VISION IAS

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ANSWERS & EXPLANATION

GENERAL STUDIES (P) TEST 1782 (2016)

1. (D)

Articles 52 to 78 in Part V of the Constitution deal with the Union executive. The Union executive
consists of the President, the Vice-President, the Prime Minister, the Council of ministers and the
Attorney General of India.

2. (B)

The amount of oxygen required by bacteria to break down the organic matter present in a certain
volume of a sample of water, is called Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD). The amount of BOD in
the water is a measure of the amount of organic material in the water, in terms of how much oxygen
will be required to break it down biologically. Clean water would have BOD value of less than 5 ppm
whereas highly polluted water could have a BOD value of 17 ppm or more.
Therefore, only 1 is correct.

3. (A)

The relationship between economic development and environmental degradation was first placed on
the international agenda in 1972, at the UN Conference on the Human Environment, held in
Stockholm. After the Conference, Governments set up the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP), which today continues to act as a global catalyst for action to protect the environment.
Agenda 21, the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, the Statement of Forest
Principles, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the United Nations
Convention on Biological Diversity were the resulting documents of the Rio Earth Summit.
Therefore, (a) is the correct answer.

4. (D)

These forests are found in areas having rainfall between 100-200cm.

o Teak
o Sal
o Semul
o Sandalwood
o Shisam
o Khair etc. are found in these forests
Jharkhand, Odisha, west Bengal have these kind of forests.
Eastern side of western ghat also have this forest type.

5. (B)

According to the International Astronomical Union, which sets definitions for planetary science, a
dwarf planet is a celestial body that:
o Orbits the sun.
o Has enough mass to assume a nearly round shape.

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 o Has not cleared the neighborhood around its orbit.
o Is not a moon.
The main distinction between a dwarf planet and a planet is that planets have cleared the path around
the sun while dwarf planets tend to orbit in zones of similar objects that can cross their path around
the sun, such as the asteroid and Kuiper belts. Dwarf planets also are generally smaller than the planet
Mercury.
The first five recognized dwarf planets are Ceres, Pluto, Eris, Makemake and Haumea. Scientists
believe there may be dozens or even more than 100 dwarf planets awaiting discovery.
Ceres is located inside the asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, while the other dwarf
planets are located in the outer solar system in, or near to, the Kuiper belt. Thus statement 2 is wrong.
International Astronomical Union (IAU) provides the definition of fundamental astronomical and
physical constants; unambiguous astronomical nomenclature including the classification of Dwarf
Planets. Thus statement 3 is wrong.

6. (C)

12th South Asian Games were held in Guwahati & Shillong in February 2016.
SAARC nations namely Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri
Lanka participated in the games.
It was the first ever gender equal South Asian Games with men & women participation in all the
sports.

7. (B)

As per the National Treatment obligation, Imported and locally-produced goods should be treated
equally - at least after the foreign goods have entered the market. The same should apply to foreign
and domestic services, and to foreign and local trademarks, copyrights and patents. Thus India is held
to have violated national treatment obligation by WTO panel.
Under the most favoured nation obligation, countries cannot normally discriminate between their
trading partners. If a country grant someone a special favour (such as a lower customs duty rate for
one of their products) than it has to do the same for all other WTO members.
Therefore, (b) is the correct answer.

8. (D)

Initially, MPLADS was administered by Ministry of Rural Development. Since October 1994,
Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation(MOSPI) has been looking into its working.

9. (B)

The Gomateshwar statute is dedicated to Bahubali, the son of Adinatha, the first in the line of the 24
Jain threerthankaras. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
The Bahubali monolith image of Gomateshwara at Shravanabelagola has been depicted in the
Kayotsarga posture. It is a yogic posture which is an important part of the Jain meditation. Kayotsarga
means to give up one's physical comfort and body movements, thus staying steady, either in a
standing or other posture, and concentrating upon the true nature of the soul. Hence, statement 2
is correct.
It was commissioned by Chamundaraya, the general-in-chief and Prime minister of the Ganga kings
of Mysore. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

10. (D)

Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) is a set of digital audio broadcasting technologies designed to work
over the bands currently used for analogue radio broadcasting including AM broadcasting,
particularly shortwave, and FM broadcasting.
DRM has the twin capabilities of analogue and digital transmission, which makes it perfect for
simulcast modes.

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 Amplitude modulation (AM) is a modulation technique used in electronic communication. In
amplitude modulation, the amplitude (signal strength) of the carrier wave is varied in proportion to the
waveform being transmitted.
In frequency modulation the frequency of the carrier signal is varied, and phase modulation, in which
its phase is varied.
Both AM and FM are Analog modulation

11. (B)

Ghadr Party was a revolutionary group organised around a weekly newspaper The Ghadr with its
headquarters at San Francisco. It was stated by the Ghadrites that their objective was the
establishment of an independent republic of India. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
The major weakness of the Ghadr leaders was that they completely under- estimatred the extent and
amount of preparation at every level-organisational, ideological, strategic, tactical, financial- that was
necessary before an attempt at an armed revolt could be organised. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
The Punjab in 1914 was very different from what the Ghadrites had been led to expect- they found the
Punjabis were in no mood to join the romantic adventure of the Ghdaar. The militants from abroad
tried their best, they toured the villages, addressed gatherings at melas and festivals, all to no avail.
Hence, statement 3 is correct.

12. (C)

Himachal Pradesh- No. of Protected Areas - 40 Madhya Pradesh - No. of Protected Areas - 34
Andaman and Nicobar Islands - No. of Protected Areas - 105 Odisha - No. of Protected Areas - 20

13. (D)

The Union Territory of Puducherry comprises the former French establishments of Puducherry,
Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam, which lie scattered in South India. Puducherry, the capital of the
Territory was once the original headquarters of the French in India, is situated on the Coromandel
Coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is bounded on the east by the Bay of Bengal and on the three sides by
Tamil Nadu.
South of Puducherry on the East Coast lies Karaikal.
Mahe is situated on the Malabar coast on the Western Ghats surrounded by Kerala.
Yanam is situated adjoining the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.

14. (B)

Emergence of parallel governments was a significant feature of the Quit India Movement.
First pair is correctly matched. The first parallel government was proclaimed in Balia, in East UP,
under the leadership of Chittu Pandey.
Second pair is incorrectly matched. The parallel government in Tamluk in the Midnapur district of
Bengal, came into existence under the leadership of Jatiya Sarkar . Satish Samanta was associated
with it.
Third pair is correctly matched. The parallel government in Satara also called ' Prati Sarkar' in
Maharashtra, came into existence under the leadership of leaders like Y.B. Chavan, Nana Patil, etc.

15. (B)

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a non-profit body that
administrates domain names and Internet protocol addresses (IPs) globally, is slated to become
independent from the US Department of Commerce on September 30, after a two-decade long
slugfest for decentralisation of its control.
The ICANN will now be governed by a multi-stakeholder model, including businesses, individual
users and members of governments across the world. It is not a part of United Nations.
While ICANN was formed as a not-for-profit partnership of people from all over the world dedicated
to keeping the Internet secure, stable and inter-operable, it doesnt actually control content on the
Internet. So, it cannot stop spam, and it does not deal with access to the Internet. But through its

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 coordination role of the Internets naming system, it does have an important impact on the expansion
and evolution of the Internet.
Thus only statement 2 is correct.

16. (C)

Macroeconomic Vulnerability Index adds together the rate of inflation, current account deficit and
fiscal deficit of a country. The Index value can be compared across countries for different time
periods to gauge their relative vulnerability.

17. (D)

Among the Standing Committees, the three Financial Committees - Committees on Estimates, Public
Accounts and Public Undertakings - constitute a distinct group as they keep an unremitting vigil over
Government expenditure and performance. While members of the Rajya Sabha are associated with
Committees on Public Accounts and Public Undertakings, the members of the Committee on
Estimates are drawn entirely from the Lok Sabha.

18. (D)

Western Coastal Plains are product of submergence of land. They are narrow with an average width of
64 kms and are located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. They are drained by several
short and swift streams which do not form deltas. They do not exhibit many depositional features.
They are indented with many natural ports.

19. (B)

Since 1961, the sale and storage of khesari dal has been banned due to higher presence of harmful
chemical called ODAP (Beta-N-oxalyl-a,Beta diaminopropionic acid), which causes an irreversible
motor neuro disorder called neurolathyrism or lathyrism.
However, the food safety regulator FSSAI has sought Health Ministry's approval to hold public
consultation on approval of three new khesari dal varieties - Ratan, Prateek and Mahateara - having
low ODAP.

20. (A)

The Gir forest is the only place in the whole of Asia where the Asiatic Lion is now found. The Asiatic
lions used to live in West, South and Central regions of Asia and in Eastern Europe in historic times.
Zagros Mountains Range (Iran) is the former range of Asiatic Lion.
According to the IUCN Red List, Asiatic Lion is categorized under endangered species.

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21. (B)

The fast breeder reactors:

They are so called because they use fast neutrons for sustaining the chain reaction, hence no
moderator is needed and, besides generating power, they also breed more fissile species (plutonium)
than they consume.
India becomes the sixth nation having the technology to build and operate a FBTR besides USA, UK,
France, Japan and the then USSR.

22. (B)

Gas pooling means pooling or average out prices of domestic natural gas and imported LNG used by
fertiliser plants to make the cost of fuel uniform and affordable.
It will lead to averaging of different rates of domestic and imported gas to ensure supply of fuel to all
urea plants at a uniform delivery cost.
This would help in focusing on improving plant efficiency and may help in price advantage in
sourcing of LNG. The move would help bring down the cost of fuel and help save subsidy.

23. (A)

Feni River is a river in the Indian state of Tripura and southeastern Bangladesh. It is a trans-boundary
river with an ongoing dispute about water rights.

24. (B)

Al-Biruni was a traveller from Uzbekistan who visited in 11th century in Punjab and Northern part of
India.
In his book Kitab-Ul-Hind, he adopted a distinctive structure in his book to describe India. He started
each chapter with a question, following up with a description based on Sanskritic traditions, and
concluding with a comparison with other cultures.
He translated the works of Euclid, a Greek mathematician into Sanskrit.
He noted that the four social categories of society was not unique to India, however, criticized the
notion of pollution in social strata.

25. (B)

Biogeochemical cycles can be classed as gaseous, in which the reservoir is the air or the oceans
(viaevaporation), and sedimentary, in which the reservoiris Earths crust. While gaseous cycles
include those of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, and water, sedimentary cycles include those of iron,
calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, and other more-earthbound elements.
Biogeochemical cycle, any of the natural pathways by which essential elements of living matter are
circulated. The term biogeochemical is a contraction that refers to the consideration of the biological,
geological, and chemical aspects of each cycle. Elements within biogeochemical cycles flow in
various forms from the nonliving (abiotic) components of the biosphere to the living (biotic)
components and back. In order for the living components of a major ecosystem (e.g., a lake or a
forest) to survive, all the chemical elements that make up living cells must be recycled continuously.
Each biogeochemical cycle can be considered as having a reservoir (nutrient) pool - a larger, slow-
moving, usually abiotic portion - and an exchange (cycling) pool - a smaller but more-active portion
concerned with the rapid exchange between the biotic and abiotic aspects of an ecosystem.

26. (B)

The ministry of earth science will set up a research lab - Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory
(BGRL) at Karad in Maharashtra to understand earthquake mechanism in the Koyna region of the
state.
The BGRL was conceptualized as part of the ministry's programme of 'Scientific Deep Drilling' in the
Koyna Intra-plate Seismic Zone, Maharashtra for geological investigations and modeling dedicated to
earthquake research in the area.
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 Reservoir triggered earthquakes have been occurring persistently in the Koyna region since the
impoundment of the Shivaji Sagar Lake in 1962. The 6.3 magnitude Koyna earthquake in 1967 is the
largest triggered earthquake in the world.

27. (A)

Special Majority of Parliament: The majority of the provisions in the Constitution need to be
amended by a special majority of the Parliament, that is, a majority (that is, more than 50 per cent) of
the total membership of each House and a majority of two-thirds of the members of each House
present and voting.
The provisions which can be amended by this way includes: (i) Fundamental Rights; (ii) Directive
Principles of State Policy; and (iii) All other provisions which are not amended by Simple Majority
and Special Majority of Parliament and Consent of States.
The provision of use of Official Language is amended by Simple Majority.

28. (B)

While the Finance Bill generally seeks approval of the Parliament for raising resources through taxes,
cess etc., an Appropriation Bill seeks Parliament's approval for the withdrawal from the Consolidated
Fund of India to meet the approved expenditures of the Government.
A Finance Bill is a Money Bill but not all money bills are Finance Bills. A money bill is defined
under Article 110(1) of the Constitution.

29. (A)

The Prarthana Samaj (also Prayer Society in english) was founded in Maharashtra by Dr. Atmaram
Pandurang in 1867 under the influence of Brahmo leader Keshab Chandra Sen. Later, Justice
Mahadev Govind Ranade and historian Ramkrishna Bhandarkar also joined the Prarthana Samaj

30. (A)

Prop roots: These are aerial roots that arise from a stem and subsequently sink into the soil to provide
additional support to the plant such as in corn and Ficus. In banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis), these
modified roots provide additional support to the branches similar to the pillars of a bridge which make
it possible for these branches to extend horizontally to great distances. The prop roots of Rhyzophora
stylosa are also capable of photosynthesis.
Pneumatophore: It is a spike like projection of the roots of swamp/ mangrove tree above the ground.
It helps the submerged roots to obtain oxygen. Ex: Mangrove species.
Haustorial roots are the roots of parasitic plants that can absorb water and nutrients from another
plant.
Storage roots are modified roots for storage of food or water, such as carrots and beets. They include
some tap roots and tuberous roots.
Buttress roots: These are enlarged, often thickened roots that spread horizontally from the base of
trees to provide additional support. In tropical trees like fig (Ficus) that are shallow rooted, large
buttress roots are formed at the base of their trunks.

31. (A)

Excessive use of chemical fertilisers makes the soil acidic.

When the soil is too acidic, it is treated with bases like quick lime (calcium oxide) or slaked lime
(calcium hydroxide).
On the other hand, if the soil is basic, organic matter is added to it. As organic matter releases acids
which neutralises the basic nature of the soil.

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32. (D)

Since the Economic Survey and Budget were presented a year ago, the Indian economy has continued
to consolidate the gains achieved in restoring macroeconomic stability.
Inflation, the fiscal deficit, and the current account deficit have all declined, rendering India a relative
haven of macrostability in these turbulent times. Economic growth appears to be recovering, albeit at
varying speeds across sectors.

33. (D)

There are three principle meanings of the term bodhisattva:

In early Buddhism, bodhisattva meant the previous lives of a (or the) Buddha.
In Mahayana Buddhism, bodhisattva refers to a human being committed to the attainment of
enlightenment for the sake of others. Becoming a bodhisattva is the goal of Mahayana Buddhism.
Bodhisattva may also refer in Mahayana Buddhism to archetypal bodhisattvas: mythical beings such
as Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri, who are objects of devotion.

34. (B)

Brihadeshwar Temple also called Rajarajeswaram and RajaRajeshwara Temple, is located at

Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu state of India. It is dedicate to Lord Shiva. It is one luminous example of
major heights, which Cholas achieves within Tamil architecture. It was built by Raja Raja Chola I in
1010 AD.
Shore Temple located at Mahabalipura. Shore Temple is a structural monument on the shores of Bay
of Bengal. Built in the 7th century, Shore Temple depicts the royal taste of Pallava dynasty. During
the reign of Rajasimha, the temple saw its construction when Pallava art was at its apex.
Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho : lt is one of the three largest temples of Khajuraho and the Western
Group and is considered to be the earliest (c. AD 954) to have been built by the Chandella rulers.

35. (D)

The Government is developing National Waterway-1 (NW-1) under the Jal Marg Vikas Project, with
assistance from the World Bank. NW-1 refers to 1620 km Haldia-Allahabad stretch of River Ganga.
The project will enable commercial navigation of 2,000-tonne vessels. The Centre has designated the
IWAI as the implementing agency for the project.

36. (B)

PPP represents the number of units of a country's currency required to get the same amount of goods
and services in the domestic market as the US dollar would get in the United States. It thus adjusts for
the purchasing power differentials between currencies in relevant markets.

37. (C)

India was the world's largest remittance recipient in 2015 despite experiencing a $1 billion drop from
the previous year, the World Bank said in its annual report "Migration and Development Brief".
Other large remittance recipients in 2015 were China, with $64 billion, the Philippines ($28 billion),
Mexico ($25 billion) and Nigeria ($21 billion).

38. (D)

The weather in the month of October in the Indian sub-continent is called 'October heat'.
During October and November, with the apparent movement of the sun towards the south, the
monsoon trough or the low-pressure trough over the northern plains becomes weaker. This is
gradually replaced by a high-pressure system. The south-west monsoon winds weaken and start
withdrawing gradually.

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 By the beginning of October, the monsoon withdraws from the northern plains. The months of
October and November form the period of transition from the hot rainy season to dry winter
conditions.
The retreat of the monsoon is marked by clear skies and a rise in temperature. While day temperatures
are high, nights are cool and pleasant. The land is still moist and the weather becomes rather
oppressive during the day and is commonly known as October heat.
Therefore, all statements are correct.

39. (B)

Statement 1 is incorrect: Nominated members enjoy all powers, privileges and immunities available to
an elected member of Parliament. They take part in the proceedings of the House as any other
member. They, however, are not entitled to vote in the election of the President of India.
Statement 2 is correct: In the election of the Vice-President of India, they have a right to vote.
Statement 3 is correct: The constitution does not prohibit the nominated members from being inducted
into the Council. However, so far, none from them has been inducted into the Council of Ministers.

40. (B)

Article 18 abolishes titles and makes four provisions in that regard:

It prohibits the state from conferring any title (except a military or academic distinction) on any body,
whether a citizen or a foreigner.
It prohibits a citizen of India from accepting any title from any foreign state.
A foreigner holding any office of profit or trust under the state cannot accept any title from any
foreign state without the consent of the president.
No citizen or foreigner holding any office of profit or trust under the State is to accept any present,
emolument or office from or under any foreign State without the consent of the president.

41. (C)

Biodiversity hot spot was put forth by Norman Myres in 1988. To qualify as a hot spot, a region must
meet two strict criteria:
Species endemism - It must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plats (>0.5% of the worlds
total) as endemics, and
Degree of threat - It has to have lost 70% of its original habitat.

42. (D)

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Swarajists only intention was to transform the legislatures into arenas of
political struggle and not to use it as organs for gradual transformation of colonial rule.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Gandhi initially opposed the council entry. But after his release from prison
in 1924 he gradually moved towards reconciliation with Swarajists. They were allowed to contest
elections on behalf of Congress and as an integral part of the Congress. This decision was endorsed in
December at the Belgaum Session presided over by Gandhiji. He also gave the Swarajists a majority
of seats on his Working Committee.

43. (D)
Raman spectroscopy is used in many varied fields - in fact, any application where non-destructive,
microscopic, chemical analysis and imaging is required. Whether the goal is qualitative or quantitative
data, Raman analysis can provide key information easily and quickly.
Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics: Raw material verification, Crystallinity, Contaminant
identification etc.
Geology and Mineralogy: Gemstone and mineral identification, Phase transitions, Mineral behaviour
under extreme conditions.
Semiconductors: Purity, Alloy composition, Contamination identification, Defect analysis.
Life Sciences: Bio-compatibility, DNA/RNA analysis, Metabolic accretions, Disease diagnosis,
Single cell analysis, Characterisation of bio-molecules, Bone structure.

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 Recently, In two separate studies, Indian scientists have used Raman spectroscopy to detect hidden
substances and to aid drug discovery.
Thus D is the correct answer.

44. (A)

The K-4 is part of the K-family of missiles, a series of SLBMs (Submarine-launched ballistic missile).
The series is named after former president and scientist A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. It under development by
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to arm the Arihant-class submarines.

The missiles developed under the programme were:

Short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile Prithvi
Intermediate-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile Agni
Short-range low-level surface-to-air missile Trishul
Medium-range surface-to-air missile Akash
Third generation anti-tank missile Nag

45. (C)

Statement 1 is correct. The Belmont Forum, created in 2009, is a high level group of the world's major
and emerging funders of global environmental change research and international science councils. It
was primarily created with an aim to identify study and deliver international environmental research
priorities, for the society, in an accelerated way through transnational research collaboration and
alignment of international resources.
Statement 2 is correct. Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) represents India as a member of the
Belmont Forum. The Belmont forum has major funding agencies from Australia, Austria, Brazil,
Canada, China, European Commission, France, Germany, India, Japan, Norway, South Africa, UK,
and USA as its members.

46. (A)

Bureau of Indian Standard has grouped the country into four seismic zones viz. Zone-II, Zone-III,
Zone-IV and Zone-V. Of these, Zone V is seismically the most prone region with higher incidence of
activities of earthquakes and Zone II is the least prone region with lower incidents of activities of
earthquakes.
Broadly, Zone-V comprises of entire northeastern India, parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, part of North Bihar and Andaman & Nicobar islands.
Zone-IV covers remaining parts of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, Union Territory of
Delhi, Sikkim, northern parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, parts of Gujarat and small
portions of Maharashtra near the west coast and Rajasthan.
Zone-III comprises of Kerala, Goa, Lakshadweep islands, remaining parts of Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat
and West Bengal, parts of Punjab, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh,
Maharashtra, Orissa, parts of Telangana, parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu and Karnataka.
Zone-II covers remaining parts of the country.

47. (B)

In Rashtrakuta kingdom, the directly administered areas were divided into rashtra (provinces), visaya
and bhukti. The visaya was like a modern district, and the bhukti was a smaller unit than it.

48. (A)

Point of Order: A member can raise a point of order when the proceedings of the House do not
follow the normal rules of procedure. A point of order should relate to the interpretation or
enforcement of the Rules of the House or such articles of the Constitution that regulate the business of
the House and should raise a question that is within the cognizance of the Speaker. It is usually raised
by an opposition member in order to control the government. It is an extraordinary device as it
suspends the proceedings before the House. No debate is allowed on a point of order.
Hence, only statement (a) is incorrect.
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49. (B)

Statement 1 is correct: The conditions of service and tenure of office are also determined by the
President.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Article 341 empowers Parliament to include or exclude castes from the list of
Scheduled Castes in the notification.
Statement 3 is correct: The Commission has to investigate all matters relating to the constitutional and
other legal safeguards for the OBCs and the Anglo-Indian Community and report to the President
upon their working.

50. (A)

Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): In a PTA, two or more partners agree to reduce tariffs on
agreed number of tariff lines. The list of products on which the partners agree to reduce duty is called
positive list. India MERCOSUR PTA is such an example. However, in general PTAs do not cover
substantially all trade.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA): In FTAs, tariffs on items covering substantial bilateral trade are
eliminated between the partner countries; however each maintains individual tariff structure for non-
members. India Sri Lanka FTA is an example. The key difference between an FTA and a PTA is that
while in a PTA there is a positive list of products on which duty is to be reduced; in an FTA there is a
negative list on which duty is not reduced or eliminated. Thus, compared to a PTA, FTAs are
generally more ambitious in coverage of tariff lines (products) on which duty is to be reduced.
Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and Comprehensive Economic
Partnership Agreement (CEPA): These terms describe agreements which consist of an integrated
package on goods, services and investment along with other areas including IPR, competition etc. The
India Korea CEPA is one such example and it covers a broad range of other areas like trade
facilitation and customs cooperation, investment, competition, IPR etc.
Custom Union: In a Customs union, partner countries may decide to trade at zero duty among
themselves, however they maintain common tariffs against rest of the world. An example is Southern
African Customs Union (SACU) amongst South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, Botswana and Swaziland.
European Union is also an outstanding example.
Common Market: Integration provided by a Common market is one step deeper than that by a
Customs Union. A common market is a Customs Union with provisions to facilitate free movements
of labour and capital, harmonize technical standards across members etc. European Common Market
is an example.
Economic Union: Economic Union is a Common Market extended through further harmonization of
fiscal/monetary policies and shared executive, judicial & legislative institutions. European Union
(EU) is an example.

51. (C)

Statements 1 and 3 are correct. NSSO has been provided required functional autonomy for data
collection, processing and dissemination, but it functions under the overall guidance and control of the
NSC. It plays a significant role in the improvement of crop statistics through supervision of the area
enumeration and crop estimation surveys of the state agencies.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Central Statistics Office conducts the economic census.

52. (A)

A change in which one or more new substances are formed is called a chemical change. A chemical
change is also called a chemical reaction. All new substances are formed as a result of chemical
changes.

53. (C)

Sugarcane is a labour intensive crop. The crop is kept weed-free and irrigated frequently if there are no
timely rins. Most of the crop is planted just before the hot season, a little earlier in the southern and
eastern parts. Sugarcane is planted by following methods:

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 Sett Method: New canes are usually planted by taking cuttings from old plants. These cuttings,
known as setts, quickly become established and after a few days buds sprout to form new stalks. Four
to five stalks grow from cutting. The sugarcane takes anything from 8 months to a year to mature.
Ratooning: In this method during the first harvest the sugarcane is cut leaving a little bit of the stalk
in the soil with the roots. The stalk soon puts out new shoots or ratoons. The second or any other
successive crop obtained from the roots of the leftover crop is called Ratoon.

54. (D)

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Cripps Mission was sent to India with constitutional proposals to seek
Indian support for the War.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Both the Congress and the Muslim League were not satisfied with one or
the other proposals of Cripps Mission. The Cripps proposals were rejected by the Congress in its
meeting 11th April, 1942. The Working Committee reiterated the demand for freedom before the
people could participate in the defence of the country on a national basis. The Working Committee
expressed its disapproval of the proposed Composition of the Constitution making body and the right
of the rulers of the Indian States to decide the future of millions of people living in these states. This
was a negation of both democracy and self determination. The proposals therefore were rejected by
the Congress as Vague and incomplete.
The Muslim League welcomed the implicit recognition of the possibility of Pakistan but rejected the
proposals because it had given greatest importance and priority to the creation of one Indian Union.
The League reaffirmed its conviction that the only solution of Indias constitutional problem is the
partition of India into independent Zones.

55. (B)

Tintorang is the world's first food-grade DNA/RNA stain. It is derived from plant source and can be
used for DNA and RNA visualization, molecular diagnosis and in vivo applications. As it is a food
additive, it is safe even on consumption.
Staining is an auxiliary technique used in microscopy to enhance contrast in the microscopic image.
Stains and dyes are frequently used in biology and medicine to highlight structures in biological
tissues for viewing, often with the aid of different microscopes.

56. (A)

Under the Namami Gange Programme, the government plans to develop the villages located along the
main stem of river Ganga which have historic, cultural, and religious and/or tourist importance.

Works related to Ganga Grams will encompass comprehensive rural sanitation, development of water
bodies and river ghats, construction/ modernization of crematoria etc.

The main objectives of developing Ganga Gram (Model Village) is:

Make the village open defecation free

Abate direct discharge of untreated liquid wastewater from such villages into river Ganga
Facilitate adequate infrastructure for crematoria
Develop proper solid waste disposal facilities in order to avoid any pollution to river Ganga
Promote better sanitation practices in the villages through IEC activities.

The scheme was launched by the Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga
Rejuvenation Uma Bharti at Puth village in Hapur district of UP.

57. (C)

As on 5 Feb. 2016 - India's foreign reserves comprise of $328.4 billion worth of foreign currency
assets, $ 17.7 billion worth of gold, $4.0 billion SDR, $1.3 billion RTP.

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58. (B)

The Government of India Act, 1919 laid down in its Preamble the principles on which the reforms were to
be progressively carried out in India. It included following points:

British India is to remain an integral part of the British empire.

Responsible government in British India is the objective of the declared policy of Parliament.
Responsible government is capable of progressive realisation only.
In order to achieve responsible government, it is necessary to provide two things: the increasing
association of the Indians in every branch of administration and gradual development of self-
governing institutions.
Concurrently with the development of self governing institutions in the provinces, it is expedient to
give to provinces in provincial matters the highest measure of independence of the Government of
India, which is compatible with the due discharge by the latter of its own responsibilities.

To disclaim any intention to annex Indian states was the objective of Government of India Act 1858.

59. (B)

Rummindei Pillar Inscription: It mentions Asoka's visit to Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha.
Asoka exempted Lumbini from paying tax, and fixed its contribution of grain at one-eighth.
Aihole inscription: The Aihole inscription describes the achievements of Pulakeshin II and his
victory against King Harshavardhana.
Allahabad Pillar inscription: Much of the knowledge of Samudragupta's military exploits comes
from the Allahabad Pillar of Ashoka which includes a prashasti (a eulogy) extolling the deeds and
virtues of the Gupta emperor.

60. (C)

Brass is a metal alloy made of copper and zinc; the proportions of zinc and copper can be varied to
create a range of brasses with varying properties.
German silver is a copper alloy with nickel and zinc. The usual formulation is 60% copper, 20%
nickel and 20% zinc. There is no silver in German silver.
Bronze is an alloy consisting primarily of copper, commonly with about 12% tin and often with the
addition of other metals (such as aluminium, manganese, nickel or zinc) and sometimes non-metals or
metalloids such as arsenic, phosphorus or silicon.

61. (A)

Ambient air quality refers to the condition or quality of air surrounding us in the outdoors. National
Ambient Air Quality Standards are the standards for ambient air quality set by the Central Pollution
Control Board (CPCB) that is applicable nationwide. The CPCB has been conferred this power by the
Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
Pollutants: Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), PM10, PM2.5, Ozone , Lead , Carbon
Monoxide, Ammonia, Benzene, Benzo (a)Pyrene (BaP)- particulate phase only, Arsenic, Nickel.
National Air Quality Index: It is released by The Central Pollution Control Board. It determines
pollution of 8 pollutants: Particulate Matter (PM 2.5), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen
Dioxide(NO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Ozone(O3) Ammonia (NH3) and Lead (Pb). The pollution is
described with the help of Colour and into 6 categories: Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted,
Poor, Very Poor and Severe.
Thus Benzene, Benzo(a) Pyrene (BaP)- particulate phase only, Arsenic, Nickel are not considered for
National Air Quality Index.

62. (D)

Gandhara school of art was influenced by many foreign kingdoms like Roman empire, Greco-
bactrian,Acamenian and Parthian.
Use of specific tools, artistic styles and method of sculpting were assimilated from foreign kingdoms
likeAcamenian,Bactrian etc.
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 However, the major influence on the art was from the Greco-Roman region in terms of themes as of
sculpting Buddha in line with greek gods and roman styles:
Hellinistic realism was taken from the Parthians.
The legendary interpretation of Buddha is sometimes presented through roman motifs like triton
The outer robe of Buddha of Gandhara like kaaya; antarvasa resembles to attire of roman gods.
In many images of Buddha in Gandhara ; he is seen under the protection of Greek god Hercules

63. (B)

Statement 1 is incorrect. FCCBs mean a bond issued by an Indian company expressed in foreign
currency, and the principal and interest in respect of which are payable in foreign currency.
Statement 2 is correct. Like FCCBs, FCEBs are expressed in foreign currency, the principal and
interest in respect of which are payable in foreign currency. They are subscribed to by a person who is
a resident outside India, in foreign currency and exchangeable into equity share of another company.

64. (D)

Soaps are the detergents used since long. Soaps used for cleaning purpose are sodium or potassium
salts of long chain fatty acids, e.g., stearic, oleic and palmitic acids. Soaps containing sodium salts are
formed by heating fat (i.e., glyceryl ester of fatty acid) with aqueous sodium hydroxide solution. This
reaction is known as saponification.

65. (C)

Gases can be converted to liquids by compressing the gas at a suitable temperature.

Gases become more difficult to liquefy as the temperature increases because the kinetic energies of
the particles that make up the gas also increase.
The critical temperature of a substance is the temperature at and above which vapor of the substance
cannot be liquefied, no matter how much pressure is applied.
Every substance has a critical temperature. Some examples are shown below. (oC)
NH3 132, O2 -119, CO2 31.2, H2O 374
In thermodynamics, the triple point of a substance is the temperature and pressure at which the three
phases (gas, liquid, and solid) of that substance coexist in thermodynamic equilibrium. For example,
the triple point of mercury occurs at a temperature of 38.83440 C and a pressure of 0.2 mPa.

66. (B)

A Coral Bleaching Alert System (CBAS) has been developed by the Indian National Centre for Ocean
Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
The primary parameter used in CBAS for generation of products, is night time Sea Surface
Temperature (SST), derived from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)s
Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR).
The alert system works on the principle that the rise in SST will impart thermal stress on the Coral
reefs and if that thermal stress persists for longer periods the coral may start bleaching.
The objective of developing the CBAS is to help in identification of thermal stress on coral systems
for protection, preservation and the health of coral reefs in the country. These alerts can provide early
indications of stress on coral ecosystem.

67. (B)

On the earth's surface, there are in all seven pressure belts. They are the Equatorial Low, the two Sub-
tropical Highs, the two Sub-Polar Lows and the two Polar Highs. Therefore, (b) is the correct answer.

68. (D)

Gandhi decided to initiate a limited satyagraha on an individual basis. The aims of launching individual
satyagraha were:
Statement 1 is correct. To give another opportunity to the Government to accept Congress demands
peacefully.
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 Statement 2 is correct. To express peoples feeling that they were not interested in the war and that
they made no distinction between Nazism and the double autocracy that ruled India.
Statement 3 is correct. Congress was not engaged in any mass movement during WWII. But at the
same time congress wanted to register their protest through limited satyagrah. It was aimed to show
that nationalist patience was not due to weakness.

69. (A)

Statement 1 is correct. Any registered lender (including microfinance institutions, cooperative banks,
banking correspondents, etc.) who has made loans to eligible categories would get Priority Sector
Lending Certificates (PSLC) for the amount of these loans.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Priority Sector Lending Certificates (PSLCs) are tradable certificates issued
against priority sector loans of banks so as to enable banks to achieve their specified target and sub-
targets for priority sector lending through purchase of these instruments in the event of a shortfall.

70. (D)

Isotope: The number of nucleons (both protons and neutrons) in the nucleus is the atom's mass
number, and each isotope of a given element has a different mass number. For example, carbon-12,
carbon-13 and carbon-14 are three isotopes of the element carbon with mass numbers 12, 13 and 14
respectively.
Isobars are atoms (nuclides) of different chemical elements that have the same number of nucleons.
Correspondingly, isobars differ in atomic number (or number of protons) but have the same mass
number.
All the atoms of an element will have same number of protons, only the number of neutron can vary.
Thus D is the correct answer.

71. (A)

The earliest rock cut caves in India are attributed to Ashoka and his grandson Dasaratha. Eventually
this rock cut architecture developed into a powerful and popular architectural style. The rock cut
architecture was suited to India due to presence of Rocky Mountains.
These developments took place primarily in the western ghats and only secondarily in other parts of
the country.
Buddhist caves have also been excavated in eastern India, mainly in coastal region of Andhra Pradesh
and in Odisha. For example Guntapalle in Eluru district.

72. (B)

Five years after signing the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC),
India ratified the convention on Thursday, the IAEAs Office of Public Information and
Communication reported from Vienna.

73. (D)

Higher levels of CO2 should stimulate photosynthesis in certain plants; a doubling of CO2 may
increase photosynthesis rates by as much as 30-100%.
Laboratory experiments confirm that when plants absorb more carbon they grow bigger and more
quickly.
This is particularly true for C3 plants (so called because the product of their first biochemical
reactions during photosynthesis has three carbon atoms). C3 plants include such major mid-latitude or
temperate food staples as wheat, rice, and soybean.
Increased carbon dioxide tends to suppress photo-respiration in these plants, making them more
water-efficient.
However, in C4 plants (those in which the first product has four carbon atoms) CO2 is first trapped
inside the leaf and then concentrated in the cells which perform the photosynthesis. Although more
efficient photosynthetically, under current levels of CO2, these plants are less responsive to increased

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 CO2 levels than C3 plants. C4 plants include such low-latitude i.e. tropical and semi-arid crops as
maize, sorghum, sugar-cane, and millet, plus many pasture and forage grasses.
Since these are largely tropical crops, and most widely grown in Africa, there is thus the suggestion
that CO2 enrichment will benefit temperate and humid tropical agriculture more than that in the semi-
arid tropics.

74. (D)

Carbon is released from ecosystems as carbon dioxide gas by the process of respiration. Respiration
takes place in both plants and animals and involves the breakdown of carbon-based organic molecules
into carbon dioxide gas and some other compound byproducts. Also, respiration in the detritus food
chain also releases carbon.
Carbon is stored in the lithosphere in both inorganic and organic forms. Inorganic deposits of carbon
include fossil fuels and carbonate-based sedimentary deposits like limestone. Burning fossil fuels
completes the process of break-down back to carbon dioxide and water.
Deforestation reduces the amount of carbon stored in the biota.
The toxic gaseous chemicals released during burning of plastic include nitrogen oxides, sulfur
dioxide, volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), and polycyclic organic matter (POMs - a solid residue
leftover). Burning plastic also releases heavy metals and toxic chemicals such as dioxins and furans.

75. (B)

Statement 1 is incorrect, as it is joint mission of Europe and Russia.

EXOMARS TRACE GAS ORBITER AND SCHIAPARELLI MISSION (2016) is the first mission of
the ExoMars programme, scheduled to arrive at Mars in October 2016, consists of a Trace Gas
Orbiter plus an entry, descent and landing demonstrator module, known as Schiaparelli. The main
objectives of this mission are to search for evidence of methane and other trace atmospheric gases that
could be signatures of active biological or geological processes and to test key technologies in
preparation for ESA's contribution to subsequent missions to Mars. Schiaparelli, the ExoMars entry,
descent and landing demonstrator module will provide Europe with the technology for landing on the
surface of Mars with a controlled landing orientation and touchdown velocity.

76. (D)

The Jan Aushadhi Scheme (Public Medicine Scheme) is a direct market intervention scheme launched
by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Govt. of India, to make
available quality generic medicines at affordable prices to all citizens through a special outlet known
as Jan Aushadhi Store (JAS) opened in each district of the States.
Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) a consortium of Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings
and Department of Pharmaceuticals of Government of India - was set up by the Department of
Pharmaceuticals for implementation of the Jan Aushadhi Scheme.
Therefore, all statements are correct.

77. (A)

The life size standing image of a Yakshini holding a chauri from Didargunj near modern Patna is a
good example of the sculptural tradition of the Mauryan period. It is made in sandstone with a well
polished surface. It is tall, well proportioned and a free standing sculpture with a sophistication in the
treatment of form and medium.
One of the best known artefacts from the Indus alley is copper figure of a dancing girl. This was
found in mohejodaro. The figure is full of expression and bodily vigour and conveys a lot of
information.
Seated Buddha at Sarnath belongs to Gupta period to the late 5th century CE. It is housed in museum
at Sarnath. It has been made in chunar sandstone. The Buddha is shown seated in a throne in the
padmasana. It is the representation of Dhammachakraparivartan or the preaching of the Dhamma.

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78. (B)

Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) refers to selling of food grains by Government / Government
agencies at predetermined prices in the open market from time to time to enhance the supply of grains
especially during the lean season and thereby to moderate the general open market prices especially in
the deficit regions.

79. (D)
Distance from the sea - Coastal areas are cooler and wetter than inland areas. Also, the centre of
continents are subject to a large range of temperatures.
Slope of the land - An area with a steep slope experiences a more rapid change in temperature than a
gentle one.
Wind Direction - Winds blowing from lower latitudes to hgher latitudes warm the higher latitudes.
Moreover, warm winds that blow from the sea into land are moisture-laden and cause rainfall on land
especially when they strike against a barrier.
Cloud Cover - In hot-wet regions the dense cloud cover prevents incoming insolation as well as
checks outgoing radiation. Also, in hot desert areas there are no cloud covers. So, there is high
insolation during day time and rapid loss of heat due to terrestrial radiation at night.
Therefore, all are correct.

80. (A)

Option 5 is incorrect, as World Trade Organisation was not the part of Nuclear Security Summit. The
Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) is a world summit, aimed at preventing nuclear terrorism around the
globe. The first summit was held in Washington, D.C., United States, in 2010. The second summit
was held in Seoul, South Korea, in 2012. The third summit was held in The Hague, Netherlands, in
2014. The fourth summit was held in Washington, D.C. on March 31-April 1, 2016.The fourth NSS,
the last in its current format, ended with leaders from more than 50 countries and four international
organisations.

81. (D)

The Indian approach to bio-fuels is based solely on non-food feedstocks to be raised on degraded or
wastelands that are not suited to agriculture, thus avoiding a possible conflict of fuel vs. food security.

The salient features of the National Policy on Bio-fuels are:

Bio-diesel production will be taken up from non-edible oil seeds in waste /degraded / marginal lands.
An indicative target of 20% blending of bio-fuels, both for bio-diesel and bio-ethanol, by 2017 has
been proposed.
Minimum Support Price (MSP) for non-edible oil seeds would be announced with periodic revision to
provide fair price to the growers.
Minimum Purchase Price (MPP) for purchase of bio-ethanol and bio-diesel would be announced with
periodic revision by the National Biofuel Coordination Committee.
Major thrust will be given to research, development and demonstration with focus on plantations,
processing and production of bio-fuels, including Second Generation Bio-fuels.
Financial incentives, including subsidies and grants, may be considered for second generation bio-
fuel, a National Bio-fuel Fund could be considered.
A National Biofuel Coordination Committee, headed by the Prime Minister, will be set up to provide
policy guidance and coordination.
A Biofuel Steering Committee, chaired by Cabinet Secretary, will be set up to oversee
implementation of the Policy.

82. (D)

Trade diversion refers to the phenomenon where more efficient firms from outside the trade bloc lose
share to less efficient firms within the trade bloc in the external trade of any given country.

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83. (A)

Metanil yellow is a principal non-permitted food colour used extensively in India. The effect of long-
term consumption of metanil yellow on the developing and adult brain causes neurotoxicity.
Neurotoxicity occurs when the exposure to natural or artificial toxic substances, alters the normal
activity of the nervous system in such a way as to cause damage to the nervous tissue. Metanil yellow
is used in dal as an adulterant for colouring. Its presence can be tested in dal by adding a few drops of
HCl to a test sample, if the solution turns pink in colour, it indicates the presence of metanil yellow.

84. (D)

Statement 1 is correct : The Constitution does not contain any specific procedure for the selection and
appointment of the Prime Minister. Article 75 says only that the Prime Minister shall be appointed by
the president. However, this does not imply that the president is free to appoint any one as the Prime
Minister.
Statement 2 is correct: In 1997, the Supreme Court held that a person who is not a member of either
House of Parliament can be appointed as Prime Minister for six months, within which, he should
become a member of either House of Parliament; otherwise, he ceases to be the Prime Minister.
Constitutionally, the Prime Minister may be a member of any of the two Houses of parliament.
Statement 3 is correct: Since the Prime Minister stands at the head of the council of ministers, the
other ministers cannot function when the Prime Minister resigns or dies. In other words, the
resignation or death of an incumbent Prime Minister automatically dissolves the council of ministers
and thereby generates a vacuum. The resignation or death of any other minister, on the other hand,
merely creates a vacancy which the Prime Minister may or may not like to fill.

85. (A)

Energy is found in different forms, such as light, heat, sound and motion. There are many forms of
energy, but they can all be put into two categories: kinetic and potential.
Kinetic energy is motion-of waves, electrons, atoms, molecules, substances, and objects. Example:
Electrical Energy is the movement of electrical charges. Everything is made of tiny particles called
atoms. Atoms are made of even smaller particles called electrons, protons, and neutrons. Other
examples are Thermal Energy, Radiant Energy etc.
Potential energy is stored energy and the energy of position. There are several forms of potential
energy.
Chemical Energy is energy stored in the bonds of atoms and molecules. It is the energy that holds
these particles together. Biomass, petroleum, natural gas, and propane are examples of stored
chemical energy.
Nuclear Energy is energy stored in the nucleus of an atom-the energy that holds the nucleus together.
The energy can be released when the nuclei are combined or split apart.
Gravitational Energy is the energy of position or place. A rock resting at the top of a hill contains
gravitational potential energy.
Gravitational Energy is the energy of position or place. A rock resting at the top of a hill contains
gravitational potential energy. Hydropower, such as water in a reservoir behind a dam, is an example
of gravitational potential energy.

86. (A)

The gradation of non-coking coal is based on Useful Heat Value (UHV), the gradation of coking coal
is based on ash content and for semi coking / weakly coking coal it is based on ash plus moisture
content
Coking coal, also known as metallurgic coal, is heated in a coke oven which forces out impurities to
produce coke, which is almost pure carbon.
Non-coking coal (usually referred to as thermal coal) cannot form cake when heated in absence of air

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87. (D)

Shipki La pass is located in Himachal Pradesh. Bara Lacha pass is another pass in the state.
LipuLekh pass is located in Uttarakhand.
Bomdila pass is located in Arunchal Pradesh

88. (C)

Water is a state subject.

Public health and sanitation; hospitals and dispensaries is a subject in state list.
Land is a state subject but land acquisition is a concurrent subject.
Audit of the accounts of the Union and of the States is a subject in Union list.

89. (D)

Some species of trees and plants are actually fire dependent. They must have fire every 3-25 years in
order for life to continue. Some trees have fire resistant bark and cones that require heat to open and
release seeds for regeneration. Chaparral plants, including manzanita, chamise and scrub oak, also
require intense heat for seed germination. These plants actually encourage fire by having leaves that
are covered with flammable resins. Without fire, these trees and plants would eventually succumb to
old age with no new generations to carry on their legacy.
Fire kills diseases and insects that prey on trees and provides valuable nutrients that enrich the soil.
More trees die each year from insect infestation and disease than from fire. Many forests struggle
against diseases such as pitch canker and bark beetle infestations pests that destroy the part of the
tree that delivers nutrients to the roots, leaves and needles. Fire kills pests and keeps the forest
healthy.
Vegetation that is burned by fire provides a rich source of nutrients that nourish remaining trees.
Fire removes low-growing underbrush, cleans the forest floor of debris, opens it up to sunlight, and
nourishes the soil. Reducing this competition for nutrients allows established trees to grow stronger
and healthier.

90. (D)

Pyrotechnics is the science of using materials capable of undergoing self-contained and self-sustained
exothermic chemical reactions for the production of heat, light, gas, smoke and/or sound
The principal reason for using potassium chlorate in pyrotechnics is for the production of beautiful
colours.
Potassium chlorate has very powerful oxidizing ability.
Potassium Chlorate is banned for use in fireworks.
It is used in safety matches. Matchstick head contains tiny amount of potassium chlorate, Antimony
Sulphide and powdered glass.

91. (D)

Statement 1 is incorrect. Small savings scheme is under the Ministry of Finance, who decides the
interest rates on small savings in the month of March every year.
Statement 2 is incorrect. According to the Finance Bill, the committee will consist of the RBI
governor, the deputy governor in charge of monetary policy and one official nominated by the central
bank.
The other three members will be appointed by the central government through a search committee.
This search committee will comprise of the cabinet secretary, the secretary of the Department of
Economic Affairs, the RBI governor and three experts in the field of economics or banking as
nominated by the central government.

18 www.visionias.in Vision IAS

92. (C)

Socialistic Principles reflect the ideology of Socialism, and lay down the framework of a democratic
socialist state, aim at providing social and economic justice and set the path towards welfare state.
Statement 1 is Gandhian Principles i.e. To promote the educational and economic interests of SCs,
STs, and other weaker sections of the society and to protect them from social injustice and
exploitation (Article 46) and 'To promote cottage industries on an individual or co-operation basis in
rural areas' (Article 43).
Statement 2 is a Liberal-Intellectual Principle- To organise agriculture and animal husbandry on
modern and scientific lines (Article 48).
Only statement 3 is a Socialistic Principle - To promote equal justice and free legal aid to the
poor.(Article 39A)

93. (A)

The National Green Tribunal ban on coal mining and transportation of coal in Meghalaya's Jaintia
Hills region has resulted in many of those engaged in the activity switching to turmeric farming for
their livelihood.
For the past one year, these coal-miners, who previously practised unscientific mining and
transportation of coal, have taken to cultivation of famed curcumin-rich Lakadong turmeric varieties
at their villages in East Jaintia Hills District.

94. (A)

Gross Domestic Product measures the aggregate production of final goods and Services taking place
within the domestic economy during a year. Thus such profits forms part of Indias GDP.
Gross National Product = Gross Domestic Product+ Net factor Income from abroad.
Thus the profits of USA based forms in India are part of GNP of USA.

95. (A)
People sprinkle water on the roof because when this water gets evaporated they take up some of the
heat from the roof for the process of evaporation due to its large latent heat of vaporization. As heat
gets released the roof becomes cooler.

96. (D)

KAMCHATKA - Cold current in the north eastern Pacific ocean. It begins in the Bering Sea and
moves southward along the shores of the Kamchatka Peninsula, where it becomes the Kuril Current.
Kamchatka current is also known for its meeting with oyashio current which is a cold current.
The West Australian Current, is a cool surface current of the Southern Ocean and Southern Indian
Ocean. It starts as the Southern Indian Ocean Current, a part of the larger Antarctic Circumpolar
Current.
The Antarctic Circumpolar Current is an ocean current that flows clockwise from west to east around
Antarctica. An alternative name for the Antarctic Circumpolar Current is the West Wind Drift.

97. (D)
Following initiatives were taken by Muhammad Bin Tughlaq:
The most controversial step taken by Muhammed Bin Tughlaq was transfer of the capital from Delhi
to Deogir, later renamed Daultabad.
Introduction of Token currency: There was a shortage of silver in the world in the fourteenth
century. Muhammed Bin Tughlaq decided to introduce a bronze coin which was to have the same
value as the silver tanka.
Qarachil expedition: This expedition was launched in the Kumaon hills in the Himalayas.
Khurasan project: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaqs experiments were not confined to internal matters
only; it was also down with external affairs. His Khurasan project was the first of them. In-order-to
fulfill his ambition of a great conqueror; he planned to conquer the kingdom of Khurasan which was
then ruled by Iraq. He recruited one lakh soldiers for this purpose and paid them one years salary in
advance.

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98. (D)

CPI includes prices of goods consumed by the representative consumer, hence it includes prices of
imported goods.
GDP deflator does not include prices of imported goods. GDP measures the final goods and services
produced domestically.

99. (A)

The budget goes through six steps. The first three stages are: Presentation, General Discussion and
Scrutiny by departmental committees.
On the basis of report of the departmental committees, the Lok Sabha takes up voting of demand for
grants. The demands are presented ministry wise. A demand become a grant after it has been voted
upon. The next step is the passing of Appropriation bill. This is done in order to satisfy the
constitutional requirement which says: "no money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund of
India except under appropriation made by law".
However, passing of this bill takes time. In the meantime, government needs certain amount to run its
normal activities. To overcome this functional difficulty, the constitution has authorised the Lok Saha
to make any grant in advance in respect to the estimated expenditure for a part of the financial year,
pending the completion of the voting of demands for grants and the enactment of the appropriation
bill. This provision is known as the 'vote on account'. It is passed after the general discussion on
budget is over.
Finally, the Finance Bill is introduced to give effect to the financial proposals of the Government of
India for the following year. The Finance Act legalises the income side of the budget and completes
the process of the enactment of the budget.

100. (A)

The Prime Meridian (Longitude = 0) passes through the following countries: United Kingdom,
France, Spain, Algeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo, Ghana, Antarctica.
All countries decided that the count should begin from the meridian which passed through Greenwich,
where the British Royal Observatory is located. This meridian is called the Prime Meridian. Its value
is 0 longitude and from it we count 180 eastward as well as 180 westward. The Prime Meridian
divides the earth into two equal halves, the Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Hemisphere.

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