UPSC IAS Archives

31. Consider the following pairs : Wetlands Confluence of rivers

Consider the following pairs :

Wetlands	Confluence of rivers
1. Harike Wetlands	Confluence of Beas and Satluj/Sutlej
2. Keoladeo Ghana National Park	Confluence of Banas and Chambal
3. Kolleru Lake	Confluence of Musi and Krishna

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

1 only

2 and 3 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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Pair 1 is correctly matched. Harike Wetlands are located at the confluence of the Beas and Satluj rivers in Punjab.

The question tests knowledge of the geographical locations of prominent Indian wetlands and national parks relative to river systems.

Pair 2 is incorrect; Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Rajasthan is fed by the Ban Ganga and Gambhir rivers, not the Banas and Chambal rivers. Pair 3 is incorrect; Kolleru Lake in Andhra Pradesh is located between the deltas of the Godavari and Krishna rivers, not specifically at the confluence of the Musi and Krishna (Musi is a tributary of Krishna, but the lake’s location is described by its position relative to the deltas).

32. Consider the following rivers : 1. Barak 2. Lohit 3. Subansiri Wh

Consider the following rivers :

1. Barak
2. Lohit
3. Subansiri

Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?

1 only

2 and 3 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks which of the listed rivers flow through Arunachal Pradesh. Let’s examine each river:
1. Barak: The Barak River is a major river in Northeast India. It originates in Manipur and flows through Nagaland and Assam in India before entering Bangladesh, where it merges with the Surma and Kushiyara rivers. It does not flow through Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Lohit: The Lohit River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River. It originates in Tibet and flows through Arunachal Pradesh (in the eastern part, forming the easternmost part of the Brahmaputra basin in India) before joining the Brahmaputra in Assam. It flows through Arunachal Pradesh.
3. Subansiri: The Subansiri River is another major tributary of the Brahmaputra. It also originates in Tibet and flows through Arunachal Pradesh (in the central part) before joining the Brahmaputra in Assam. It flows through Arunachal Pradesh.

– The Lohit and Subansiri rivers are tributaries of the Brahmaputra that flow through Arunachal Pradesh.
– The Barak River flows through Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam before entering Bangladesh.

Arunachal Pradesh is known as the “land of the dawn-lit mountains” and has numerous rivers and tributaries, many originating from the Himalayas. The Brahmaputra itself enters India in Arunachal Pradesh (where it is known as Siang) before being joined by tributaries like Lohit and Dibang and then flowing into Assam.

33. With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan

With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan’ refers to

an assembly of village elders

a religious sect

a style of temple construction

an administrative functionary

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The term ‘Panchayatan’ in the cultural history of India refers to a specific style of temple construction.
A) an assembly of village elders: An assembly of village elders is typically referred to as a Gram Panchayat or similar terms depending on the historical period and region, not Panchayatan.
B) a religious sect: While ‘pancha’ means five, and some religious traditions might involve groups of five or specific sets of deities, ‘Panchayatan’ in the context of cultural history specifically denotes an architectural style.
C) a style of temple construction: The Panchayatan style of temple architecture is a layout where the main shrine is built on a raised platform, and four subsidiary shrines are located at the four corners, making it a group of five (pancha) shrines dedicated typically to a principal deity in the center and four other deities. This forms a complete ‘mandala’ pattern. This is the correct meaning of Panchayatan in this context.
D) an administrative functionary: An administrative functionary would not be referred to by this term.

– Panchayatan is a style of Hindu temple architecture.
– It features a main shrine surrounded by four subsidiary shrines.

Famous examples of temples built in the Panchayatan style include the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh (Uttar Pradesh) and the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), although the latter is sometimes debated as a strict Panchayatan due to the integration of subsidiary shrines into the main structure’s platform. This style became prominent during the Gupta period and continued in later periods.

34. The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of

The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of

Equatorial climate

Mediterranean climate

Monsoon climate

All of the above climates

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks which climate is characterized by the seasonal reversal of winds.
A) Equatorial climate: Equatorial climate regions near the equator typically experience consistent high temperatures and rainfall throughout the year, with prevailing winds that are generally constant (like trade winds or doldrums). There is no significant seasonal reversal of winds.
B) Mediterranean climate: Mediterranean climates are characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typically influenced by the seasonal shift of subtropical high-pressure belts. While there are seasonal wind patterns, the defining characteristic is not a complete reversal of prevailing winds.
C) Monsoon climate: The monsoon climate is specifically defined by the seasonal reversal of wind direction. In summer, winds blow from the sea to the land (bringing heavy rainfall), and in winter, they blow from the land to the sea (leading to dry conditions). This reversal is driven by the differential heating of land and sea.
D) All of the above climates: Only the Monsoon climate exhibits the characteristic seasonal reversal of winds.

– Seasonal reversal of winds is the defining feature of the Monsoon climate.
– This phenomenon is caused by the differential heating of land and water bodies over seasons.

Monsoon climates are most prominent in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of East Asia, as well as other regions like parts of Africa and Australia. The Indian subcontinent is a classic example of a monsoon climate region.

35. In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the

In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?

1. Terrace cultivation
2. Deforestation
3. Tropical climate

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1 and 2 only

2 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks which factors are associated with the problem of soil erosion in India.
1. Terrace cultivation: While terrace cultivation is a conservation practice used to reduce soil erosion on slopes, it is associated with *areas where* soil erosion is a problem (hilly and mountainous regions). If done improperly or not maintained, terraces can also fail and contribute to erosion. So, it is associated with the problem contextually and potentially operationally.
2. Deforestation: Removal of forest cover exposes the soil directly to the impact of rain and wind, significantly increasing the rate of soil erosion. Deforestation is a major cause of soil erosion in India, particularly in hilly and forest areas. This is strongly associated with the problem.
3. Tropical climate: Tropical climates often experience intense rainfall events (e.g., during monsoons). Heavy rainfall can cause significant splash erosion and surface runoff, leading to severe soil erosion, especially on unprotected land. The intensity of rainfall is a key factor in soil erosion processes. This is strongly associated with the problem.
Considering the options and the nature of soil erosion, deforestation and intense rainfall associated with tropical climate are direct causes/exacerbating factors. Terrace cultivation is a response practice in erosion-prone areas, and its presence indicates the existence of the problem. Therefore, all three can be considered associated with the problem of soil erosion in India in different ways.

– Deforestation is a major human-induced cause of soil erosion.
– Intense rainfall typical of tropical climates contributes significantly to soil erosion.
– Terrace cultivation is a farming practice used in hilly, erosion-prone areas, thus associated with the problem geographically.

Factors contributing to soil erosion include natural factors like rainfall intensity, wind, topography, and soil type, as well as human factors like deforestation, overgrazing, unsustainable agricultural practices (including improper tilling, lack of cover crops, and sometimes improper terrace cultivation), and construction activities. In India, deforestation, agricultural practices on slopes, and the intense monsoon rainfall are major contributors to soil erosion.

36. Which of the following have coral reefs? 1. Andaman and Nicobar Isla

Which of the following have coral reefs?

1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
2. Gulf of Kachchh
3. Gulf of Mannar
4. Sunderbans

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1, 2 and 3 only

2 and 4 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2, 3 and 4

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks which of the listed locations in India have coral reefs.
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are surrounded by extensive coral reefs, including fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and platform reefs. This is a major coral reef area in India.
2. Gulf of Kachchh: The Gulf of Kachchh in Gujarat is home to coral reefs, notably within the Marine National Park.
3. Gulf of Mannar: The Gulf of Mannar, located between India and Sri Lanka, contains extensive coral reefs and is designated as a Marine National Park and Biosphere Reserve to protect its rich biodiversity, including corals.
4. Sunderbans: The Sunderbans, located in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta, is primarily known for its vast mangrove forests and unique estuarine ecosystem. While some isolated patches or associated fauna might exist, it is not characterized by significant coral reefs like the other three locations. Coral reefs typically thrive in clear, warm, shallow waters with low sediment load, conditions not typical of the muddy, dynamic delta environment of the Sunderbans.

– India has significant coral reef areas in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Kachchh, and Gulf of Mannar.
– The Sunderbans is primarily a mangrove ecosystem, not known for coral reefs.

Other areas with coral reefs in India include the Lakshadweep Islands (atolls) and some patches along the mainland coast. Coral reefs are important marine ecosystems providing habitats for diverse marine life and protecting coastlines. They are sensitive to environmental changes like climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices.

37. In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or

In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultivation of this has assumed significance. Which one of the following statements is correct in this context?

The oil extracted from seeds is used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics

The gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas

The leaf extract of this plant has the properties of anti-histamines

It is a source of high quality biodiesel

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks about the recent significance of cluster bean (Guar) cultivation beyond traditional uses.
A) The oil extracted from seeds is used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics: While plant oils can sometimes be used in bioplastics, guar oil is not a prominent source for this purpose.
B) The gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas: This is the primary reason for the recent surge in demand and cultivation of guar. Guar gum, specifically its derivative hydroxypropyl guar (HPG), is a key component of the fracking fluid used in hydraulic fracturing to extract oil and natural gas from shale formations. It acts as a thickening agent, helping to carry proppants (like sand) into the fractures and then degrading to allow the flow of hydrocarbons. This statement is correct.
C) The leaf extract of this plant has the properties of anti-histamines: While some plants have medicinal properties, guar is not widely known for anti-histamine properties of its leaf extract.
D) It is a source of high quality biodiesel: Guar seeds contain oil, but it is not typically considered a primary source for high-quality biodiesel compared to other oilseed crops.

– The increased significance of cluster bean (Guar) cultivation is primarily due to the demand for guar gum.
– Guar gum is extensively used in the hydraulic fracturing (fracking) industry for shale gas and oil extraction.

India is the world’s largest producer of cluster beans (Guar). The demand for guar gum is closely linked to the unconventional oil and gas industry, particularly in countries like the United States, where fracking is widely used. This has led to fluctuations in guar prices and cultivation area based on global energy markets.

38. With reference to ‘Changpa’ community of India, consider the following

With reference to ‘Changpa’ community of India, consider the following statements :

1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand.
2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool.
3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1 only

2 and 3 only

3 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question is about the ‘Changpa’ community of India.
1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand: The Changpa are a nomadic pastoralist community primarily inhabiting the Changthang plateau in Ladakh, which was part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and is now part of the Union Territory of Ladakh. They do not mainly live in Uttarakhand. This statement is incorrect.
2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool: The Changpa are well-known for rearing the Changthangi goats, from whose undercoat the extremely fine Pashmina wool is obtained. This is their traditional livelihood. This statement is correct.
3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes: The Changpa community in Jammu and Kashmir (now Ladakh) is listed as a Scheduled Tribe by the Government of India. This statement is correct.

– Changpa community primarily lives in Ladakh (Changthang region).
– They are known for rearing Pashmina goats.
– The Changpa are listed as a Scheduled Tribe in India.

The Changpa are high-altitude nomads who traditionally migrate with their livestock (sheep, yak, and especially the Pashmina goats) across the Changthang plateau. Their livelihood is deeply intertwined with these animals and the production of valuable Pashmina wool.

39. With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called ‘coalbed

With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called ‘coalbed methane’ and ‘shale gas’, consider the following statements :

1. Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks.
2. In India, abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1 only

2 only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks about the correct statements regarding coalbed methane (CBM) and shale gas.
1. Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks: CBM is primarily methane stored within coal seams. Shale gas is natural gas (which is primarily methane) trapped within fine-grained sedimentary rocks like shale. Shale gas is not a mixture of propane and butane only; propane and butane are components of natural gas liquids (NGLs) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which can sometimes be found alongside methane, but the primary component of shale gas is methane. This statement is incorrect.
2. In India, abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found: India has significant CBM reserves and has commercial production of CBM. India also has estimated shale gas reserves in various basins (e.g., Cambay, Krishna-Godavari, Cauvery basins), and exploratory drilling has confirmed the presence of shale gas. While commercial production is not as developed as CBM, sources have indeed been found. This statement is incorrect.

– Both coalbed methane and shale gas are primarily composed of methane (natural gas).
– Shale gas is found in shale formations, not just a mixture of propane and butane.
– India has identified sources of both coalbed methane and shale gas.

Coalbed methane and shale gas are considered unconventional natural gas sources. Extraction techniques like hydraulic fracturing (fracking) are often used for shale gas and sometimes for CBM, though CBM extraction can also involve dewatering. These sources have gained importance globally as potential energy sources, but their extraction methods also raise environmental concerns.

40. With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements i

With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1 only

2 and 3 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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The question asks about the correct statements regarding the Agni-IV Missile.
1. It is a surface-to-surface missile: The Agni series missiles are ballistic missiles designed to be launched from the ground (surface) to hit targets on the ground (surface). This statement is correct.
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only: Agni-IV is a two-stage ballistic missile that uses solid propellants. Agni-I, II, III, V, and P also primarily use solid fuel. Liquid fuel was used in earlier Indian missiles or specific stages, but Agni-IV is solid-fueled. This statement is incorrect.
3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away: Agni-IV has a designed range of about 4,000 km. The range of 7500 km or more is associated with longer-range missiles like Agni-V (range > 5000 km, potentially up to 8000 km). This statement is incorrect.

– Agni-IV is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
– Agni-IV is solid-fueled, not liquid-fueled only.
– Agni-IV has a range of approximately 4000 km, not 7500 km.

The Agni-IV missile is part of India’s integrated guided missile development program. It is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM). Understanding the types of missiles, their range classification, and propulsion systems is relevant for defence-related general knowledge.