11. Which of the following is a re-usable space rocket?
[A] Apollo
[B] Satellite
[C] Space shuttle
[D] Skylab
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Space shuttle]
Notes:
The Space Shuttle was a partially reusable low Earth orbital spacecraft system operated by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration as part of the Space Shuttle programme.
12. The Montague-Chelmsford Report formed the basis of which of the following acts? (UPSC Prelims 2004)
[A] The Indian Councils Act, 1909
[B] The Government of India Act, 1919
[C] The Government of India Act, 1935
[D] The Indian Independence Act, 1947
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [The Government of India Act, 1919]
Notes:
The reforms were outlined in the Montagu-Chelmsford Report prepared in 1918 and formed the basis of the Government of India Act 1919.These are related to constitutional reforms.
13. What does the Aridity Index (AI) quantify?
[A] Soil fertility
[B] The ratio of annual precipitation to potential evapotranspiration
[C] Levels of biodiversity
[D] Variations in temperature
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [The ratio of annual precipitation to potential evapotranspiration]
Notes:
The Aridity Index (AI) is a crucial metric that assesses the dryness of a region by comparing annual precipitation to potential evapotranspiration. Drylands, which include arid and semi-arid ecosystems, cover about 40% of the Earth’s land surface and are vital for global agriculture. A higher AI indicates a wetter climate, while a lower AI signifies aridity, impacting biodiversity and land use.
14. Which country is known for issuing “Gilts” as its sovereign bonds?
[A] France
[B] Japan
[C] United Kingdom
[D] United States
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [United Kingdom]
Notes:
Gilts are the sovereign bonds issued by the United Kingdom, representing a secure investment backed by the government. These bonds are known for their low risk and are often used as a benchmark for other bonds. In contrast, France issues OATs (Obligations Assimilables du Trésor), while Japan issues JGBs (Japanese Government Bonds). US Treasuries are also highly regarded in the global market.
15. Which committee, led by Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi, was formed in 2007 to analyze the dynamics of center-state relations in India?
[A] Sarkaria Committee
[B] Punchhi Committee
[C] Rajamannar Committee
[D] M. M. Punchhi Committee
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Punchhi Committee]
Notes:
The Punchhi Committee, established in 2007, aimed to review the distribution of powers between the central and state governments. It suggested that pre-poll alliances should be recognized as a single political entity, allowing the coalition leader to assume the Chief Minister role if a majority is achieved. This committee’s recommendations have influenced subsequent political strategies in India.
16. What does the term “Chunyun Migration” refer to?
[A] A festival celebrated in Japan
[B] The largest annual human migration in China
[C] A religious pilgrimage in India
[D] An international trade fair in Europe
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [The largest annual human migration in China]
Notes:
The Chunyun Migration is the largest annual human migration globally, occurring in China 15 days before the Spring Festival, lasting for 40 days. During this time, approximately 3 billion trips are made, primarily by rail. This phenomenon highlights the cultural significance of the Spring Festival and the immense scale of travel in China.
17. Who represents India in international forums and affairs?
[A] Prime Minister
[B] President
[C] Vice-President
[D] All of the Above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [President]
Notes:
All the international treaties and agreements are negotiated and concluded in the name of the President. He is the one represents India in international forums and affairs and sends and receives diplomats like ambassadors, high commissioners, and so on.
18. Which of the following refers to Vajapeya?
[A] It means unquestioned control over an area in which the royal horse ran uninterrupted
[B] It is a royal consecration and conferred supreme power on the king
[C] It was a chariot race in which royal chariot was made to win against all kinsmen
[D] All of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
Various kind of rituals strengthened the power of the King during the later vedic times. Vajapeya literally means drink of strength. The ritual consisted of a chariot race in which royal chariot was made to win against all kinsmen.
19. Which of the following is associated with the reign of Vashishthiputra Pulumayi?
[A] c.106–130 CE
[B] c. 130–154 CE
[C] c. 165–194 CE
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [c. 130–154 CE]
Notes:
Vashishthiputra Pulumayi ruled from c. 130–154 CE. He set up capital at Paithan or Pratishthan located on Godavari in the Aurangabad district. His coins are found in the various parts of Andhra.
20. What is India’s total milk production?
[A] 187.39 million tones
[B] 176.34 million tones
[C] 276.65 million tones
[D] 346.75 million tones
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [176.34 million tones ]
Notes:
India ranks number 1 in milk production in the world. It is producing about 176.34 million tones.