UPSC CAPF Archives

1. Which one among the following pairs is not correctly matched ?

Which one among the following pairs is not correctly matched ?

Power of the Parliament : Creating a new state

Power of the state legislature : Altering the name of the state

Equality before law : Guaranteed to both Indian citizens and non-citizens

Equality of opportunity : Guaranteed to only Indian citizens

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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The power to create a new state or alter the area, boundaries, or name of an existing state rests with the Parliament of India (Article 3 of the Constitution). While the state legislature concerned is required to express its views on the proposal within a specified period, its role is recommendatory, and the final decision-making power lies solely with the Parliament. Therefore, stating that altering the name of the state is the power of the state legislature is incorrect. Equality before Law (Article 14) is guaranteed to all persons, including citizens and non-citizens. Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment (Article 16) is guaranteed only to citizens.

– Parliament has the power to create and change states.
– State legislatures provide their views on such proposals but do not have the power to alter the state’s name themselves.
– Article 14 applies to ‘any person’, covering both citizens and non-citizens.
– Article 16 on public employment applies only to citizens.

The process for altering the name of a state involves a bill being introduced in Parliament on the recommendation of the President. Before recommending the bill, the President refers it to the state legislature concerned for expressing its views within a specified period. Parliament is not bound by these views.

2. The following sentences describe one of the sites of the Harappan civi

The following sentences describe one of the sites of the Harappan civilization:
‘The settlement is divided into two sections, one smaller but higher and the other much larger but lower. Archaeologists designate these as the Citadel and the lower town respectively. Both were walled. Several buildings were built on platforms, which served as foundations.’
Which of the following sites does it refer to ?

Harappa

Mohenjodaro

Lothal

Kalibangan

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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The description of the settlement divided into a smaller, higher Citadel and a larger, lower town is characteristic of many major Harappan sites like Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Kalibangan. However, the phrase “Both were walled” is particularly applicable to Kalibangan. While the Citadels at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were walled, their Lower Towns were not consistently or completely walled. At Kalibangan, both the Citadel (which was further divided into two parts) and the Lower Town were enclosed by fortification walls. The construction of buildings on platforms is also a common feature across these sites to protect them from floods or provide stable foundations.

– Major Harappan cities often had a bipartite division into a Citadel and a Lower Town.
– The Citadel was typically located in the western part, higher, and smaller, while the Lower Town was larger and located in the eastern part.
– The key distinguishing feature mentioned here is that *both* sections were walled.
– Kalibangan is known for having fortification walls around both the Citadel and the Lower Town.

Other sites like Lothal have a different layout, typically a single walled area divided into functional sectors. The presence of a citadel and lower town, particularly with fortification around both, is a specific architectural feature helpful in identifying the site.

3. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code

Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the lists:
List I (Festival) List II (Community/ethnic group)

A. Nongkrem	1. Khasi
B. Chapchar Kut	2. Mising
C. Kherai Puja	3. Bodo
D. Ali-Ai-Ligang	4. Mizo

Code :

	A	B	C	D
(a)	1	4	3	2
(b)	1	3	4	2
(c)	2	3	4	1
(d)	2	4	3	1

(a) 1 4 3 2

(b) 1 3 4 2

(d) 2 4 3 1

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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The correct matching is: Nongkrem is a festival of the Khasi community (A-1). Chapchar Kut is a festival of the Mizo community (B-4). Kherai Puja is a religious festival of the Bodo community (C-3). Ali-Ai-Ligang is an agricultural festival of the Mising community (D-2). Matching these pairs gives the code 1 4 3 2.

– Nongkrem festival is celebrated by the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya.
– Chapchar Kut is a popular spring festival of the Mizo people of Mizoram.
– Kherai Puja is a significant festival for the Bodo community in Assam.
– Ali-Ai-Ligang is an agricultural festival celebrated by the Mising tribe of Assam.

These festivals are important cultural events reflecting the traditions, beliefs, and agricultural cycles of the respective communities, predominantly located in the North-Eastern states of India.

4. Consider the following statements about the post-cold war directional

Consider the following statements about the post-cold war directional changes in Indian foreign policy:

By the mid 1990s, Indian foreign policy submitted itself to a process of adaptive learning to boost its status and influence in the global pecking order.
Indian foreign policy has shifted from an overemphasis on idealism during the cold war era to pragmatic realism in the post-cold war era.
Indian foreign policy is geared to establish tangible economic and security partnership with major regions and countries of the world.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1 and 2 only

1 only

2 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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All three statements accurately describe the evolution of Indian foreign policy in the post-Cold War era. Statement 1 reflects India’s adaptation to the unipolar/multipolar world order and proactive engagement to enhance its global position. Statement 2 captures the shift from the ideological non-alignment of the Cold War to a more interest-driven, pragmatic approach. Statement 3 highlights the increased focus on concrete economic and security cooperation with various global partners, moving beyond rhetoric to tangible outcomes.

– Post-Cold War Indian foreign policy became more flexible and adaptive.
– There was a discernible shift towards pragmatic realism and national interest.
– Building concrete economic and security partnerships became a central theme.

Key policy shifts include the ‘Look East Policy’ (later Act East Policy), strengthening ties with the United States, engaging with multilateral forums like BRICS, SCO, and focusing on economic diplomacy alongside traditional security concerns. This period saw India becoming a more active and influential player on the global stage.

5. Why is Nagpur promoted as the tiger capital of the world ? 1. Nagpu

Why is Nagpur promoted as the tiger capital of the world ?

1. Nagpur is the major store house of tigers as the districts adjacent to Nagpur have many tiger reserves and sanctuaries.
2. Nagpur has infrastructure that can support a large tourist industry.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

1 only

2 only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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Both statements contribute to Nagpur being promoted as the ‘Tiger Capital’. Statement 1 is correct because Nagpur is strategically located near several major tiger reserves and sanctuaries in Central India, including Pench, Tadoba-Andhari, Melghat, Bor, and relatively accessible ones like Kanha and Satpura, making it a crucial hub for tiger conservation and sightings. Statement 2 is also correct; Nagpur has developed infrastructure, including an international airport, good rail and road connectivity, and various accommodation options, which is essential to support the tourism influx generated by visitors heading to these nearby tiger reserves.

– Nagpur’s proximity to a high concentration of tiger reserves makes it a gateway to these habitats.
– Adequate tourism infrastructure is necessary to handle the flow of wildlife tourists.
– Both factors combined justify the promotion of Nagpur as the ‘Tiger Capital’.

The government and tourism industry actively promote Nagpur’s connectivity and facilities to position it as the ideal base for exploring the tiger landscapes of Central India. The geographical location and developed infrastructure together enhance its importance for tiger tourism.

6. Who among the following was not a non-government representative in the

Who among the following was not a non-government representative in the Lokpal Bill Drafting Committee, 2011 ?

Kiran Bedi

Arvind Kejriwal

Prashant Bhushan

Shanti Bhushan

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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The Lokpal Bill Drafting Committee formed in 2011 consisted of government representatives and non-government representatives (representing the Jan Lokpal movement). The non-government representatives were Anna Hazare, Shanti Bhushan, Prashant Bhushan, Arvind Kejriwal, and Kiran Bedi. Based on the composition of the committee, all the individuals listed in the options (Kiran Bedi, Arvind Kejriwal, Prashant Bhushan, and Shanti Bhushan) were non-government representatives. Therefore, the question as posed appears flawed, as it asks who was *not* a non-government representative from a list where all were. However, if forced to select from the options provided, and based on external information indicating A as the intended answer in some contexts, this suggests a potential error in the question’s premise or phrasing within the source material. Factual evidence indicates all four were indeed non-government representatives.

– The Lokpal Bill Drafting Committee (2011) included representatives from the government and civil society.
– Shanti Bhushan, Prashant Bhushan, Arvind Kejriwal, and Kiran Bedi were the prominent civil society representatives nominated to the committee, along with Anna Hazare.
– As all individuals listed in the options were non-government representatives, the question contains a factual inconsistency.
– Based on the probable intended answer from exam sources, Kiran Bedi (A) is indicated, despite factual contradiction.

The committee was co-chaired by Pranab Mukherjee (from the government side) and Shanti Bhushan (initially from the civil society side). The formation of this joint drafting committee was a significant event following the anti-corruption movement led by Anna Hazare, aiming to draft a Lokpal Bill acceptable to both the government and civil society.

7. Which one among the following places is not covered by the Golden Char

Which one among the following places is not covered by the Golden Chariot, the luxury train designed to visit the historical places of South India ?

Hyderabad

Bangalore

Goa

Mysore

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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The Golden Chariot luxury train operates on routes covering prominent tourist destinations in South India, primarily focusing on Karnataka and nearby states like Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry. Common destinations include Bangalore, Mysore, Hampi, Belur, Halebidu, Shravanabelagola, Goa, Badami, etc. Hyderabad, located in Telangana, is not typically included in the standard routes of the Golden Chariot.

– The Golden Chariot primarily covers tourist destinations in Karnataka and surrounding South Indian states.
– Bangalore, Mysore, and Goa are regular stops on different itineraries of the Golden Chariot.
– Hyderabad is not part of the common routes operated by this luxury train.

The Golden Chariot offers several itineraries like “Pride of Karnataka,” “Southern Splendour,” “Glimpses of Karnataka,” etc., which vary in duration and covered places. These itineraries showcase a mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, wildlife, and natural beauty of the region.

8. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code

Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the lists :

List I	List II
A. Iron oxide	1. Glossy finish on wood and steel
B. Varnish	2. Colourless shining protective coating on wood
C. Enamel paint	3. Exterior and interior brick walls
D. Emulsion paint	4. Preparatory coating on steel

Code :

4 1 2 3

3 1 2 4

4 2 1 3

3 2 1 4

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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The correct matching is A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3. Iron oxide is often used as a preparatory coating or primer on steel to prevent rust. Varnish is a clear, colourless coating that provides a protective and shining finish, typically on wood. Enamel paint dries to a hard, durable, often glossy finish and is used on surfaces like wood and metal. Emulsion paint is a water-based paint commonly used on interior and exterior walls, including brick walls.

– Iron oxide primers (like red oxide) are widely used for corrosion protection on steel.
– Varnish provides a clear, protective layer, enhancing the natural look of wood.
– Enamel paints are known for their hard, glossy finish and durability on various surfaces.
– Emulsion paints are standard for architectural use on walls.

Different types of paints and coatings are formulated for specific purposes, surfaces, and desired finishes. Primers (like iron oxide based) prepare the surface for the topcoat and improve adhesion and durability. Varnishes are transparent finishes. Enamels provide opaque, durable finishes. Emulsions are typically water-based and dry relatively quickly, making them popular for internal walls.

9. Which one among the following local winds is not characteristically ho

Which one among the following local winds is not characteristically hot and dry ?

Sirocco

Mistral

Khamsin

Chinook

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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Let’s examine the characteristics of each local wind:
A) Sirocco: A hot, dry wind originating in the Sahara Desert and blowing northward across the Mediterranean Sea. It picks up moisture over the sea but is initially hot and dry.
B) Mistral: A strong, cold, dry wind that blows from the north down the Rhône Valley in France towards the Mediterranean Sea. It is associated with high pressure and clear, cold weather.
C) Khamsin: A hot, dry, sandy wind blowing from the south over Egypt and the Middle East, typically occurring in spring. Similar in nature to Sirocco.
D) Chinook: A type of Foehn wind that occurs on the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains in North America. It is a warm, dry wind caused by air descending the leeward side of a mountain range.
Comparing these, Sirocco, Khamsin, and Chinook are all characteristically hot and dry. Mistral is characteristically cold and dry.

Local winds have distinct characteristics regarding temperature, moisture content, and origin. Identifying a wind that is *not* hot and dry among a list of predominantly hot and dry winds requires knowing the specific nature of each wind type.

Foehn winds like the Chinook are warm because the descending air is compressed and warms adiabatically after losing moisture on the windward side of the mountain. The Mistral, conversely, is a katabatic wind, associated with cold air flowing down from elevated, cold landmasses or plateaus, channeled through valleys.

10. Arrange the following hills of southern India from north to south : 1.

Arrange the following hills of southern India from north to south :
1. Nilgiri
2. Cardamom
3. Nallamala
4. Anaimalai
Select the correct answer using the code given below :

3-1-4-2

4-3-1-2

1-3-4-2

1-2-3-4

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2011

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Let’s determine the relative locations of these hill ranges in southern India:
3. Nallamala Hills are part of the Eastern Ghats and are located in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, making them the northernmost range among the options.
1. Nilgiri Hills are located at the junction of the Eastern and Western Ghats, in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, south of the Nallamalas.
4. Anaimalai Hills are part of the Western Ghats, located south of the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. They contain Anai Mudi, the highest peak in South India.
2. Cardamom Hills are the southernmost extension of the Western Ghats, located south of the Anaimalai hills in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Arranging them from north to south gives the order: Nallamala, Nilgiri, Anaimalai, Cardamom (3-1-4-2).

The correct arrangement requires knowledge of the geographical location of prominent hill ranges in South India relative to each other along a north-south axis. Nallamala is in the Eastern Ghats further north, while Nilgiri, Anaimalai, and Cardamom are sequential ranges in the Western Ghats moving southwards.

The Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats converge at the Nilgiri Hills. The Anaimalai Hills are known for their rich biodiversity and include several protected areas. The Cardamom Hills are famous for the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and coffee.