharges are placed across the crystal plane, quartz crystals will bend. Since quartzcan be directly driven (to flex) by an electric signal, no additional speaker ormicrophone is required to use it in a resonator.

The electronic circuit is an oscillator, an amplifier whose output passes through thequartz resonator, and that is how the clock counts time.

Q Source: Wikipedia: Improvisation:Page 147:Chapter 13: VIIth Science

25 Which of the following statement is INCORRECT?India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.A.India has a National refugee policy and National Refugee protection lawB.India is a member of the United Nations High Commissioner for RefugeesC.(UNHCR) executive committee.All of the aboveD.

User Answer : CCorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation: The Indian government has signed neither the Refugee Conventionnor its Protocol, and Indian law does not offer any special language or provisions forrefugees. So, option (a) is a correct statement, and can’t be the answer. This alsomeans that (d) can’t be the answer.

However, India is a member of the UNHCR executive committee. This makesoption (b) as the answer.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Learning:A possible reason for India not signing the Refugee convention may bethat a protection framework will encourage refugee inflow in India putting pressureon resources. South-Asian borders are also very porous and any conflict can result ina mass movement of people.

However, India does protect refugees. The Indian refugee protection framework isbased on executive decisions; judicial pronouncements; and internationalconventions (1984 Convention against torture which prevents forcible repatriation ofrefugees). For e.g. under the RTA, even refugees can claim right to education. Theyare also entitled to public health facilities; justice systems etc.

QSource:http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/bePZQScFIq1wEWv9Tqt4QO/Why-India-wont-sign-Refugee-Treaty.html

26 Tibetan antelope or Chiru is endangered becauseTibetan antelope or Chiru is endangered becauseA.of illegal poaching for its fur ShahtooshB.of disruption in its local food chain due to heavy construction andC.anthropgenic activitiesmany Chirus have failed to survive frequent avalanches in the Tibetan regionD.


Explanation & Learning: The exceptionally fine underfur of the Tibetan antelopeor chiru insulates it against the harsh climate of the Tibetan plateau. Unfortunately,this fur, known as shahtoosh, also makes the chiru a target for illegal hunters.

Demand for shahtoosh, which is used to make luxury shawls, has pushed the Tibetanantelope to the brink of extinction. The wool is so fine, the shawls can be pulledthrough a wedding ring.

However, the antelope must be killed for the fur to be collected, and it takes around4 chiru to make a single shawl.

Shahtoosh shawls were traditionally given as wedding gifts in India. Despite strictcontrols on trade of shahtoosh products and CITES listing, there is still demand forthese luxury items. Within India, shawls are worth $1,000-$5,000, internationallythe price can reach as high as $20,000.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67



27 Which of the following can be classified as Chemical changes?Burning of Wood1.Freezing a mixture of water and common salt2.Absorption of Ink by a blotting paper3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 and 3 onlyC.1 and 2 onlyD.


Explanation: Burning of Wood is a chemical changes as after burning theproperties and composition of wood change irreversibly. So, statement 1 is correct.

Freezing a mixture is reversible, as well as, its properties does not change. So,statement 2 is incorrect.

The same applies to a blotting paper. By absorbing the ink, its physical properties orcomposition has not changed. So, statement 3 is incorrect.

Learning : Properties such as shape, size, colour and state of a substance are calledits physical properties. A change in which a substance undergoes a change in itsphysical properties is called a physical change. A physical change is generallyreversible. In such a change no new substance is formed.

On the other hand, a change in which one or more new substances are formed iscalled a chemical change. A medicine is the end product of a chain of chemicalreactions. Useful new materials, such as plastics and detergents, are produced bychemical reactions.


28 Which of the following is implied by the Right to Equality given under the IndianConstitution?

All citizens will be treated alike by the state irrespective of their social1.circumstances.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


There will be no unreasonable discrimination for citizens in participation for public2.offices.Same legal provisions apply on all citizens irrespective of their social or political3.stature.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 and 2 onlyC.2 onlyD.


Explanation : All citizens are not treated alike by the state. For e.g. disabled andtransgender are provided reservation in public jobs and social security. This is muchgreater than that provided to normal public. There are numerous examples ofpositive discrimination (SCs, STs, women etc). Therefore, statement 1 is incorrect.

The state can discriminate reasonably when it comes to public employment. For e.g.a state government can prescribe domicile requirement for local jobs. But,unreasonable discrimination (e.g. on the basis of religion) is not allowed. So,statement 2 is correct.

Same legal provisions do not apply to all citizens. For e.g. women cannot be calledto police station for inquiry in night; men can be. Punishment for sexual abuse ismore severe for a civil servant than for a normal citizen. Take another example, civilservants cannot be dismissed without giving them a chance to be heard. The same isnot true for all government employees. So, statement 3 is incorrect.

Therefore, Right to equality does not mean complete equality. It simply meansabsence of unreasonable discrimination.

Learning & Q Source: Entire Chapter 10: Social and Political Life -II

29 Which of these modern cities are also important Archaeological Palaeolithic sites?Kolkata1.Mumbai2.Mumbai3.Bengaluru4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


3 onlyB.1 onlyC.None of the aboveD.

User Answer : BCorrect Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Statement 1 is incorrect as not even a single Palaeolithic site is foundeven 100 Kms around Kolkata.

Statement 2 is also incorrect as there is no such site in Mumbai, but Inamgaon (anarchaeological site) is close to Mumbai. Hunsgi is a Palaeolithic site near Bengaluru,but more than 300 Kms apart.

Learning:Archaeologists name the periods that they are studying. They call theearliest period the Palaeolithic. The Palaeolithic period extends from 2 million yearsago to about 12,000 years ago. This long stretch of time is divided into the Lower,Middle and Upper Palaeolithic. This long span of time covers 99% of humanhistory.

Q Source:Page 14: Our Pasts-I, VIth NCERT

30 Consider the following famous Chinese Buddhist pilgrims.Fa Xian1.I-Qing2.Xuan Zang3.Chronologically in what order they visited the Indian sub-continent?

123A.321B.231C.132D.


Explanation:Fa Xian, came to the Indian subcontinent about 1600 years ago. XuanZang (who came around 1400 years ago) and I-Qing, came about 50 years afterXuan Zang. They came to visit places associated with the life of the Buddha as wellas famous monasteries.

Learning:Xuan Zang carried back with him statues of the Buddha made of gold,

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


silver and sandalwood, and over 600 manuscripts. He spent the rest of his lifetranslating the remaining manuscripts from Sanskrit into Chinese.

Xuan Zang, and other pilgrims spent time studying in Nalanda, (Bihar) the mostfamous Buddhist monastery of the period. This helped Buddhism spread to China,and South-East Asia.


31 Which states/UTs in India have both tropical deciduous and tropical evergreen forests?Karnataka1.Chhattisgarh2.Andaman and Nicobar islands3.Odisha4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 onlyA.1 and 3 onlyB.1, 3 and 4 onlyC.2, 3 and 4 onlyD.


Explanation: Small patches of evergreen forests are found in Odisha. So, statement4 is correct.

In A&M Islands, Mangroves, Decidous, Evergreen, all kinds of vegetation arefound. So, statement 3 is also correct.

Karnataka falls under both leeward (less rainy) and windward (more rainy) sides ofWestern Ghats. So, both types of forests are found here. Statement 1 is correct.

Learning: Evergreen forests are mainly found in the areas recording over 150 cm ofaverage annual rainfall where the temperature varies between 25°C to 27°C. North-East India, parts of Western Ghats, the Andaman and Nicobar, upper Assam, lowerslopes of Eastern Himalayas, Orissa, along the foot-hills of Himalayas, Bhabhar andTarai regions.

Decidous can be further found in Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chattisgarh, AP, Kerala,Karnataka, MP, TN etc.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Q Source: Improvisation: Our Environment: page 41: Chapter 6

32 In a metropolitan city, who is the authority to usually decide where a public park shouldbe established?

CEO, Zila ParishadA.District CollectorB.Local MLAs CommitteeC.Ward CouncillorsD.


Explanation : CEO, Zila Parishad is usually an IAS officer who is incharge ofexecuting decision taken by the Ward Councillors. He does not take such publicdecisions himself. He can advise the councillors though. So, option (a) is incorrect.

District Collector in a metropolitan area does not enjoy as many powers as he doesin a small town or a village. Municipal Corporation enjoys greater authority inallocating public resources in a metropolitan city. Therefore, option (b) is incorrect.

There is no official local MLAs committee as such. Even if the MLAs were to formsuch committee, they can only recommend establishing a public park. The finaldecision would rst with the Ward Councillors. So, option (c) is also incorrect.

Learning: The city is divided into different wards and ward councillors get elected.The complicated decisions that affect the entire city are taken by groups ofcouncillors who form committees to decide and debate issues. For example, if busstands need to be improved, or a crowded market-place needs to have its garbagecleared more regularly, or there is a drain that cuts through the city that needscleaning etc. It is these committees for water, garbage collection, street lighting etc.that decide on the work to be done.

When the problems are within a ward then the people who live in the ward cancontact their councillors. For example, if there are dangerous electrical wireshanging down then the local Councillor can help them get in touch with theelectricity authority.

While the Councillor's Committees and the councillors decide on issues, theCommissioner and the administrative staff implement these. The Commissioner andthe administrative staff are appointed. Councillors are elected.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Q Source: Unit 3: Social and Political life –I

33 Tax havens are usually characterized by which of the following?Low or nil taxation for foreigners1.Secrecy regarding wealth and accounts2.Not involved in any Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.1 and 3 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer : CCorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Mauritius is considered a tax haven, but it has signed DTAAs withseveral nations. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

DTAA aims at avoiding taxing a company doubly by both the host nation and thehome nation. For e.g. Microsoft is a US based company also operating in India. Ifboth countries charge it at the normal corporate tax rates, the company will end uppaying at least 60% of its profits as taxes. To avoid this situation, countries enterinto DTAA and agree for a reasonable mutual division of taxes.

Learning:The term ‘tax haven’ has been widely used since the 1950s. However,there is no precise definition of the term. Mauritius, cayman Islands etc are countedas Tax havens. Some common characteristics are:

typically small countries/ jurisdictions, with low or nil taxation for foreignerswho decide to come and settle thereOffer strong confidentiality or secrecy regarding wealth and accounts,making them very attractive locations for safe keeping of unaccounted wealthoffer a very liberal regulatory environment and allow opaque existence,where an entity can easily be set up without indulging in any meaningfulcommercial activity and yet claim to be a genuine business unit, merely bygetting itself incorporated or registered in that jurisdiction.lack of adequate capital controls

Offshore Financial Centres: Some of the old tax havens have adopted the morebenign designation of ‘offshore financial centre’ (OFC) and tend to describethemselves as financial centres specializing in non-residential financial transactions.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


QSource:http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Seychelles-No-Longer-a-Tax-Haven-for-Indians/2015/08/27/article2995261.ece

34 Disinfection of Drinking Water in Rural Areas can be done with the help of which ofthe following natural herbs?

Neem1.Tulsi2.Garlic3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.



Explanation & Learning : Conventional disinfectants may not be used cost-effectively in rural areas, especially where awareness and income levels are low.

These traditional disinfectants can be substituted with natural low cost herbs. Thereis now substantial evidence of their effectiveness in treating contaminated water.However, this does not displace the use of other disinfectants.

See the link http://www.ijerd.com/paper/vol5-issue10/B05100710.pdf

Q Source: Improvisation: Chapter 16: VIIth Science

35 Gram Sabha is organized so thatAll eligible voters can register themselves periodicallyA.Panchayat is electedB.people directly participate and seek answers from their elected representativesC.Local bureaucracy can dictate development targets for the PanchayatD.


Explanation : Elections take place when State Election Commission organizes it.So both options (a) and (b) are wrong.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Local bureaucracy cannot dictate terms to a body of voters who elect the Panchayat.The duty of the bureaucracy is to help the Gram Sabha in the discharge of its duties.So, option (d) is also wrong.

Learning: The Gram Sabha is a meeting of all adults who live in the area coveredby a Panchayat. This could be only one village or a few villages. In some states, asin the example above, a village meeting is held for each village.

Anyone who is 18 years old or more and who has the right to vote is a member ofthe Gram Sabha.

Q Source: Chapter 5: Social and Political life –I

36 Consider the following statements.It was one of the main dynasties of Iron Age India.1.It was situated near Kaveri River.2.It undertook expedition to the Ganges in northern India.3.It occupied cities of the maritime empire of Srivijaya in Southeast Asia.4.Which Kingdom does the above refer to?

PallavasA.PandyasB.CholasC.CherasD.


Explanation:Pallava kingdom was located on the banks of Vegavathy River. So,option (a) can be eliminated.

Option (b) can also be eliminated as Pandyas were based on the bank of the riverThamirabarani in Tirunelveli.

Chera dynasty occupied land between the river Perar and river Periyar. So, you caneliminate option (d) as it does not related to Kaveri as mentioned in statement 2.

Therefore, you need not know all the statements in order to answer a question.

Learning:Under Emperor Rajaraja Chola I and his successors Rajendra Chola I,Rajadhiraja Chola, Virarajendra Chola and Kulothunga Chola I the dynasty becamea military, economic and cultural power in South and Southeast Asia.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


The power of the new empire was proclaimed to the eastern world by the expeditionto the Ganges in northern India which Rajendra Chola I undertook and by theoccupation of cities of the maritime empire of Srivijaya in Southeast Asia, as well asby the repeated embassies to China. The Chola fleet represented the zenith ofancient Indian sea power.

Q Source:Improvisation: Chapter 6: Our pasts-II

37 Westerlies and Easterlies areSeasonal windsA.Local winds confined to the equatorB.Permanent windsC.Trade windsD.


Explanation: Since Westerlies and Easterlies blow throughout the year, they cannotbe called seasonal winds. So, option (a) is wrong.

Trade winds are confined the area near equator, whereas Westerlies and Easterliesblow even beyond the sub-tropics. So, both options (b) and (d) are wrong.

Learning: TWinds can be broadly divided into three types.

Permanent winds – The trade winds, westerlies and easterlies are the1.permanent winds. These blow constantly throughout the year in a particulardirection.Seasonal winds – These winds change their direction in different seasons. For2.e.g. monsoons in India.Local winds – These blow only during a particular period of the day or year3.in a small area. For example, land and sea breeze; Loo in India.


38 In the season of retreating monsoon, wind blows fromArabian Sea and Bay of Bengal towards the Indian landA.The Indian mainland towards Bay of Bengal and South-east IndiaB.The Indian mainland towards South-west IndiaC.South-East India to Western Indian mainlandD.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67



Explanation: Option (a) points to Monsoon, and not retreating Monsoon. So, it iswrong.

The wind flow mentioned in options (c) and (d) do not correspond to anyMonsoonal activity in India. So, both are wrong.

Learning: During the onset and advance of monsoon winds blow from Arabian Seaand Bay of Bengal towards the land. They carry moisture with them. When thesewinds strike the mountain barriers, rainfall occurs.

During the season of retreating Monsoon, winds move back from the mainland tothe Bay of Bengal. The southern parts of India, particularly Tamil Nadu and AndhraPradesh receive rainfall in this season.

Q Source: Page 57: Chapter 8: The Earth Our Habitat

39 The Golden Triangle' of South-East Asia refers toThe shallow seas near Straits of Malacca where high-density fishing is doneA.An extensive opium producing areaB.An area infested with insurgency, terrorism and traffickingC.An area prone to maximum cyclone and Tsunami hitsD.


Explanation & Learning:Golden triangle is one of Asia's two main opium-producing areas.It overlaps the mountains of three countries of Southeast Asia:Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.

Along with Afghanistan in the Golden Crescent, it has been one of the mostextensive opium-producing areas of Asia and of the world since the 1950s.

The Golden Triangle designates the confluence of the Ruak River and the MekongRiver, since the term has been appropriated by the Thai tourist industry to describethe nearby border tripoint of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.

Q

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Source:http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/in-fact-in-tale-of-drugs-guns-reason-why-end-of-war-might-not-mean-peace-for-myanmar/

40 In the Buddhist period, 'Shrenis' served which of the following purposes?Banking institution1.Supporting religious institutions2.Funding political institutions3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.



Explanation & Learning:Shrenis or Ancient Indian guilds are a unique and multi-faceted form of organisation, which combined the functions of a democraticgovernment, a trade union, a court of justice and a technological institution.

Many crafts persons and merchants formed these associations. These shrenis ofcrafts persons provided training, procured raw material, and distributed the finishedproduct. Then shrenis of merchants organised the trade.

Shrenis also served as banks, where rich men and women deposited money. Thiswas invested, and part of the interest was returned or used to support religiousinstitutions such as monasteries.

41 Lithosphere includesOceans1.Mountains2.Plateaus3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.



INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Explanation:Oceans are part of hydrosphere, and thus statement 1 is wrong. Othertwo are landforms, and thus form part of lithosphere.

Learning:Lithosphere is the solid crust or the hard top layer of the earth. It is madeup of rocks and minerals and covered by a thin layer of soil. It is an irregular surfacewith various landforms such as mountains, plateaus, plains, valleys, etc.

Other spheres include hydrosphere, atmosphere, and the combination of all i.e.biosphere.

Q Source:Page 3: Chapter 1: Our Environment

42 Apart from Statecraft, Arthashastra, written by Chanakya, deals with which of thefollowing matters?

Division of natural resources between states1.Military strategy2.Economic policy3.Issues of Welfare4.Ethics5.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 2 and 3 onlyA.1, 4 and 5 onlyB.2, 3, 4 and 5 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer :Correct Answer : CAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Statement 1 is wrong because Arthashastra did not deal with divisionof natural resources; it occasionally dealt with how to best use these resources (e.g.minerals, wildlife).

Statement 4 and 5 are correct as Arthashastra also explores issues of welfare (forinstance, redistribution of wealth during a famine) and the collective ethics that holda society together. It also deals with ethics of economics (e.g. equity in wealthdistribution) and the duties and obligations of a king.

Learning:"Arthashastra" is translated to "the science of wealth," but the bookArthashastra has a broader scope. Part of the book explains how to manage theeconomy in the Maurya Empire. Beyond these sections on statecraft, the bookoutlines an entire legal and bureaucratic administration of a kingdom. These sections

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


include descriptive cultural details on topics such as mineralogy, mining and metals,agriculture, animal husbandry, medicine and the use of wildlife.

Q Source:Wikipedia: Improvisation: Page 95: Chapter 9: Our Pasts-I

43 The inscriptions of the Pallavas mention a number of local assemblies. One of them was'Ur'. It was found in areas where

military and police controlled village assembliesA.land owners were not BrahminsB.nagaram (city) was an organization of merchantsC.Both (b) andD.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Learning:The ‘ur’ was a village assembly found in areas where the land ownerswere not Brahmins, and the nagaram was an organisation of merchants. It is likelythat these assemblies were controlled by rich and powerful landowners andmerchants. Many of these local assemblies continued to function for centuries.

Other assemblies mentioned in the inscriptions usually include the ‘sabha’, whichwas an assembly of brahmin land owners. This assembly functioned throughsubcommittees, which looked after irrigation, agricultural operations, making roads,local temples etc.


44 Which of the following comes closest to Tropical deciduous forests?Shrub forestsA.Monsoon forestsB.Mediterranean vegetationC.Tropical grasslandsD.

User Answer : BCorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification : Explanation: Mediterranean vegetation is very different fromTropical deciduous forests. Mediterranean regions are marked by hot dry summersand mild rainy winters. So, option (c) is wrong. Other options do not come evenclose to Tropical deciduous forests.Learning: Tropical deciduous are the monsoonforests found in the large part of India, northern Australia and in Central America.These regions experience seasonal changes. Trees shed their leaves in the dry season

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


to conserve water. The hardwood trees found in these forests are sal, teak, neem andshisham. Hardwood trees are extremely useful for making furniture, transport andconstructional materials. Tigers, lions, elephants, langoors and monkeys are thecommon animals of these regions.Q Source: Our Environment: page 40: Chapter 6

45 The term 'Silk Route' comes froma route which Turks and Mongols used to conquer South AsiaA.the ancient route taken by European messengers to come to Eastern dynastiesB.an ancient travel route to East Asia taken by the Buddhist travellersC.the ancient trade route which was spread across China to Mediterranean SeaD.


Explanation & Learning : : It is clear and straightforward question. Silk industrybegan in China and was kept a closely guarded secret for hundreds of years. Lateron, traders and travellers introduced silk to other countries. The route they travelledis still called the 'silk route'.

It is also an ancient network of trade and cultural transmission routes that werecentral to cultural interaction through regions of the Asian continent connecting theWest and East by merchants, pilgrims, monks, soldiers, nomads, and urban dwellersfrom China and India to the Mediterranean Sea during various periods of time.

In June 2014 UNESCO designated the Chang'an-Tianshan corridor of the Silk Roadas a World Heritage Site.

Q Source: Page 30: Chapter 3: VIIth Science

46 Which of the following is INCORRECT about World Environment Day (WED)?It was established by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).A.It is run by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).B.It is celebrated on 5th June annually.C.The theme for WED 2015 was 'Many Species. One Planet. One Future.'D.


Explanation:Option (d) is the answer as the theme mentioned was of WED 2010,not 2015.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Theme for 2015 was ‘Seven Billion Dreams; One Planet; Consume with Care’.

Learning:‘World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated every year on 5 June toraise global awareness to take positive environmental action to protect nature andthe planet Earth. It is run by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 on the day thatUnited Nations Conference on the Human Environment began.

The theme for 2014 was:-'Small Islands and Climate Change',

Q Source:Wikipedia: Improvisation: Page 5: Chapter 1: Our Environment

47 Consider the following characteristics.This layer is free from clouds and other weather conditions.1.It is ideal for flying aeroplanes.2.It protects us from the harmful effect of the sun rays.3.Which atmospheric layer the above corresponds to?

MesosphereA.TroposphereB.ThermosphereC.StratosphereD.


Explanation: Mesosphere, i.e. option (a) can’t be the answer as Meteorites burn upto this layer.

Thermosphere, i.e. option (c) can’t be the answer as Ozone is not found here.Moreover, here temperature increases with height.

All weather phenomena take place in Troposphere. Thus, option (b) can’t also be theanswer.

Learning: Ozone which protects us from UV rays is found here. Stratosphere is alsostratified in temperature, with warmer layers higher up and cooler layers fartherdown. This is in contrast to the troposphere near the Earth's surface, which is coolerhigher up and warmer farther down.

At moderate latitudes the stratosphere is situated between about 10–13 km and 50

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


km altitude above the surface, while at the poles it starts at about 8 km altitude, andnear the equator it may start at altitudes as high as 18 km.


48 Consider the following.Soap bubbles1.Compact Disk2.Thin film of oil floating on water3.The rainbow pattern that you see in the above cases is due to which phenomenon?

Constructive and destructive interference of the lightA.Diffraction and dispersion of light onlyB.Refraction and reflection of light onlyC.Total internal reflection of light onlyD.


Explanation: Diffraction is the slight bending of light as it passes around the edgeof an object. Dispersion is splitting of light into its 7 colour components. These donot explain the phenomenon of rainbow formation. So, option (b) is wrong.

Refraction, reflection, and total internal reflection of light do take place in theprocess, but they do not explain the entire phenomenon of rainbow phenomenon. So,option (a) is the most appropriate.

Learning : Since the phenomenon needs to be described at length (and it isimportant for UPSC), refer to any of the links below.

http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/question52.htmhttp://www.thenakedscientists.com/HTML/experiments/exp/colours-in-cds/

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 186: Chapter 15: VIIth Science

49 India's foreign exchange reserves comprises mainly (more than 90%) ofForeign currency reservesA.GoldB.Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)C.Sovereign bondsD.

User Answer : C

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Correct Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation:India’s foreign exchangereserves was at US$ 350 billion as inSeptember 2015 mainly comprised foreign currency assetsamounting about 92.5 percent of the total. So, option (a) is correct.

Learning:Forex Reserves are maintained by countries for meeting theirinternational payment obligations — both short and long terms, including sovereignand commercial debts, financing of imports, for intervention in the foreign currencymarkets during periods of volatility, besides helping to boost the confidence of themarket in the ability of a country to meet its external obligations and to absorb anyunforseen external shocks, contingencies or unexpected capital movements.

India's foreign exchange reserves comprise foreign currency assets, gold and specialdrawing rights allocated to it by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)in additionto the reserves it has parked with the fund.

Foreign exchange reserves are held and managed by the RBI.

QSource:Improvisation:http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/forex/indias-forex-reserves-falls-2-billion-to-below-350-billion-again/articleshow/49195937.cms

50 The tectonic plates move due toa gravitational anomaly in the core of the earthA.the movement of large volumes of ocean water above continentsB.movement of molten magma inside the earthC.periodic expansion and contraction of lithosphereD.


Explanation:There is no gravitation anomaly in the core of the earth. Thus, option(a) is incorrect.

Movements of ocean water do not transport continent floors. It is not capable ofdoing so. Thus, option (b) is also wrong.

Periodic expansion and contraction of earth’s crust may happen due to temperaturechanges. But, these are not significant enough to cause large scale movement of

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


tectonic plates. So, option (d) is also wrong.

Learning:The lithosphere is broken into a number of plates known as theLithospheric plates. These plates move around very slowly – just a few millimetreseach year. This is because of the movement of the molten magma inside the earth.The molten magma inside the earth moves in a circular manner.


51 A meander loop cuts off from the river and forms an ox-bow lake. How is the lakeformed?

Lateral erosion of all banksA.River bed erosionB.Continuous erosion and deposition on the sides of the meanderC.Deposition on all banksD.


Explanation: Not all banks in a river course are eroded. There is deposition onsome banks and erosion on some. So, options (a) and (d) are wrong.

For e.g. when a river rushes into a bend, there is likely to be erosion of one bank,and deposition on the opposite one. This is because velocity of water on the twosides of bank is different. Where velocity is more, erosion takes place, and where itis less deposition takes place.

Option (b) is also wrong, as river bed erosion does not solely lead to the formationof ox-bow lakes. However, it is true that the silt carried by the river is due to thisbed erosion only.

Learning: As the river enters the plain it twists and turns forming large bendsknown as meanders. Due to continuous erosion and deposition along the sides of themeander, the ends of the meander loop come closer and closer. In due course of timethe meander loop cuts off from the river and forms a cut-off lake, also called an ox-bow lake.

52 Carbon dioxide released in the atmosphere creates a green house effect byTrapping the heat radiated from the earth.A.Trapping direct solar insolationB.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Aiding conduction of heat in atmosphereC.Capturing the ultraviolet (UV) portion of lightD.


Explanation: CO2 does not trap direct solar radiation (as explained below). So,option (b) is wrong.

Heat conduction is done by contact of air with surface of earth, not by carbondioxide. So, option (c) is also wrong.

It does not also capture UV rays (that is done by Ozone layer). So, option (d) iswrong.

Learning: Fossil fuels such as gasoline, methane and propane contain mostlycarbon. When these fuels are burned, they react with oxygen and produce carbondioxide.

Most of the light energy from the sun is emitted in wavelengths shorter than 4,000nanometers. The heat energy released from the earth, however, is released inwavelengths longer than 4,000 nanometers. Carbon dioxide doesn't absorb theenergy from the sun, but it does absorb some of the heat energy released from theearth.

When a molecule of carbon dioxide absorbs heat energy, it goes into an excitedunstable state. It can become stable again by releasing the energy it absorbed. Someof the released energy will go back to the earth and some will go out into space.

So in effect, carbon dioxide lets the light energy in, but doesn't let all of the heatenergy out, similar to a greenhouse.


53 All changes in the weather are ultimately caused by theHydrological cycle on earthA.Primordial heat inside the earthB.Rotation of EarthC.Energy of the SunD.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : D

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67



Explanation: Earth's hydrological cycle is only partly responsible for the weather.For e.g. rainfall pattern, movements of ocean water etc. So, option (a) is incorrect.

Primordial heat inside the earth manifests itself in form of moving molten magmainside the earth. This however is responsible for tectonic and geo-morphologicalprocesses, not weather phenomenon. So, option (b) is also wrong.

Rotation of earth does cause wind movements; change of day and night; distributionof heat on earth etc. However, it does not explain several other phenomena such asseasons on earth; extreme heat and cold in Poles etc. So, option (c) is also incorrect.

Sun’s energy causes all these, and is ultimately responsible for life and activity onearth, which also subsumes weather phenomena. Hence, option (d) is the answer.

Learning : sun is the primary source of energy that causes changes in the weather.Energy absorbed and reflected by the earth’s surface, oceans and the atmosphereplay important roles in determining the weather at any place.

Heat from Sun causes changes in temperature; pressure; evaporation; biologicalactivity etc. All these in turn determine the weather at a place.


54 Metals that were NOT used in the Harappan cities includeCopper and SilverA.Silver and GoldB.Bronze and GoldC.None of the aboveD.


Explanation:Answer is D because metals mentioned in all the other three optionswere used by Harappans. Iron was, however, not known to Harappans.

Learning:Most of the things that have been found by archaeologists are made ofstone, shell and metal, including copper, bronze, gold and silver. Copper and bronzewere used to make tools, weapons, ornaments and vessels. Gold and silver wereused to make ornaments and vessels. Copper was probably sourced from present-

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


day Rajasthan and even from Oman; Gold from Karnataka.

Q Source:page 36: Our Pasts-I

55 Apart from Thermometer, which products contain Mercury?Laptop Batteries1.Fluorescent light bulbs2.Some oil-based paints3.Pocket Calculator4.LCDs(display)5.Barometer6.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 2, 3 and 6 onlyA.1, 4 and 5 onlyB.2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 onlyC.All of the aboveD.


Explanation: Button cell batteries use Mercury, not Laptop batteries. So, statement1 is wrong.

Learning : Mercury is a highly toxic element that can harm the brain, kidney, andlungs. As the only element or metal that is liquid at room temperature, it is used inmany common household products and fixtures. Mercury can enter our bodiesthrough our lungs and skin, or more commonly, by eating mercury-contaminatedfish.

It is contained in the following products: thermometers (looks like a silvery liquid);thermostats; blood-pressure cuffs; barometers; fluorescent and high-intensitydischarge (HID) lamps; mercurochrome; auto switches; float switches; button-cellbatteries; old latex paint; some oil-based paints; old alkaline batteries; chemistrysets; old fungicides for seeds and turf; dental amalgam; some imported jewelry(glass ampoules with silver liquid); weight/counterweight in grandfather clocks.

Q Source: Improvisation:Page 40: Chapter 4: VIIth Science

56 Burning coal generates fly ash which contains several toxic pollutants. These includeLead1.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Zinc2.Arsenic3.Plutonium4.Cadmium5.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 2 and 3 onlyA.2, 3 and 5 onlyB.1, 4 and 5 onlyC.1, 2, 3 and 5 onlyD.


Explanation & Learning: Burning coal, whether local or imported, generates largequantities of fly ash containing toxic pollutants like lead, zinc, arsenic, cadmium,sulphur, mercury and radioactive uranium/ thorium isotopes, which adversely affectthe health of the people near the power stations, often the rural poor, whosedisadvantage is worsened by these health impacts.

Studies on people residing near coal-based power plants along the border of UttarPradesh and Madhya Pradesh have revealed unsafe levels of mercury in their bloodsamples, at times as high as 110 parts per billion. Similarly, studies around a coalpower plant in the Punjab have indicated widespread radioactive contamination ofthe environment, impacting the health of pregnant women and children.

QSource:http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/aug/07/coal-is-not-the-answer-to-indias-energy-poverty-whatever-tony-abbott-says

57 If you stand at a distance of 1mAt a distance of 1mA.At a distance of more than 1m behind the mirror.B.At a distance of less than 1m behind the mirror.C.It will form at the focal point of the mirror irrespective of my distance withD.the mirror.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation & Learning : In a plane mirror, image is always at the same distance

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


behind the mirror as the object is in front of it. So, if your distance from the mirror is1m, image will be formed 1m behind the mirror.

This is because the plane mirror does not bend light as other spherical mirrors do. Itsimply reflects and projects it.


58 Which of the following laws deal with Disaster Management in India?Wild life (protection) act, 19721.Public liability insurance act, 19912.Food safety and standards act 20063.Forest (conservation) act, 19804.Indian Sale of Goods Act 19305.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 3 and 4 onlyA.1, 2 and 4 onlyB.2, 3 and 5 onlyC.1, 2, 3 and 4 onlyD.


Explanation: Both Wild life (protection) act, 1972 and Forest (conservation) act,1980 have provisions for fire management in forests to protect wildlife. Thus,statement 1 and 4 are correct. Public liability insurance act, 1991 provides forinsurance to give immediate relief to the persons affected by accident occurringwhile handling any hazardous substance and for matters connected therewith orincidental thereto. Thus, it covers disaster management and statement 2 is correct.Food safety and standards act 2006 prohibits manufacture, storage and use ofproducts unsafe of human consumption. It also provides for quality standards andtesting so that food consumption does not result in mass poisoning, disease anddeath. Thus, it covers disaster management and statement 3 is correct.Indian Sale ofGoods Act 1930 defines buyers, sellers etc. So, statement 3 is incorrect.

Learning: NDMA: Compendium of laws on Disaster Management

Q Source:https://ndma.gov.in/images/pdf/COMPENDIUM-OF-LAWS-ON-DISASTER-MANAGEMENT.pdf

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


59 The name 'Harappan' in Harappan Civilization comes fromthe name of the Megaliths used in the citiesA.the name of the archaeologist who first discovered the siteB.the inscription on the coins used in tradeC.the first city that was discovered in Harappan civilizationD.


Learning:In 1860s, when railway lines were being laid down for the first time in thePunjab, engineers stumbled upon the site of Harappa in present-day Pakistan.

Then, in 1930s archaeologists found the site, and realised that this was one of theoldest cities in the subcontinent. As this was the first city to be discovered, all othersites from where similar buildings (and other things) were found were described asHarappan. These cities developed about 4700 years ago.

Q Source:Page 32: Chapter 4: Our Pasts- I

60 Kaalapottu', 'Kannupottu' and 'Maramadi' are related tofestivals celebrated in Meghalaya that stress conservation of natural resourcesA.festivals celebrated in South India that involve the use of Ox or bullsB.Hereditary processions of Royal family in MysoreC.regional forms of the martial arts KalaripettuD.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification : 19. ‘Kaalapottu’, ‘Kannupottu’ and ‘Maramadi’ are related to

Explanation & Learning:Kaalapottu is an ox race which is celebrated in Januarymonth. This is the well known agrarian sport celebrated in Palakkad.

At the annual Maramadi festival during the post harvest season in the villages ofKerala in southern India, a peculiar bull race takes place. It usually coincides withthe Onam celebrations.

QSource:http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Thiruvananthapuram/action-against-cruelty-to-animals/article6817768.ece

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/Not-just-Jallikattu-Kalapoottu-is-also-banned-Kerala-HC/articleshow/48875389.cms

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


61 Deccan plateau is made of Basalt rocks which are made bydecomposition and weathering of primary igneous rocksA.cooling down of magma in form of igneous rocksB.metamorphosis of rocks under great temperature and pressure since agesC.consolidated sediments and metamorphosed rocksD.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Option (a) refers to sedimentary rocks. But, Basalt is an igneous rock.So, option is incorrect.

Option (c) talks about metamorphic rocks, hence incorrect.

Option (d) talks about a combination of both, which is also incorrect.

Learning:Lava is fiery red molten magma coming out from the interior of the earthon its surface. When this molten lava comes on the earth’s surface, it rapidly coolsdown and becomes solid. Rocks formed in such a way on the crust are calledextrusive igneous rocks. They have a very fine grained structure. For example,basalt. The Deccan plateau is made up of basalt rocks.

Sometimes the molten magma cools down deep inside the earth’s crust. Solid rocksso formed are called intrusive igneous rocks. Since they cool down slowly they formlarge grains. Granite is an example of such a rock.


62 What would happen if the earth revolved around the Sun, but did not rotate?South Pole would always be in darkness.1.Half of the population living on equator would freeze out of cold.2.Heat and wind circulation on earth will be affected.3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.3 onlyB.2 onlyC.All of the aboveD.


INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Explanation: Even if the Earth did not rotate, South and North Pole would be sunlitfor six months each. Same is true of equator. So, both statements 1 and 2 are wrong.

Learning: Seasons on earth are caused due to a) tilt of the earth; and b) revolutionof earth around the Sun. Notice this in the diagram above.

If the earth stopped rotating, it would affect day and night cycle; coriolis force (thusaffecting wind circulation). Wind is responsible for circulating heat across the earth.So, heat distribution will also be affected. Thus, statement 3 is correct.

Q Source: Chapter 3: The Earth Our Habitat

63 Consider the following matches of geographical features with the region they are foundin.

Angel Falls : Venezuela1.Victoria Falls : Canada2.Niagra Falls : Zambia3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.



Explanation & Learning:The highest waterfall is Angel Falls of Venezuela inSouth America. So, statement 1 is correct.

The other waterfalls are Niagara falls located on the border between Canada andUSA in North America; and Victoria Falls on the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwein Africa. Thus, statements (b) and (c) are incorrect.


64 Consider the following decisions of a government.Whether to have Board exam in Class 8thfor all State run government schools in a1.State of India.Introduction of new train connections between Jammu and Bhopal.2.Providing free electricity for all farmers in a particular state.3.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Which of the above functions can be constitutionally performed by a stategovernment?



Explanation & Learning : Railways is national property and a strategic sector. It isthus operated by the Central government as under the 7th schedule of theConstitution. So, statement 2 is wrong.

Education comes under concurrent list in 7th schedule. So, a state government mayrevise a decision on which the Central government does not have an overarchingdecision. So, statement 1 is correct.

Irrigation; agriculture; Taxes on the consumption or sale of electricity etc comeunder the State list; and electricity comes under the Concurrent List in 7th schedule.So, state government is authorized under the Constitution to provide free electricityto farmers.

Q Source: Improvisation: Page 30: Social and Political life –I

65 The decline in inflation during the present financial year has turned out to be muchfaster than was anticipated. What factors have led to the decline in inflation?

Decline in crude oil prices1.Soft global prices of tradables like coal and edible oil2.Tight monetary policy3.Steep appreciation of rupee4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 3 onlyA.1 and 4 onlyB.1, 2 and 3 onlyC.2 and 4 onlyD.


Explanation: As crude oil prices declined, India’s import bill fell down, which

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


reduced fiscal deficit (subsidies) and domestic prices in India. This reduced inflationto a great extent. So, statement 1 is correct.

Due to competitive global markets, soft global prices led to reduction in Indiandomestic prices. So, statement 2 is also correct.

Tight monetary policy contained the growth of money supply in India, which helpedthe moderation of inflation and inflationary expectations. Thus, statement 3 is alsocorrect.

However, rupee did not appreciate. It only became more stable since the beginningof the year. Therefore, statement 4 is wrong.

Moderation in wagerate growth reduced demand pressures on proteinbaseditems.Base effect also contributed to thedecline in headline inflation.

Learning:Inflation is caused by increases in the supply of money available for usein a nation's economy. It means that too much money is chasing too few goods.

Inflation can also occur when the economy 'overheats' because of excess aggregatedemand (this is called demand-pull inflation). The causes of disinflation are theopposite, either a decrease in the growth rate of the money supply, or a businesscycle contraction (recession).

If the central bank of a country enacts tighter monetary policy, that is to say, thegovernment start selling its securities, this reduces the supply of money in aneconomy. This contraction of the monetary policy is known as quantitativetightening technique.

You can read more in the article below.

QSource:http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/no-proof-required-why-inflation-fell/

66 If you travel from Manali to Rohtang, which of the following vegetations are you likelyto come across?

Rhododendron1.Figs2.Silver oaks3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67




Explanation: Figs are found in Mediterranean vegetation. Manali to Rohtang passjourney is temperate vegetation. So, statement 2 is wrong.

Learning: At lower altitudes, Chir pines is found. As you trek higher, deodars andsilver oaks can be found.

Rhododendron is present in abundance near the Rohtang pass. You can also find atleast 24 species of Medicinal value there.

Q Source: Improvisation: Our Environment: page 39: Chapter 6http://www.researchgate.net/publication/225385733_Species_diversity_and_population_status_of_threatened_plants_in_different_landscape_elements_of_the_Rohtang_Pass_western_Himalaya

67 Ladakh, a cold desert in the Greater Himalayas, is enclosed byKarakoram range in North and Zanskar range in SouthA.Zanskar range in North and Karakoram range in SouthB.Pir Panjal range in North and Zanskar range in SouthC.Karakoram range in North and Pir Panjal range in SouthD.


Explanation: If you know that Pir Panjal is the further South than both Zanskar andKarakoram, you can easily choose option (a).

We have marked the ranges in YELLOW and BLUE in the map below.


68 Why was Jainism not supported by farmers as it was by other communities?Farmers could not follow Jainism strictly as they had to kill insects to protectA.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


their cropsFarmers could not find time from agriculture to devote to a new religion.B.Farmers were relatively poor and thus could not follow many Jain practices.C.Most of the farmers belonged to the higher caste which resisted egalitarianD.ideas suggested by Jainism.


Explanation:Option (b) is vague and unreasonable.

Option (c) is not true as Jaina practices involved asceticism, and not expensiverituals/sacrifices which farmers could not perform. Moreover, the assertion thatfarmers were relatively poor can be disputed.

Option (d) is also incorrect as most famers rarely belonged to higher castes. Evensome higher castes had welcomes Jain ideas.

Learning:Non-violence was at the core of Jainism as it believed all beings desire tolive. All things in the Universe were living. Thus, to kill any was consideredretrogressive to one’s spiritual progress. Farmers could hardly adhere to the doctrineas they must do agriculture, which involved cutting crops; killing insects, to sustainthemselves.

Q Source:Chapter 7: page 70: Our Pasts-I

69 Painted Grey ware' (PGW) culture is related to theIndus Valley civilizationA.Middle or Late Vedic periodB.Palaeolithic periodC.Bronze ageD.

User Answer : ACorrect Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation:PGW’s discovery suggested that Indus Valley civilization haddeclined when it was being used. So, option (a) is wrong.

Option (c) is also wrong as Palaeolithic period corresponds to the earliest periods ofhuman history. PGW was non-existent then.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Option (d) is wrong as Bronze age refers to the period 3000-1300 BCE, whereasPGW refer to 1200-230 BCE also known as Iron age.

Learning:PGW are extremely fine to touch, with a nice, smooth surface. Perhapsthese were used on special occasions, for important people, and to serve specialfood. PGW culture is contemporary to, and a successor of the Black and red wareculture.

Q Source:Chapter 6: Page 55: Our Pasts-I

70 In a pure flexible exchange rate system, foreign exchange reserves of India will increasenecessarily if

Balance of Payments (BoP) is in surplusA.Current Account Deficit (CAD) is in surplusB.Trade is in surplusC.Capital account is in surplusD.


Explanation & Learning: BoP is composed of current account as well as capitalaccount. Current account deficit is shown as CAD which comprises of tradesurplus/deficit; invisibles surplus/deficit, remittances outflow/inflow etc.

Capital account consists of external commercial borrowings, loans taken bygovernment, long-term investments abroad, FDI, FII etc.

So, even if CAD is in surplus, it is possible that foreign debt and capital outflows(capital account) are more than CAD. This makes the BoP negative, and there is anet outgo of foreign exchange reserves in this case. So, option (b) is not alwayscorrect.

Same is true for option (c). Even if trade is in surplus, total CAD and BoP may benegative. So, option (c) is also incorrect.

Similarily even if capital account is in surplus, it is possible that CAD is highly indeficit. Thus, there may be a net outgo of foreign exchange. So, option (d) is alsoincorrect.

Q Source:Improvisation:http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/forex/indias-forex-reser

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


ves-falls-2-billion-to-below-350-billion-again/articleshow/49195937.cms

71 Why is air filled in the special protective suits of the Astronauts visiting moon?There is no air and thus no air pressure at moonA.To protect them from the extreme heat on the surface of moon.B.To overcome the effect of gravity on body fluid circulationC.To save themselves from harmful radiation coming from the moonD.


Explanation: It is correct that heat at 106 degree Celsius will be unbearable tohumans. But, this is not the reason, why air is filled in their protective suits. So,option (b) is wrong in this context.

Option (c) is also incorrect, as the air in the suit will not protect them against theeffects of gravity. The astronauts can floateven after wearing protective suits.

Moon’s surface does not emit any harmful radiation as such. So, option (d) is wrong.

Learning: The air pressure is zero at Moon. If astronauts did not wear these spacesuits, the counter pressure exerted by the body of the astronauts would make theblood vessels burst. The astronauts would bleed.


72 At the village level there are health centres where there is usually a nurse and a villagehealth worker. It is known as

Sub-centre HealthA.Primary Heath Centre (PHC)B.Community Health Centre (CHC)C.Sub-divisional hospitalD.

User Answer : BCorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation : PHC usually serves a group of villages and a population of3,000-5,000. PHC supervises sub-centres which usually exist at village level. So,option (b) is wrong.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Community Health Centre is for a large group of villages usually serving a largerpopulation of around 15-20,000 people. It is not dedicated to a village. It supervises3-5 PHCs. So, option (c) is also wrong.

Sub-divisional hospitals exist at the sub-division level, which is one level lower thanthe District Hospital. So, option (d) is also wrong.

Learning: The public health service is a chain of health centres and hospitals run bythe government. They are linked together so that they cover both rural and urbanareas and can also provide treatment to all kinds of problems – from commonillnesses to special services.

At the village level there are health centres (sub-centres) where there is usually anurse and a village health worker. They are trained in dealing with commonillnesses and work under the supervision of doctors at the Primary Health Centre(PHC).

Such a centre covers many villages in a rural area. At the district level is the DistrictHospital that also supervises all the health centres.

Therefore the hierarchy of Indian PHS is as follows: Sub-centre<PHC<CHC<Sub-divisional Hospital<District Hospital

Q Source: Improvisation:Page 24: Chapter 2: Social and Political life –II

73 In a monarchical form of government, the final decision vests withThe MonarchA.The elected Council of MinistersB.The elected ParliamentC.It varies from case to case, but in matters of national importance, monarch'sD.opinion reigns.


Explanation & Learning : In a democracy the elected government has to explainits actions and defend its decisions to the people.

However, in a monarchy, the monarch (king or queen) has the power to makedecisions and run the government. The monarch may have a small group of peopleto discuss matters with but the final decision-making power remains with the

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


monarch.

Unlike in a democracy, kings and queens do not have to explain their actions ordefend the decisions they take.

Q Source: Page 31: Social and Political life –I

74 Vishakha Guidelines' refers toPrevention of sexual harassment at workplaceA.Prevention of domestic violenceB.Conducting trial of child sexual abuse or rapeC.Settlement of alimony and inheritance of property between divorced coupleD.


Explanation : Option (c) refers to the case of Sakshi vs Union of India (2004); it isthus incorrect.

Option (d) refers to Tulasamma v. Reddi, 1977, and thus wrong.

SC has not issued any specific guidelines for prevention of domestic. AParliamentary enactment of 2005 deals with the same. So, option (b) is also wrong.

Learning: The Supreme Court in the Vishakha judgment in 1977 has held that eachincident of sexual harassment results in the violation of the fundamental rights ofGender Equality and theRight to Life and Liberty. Sexual harassment is a clearviolation of woman's right togender equality as guaranteed under Articles 14 and 15,her right to live with dignityunder Article 21 and her right to work with dignity in asafe environment under Article 19 (1) (g) of the Constitution of India.

SC thus makes it obligatory for every employer and other responsiblepersons tofollow the guidelines laid down by the Court and to evolve a specific policytocombat sexual harassment in the workplace. The 1997 Supreme Court judgmentmakes it mandatory for each Committee to have awoman chairperson.

Refer to this link for knowing about all landmark cases related to women in India.http://www.livelaw.in/womens-day-special-15-judgments-that-made-india-a-better-place-for-women/

Q Source: Improvisation:Page 64: Chapter 5: Social and Political life –II

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


75 Which of the following is the most appropriate description of Fundamental Rights?All rights that an individual should have to lead a perfect life.A.All the rights given to citizens by law.B.The rights given and protected by the Constitution.C.The rights given by the Constitution that cannot be restricted on any ground.D.


Explanation : No option given here is an exact definition of fundamental rights.You should use elimination in such cases.

Option (a) is incorrect as fundamental rights do not envisage a perfect life; DPSPmay do so in a sense.

Option (b) is also incorrect, as fundamental rights are generally given by theConstitution.

Option (d) is incorrect because fundamental rights can be restricted on grounds ofnational security, moral order, safety etc.

Most appropriate here is option (c).

Learning: The Fundamental Rights are defined as basic human freedoms that everyIndian citizen has the right to enjoy for a proper and harmonious development ofpersonality. These rights universally apply to all citizens, irrespective of race, placeof birth, religion, caste or gender.

These include individual rights common to most liberal democracies, such asequality before law, freedom of speech and expression, and peaceful assembly,freedom to practice religion, and the right to constitutional remedies for theprotection of civil rights by means of writs such as habeas corpus. Violation of theserights result in punishments as prescribed in the Indian Penal Code or other speciallaws, subject to discretion of the judiciary.

Q Source: Chapter 10: Social and Political Life -II

76 The correct order of increasing distribution of water on earth isRivers, atmosphere, salt lakes, ground water and ice capsA.Ground water, atmosphere, salt lakes, rivers, ice capsB.Salt lakes, rivers, atmosphere, ice caps and ground waterC.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Atmosphere, rivers, salt lakes, ground water and ice capsD.User Answer : ACorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :


77 Consider the following statements.It is endemic to the Western Ghats of South India.1.It is an endangered species as per IUCN classification.2.It is a diurnal rainforest dweller.3.It is ranked among the rarest and most threatened primates.4.Its endangered status became the focal point of the famous Save Silent Valley5.movement of the 1970s.Which species the above statements refer to?

Nilgiri LangurA.Lion-tailed MacquaeB.Blue-eyed black lemurC.Slow LorisD.


Explanation: Blue-eyed black lemur belongs to Madagascar. So, option (c) iswrong.

Nilgiri langur is only a vulnerable primate as per IUCN. Hence, option (a) is alsowrong.

Slow Loris is not endemic to Western Ghats, and instead found in NE India,Bangladesh and SE Asia. So, option (d) is also wrong.

However, all are primates, not necessarily rare and threatened.

Learning : The lion-tailed macaque or the wanderoo, is an Old World monkeyendemic to the Western Ghats of South India.

It is a good climber and spends majority of its life in the upper canopy of tropicalmoist evergreen forests. Unlike other macaques, it avoids humans.

Their range has become increasingly isolated and fragmented by the spread of

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


agriculture and tea, coffee, teak and cinchona, construction of water reservoirs forirrigation and power generation, and human settlements to support such activities.

They do not live, feed or travel through plantations. Destruction of their habitat andtheir avoidance of human proximity have led to the drastic decrease of theirpopulation.

Q Source: Wikipedia: Improvisation: Page 76:Chapter 7: VIIth Science

78 Neap (low) tides occur whenSun, Moon and Earth are in same line.A.Sun, Moon and Earth form a circle.B.Sun, Moon and Earth form a right angled triangle.C.Earth is centred between Sun and Moon.D.


Explanation: When all in the same line, high (spring) tides are formed. So, option(a) is wrong.

Options (b) and (c) do not lead to low neap tides. Moreover, it is not possible forearth to be ‘centred’ between Sun and Moon.

Learning: The strong gravitational pullexerted by the sun and the moonon theearth’s surface causes thetides. The water of the earth closerto the moon gets pulledunderthe influence of the moon’sgravitational force and causes hightide.

During the full moon and newmoon days, the sun, the moon andthe earth are in thesame line andthe tides are highest. These tidesare called spring tides. But whenthemoon is in its first and lastquarter, the ocean waters get drawnin diagonally oppositedirections bythe gravitational pull of sun andearth resulting in low tides. Thesetidesare called neap tides.


79 Apart from Carbon dioxide, rain can become acidic due to which of the following?Presence of lead in air1.Sulphur dioxide2.Nitrogen dioxide3.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Carbon monoxide4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 2 and 4 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.3 and 4 onlyC.All of the aboveD.


Explanation: Lead cannot mix with water to produce acid rain. Hence, statement 1is wrong.

Carbon monoxide reacts with water vapour only at high temperatures, formingcarbon dioxide and hydrogen. So, statement 4 is also wrong, as no acid rain isformed under normal conditions.

Learning : The rain becomes acidic because carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide andnitrogen dioxide (which are released into the air as pollutants) dissolve in rain dropsto form carbonic acid, sulphuric acid and nitric acid respectively. Acid rain cancause damage to buildings, historical monuments, plants and animals.

Q Source: Improvisation:Page 54: Chapter 5: VIIth Science

80 Why are root hairs important for a plant?It increases the surface area of the root for the absorption of water and mineral1.nutrients dissolved in water.It prepares food for the plant stems.2.Which of the above is/are correct?



Explanation: As root hair cells do not carry out photosynthesis they do not containchloroplasts, and thus don’t prepare food. So, statement 2 is wrong.

Learning : Root hair cells are outgrowths at a tip of the plants roots. The root hair

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


increase the surface area of the root for the absorption of waterand mineral nutrientsdissolved inwater. The root hair is in contact withthe water present between the soilparticles.

Root hair cells can survive for 2 to 3 weeks and then die off,at the same time newroot hair cells are continually being formed at the tip of the root.


81 Consider the following about Diarrhoea.It is more common among Children in India.1.It can be fatal to an individual.2.It can lead to excessive loss of water and fluids from the body.3.It can also spread through a vector.4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 3 onlyA.2 and 4 onlyB.1, 2 and 3 onlyC.1, 3 and 4 onlyD.


Explanation: Since Diarrhoea cannot spread through a vector, statement 4 is wrong.

When you face such questions in the UPSC exam, try to see simple solutions behindthe elaborate scheme of things.

Also, because Diarrhoea leads to excessive loss of water and fluids, ORS isrecommended.

Learning : Diarrhoea is characterized by frequent need to pass watery stool. It maybe caused by an infection, food poisoning or indigestion.

It is very common in India, particularly among children. Under severe conditions itcan be fatal. This is because of the excessive loss of water and salts from the body.

Even before a doctor is consulted the patient should be given plenty of boiled andcooled water with a pinch of salt and sugar dissolved in it. This is called OralRehydration Solution (ORS).

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Q Source: Page 17: Chapter 2: VIIth Science

82 Measuring land and keeping land records of a village is the main work ofGram SevakA.Block Development OfficerB.PatwariC.Panchayat SamitiD.


Explanation : The gram sevak is appointed by the government and is responsiblefor the administrative functioning of the panchayat in the village. She assists thedevelopment officers and panchayat in proper administration. He does not maintainor measure or land records. So, option (a) is incorrect.

BDO is at a relatively senior hierarchy in a District. He supervises and implementsmajor development programmes. While he has access to all land records, he doesnot measure and keep them in his custody. So, option (b) is also incorrect.

Panchayat Samiti is a block level organization and comes in the 2nd tier structure ofPRIs. It oversees issues with Gram Panchayats. It does not measure, keep ormaintain land records. So, option (d) is also wrong.

Learning: The Patwari is known by different names in different states – in somevillages such officers are called Lekhpal, in others Kanungo or Karamchari orVillage Officer etc.

Each Patwari is responsible for a group of villages. The Patwari maintains andupdates the records of the village. Measuring land and keeping land records is hismain work

The Patwari is also responsible for organising the collection of land revenue fromthe farmers and providing information to the government about the crops grown inthis area.


83 What was the purpose behind the Vienna Convention 1961?To enable nations to keep embassies in all nations without obstruction1.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


To enable diplomats to carry out their duties without obstruction in the Cold War2.environmentWhich of the above is/are true?



Explanation : Even if both nations are signatory of the Vienna conventions, thehost nation can deny keeping and maintaining of embassy to a foreign nation. Thus,statement 1 is wrong.

Learning: 1961 Vienna conventions and the Convention on Consular Relations,1963 have been ratified by 187 countries, including India. This means, it is a lawunder the Indian legal framework and cannot be violated.

1961 Vienna Conventions says diplomats "shall enjoy immunity from the criminaljurisdiction of the receiving state and also from its civil and administrativejurisdiction.

The Vienna Convention classifies diplomats according to their posting in theembassy, consular or international organisations such as the UN. A nation has onlyone embassy per foreign country, usually in the capital, but may have multipleconsulate offices, generally in locations where many of its citizens live or visit.Diplomats posted in an embassy get immunity, along with his or her familymembers. While diplomats posted in consulates too get immunity, they can beprosecuted in case of serious crimes, that is, when a warrant is issued. Besides, theirfamilies don't share that immunity.

The Convention was meant to enable diplomats to carry out their duties withoutobstruction in the Cold War environment.

Q Source:http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/immunity-is-not-impunity/

84 Consider the following about Disinvestment in India.India does not have any official 'Strategic Disinvestment policy'.1.India does not have a dedicated Disinvestment department in Union government.2.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Which of the above is/are correct?1 onlyA.2 onlyB.Both 1 and 2C.NoneD.


Explanation:: Option (b) is incorrect as the Disinvestment department exists in theMinistry of Finance.

Option (a) is correct, as even after announcements in Budget 2015-16, an officialpolicy is yet to come. This does not mean that Indian government does not have anyinstitutional view or strategy of disinvestment. The strategy of disinvestment was tosell minority stakes in PSU for a long period of time (except 1999-2004). Now,government is focussing on strategic sale of PSUs (transfer of management toprivate sector).

Learning:Disinvestment typically refers to sale from the government, partly orfully, of a government-owned enterprise. It is an active tool to reduce the burden offinancing the PSUs. The following main objectives of disinvestment were outlined:

To reduce the financial burden on the GovernmentTo improve public financesTo introduce, competition and market disciplineTo fund growthTo encourage wider share of ownershipTo depoliticise non-essential services

QSource:http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/in-fact-the-gradual-evolution-of-indias-disinvestment-policy/

85 Consider the following statements.Gandhi considered Gokhale as his political mentor.1.Gandhi did not support Gokhale's belief in Western political institutions.2.Gandhi was a member of Servants of India society found by Gokhale.3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


1 and 3 onlyC.1 onlyD.

User Answer :Correct Answer : AAnswer Justification : Explanation & Learning: In his autobiography, Gandhi callsGokhale his mentor and guide.In 1912, Gokhale visited South Africa at Gandhi'sinvitation. As a young barrister, Gandhi returned from his struggles against theEmpire in South Africa and received personal guidance from Gokhale, including aknowledge and understanding of India and the issues confronting common Indians.Despite his deep respect for Gokhale, however, Gandhi would reject Gokhale's faithin western institutions as a means of achieving political reform and ultimately chosenot to become a member of Gokhale's Servants of India Society.The Servants ofIndia Society was formed in Pune, Maharashtra, in 1905 by Gopal Krishna Gokhale.The Society organized many campaigns to promote education, sanitation, healthcare and fight the social evils of untouchability and discrimination, alcoholism,poverty, oppression of women and domestic abuse. The publication of TheHitavada, the organ of the Society in English from Nagpur commenced in 1911. QSource: Improvisation:http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/i-was-law-officer-no-3/

86 Which of the following will increasethe strength of a cyclone?Proximity to land surfacesA.Heat released from condensation of water vapourB.Absence of cloud formationC.Lowering temperature of sea waterD.


Explanation: Land surfaces break cyclone as supply of moisture is cut-off. So,option (a) is wrong.

Absence of clouds reduces the strength of a cyclone. The process of formation ofclouds involves evaporation of water, and then rainfall. As explained below, rainfallwill involve condensation which will enhance the strength of a cyclone. So, option(c) is also wrong.

Lowering temperature of sea water will reduce formation of water vapour andincrease the pressure of the eye of cyclone. This will reduce the strength instead ofincreasing it.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Learning : Before cloud formation, water takes up heat from the atmosphere tochange into vapour. When water vapour changes back to liquid form as raindrops,this heat is released to the atmosphere. The heat released to the atmosphere warmsthe air around. The air tends to rise and causes a drop in pressure. More air rushes tothe centre of the storm. This cycle is repeated. The chain of events ends with theformation of a very low-pressure system with very high-speed winds revolvingaround it.

It is this weather condition that we call a cyclone. Factors like wind speed, winddirection, temperature and humidity contribute to the development of cyclones.


87 Why are Tsunamis relatively rare in Indian Ocean as compared to the Pacific Ocean?Average wave height in Indian Ocean is shorter than in Pacific Ocean.1.Seismic activity is less as compared to the Pacific.2.Which of the above is/are correct?



Explanation: Average wave height is not associated with Tsunami. Tsunami isrelated more with sudden movements of very large volumes of water. So, statement1 is incorrect.

The effect of seismic activity is given in Learning. Statement 2 is correct.

Learning: Tsunami are waves caused by sudden movement of the ocean due toearthquakes, landslides on the sea floor, land slumping into the ocean, large volcaniceruptions or meteorite impact in the ocean. While the earthquake cannot bepredicted in advance, it is possible to give a three-hour notice of a potential tsunami.Such early warning systems are in place across the Pacific Ocean, but not in theIndian Ocean as tsunamis are rare here due to less seismic activity.


INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


88 If the US Federal reserve hikes interest rates in the US, how will it impact Indianmarkets?

It will lead to greater capital flows in India.A.It may lead to withdrawal of some hot money from India.B.It may destabilize the banking system in India.C.It will bring short-term stability to Indian money markets.D.


Explanation: Interest rates are the returns that investors enjoy in a particularcountry. If the US hikes interest rates, FIIs will get better returns in US (even thoughinterest rates in India are higher). This is because US is considered a less riskymarket than India. Therefore, this will lead to capital outflow from India. It will bemostly hot money which travels (speculates) around the globe in search of betterreturns.

It will bring short-term instability to Indian money markets.

So, options (a) and (d) will be wrong.

Indian banking system will not be affected by such short-term volatility in money orCapital markets. So, option (c) is also incorrect.

Learning:The Federal Reserve kept rates near zero since 2008 financial crisis in abid to kick-start the US economy. The sustained low interest rate regime led tooutflow of money from US, and inflow of liquidity across the globe.

If the Fed hikes rates, some foreign investors are expected to book profit in theirholdings in Indian shares and bonds; they will likely repatriate funds back to the US,where buying high interest rate bearing bonds will become an attractive bet.

QSource:http://www.financialexpress.com/article/markets/indian-markets/deferred-us-fed-rate-hike-likely-to-soothe-jittery-investor-nerves-arrest-fii-outflow/137562/

89 Which of the following is/are NOT the reason(s) for decline of Blind Dolphin (Susu) inGanga river?

Inflow of untreated urban and industrial waste in Ganga1.Loss of habitat due to the creation of dams and irrigation projects2.Separation of Susu population due to construction of barrages3.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Increase in average river water temperature4.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1 and 2 onlyA.3 and onlyB.4 onlyC.All are reasons for the decline of Susu.D.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : CAnswer Justification : Government has recently banned import of Ammoniumnitrate in lose form. This is because

90 Consider the following matches of sites with the states they are found in:Mehrgarh : Punjab1.Burzahom : Jammu and Kashmir2.Hallur : Karnataka3.Which of the above is/are correct matches?

1 onlyA.2 and 3 onlyB.2 onlyC.1 and 3 onlyD.

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : CAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Match 1 is wrong as Mehrgarh is in Pakistan. It is located in a fertileplain, near the Bolan Pass, which is one of the most important routes into Iran.

Match 3 is wrong as Hallur is in Andhra Pradesh. By looking at a name likeBurzahom, you should be able to guess its state, which is J&K.

Q Source:Page 25: Our Pasts-I, VIth NCERT

91 In South Asia, other than India, Ashokan inscriptions can be found inBangladesh1.Afghanistan2.Nepal3.Pakistan4.Sri Lanka5.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 3 and 4 onlyA.2, 4 and 5 onlyB.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


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

User Answer : DCorrect Answer : CAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Ashokan edicts performed an important role in spreading Buddhistideas.While Sri Lanka served as a centre for propagation of Buddhist ideas, andAshoka also sent messengers to SL for spreading Dhamma, Ashokan edicts couldnot be found here. Hence, statement 5 is not correct.

Learning:The Edicts of Ashoka are a collection of 33 inscriptions on the Pillars ofAshoka as well as boulders and cave walls during his reign in 269-232 BCE. Theseinscriptions are dispersed throughout the areas of modern-day Bangladesh,Afghanistan, India, Nepal and Pakistan and represent the first tangible evidence ofBuddhism. The edicts describe in detail the Ashoka's view about dhamma. He wasthe first ruler who tried to take his message to the people through inscriptions. Mostof Ashoka’s inscriptions were in Prakrit and were written in the Brahmi script.


92 Government has recently banned import of Ammonium nitrate in lose form. This isbecause

It is an extremely dangerous explosive substance and posed a threat toA.national securityIt was sold without authorization from governmentB.Untreated loose ammonium nitrate was excessively polluting the water bodiesC.It was recently classified as a hazardous chemical by the Central PollutionD.Control Board

User Answer : BCorrect Answer : AAnswer Justification :

Explanation: Ammonium nitrate is often found in improvised explosive devices(IEDs), or homemade bombs. So, option (a) is correct.

AN is so dangerous that the Home Ministry, in its latest order, has made itmandatory to make provision for two arm guards with GPS system to providesecurity for vehicles transporting AN inside India.

Learning:Ammonium nitrate, or NH4-NO3, is frequently added to improve a

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


fertilizer's nitrogen content. It's relatively stable under most conditions and isinexpensive to manufacture, according to Slate, making the chemical a popularalternative to other, more expensive nitrogen sources.

Manual handling in loose form has chances of material loss and there is potentialrisk to national security. Besides, ammonium nitrate, lying scattered on the wharf,also poses risk of explosion like the recent one at port of Tianjin in China.

QSource:http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/govt-bans-import-of-ammonium-nitrate-in-loose-form/article7629926.ece

93 Basholi, a form of art work, isa bold and intense style of miniature painting found in Himachal PradeshA.detailed block work on bamboos used in hut roofs in North-EastB.a oil mural painting made on cotton blocks in KolkataC.sculpture made in Mithila region by local artisansD.


Explanation & Learning:The background of Basholi is first dealt, and then itsfeatures.

With the decline of the Mughal Empire, many painters moved out to the courts ofthe emerging regional states such as Rajasthan, Deccan and Himachal.

Moreover, Nadir Shah’s invasion and the conquest of Delhi in 1739 resulted in themigration of Mughal artists to the Himalayan foothills to escape the uncertainties ofthe plains.

Therefore, the modern-day state of Himachal Pradesh attracted artisans. By the lateseventeenth century this region had developed a bold and intense style of miniaturepainting called Basohli.

The most popular text to be painted here was Bhanudatta’s Rasamanjari. With thehelp of patrons, Kangra school of painting was found here.

94 Which of the following are general characteristics of a tribal society?Common Property rights1.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


Absence of any form of political organization2.Absence of social hierarchies3.Select the correct answer using the codes below.



Explanation:Statement 2 is wrong as Tribals do organize themselves in politicalorganizations.

For e.g. all tribe members are related by blood, and have their own politicalorganization with a chief exercising authority over all the members, evenrecommending marriage of young boys with girls whom they have found suitablefor marriage.

Statement 3 is correct as social hierarchies like caste, class are generally not foundin tribes. However, it does not mean that all tribals are considered equal socially andeconomically. For e.g. Tribal societies generally follow the rule of patriliny. Thereare many strong cases of organised matriarchy in existence in the tribal zones to thisday. It is the women who organise matters such as relationships and marriages, theinheritance of land, and the distribution of wealth.

You can readhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adivasi#Tribal_classification_criteria_and_demandsfor more understanding.

Q Source:Page 27: Our pasts- I: VIth NCERT

95 Which of the following facts is NOT associated with Indus Valley civilization?They practiced domestication of animals.A.They used water storage structures.B.They worshipped rivers and forests as their deity.C.They practiced pottery and sculptures.D.


INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Explanation:The evidence of domesticating animals has been shown in a previousexplanation. Bones of dog, cattle, sheep were found in Harappan sites in Kashmir.So, option 1 is correct.

Statement 2 is correct as great bath; and other storage structures were used by thecommunity.

Statement 3 is incorrect as there is no such evidence. We do not have any Happranscripture which can testify the claim. However, they did have deities like Pashupatiwhich they even inscribed on seals.

Statement 4 is correct as several sculptures such as dancing girl; meditative man etcwere found in excavations.

Q Source:Chapter 4: Our pasts – I

96 India Aspiration Fund is intended tofund start-ups and MSMEsA.provide scholarship to promising students from rural areasB.fund local social innovation projects in rural areasC.provide special development grant to North-eastern IndiaD.


Explanation & Learning:The India Aspiration Fund is expected to catalyse tens ofthousands of crores of equity investment into start-ups and MSMEs (micro andsmall enterprises).

This will create gainful employment for lakhs of persons, mostly educated youth,over the course of next four to five years.

Life Insurance Corp. of India (LIC) will be a partner and co-investor in the fund.

The second fund is a debt fund called SIDBI Make in India Loan for Enterprises(SMILE), which was announced in the Union budget in February. The fund willprovide soft term loans and loans in the nature of quasi-equity to MSMEs to meetdebt-to-equity norms and pursue growth opportunities in existing MSMEs.

The India Aspiration Fund will have an initial corpus of Rs.2,000 crore

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


QSource:http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-19/news/65592281_1_indian-angel-network-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-startups

97 Consider the following statements about the status of women in Vedic period.Women did not compose any hymns of the Vedas.1.Women did not participate in philosophical and spiritual discussions on Upanishads2.in Royal courts.Which of the above is/are correct?


User Answer : BCorrect Answer : DAnswer Justification :

Explanation:Statement 1 is incorrect as there were women composers. NCERTsays “Most of the hymns were composed, taught and learnt by men. A few werecomposed by women.”

Statement 2 is also incorrect as there were women thinkers like Gargi who wasfamous for her learning, and participated in debates held in royal courts. However,most Upanishadic thinkers were men, especially brahmins and rajas.

Q Source:Chapter 4 and 7: Our pasts-I

98 Which of the following functions may be performed by a Panchayat Secretary?Keeping a record of all official socio-economic statistics of the village1.Keeping a record of the proceedings of Gram Sabha and Panchayat2.Issuing residentship certificates to the villagers3.Managing the office of the Panchayat4.Preparation of budget and Annual Administration Report of the Panchayat5.To execute the resolution passed by the Panchayat body6.Select the correct answer using the codes below.

1, 2, 3 and 4 onlyA.2, 4, 5 and 6 onlyB.1, 3, 5 and 6 onlyC.All of the aboveD.

User Answer :

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Correct Answer : BAnswer Justification :

Explanation & Learning : For e.g. in Andaman & Nicobar, the following functionshave been assigned to Panchayat Secretary (he may be given additional or fewerresponsibilities in other states/UTs as PRIs is a state subject):

The duties/functions of the Panchayat Secretary:

He will be in charge of the office of the Panchayat.He will work under the direct supervision of the Pradhan of the GramPanchayat and shall be responsible to the Panchayat in all matters.He will be responsible for all office work like Preparation of budget andAnnual Administration Report; keeping all records of the Panchayat in safecustody and producing of all records to the authorities as and when required.Allotment of duties to the staff posted in the Gram Panchayat.Submission of application for grant-in- aid.Maintenance of grant-in-aid register and preparation of utilization certificates.Inspection of worksites for assessing the works in progress and to submitreports to the authority.Attend to complaints relating to developmental works in progress and tosubmit reports thereof.Visit the sites where works are undertaken by individuals who are grantedloan by the Panchayat and report to the competent authority if the loans aremisused and to cause recovery of loss there of.


99 In organisms called lichens, what is the symbiotic relationship?fungus provides shelter, water and minerals; and algae provides foodA.bacteria provides protection against parasites; and algae provides foodB.fungus provides minerals and bacteria provides decayed matter to fungiC.algae provides shelter, water and minerals; and fungus provides foodD.


Explanation: Since Lichen is a symbiotic relationship between Fungi and algae,options (b) and (c) can be easily eliminated.

When you face such questions in the UPSC exam, try to see simple solutions behind

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks 200

Mark Scored 84.67


the elaborate scheme of things.

Even if fungi and algae appear in more than one options, as are here, you shouldknow that Fungi cannot prepare its own food. Therefore, option (d) can also beeasily eliminated.

The only remaining option is (a).

Learning : Lichens are composite, symbiotic organisms made up from members ofas many as three kingdoms.

The dominant partner is a fungus. Fungi are incapable of making their own food.They usually provide for themselves as parasites or decomposers. The lichen fungicultivate partners that manufacture food by photosynthesis. Sometimes the partnersare algae, other times cyanobacteria, formerly called blue-green algae. Someenterprising fungi exploit both at once.

Lichens occur from sea level to high alpine elevations, in a very wide range ofenvironmental conditions, and can grow on almost any surface.

There can be used for a variety of things. Check out herehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lichen#Human_use


100 Governor is appointed by the Central government to oversee the functioning of stategovernments. Which of the following is NOT such a function?

Ensuring that state Government works within the Constitutional provisionsA.Ensuring that laws made by State legislature are within the constitutionalB.frameworkEnsuring that State governments do not disregard constitutional directionsC.given by the Central governmentNone of the aboveD.


Explanation : If a state government does not work within the constitutionalframework or if the state government disregards centre's directions, the Governorcan recommend to the Centre the imposition of President's rule in the State. So,options (a) and (c) are functions of the governor.

INSIG

HTS IAS

TEST-1


Total Marks : 200

Mark Scored : 84.67


Governor also reserves state bills which a) seem ultra vires the constitution; b) seemto be breach of Centre's laws; c) seems to endanger the position of High Court etc.He also has the authority to veto a state legislation. Therefore, option (c) is also afunction of the Governor.

Thus, the only option (d) can be the answer.

Learning & Q Source: Chapter 3: Social and Political Life -II

INSIG

HTS IAS

test 1 2016

Documents

air circulation

denser air

lighter air

air pressure3

air flows

air temperature2

user answer

high air columns