Environment and Ecology

61. Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment

Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986?

[amp_mcq option1=”Central Water Commission” option2=”Central Ground Water Board” option3=”Central Ground Water Authority” option4=”National Water Development Agency” correct=”option3″]

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The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) was constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (EPA) is an umbrella legislation enacted for environmental protection in India. Section 3(3) of the EPA allows the Central Government to constitute an authority or authorities for the purpose of exercising and performing such of the powers and functions of the Central Government under the Act as it may deem fit. The Central Ground Water Authority was constituted by the Central Government under this specific section of the EPA, 1986, to regulate and control development and management of groundwater resources in the country.
– Central Water Commission (CWC) is a technical organization under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, established for general control, conservation, and utilization of water resources.
– Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is a subordinate office under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, responsible for groundwater exploration, monitoring, assessment, and management. It exists as a board, distinct from the Authority created under EPA.
– National Water Development Agency (NWDA) is an autonomous society under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, primarily involved in studies related to inter-basin transfer of water.

62. With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the

With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements:

1. Wild animals are the sole property of the government.
2. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled for equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside.
3. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 2″ option2=”2 only” option3=”1 and 3″ option4=”3 only” correct=”option1″]

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Statements 1 and 2 are correct regarding Indian laws about wildlife protection.
– Statement 1 is correct. As per the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (as amended), scheduled wild animals become the property of the government upon being killed or captured, or if found dead. This establishes government ownership over protected wildlife.
– Statement 2 is correct. When a species is listed in the Schedules of the WPA, 1972, it receives the protection afforded by the Act regardless of whether it is found within a designated protected area (like a National Park or Wildlife Sanctuary) or outside. The protection status applies to the animal itself.
Statement 3 is incorrect. Apprehension alone is not sufficient ground for the capture or killing of a protected wild animal. Section 11 of the WPA, 1972, allows for the killing or wounding of a wild animal in self-defence or if it becomes dangerous to human life or property (including standing crops). However, this typically requires assessment and permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden or authorized officer, establishing that the animal is indeed a danger, not merely an apprehension. Killing purely based on apprehension without official assessment is generally not permissible.

63. Consider the following : Carbon monoxide Nitrogen oxide Ozone Sul

Consider the following :

  • Carbon monoxide
  • Nitrogen oxide
  • Ozone
  • Sulphur dioxide

Excess of which of the above in the environment is/are cause(s) of acid rain ?

[amp_mcq option1=”1, 2 and 3″ option2=”2 and 4 only” option3=”4 only” option4=”1, 3 and 4″ correct=”option2″]

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The correct answer is B) 2 and 4 only.
Acid rain is primarily caused by atmospheric pollutants, specifically sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These gases react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid.
Statement 1 (Carbon monoxide) is incorrect. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a pollutant but does not cause acid rain.
Statement 2 (Nitrogen oxide) is correct. Nitrogen oxides (NOx, including NO and NO₂) are major precursors to nitric acid formation in acid rain.
Statement 3 (Ozone) is incorrect. Ozone (O₃) is a secondary pollutant and a greenhouse gas. While it can contribute to the oxidation processes that form acid rain from SO₂ and NOx, it is not a precursor acid gas itself and is not considered a primary cause in the same way as SO₂ and NOx.
Statement 4 (Sulphur dioxide) is correct. Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) is a major precursor to sulfuric acid formation in acid rain.
The main sources of SO₂ and NOx emissions are the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) in power plants, industries, and vehicles. Acid rain can harm forests, lakes, streams, and damage buildings and monuments.

64. Consider the following statements : Other than those made by humans,

Consider the following statements :

  • Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.
  • Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.
  • Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”3 only” option3=”1 and 2″ option4=”2 and 3″ correct=”option4″]

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The correct answer is D) 2 and 3.
Statement 1 is incorrect. Nanoparticles occur widely in nature, resulting from various natural processes such as volcanic eruptions, forest fires, sea spray, and even biological processes (e.g., formation of magnetite crystals in bacteria).
Statement 2 is correct. Nanoparticles of metallic oxides, such as titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO), are commonly used in cosmetics, particularly in sunscreens, due to their ability to absorb and scatter UV light.
Statement 3 is correct. There are ongoing concerns about the potential environmental and health risks associated with nanoparticles from commercial products entering the environment, due to their small size, high surface area, and unique properties which can lead to different biological interactions and potential accumulation in tissues.
Research on the safety and environmental impact of manufactured nanoparticles is an active area of study. Regulatory bodies are developing guidelines and assessments for products containing nanomaterials.

65. “Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome and as a result

“Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome and as a result the soil surface is often almost bare. Apart from trees, the vegetation is largely composed of plant forms that reach up into the canopy vicariously, by climbing the trees or growing as epiphytes, rooted on the upper branches of trees.” This is the most likely description of

[amp_mcq option1=”coniferous forest” option2=”dry deciduous forest” option3=”mangrove forest” option4=”tropical rain forest” correct=”option4″]

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The description perfectly matches the characteristics of a tropical rainforest. Fast leaf litter decomposition occurs due to the high temperatures and humidity, leading to rapid nutrient cycling and often a thin or almost bare soil surface layer of organic matter. The dense canopy in tropical rainforests limits light penetration to the forest floor, leading to intense competition for light. This favors plant forms that can reach the canopy by climbing (lianas) or growing on other plants (epiphytes) to access sunlight. These features are not characteristic of coniferous forests (slow decomposition in cold climates), dry deciduous forests (decomposition limited during dry season, fewer epiphytes/climbers), or mangrove forests (unique adaptations to saline, waterlogged conditions).
– High temperature and humidity in tropical rainforests lead to rapid decomposition.
– Rapid decomposition results in nutrients being quickly absorbed by plants, leaving limited organic matter on the soil surface.
– Light competition in the dense canopy drives the evolution of climbers and epiphytes as prominent plant forms.
Tropical rainforests are characterized by high biodiversity, high rainfall, and warm temperatures throughout the year. The rapid nutrient cycling means that much of the ecosystem’s nutrients are stored in the biomass of the plants rather than in the soil itself. Disturbances like deforestation can lead to rapid soil degradation as nutrients are washed away or lost.

66. In the context of India’s preparation for Climate-Smart Agriculture, c

In the context of India’s preparation for Climate-Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements:

  • 1. The ‘Climate-Smart Village’ approach in India is a part of a project led by the Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), an international research programme.
  • 2. The project of CCAFS is carried out under Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) headquartered in France.
  • 3. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR’s research centres.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 2 only” option2=”2 and 3 only” option3=”1 and 3 only” option4=”1, 2 and 3″ correct=”option4″]

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All three statements are correct. The ‘Climate-Smart Village’ (CSV) approach was indeed pioneered by the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS). CCAFS is an international research program focusing on climate change impacts on agriculture. CGIAR (Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research) is a global partnership that unites international organizations engaged in research for a food-secure future. The CGIAR System Organization is legally registered in France, with its main office in Montpellier, and it coordinates the activities of the various CGIAR Research Centers. ICRISAT (International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics), located in Hyderabad, India, is one of the CGIAR’s research centers.
– Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) aims to increase productivity and incomes, adapt and build resilience to climate change, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
– The Climate-Smart Village approach demonstrates CSA practices at the community level.
– CCAFS is a leading international research program in this area.
– CGIAR is a global network of agricultural research organizations.
– ICRISAT is a CGIAR research center based in India.
CGIAR supports 15 research centers worldwide that conduct research on various aspects of agriculture, food security, and climate change. The CSV model involves working with local communities to identify and implement appropriate CSA technologies and practices based on local conditions and needs. These often include improved crop varieties, water management techniques, sustainable soil management, and diversification of farming systems.

67. With reference to ‘palm oil’, consider the following statements : 1.

With reference to ‘palm oil’, consider the following statements :

  • 1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia.
  • 2. The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes.
  • 3. The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 2 only” option2=”2 and 3 only” option3=”1 and 3 only” option4=”1, 2 and 3″ correct=”option2″]

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Statements 2 and 3 are correct, while statement 1 is incorrect.
– Statement 1: The oil palm tree (*Elaeis guineensis*) is native to the tropical regions of West and Southwest Africa. Its extensive cultivation was introduced to Southeast Asia (particularly Malaysia and Indonesia), where it is now grown commercially on a massive scale, making these regions the world’s largest producers. So, statement 1 is incorrect.
– Statement 2: Palm oil and its fractions (derivatives) are versatile ingredients widely used in various non-food industries, including cosmetics, personal care products, and cleaning agents. It is a common ingredient in soaps, detergents, shampoos, lotions, lipstick, and perfumes due to its properties as an emulsifier, surfactant, or emollient. So, statement 2 is correct.
– Statement 3: Palm oil can be processed through various methods, such as transesterification, to produce biodiesel (fatty acid methyl esters). Palm oil-based biodiesel is used as a renewable alternative fuel. So, statement 3 is correct.
The expansion of palm oil plantations, especially in Southeast Asia, has raised significant environmental concerns, including deforestation, habitat loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. This has led to efforts to promote sustainable palm oil production.

68. How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farmi

How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?

  • 1. Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are pre-dominant.
  • 2. Conventional chemical farming can cause increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
  • 3. Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions.
  • 4. Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 3″ option2=”1, 2 and 4″ option3=”4 only” option4=”2 and 3″ correct=”option2″]

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Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct ways in which permaculture farming differs from conventional chemical farming.
– Statement 1: Permaculture design emphasizes biodiversity, polyculture (growing multiple crops together), and integrating plants with animals and other elements to create resilient ecosystems. Conventional chemical farming often relies on monoculture (growing a single crop over a large area) for simplicity in management, especially concerning planting, harvesting, and chemical application. So, statement 1 is correct.
– Statement 2: Conventional chemical farming often involves the use of synthetic fertilizers, particularly nitrogen fertilizers. Excessive or improper use of these fertilizers can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, causing salinization. Permaculture practices focus on building soil health through organic matter, cover cropping, and composting, which naturally improve soil structure and drainage and do not typically cause salinization. So, statement 2 is correct.
– Statement 3: Permaculture principles, such as water harvesting, soil building, selecting drought-tolerant species, and creating microclimates, are highly effective and often particularly beneficial in semi-arid and arid regions where water is scarce and environmental conditions are harsh. Conventional chemical farming in such regions often requires significant external inputs, including potentially unsustainable irrigation, and can be more challenging without adapting to local conditions. So, statement 3 is incorrect.
– Statement 4: Mulching (covering the soil surface with organic material) is a fundamental practice in permaculture for conserving soil moisture, suppressing weeds, regulating soil temperature, preventing erosion, and adding organic matter as it decomposes. While mulching can be used in conventional farming, it is not a necessarily central or widespread practice compared to its importance in permaculture design for creating resilient and self-sustaining systems. So, statement 4 is correct.
Permaculture is a design system for creating sustainable human habitats, integrating land, resources, people, and the environment. Conventional chemical farming often focuses on maximizing short-term yield using synthetic inputs.

69. Consider the following statements : 1. Moringa (drumstick tree) is

Consider the following statements :

  • 1. Moringa (drumstick tree) is a leguminous evergreen tree.
  • 2. Tamarind tree is endemic to South Asia.
  • 3. In India, most of the tamarind is collected as minor forest produce.
  • 4. India exports tamarind and seeds of moringa.
  • 5. Seeds of moringa and tamarind can be used in the production of biofuels.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

[amp_mcq option1=”1, 2, 4 and 5″ option2=”3, 4 and 5″ option3=”1, 3 and 4″ option4=”1, 2, 3 and 5″ correct=”option2″]

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The correct answer is B) 3, 4 and 5.
– Statement 1 is incorrect. Moringa (Moringa oleifera) belongs to the family Moringaceae, not the Leguminosae (Fabaceae).
– Statement 2 is incorrect. The Tamarind tree (Tamarindus indica) is native to tropical Africa, although it is widely cultivated in South Asia.
– Statement 3 is likely considered correct in this context. Tamarind is listed as a Minor Forest Produce (MFP) in India, and significant quantities are collected from forests and non-cultivated areas, particularly benefiting tribal and rural populations. While commercial cultivation exists, collection as MFP is a notable source.
– Statement 4 is correct. India is a major producer and exporter of tamarind and various moringa products, including seeds, powder, and oil, due to their economic and nutritional value.
– Statement 5 is correct. Both moringa seeds (for oil) and tamarind seeds (for carbohydrates and oil) are being explored and used in the production of biofuels.
– Moringa is known as a “miracle tree” for its high nutritional value and various uses.
– Tamarind is a tropical fruit tree widely used for its pulp in culinary applications.
– The classification of produce as MFP varies by region and state in India.

70. The vegetation of savannah consists of grassland with scattered small

The vegetation of savannah consists of grassland with scattered small trees, but extensive areas have no trees. The forest development in such areas is generally kept in check by one or more or a combination of some conditions.
Which of the following are such conditions?

  • 1. Burrowing animals and termites
  • 2. Fire
  • 3. Grazing herbivores
  • 4. Seasonal rainfall
  • 5. Soil properties

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 2″ option2=”4 and 5″ option3=”2, 3 and 4″ option4=”1, 3 and 5″ correct=”option3″]

This question was previously asked in
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The correct answer is C) 2, 3 and 4.
– Savannas are characterized by grasslands with scattered trees due to factors that limit dense forest growth.
– Fire (2) is a major factor, as seasonal dry periods make savannas prone to fires that kill young trees and favor fire-resistant grasses.
– Grazing herbivores (3) consume young trees and shrubs, preventing them from establishing and growing into mature trees.
– Seasonal rainfall (4), particularly the prolonged dry season, creates water stress that limits tree growth and increases fire frequency, contributing to the maintenance of the savanna structure.
– Burrowing animals and termites (1) can affect soil and vegetation locally but are not typically considered the primary factors controlling forest development across extensive savanna areas.
– Soil properties (5) can influence vegetation, but fire, grazing, and climate (seasonal rainfall patterns) are generally regarded as the dominant factors preventing savanna from transitioning into forest.
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