PRELIMS FITNESS 2024

TEST 17 – HISTORY
EXPLANATION

1. With reference to Ancient Indian History, Consider the following statements.

1. The Palaeolithic people had no knowledge of either the cultivation of crops or building houses
2. The Mesolithic people used handmade pottery for the storage of milk
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
The Paleolithic people were entirely dependent on weapons and tools made from stone as they lived close
to the hilly areas, caves, rivers, and rock shelters. The early Stone Age man was a nomad and did not
know house building and agriculture. Hence, he had no community life and lived in hills and caves. So,
Statement 1 is correct.
Since in the Neolithic phase, several settlements came to be acquainted with the cultivation of cereals
and the domestication of animals, they needed pots in which they could store their food, grain and milk.
They further needed pots for cooking and eating. Hence, handmade pottery is found in the early stages.
Later, they used foot wheels to turn up pots. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

2. In which among the following regions, evidence for all three phases of the Palaeolithic age, the age
followed by the Mesolithic and then by the Neolithic, have been found in sequence
(a) Soan valley
(b) Chirand
(c) Birbhanpur
(d) Belan Valley
EXPLANATION:
In Uttar Pradesh, the Belan Valley (the region broadly from Allahabad to Varanasi) is the most prominent
site. Northern spurs of the Vindhyas in the Bélan Valley, all three phases of the Palaeolithic followed by
the Mesolithic and then by the Neolithic, have been found in sequence. The prehistoric sites of Belan
valley include Mahgara, Chopani Mando, and Koldihwa. The Belan sites contain caves and rock shelters
which would have served as seasonal camps for human beings. Hand-axes have been found in a deposit
of the time of the second Himalayan glaciation. In this period climate became less humid. So, Option (d)
is correct.

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3. With reference to the Neolithic age, Consider the following statements:
1. Most of the neolithic settlements were found in the plain region.
2. The neolithic people lived in the circular houses made of mud.
3. In few neolithic settlements, the Fire baked earthen figurines were found.
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
Neolithic settlements in the Indian sub-continent are not older than 6000 B.C. Some settlements found
in south India and eastern India are as late as 1000 B.C. Based on the types of axes used by Neolithic
settlers, we notice three important areas of Neolithic settlements,
➢ One area is to be found in the north in the valley of Kashmir at a place called Burzahom at a distance
of about 20 km from Srinagar.
➢ The second group of Neolithic people lived in south India, south of the Godavari River. They usually
settled on the tops of granite hills or plateaus near the river banks. Plateaus near the river banks.
They used stone axes and also some stone blades Fire baked earthen figurines suggest that they kept
a large number of cattle. They possessed cattle, sheep and goats. They used rubbing stone querns.
Which shows that they were acquainted with the art of producing grains
➢ The third area from which Neolithic tools have been recovered is in the hills of Assam, Neolithic tools
are also found in the Garo hills in Meghalaya, the north-eastern frontier of India. So, Statement 1
is not correct, and Statement 3 is correct.
The later Neolithic settlers were agriculturists who lived in circular or rectangular houses made of mud
and reed. It is held that the primitive people living in circular houses owned property in common. So,
Statement 2 is correct.

4. With reference to Chalcolithic settlement in India, Consider the following statements:

1. Chalcolithic people used black and red, wheel turned pots
2. Chalcolithic people domesticated camels in many parts of the settlement
3. Chalcolithic people were not familiar with the cultivation of cotton
4. Chalcolithic people were generally not acquainted with burnt bricks
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four

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EXPLANATION:
Towards the end of the Neolithic period began the use of metals. The metal to be used first was copper,
and several cultures were based on the use of stone and copper implements. Such a culture is called
chalcolithic. The people of the stone copper phase used different types of pottery, one of which is called
black-and-red and seems to have been widely prevalent. It was thrown on the wheel and occasionally
painted with white linear designs. So, Statement 1 is correct.
The people living in the stone-copper age in south-eastern Rajasthan, western Madhya Pradesh and
western Maharashtra domesticated animals and cultivated food grains. They kept cows, sheep, goats,
pigs and buffaloes and hunted deer. Remains of the camel have also been found. It is not clear whether
they were acquainted with the horse. So, Statement 2 is correct.
Chalcolithic people produced wheat and rice; in addition to these staple crops, they also cultivated bajra.
They produced several pulses such as the lentil (masur), black gram, green gram, and glass pea. Cotton
was produced in the black cotton soil of the Deccan, and ragi, bajra and several millets were cultivated
in the lower Deccan. So, Statement 3 is not correct.
The Chalcolithic people were generally not acquainted with burnt bucks, which were seldom used.
Occasionally their houses were made of mud backs, but mostly, these were constructed with wattle and
daub and seem to have been thatched houses. At Inamgaon, in the earlier Chalcolithic phase in western
Maharashtra, large mud houses with ovens and circular pit houses have been discovered. So, Statement
4 is correct.

5. With reference to ancient history, the term “Gabarbands and nalas” refers to
(a) Water storage
(b) Ploughshare
(c) Crop variety
(d) Guild system
EXPLANATION:
The Harappans probably used 'the wooden ploughshare. We do not know whether the plough was drawn
by men or oxen. Stone sickles may have been used for harvesting the crops. Gabarbands or nalas
enclosed by dams for storing water were a feature in parts of Baluchistan and Afghanistan, but channel
or canal irrigation seems to have been absent.
The gabarbands and nalas were made of huge boulders and cut-blocks, across gaps in the hills with a
broad catch basin of ephemeral streams. The dams were used to store water or for irrigation. Sometimes,
such constructions were raised to conserve soil and moisture. So, Option (a) is correct.

6. In how many of the following Harappan sites, the traces of canals have been found?
1. Punjab
2. Sind
3. Shortughai

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 Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
Most Harappan sites are located in semi-arid lands, where irrigation was probably required for
agriculture. Traces of canals have been found at the Harappan site of Shortughai in Afghanistan, but
not in Punjab or Sind. It is possible that ancient canals silted up long ago. It is also likely that water
drawn from wells was used for irrigation. Besides, water reservoirs found in Dholavira (Gujarat) may
have been used to store water for agriculture.
So, Option (a) is correct.

7. With reference to Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC), Consider the following statements:
1. Major sites in IVC were divided as a citadel on higher mound on the western side and a lower town
on the eastern side of the settlement
2. The streets in lower town intersect each other at right angles in a criss-cross pattern.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
The most interesting urban feature of Harappan civilization is its town-planning. It is marked by
considerable uniformity, though one can notice some regional variations as well. The uniformity is
noticed in the lay-out of the towns, streets, structures, brick size, drains etc. Almost all the major sites
(Harappa, Mohenjodaro, Kalibangan and others), are divided into two parts–a citadel on higher mound
on the western side and a lower town on the eastern side of the settlement. The citadel contains large
structures which might have functioned as administrative or ritual centres. So, Statement 1 is correct.
The residential buildings are built in the lower town. The streets intersect each other at right angles in
a criss-cross pattern. It divides the city in several residential blocks. The main street is connected by
narrow lanes. The doors of the houses opened in these lanes and not the main streets. So, Statement
2 is correct.

8. Consider the following pairs:

S.No. Important Features Found at
1. Terrocota plough - Banawali
2. Evidence of rice - Rangpur

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 3. Granaries - Lothal
How many of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
We do not have any clear evidence of the tools used for agriculture in the Harappan Civilization. However,
the furrows or plough-marks have been observed in a field at Kalibangan. These indicate plough
cultivation. A terracotta plough has also been reported from Banawali in Hissar district of Haryana. The
irrigation was carried on a small scale by drawing water from wells or by diverting river water into
channels. So, Pair (1) is correct.
The evidence for rice has come from Lothal and Rangpur in the form of husks embedded in pottery.
Cotton was another important crop. A piece of woven cloth has been found at Mohenjodaro. Apart from
cereals, fish and animal meat also formed a part of the Harappan diet. The chief food crops included
wheat, barley, sesasum, mustard, peas, jejube, etc. So, Pair (2) is correct.
Agriculture along with pastoralism (cattle-rearing) was the base of Harappan economy. The granaries
discovered at sites like Harappa, Mohenjodaro and Lothal served as the store houses for grains. So, Pair
(3) is correct.

9. With reference to pottery making during Indus Valley civilisation, Consider the following statements :
1. Pottery making were mainly hand made with a red coating
2. The paintings of birds and animals were depicted on pottery
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
The arts of the Indus Valley Civilisation emerged during the second half of the third millennium BCE.
The forms of art found from various sites of the civilisation include sculptures, seals, pottery, jewellery,
terracotta figures, etc.
➢ The Harappans were experts in the use of the potter’s wheel and used diverse varieties of pottery for
daily use which were well baked and fine in decorations.
➢ The Indus Valley pottery consists chiefly of very fine wheel made wares, very few being hand-made.
Plain pottery is more common than painted ware. Primarily red black pottery, the redware pottery
painted with black designs were popular. So, Statement 1 is not correct.

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 The painted motifs generally noticed on the pottery are horizontal lines of varied thickness, leaf patterns,
palm and pipal trees, intersecting circles, geometrical motifs with both floral and faunal patterns such
as figurines of birds, fishes and animals like rabbits, peacocks, ducks, pigeons, wild fowl and monkeys.
So, Statement 2 is correct.

10. It is a Harappan Settlement with rich wheat and cotton growing region. Unlike other cities, it is not
divided into the citadel and the lower city. The entire city had a walled enclosure. It had used both burnt
brick and mud bricks.
Which among the following city is described above?
(a) Kalibangan
(b) Lothal
(c) Banawali
(d) Mohenjodharo
EXPLANATION:
Lothal is the Harappan site found in the rich wheat and cotton growing area of Gujarat. It could have
played the role of a sea-port for establishing trade contacts with the contemporary west Asian civilizations
like Mesopotamia and Egypt. This city, unlike Mohenjodaro, Harappa, Kalibangan and Banawali, was
not divided into the citadel and the lower city, although the entire city had a walled enclosure. It had a
rectangular design and burnt bricks were used more than at Kalibangan, though mud bricks were also
extensively used. A dock yard - like structure has also been discovered by the excavators. So, Option (b)
is correct.

11. With reference to weights used in Harrapan civilisation, Consider the following statements
1. The weights were generally made in cubical shape with no markings
2. The lower denominations of weights were decimal while higher denominations of weights were binary
system
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only

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 (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
The Harappan crafts display an impressive level of standardization. Standardization extended to units
of weights and measure. Cubical weights made of chert, chalcedony, black stone, etc., have been found
at all excavated sites, and their accuracy all over the Harappan culture zone is remarkable. Exchanges
were regulated by a precise system of weights, usually made of a stone called chert and generally cubical,
with no markings. So, Statement 1 is correct.
The lower denominations of weights were binary (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, etc. up to 12,800), while the higher
denominations followed the decimal system. The smaller weights were probably used for weighing
jewellery and beads. Metal scale-pans have also been found. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

12. Consider the following pairs

S.No. Metals used Acquired region
1. Copper Khetri mines
2. Gold Mesopotamia
3. Silver Himalayan river bed
How many of the above given pairs are correctly matched regarding Indus Valley civilisation
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs
EXPLANATION:
The discovery of the Harappan civilization generated a great deal of interest in Harappan–Mesopotamian
trade links. The importance of such trade is clear from the very wide range of raw materials and finished
goods that found their way to different parts of the vast Harappan culture zone.
Harappan Imports (Metals) Source Region
➢ Copper Khetri (Rajasthan), Baluchistan, Oman Afghanistan, Iran. So, Pair (1) is correct.
➢ Gold Afghanistan, Iran, Kolar (South India) So, Pair (2) is not correct.
➢ Silver Jwar Mines of Rajasthan, Mesopotamia So, Pair (3) is not correct.

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 ➢ Tin Afganistan, Iran
➢ Lapis lazuli Shortughai (Afghanistan)
➢ Jade Pamir (Central Asia)
➢ Turquoise Khorasan (Central Asia)
➢ Steatite Tapi Chahya (Iran), South Rajasthan
➢ Bitumin Baluchistan, Mesopotamia
➢ Lead South India

13. With reference to Vedic age, Consider the following statements

1. Rig Veda is the collection of hymns divided into 8 mandalas
2. Rig Veda had the linguistic similarity with Iranians oldest text Avesta
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
Rig Veda is a collection of payers offered to Agni, Indra, Mitra, Varuna and other gods by various families
of poets or sages. It consists of ten mandalas or books, of which Books II to VII form Its earliest portions
Books I and X seem to have been the latest additions. So, Statement 1 is not correct.
The Rig Veda has many things common with the Avesta, which is the oldest text in the Iranian Language
The two texts use the same names for several gods and even for social classes. Some Aryan names
mentioned in the Kassite Inscriptions of 1600 B C. and the Mitanni inscriptions of the fourteenth
century B.C. found Iraq suggest that from Iran a branch of the Aryans moved towards the west.
So, Statement 2 is correct.

14. Consider the following pairs :

S.No. Rivers in Vedic age Known as
1. Vitasta - Chenab
2. Parushni - Jhelum
3. Vipasa - Beas
How many of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

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EXPLANATION:
The Rig Vedic period is another name for the Early Vedic period. The early Vedic Aryans lived in the area
known as sapta-sindhu meaning area of seven rivers. This area largely covers the northwestern part of
South Asia up to river Yamuna. The seven rivers such as Sindhu, Asikni (Chenab), Parushni (Ravi),
Vipash (Beas), Shutudri (Sutlej) and the Sarasvati.
➢ Vitasta (Jhelum). So, Pair (1) is not correct.
The ‘battle of ten kings’ (dasharajna), recounted in Book 7 of the Rig Veda Samhita may be based on an
actual historical incident. In this battle, the Bharata chief Sudas, grandson of Divodasa, fought against
a confederacy of 10 tribes. This great battle took place on the banks of the river Parushni (Ravi). So, Pair
(2) is not correct.
The core geographical area to which the evidence of the Rigveda relates to was sapta-sindhu or the land
of seven rivers. This would correspond with the whole of Punjab and its neighbouring regions of Haryana.
The Beas was known as the Vipasha, from ‘vipash‘, which means ‘without bonds’ or ‘unfettered’. So, Pair
(3) is correct.

15. With reference to Ancient Indian History, consider the following pairs :
S.No. Terms Meaning
1. Gomat - Cow
2. Gavishti - Wealthy man
3. Yava - Wheat
How many of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The early Vedic Aryans were pastoralists. Cattle rearing was their main occupation. They reared cattle,
sheep, goats, and horses for purposes of milk, meat and hides. We arrive at this conclusion after
analyzing the literary evidence in the Rigveda. A large number of words are derived from the word go
meaning cow. A wealthy person was known as gomat and the daughter called duhitri which means one
who milks the cow. So, Pair (1) is not correct.
The word Gaveshana literally means search for cows, but it also means battle since many battles were
fought over cattle. The cows were thought of as providers of everything. Prayers are offered for increase
in the number of cattle. So, Pair (2) is not correct.
The evidence for agriculture in comparison with pastoral activities in the early portions is meager and
mostly late insertions. A few references show that they had knowledge of agriculture and practiced it to
supplement their food requirements. They produced yava (modern jau or barley), which was rather a
generic word for cereals. So, Pair (3) is not correct.

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16. Consider the following pairs :
S.No. Different Means
stages of Life
1. Grihastha - Student
2. Vanaprastha - Hermitage
3. Sanyasa - Complete Renunciation
How many of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
A special group of Sanskrit texts dealing specifically with dharma are collectively known as the
Dharmashastra. Dharmashastra recognizes three sources of dharma—shruti (i.e., the Vedas), smriti (i.e.,
the Smriti texts), and sadachara or shishtachara (good custom or the practices of the learned, cultured
people). As a matter of fact, the Samhitas of the Vedas do not contain direct discussion of rules of
conduct, so the second and third sources of dharma are very important. A person's dharma depends on
gender, age, marital status, varna, and ashrama. The four varnas are—Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya,
and Shudra. The first three of these are referred to in the Brahmanical tradition as dvija (literally, 'twice-
born') as they alone have the right to the sacred-thread ceremony, which is considered similar to a second
birth.
The ashrama system went through several stages of development and ultimately divided the life of a dvija
male into four stages-
➢ brahmacharya (celibate student hood)
➢ grihastha (the householder stage). So, Pair 1 is not correct.
➢ Vanaprastha (partial renunciation or Hermitage So, Pair 2 is correct.
➢ sanyasa (complete renunciation) So, Pair 3 is correct.

17. With reference to Rig Vedic period, Consider the following statements
1. The tribal chief was famously known as 'Rajan' and exercised the complete power over people
2. The position of King was hereditary in nature
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
The Rig Veda mentions assemblies such as the sabha and Samiti. The distinctions between their
functions are not entirely clear. The sabha seems to have been a smaller, more elite gathering, whereas

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 the Samiti appears to have been a larger assembly presided over by the tribal chief' in the centre called
'Rajan.' It seems that in the Rig Vedic period, The King did not exercise unlimited power, for he had to
reckon with the tribal organizations. So, Statement 1 is not correct.
Although the position of King's post was hereditary, we also have some traces of the election by the tribal
assembly called the Samiti. The King was called the protector of his tribe. He protected cattle, fought
wars and offered prayers to gods on its behalf. So, Statement 2 is correct.

18. With reference to Rig Vedic Period, the term "Aditi and Ushas" refers to
(a) Crop variety
(b) Women priests
(c) Village Assemblies
(d) Female deities
EXPLANATION:
The term "Aditi and Ushas" refers to female gods even though there were no temples and no idol worship
during the early Vedic period. Prayers were offered to the gods in the expectation of rewards. Ghee, milk
and grain were given as offerings. Elaborate rituals were followed during the worship.
During the Rig Vedic, Aryans worshiped natural forces like earth, fire, wind, rain and thunder. They
personified these natural forces into many gods and worshipped them. The important Rig Vedic gods
were Prithvi (Earth), Agni (Fire), Vayu (Wind), Varuna (Rain) and Indra (Thunder). Indra was the most
popular among them during the early Vedic period. Next in importance to Indra was Agni, who was
regarded as an intermediary between the gods and people. Varuna was supposed to be the upholder of
the natural order. So, Option (d) is correct.

19. With reference to Rig vedic age, the painted grey ware potteries were mainly found in how many of the
following region?
1. Hastinapur
2. Atrajikhera
3. Matsya
4. Noh
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
EXPLANATION:
Painted Grey Ware (PGW) is a distinctive type of fine, grey pottery with designs painted on in black, made
and used in parts of north India between c. 1000 and 500 BCE. Agriculture and various crafts enabled
the later Vedic people to lead a settled life. Excavations and explorations give us some idea about

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 settlements in later Vedic times. Widespread Painted Grey Ware sites have been found not only in western
UP and Delhi, which was the Kuru–Panchala area, but also in the adjoining parts of Punjab and Haryana,
the Madra area, and in those of Rajasthan, which was the Matsya area.
Altogether, we can count nearly 700 sites, mostly in the upper Gangetic basin, only a few sites, such as
Hastinapur, Atranjikhera, and Noh have been excavated So, Option (d) is correct.

20. With reference to Political organisation during Later Vedic period, consider the following statements:
1. The tribal assemblies sabha and Samiti appeared for the first time during this period.
2. Collection of taxes and tributes were unheard of during the Later vedic phase.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
In later Vedic times, the Rig Vedic tribal assemblies lost importance, and royal power increased at their
cost. The vidatha completely disappeared; the sabha and Samiti continued to hold their ground, but
their character changed. They were now controlled by chiefs and rich nobles, and women were no longer
permitted to sit in the sabha which was now dominated by warriors and brahmanas. Hence, The Rig
Veda mentions assemblies such as the Sabha and Samiti. The former seems to have been a council of
elders, and the latter, a general assembly of the entire people. So, Statement 1 is not correct.
During the later Vedic period, the collection of taxes and tributes seems to have become common. These
were probably deposited with an officer called sangrihitri, who worked as the King's companion.
The epics tell us that at the time of a grand sacrifice, large-scale distributions were made by the princes,
and all sections of the people were sumptuously fed. In the discharge of his duties, the King was assisted
by the priest, the commander, the chief queen, and a few other high functionaries. At the lower level, the
administration was possibly run by village assemblies, which may have been controlled by the chiefs of
the dominant clans. These assemblies also tried local cases. However, even in later Vedic times, the King
did not have a standing army. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

21. With reference to Ancient India, the term "Sangrihitri" refers to

(a) Tribal chief
(b) Later Vedic poet
(c) Tax collector
(d) Priest
EXPLANATION:
The term 'Sangrihitri' refers to the officer responsible for collecting and levying taxes During the Later
Vedic period. The Sangrihitri worked as the King's companion.

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 The epics tell us that at the time of a grand sacrifice, large-scale distributions were made by the princes,
and all sections of the people were sumptuously fed. In the discharge of his duties, the King was assisted
by the priest, the commander, the chief queen, and a few other high functionaries. At the lower level, the
administration was possibly run by village assemblies, which may have been controlled by the chiefs of
the dominant clans. These assemblies also tried local cases. However, even in later Vedic times, the King
did not have a standing army. Tribal units were mustered in times of war, and according to one ritual,
for success in war, the King had to eat along with his people (Vis) from the same plate. So, Option (c) is
correct.

22. With reference to Ancient India, Consider the following pairs :

S.No. Popular terms Refers to
1. Asvamedha - Chariot race
2. Rajasuya - Offering grains and milk
3. Vajpeya - Uninterrupted run of Royal horse
How many of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pair
(c) All three pair
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
A King performed the Asvamedha, which meant unquestioned control over the area in which the royal
horse ran uninterrupted. The ceremony laster for three days at the end of which horse sacrifice was
performed.So, Pair (1) is not correct.
Rajasuya: The King's influence was strengthened by rituals, include offerings of grain along with milk,
ghee and animals. He performed this sacrifice, which was supposed to confer supreme power on him.
So, Pair (2) is correct.
A king performed the Vajpeya or the chariot race, in which the royal chariot was made to win the race
against his kinsmen. The ritual lasted for seventeen days and was believed not only to restore the
strength of the middle-aged king but also to elevate him from the position to raja of that of samrat. So,
Pair (3) is not correct.

23. With reference to Vedic age, Consider the following statements

1. The institution of Gotra appeared in later Vedic times
2. Gotra signified descent from a different ancestor
3. No marriage could takes place between the persons belonging to the same gotra
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

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EXPLANATION:
The institution of gotra (literally meaning-cow pen) appeared in the later Vedic age. As against tribal
endogamy (marriage within tribe) people practised gotra exogamy (marrying outside the gotra). So,
Statement 1 is correct.
Gotra signified descent from a common ancestor and marriages could not take place between couples
belonging to the same Gotra. Monogamous marriages were preferred even though polygamy was
frequent. Some restrictions on women appeared during this period. So, Statement 2 is not correct and
Statement 3 is correct.

24. How many of the following is/are introduced by Mahavira under the Doctrine of Jainism
1. Do not commit violence
2. Do not acquire property
3. Observe continence
Select the correct answer using the code give below
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
Jainism taught five doctrines:
1. do not commit violence,
2. do not tell a lie,
3. do not steal
4. do not hoard
5. observe continence (brahmacharya).
➢ It is said that only the fifth doctrine was added by Mahavira. So, Statement 3 is
correct.
➢ The other four were taken over by him from previous teachers. Jainism attached the
utmost importance to ahimsa or non-injury to living beings. Sometimes it led to absurd
results, for some Jaina kings ordered the execution of persons guilty of killing animals.
So, Statements 1 and 2 are not correct.

25. With reference to 6th Century BC of Ancient History, Consider the following pairs:
S.No. Kingdom Capital
1. Anga - Champa
2. Kosala - Sravasti
3. Sakya - Lumbini

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 How many of the pairs given above is/are not correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) All three pairs
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
In the age of the Buddha we find sixteen large states called mahajanapadas. Most of these states arose
in the upper and midGangetic plains, including the doab area covered by the Ganges, Yamuna, and
their tributaries. They were mostly situated north of the Vindhyas and extended from the north-west
frontier to Bihar. Of these, Magadha, Koshala, Vatsa, and Avanti seem to have been powerful.
Beginning from the east, we hear of the kingdom of Anga which covered the modern districts of
Monghyr and Bhagalpur. It had its capital at Champa, which shows signs of habitation in the fifth
century BC, and there is a mud fort dating to that century. Eventually the kingdom of Anga was
swallowed by its powerful neighbour Magadha. So, Pair (1) is correct.
Koshala embraced the area occupied by eastern UP and had its capital at Shravasti, which is
coterminous with Sahet–Mahet on the borders of Gonda and Bahraich districts of UP. Diggings indicate
that Sahet–Mahet was barely settled in the sixth century BC, but we see the beginnings of a mud fort.
Koshala had an important city called Ayodhya which is associated with the story in the Ramayana.
Excavations however show that it was not settled on any scale before the fifth century BC. So, Pair (2)
is correct.
Koshala also included the tribal republican territory of the Shakyas of Kapilavastu. The capital of
Kapilavastu is identified with Piprahwa in Basti district. Habitation at Piprahwa did not occur earlier
than c. 500 BC. Lumbini, which is situated at a distance of 15 km from Piprahwa in Nepal, served as
another capital of the Shakyas. In an Ashokan inscription, it is called the birthplace of Gautama
Buddha. So, Pair (3) is correct.

26. With reference to Mahajanapadas, Consider the following statements

1. The kingdom of Vatsas was located along the banks of Yamuna
2. The republic clan of Mallas were part of Vatsa
3. Vatsas established a fortified capital at Kausambi
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The kingdom of the Vatsas was a powerful principality in the sixth century BCE, along the bank of the
Yamuna, with its capital at Kaushambi near Allahabad. The Vatsas were a Kuru clan who had shifted

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 from Hastinapur and settled at Kaushambi. Kaushambi was chosen because of its location near the
confluence of the Ganga and the Yamuna. In the fifth century BC, it had a mud fortification, as
excavations reveal. So, Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
In the neighbourhood of Koshala lay the republican clan of the Mallas, whose territory touched the
northern border of Vajji state. One of the capitals of the Mallas was at Kushinara where Gautama
Buddha passed away. Kushinara is coterminous with Kasia in Deoria district.The republic clan of
Mallas was not part of Vatsa. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

27. With reference to Magadan empire, consider the following statements

1. Bindusara, the founder of Magadan empire was contemporary to Buddha
2. Ajatasatru had used the Marriage alliance as the diplomatic tool to expand his territory
3. The state of Anga was annexed during the reign of Bimbisara
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
Bimbisara (not Bindusara) is the founder of Magadha empire as well as founder of Haryanka dynasty.
He is a contemporary of the Buddha. According to the Buddhist chronicles, Bimbisara ruled for fifty-
two years, roughly from 544 to 492 BC. He was succeeded by his son Ajatashatru (492–60 BC). So,
Statement 1 is not correct.

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 Bimbisara (not Ajatashatru) strengthened his position by marriage alliances. He had three wives.
Bimbisara’s first wife was the daughter of the king of Koshala and the sister of Prasenajit, the son and
successor of the Koshalan king. The Koshalan bride brought Bimbisara as dowry a Kashi village yielding
a revenue of 100,000 which suggests that revenues were collected in terms of coins. The marriage
bought off the hostility of Koshala and gave Bimbisara a free hand in dealing with the other states. His
second wife, Chellana, was a Lichchhavi princess from Vaishali who gave birth to Ajatashatru, and his
third wife was the daughter of the chief of the Madra clan of Punjab. Marriage relations with the different
princely families lent enormous diplomatic prestige and paved the way for the expansion of Magadha
westward and northward. So, Statement 2 is not correct.
Bimbisara began the policy of conquest and aggression which ended with the Kalinga war of Ashoka.
Bimbisara acquired Anga and placed it under the viceroyalty of his son Ajatashatru at Champa. So,
Statement 3 is correct.

28. With reference to the state formation during sixth century BCE, Consider the following statements
1. The king was the sole recipient of revenue in Monarch state whereas it was advanced by tribal
oligarch in Republic system
2. Every monarch maintained the standing army whereas Republic did not
3. Brahmanas had the great influence in both Monarch and Republic state
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The republics differed from the monarchies in several ways. In the monarchies the king claimed to be
the sole recipient of revenue from the peasant, but in the republics, this claim was advanced by every
tribal oligarch who was known as raja. Each one of the 7707 Lichchhavi rajas maintained his own
storehouse and apparatus of administration. So, Statement 1 is correct.
Every monarchy maintained its regular standing army and did not permit any group or groups of people
to carry arms within its boundaries. However, in a tribal oligarchy, each raja was free to maintain his
own little army under his senapati, enabling each of them to compete with the other. So, Statement 2
is correct.
The brahmanas exercised great influence in a monarchy, but they had no place in the early republics,
nor did they recognize these states in their law-books. Finally, the principal difference between a
monarchy and a republic was the same as that between one-man rule and many-men rule. The republic
functioned under the leadership of oligarchic assemblies but the monarchy under the leadership of an
individual. So, Statement 3 is not correct.

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29. With reference to Human habitation in 6th Century BC, Consider the following pairs :
S.No. Term Refers to
1. Grama - Village
2. Nigama - Fortified City
3. Pura - Market town
How many of the pairs given above is/are correct
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
Kinship was the basis of the social structure of Rig Vedic society. People were identified with specific
clans and the clans formed the tribe or jana. The term jana means tribe. It occurs in the Rig Veda 21
times but janapada does not occur even once. The term vis, which refers to the common people, occurs
170 times and they lived in gramas (villages). So, Pair (1) is correct.
Trade-related terms such as vanikan, chattan and nigama appear in the Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions. The
nigama was a market town, often associated with commercial activities. So, Pair (2) is not correct.
While the term janapada also denotes countryside; pura or nagara denotes the urban centres, often
associated with fortifications. Literary authors often portrayed a sharp distinction between the pura (city)
and the janapada (countryside) to reinforce the uniqueness and grandness of the city. This distinction
manifested in various ways – the city and its ethos encouraged questioning of established norms and
symbols, brought together people from various social strata together to live in close vicinity rather than
segregated and separated spaces. So, Pair (3) is not correct.

30. With reference to Ancient Indian History “Nikkha, Masaka, and Kakanika” refers to
(a) Coins
(b) Capital cities
(c) Learning centres
(d) Occupations
EXPLANATION:
The most eloquent proof of the growth of trade during the age of the mahajanapadas is seen in the arrival
of coins as a medium of exchange. Pali texts contain the first definite references to coins, e.g., kahapana,
nikkha, kamsa, pada, masaka, and kakanika. So, Option (a) is correct.

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31. Consider the following statements
1. Right to left written Kharosthi script
2. Use of punch marked coins
3. Bell shaped capital in Pillars
4. Preamble of Ashokan Edicts
How many of the above is/are influenced from Iranian invasion into India in 6th Century BC?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
EXPLANATION:
As the north-western part of India came under the control of the Persian Empire from about middle of
the sixth century, the region became a centre of confluence of Persian and Indian culture. The most
significant impact was the development of the Kharosthi script, used in the northwestern part of India.
It was used by Ashoka in his inscriptions in the Gandhara region. The Kharosthi script was derived from
Aramaic used widely in the Achaemenid Empire of Persia. Like Aramaic, Kharosthi was written from
right to left. So, Statement 1 is correct.
Iranian coins are also found in the north-west frontier region which points to the existence of trade with
Iran. But it is wrong to think that the punch-marked coins continued in India as a result of contact with
Iran. So, Statement 2 is not correct.
Iranian influence on the Maurya sculpture is clearly perceptible. The monuments of Asoka’s time
especially the bell shaped capitals, owed something to the Iranian models. So, Statement 3 is correct.
Iranian influence may also be traced in the preamble of Asoka’s edicts as well as in certain words used
in them. For instance, for the Iranian term dipi the Asokan scribe used the term lipi. So, Statement 4
is correct.

32. Consider the following

1. Digambaras spreaded Jainism in south India under the leadership of Bhadrabahu
2. Digambara sect adhered to a more permissive set of religious guidelines
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
About 500 years after Mahavira’s death, in about 79 or 82 CE, a schism occurred in Jainism. Magadha
was affected by severe famine and some of the Jaina monks under Bhadrabahu went south India to

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 maintain their strict discipline. They remained without garments and were known as Digambaras (space-
clad or naked). So, Statement 1 is correct.
Others stayed back under the leadership of Sthulabhadra and adopted a white garment and were known
as Svetambaras (white-clad). The Jains (Digambaras) who went to South, after famine came back to
Magadha alleged that the Jains who stayed at Magadha has violated the rules and became lax while
Digambaras maintained the strict religious rules even during famine. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

33. Consider the following statements:

1. The early Jainas discarded the use of Sanskrit language
2. Jainas adopted Pali language to preach their doctrines
3. Jainas contributed in growth of Sauraseni language
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The early Jainas discarded Sanskrit language mainly patronized by the Brahmanas. Similarly, the
earliest Buddhist works are in Pali, but in the later phase, Sanskrit came to be used to a great extent.
So, Statement 1 is correct.
They adopted Prakrit language of the common people to preach their doctrines. The Jaina canonical
literature at first took shape in Prakrit dialects. Sanskrit came to be the medium later. So, Statement
2 is not correct.
The adoption of Prakrit by the Jainas helped the growth of this language and its literature. Many
regional languages developed out of prakrit languages, particularly Sauraseni, put of which grew the
Marathi language. So, Statement 3 is correct.

34. With reference to Buddhism, consider the following statements

1. Sutta pitaka is the collections of Buddha’s sermons
2. Jatakas dealing with stories of previous birth of Buddha are part of Sutta pitaka
3. Anguttara Nikaya which describes about various Mahajanpadas is part of Sutta pitaka
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

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EXPLANATION:
There are texts composed by the Buddhists. They are Vinaya Pitaka dealing with the rules of the order,
the Sutta Pitaka a collection of Buddha's sermons and the Abhidhamma Pitaka discussing problems of
metaphysics tell us about the preachers, princes, rich, poor and towns and villages of that period. So,
Statement 1 is correct.
The Jatakas dealing with the stories of the previous births of the Buddha are part of the Sutta Pitaka.
They give us graphic descriptions of the contemporary society. So, Statement 2 is correct.
The Buddhist sources refer to the presence of sixteen Mahajanapadas in the period when the Buddha
lived. These Mahajanapadas represented a conglomerate of thousands of villages and a few cities. These
Mahajanapadas extended from the North Western Pakistan to East Bihar and from the sub montane
regions of the Himalayas to the river Godavari in the South. The Buddhist text Anguttara Nikaya which
is a pan of the Sutta-Pitaka talks about sixteen Mahajanapadas in the time of Buddha. So, Statement
3 is correct.

35. With reference to Charvaka School of philosophy, which among the following is not correct?
(a) Brihaspati was the founder of the Charvaka School of philosophy
(b) The philosophy deals with materialistic life with pleasure the ultimate object in life
(c) Charvaka believes in the existence of God and soul in the world
(d) Charvaka did not recognise the next birth of Human
EXPLANATION:
➢ Brihaspati is supposed to be the founder of the Charvaka School of philosophy. It finds mention in
the Vedas and Brihadaranyka Upanishad. Thus it is supposed to be the earliest in the growth of the
philosophical knowledge. It holds that knowledge is the product of the combination of four elements
which leaves no trace after death.
➢ Charvaka philosophy deals with the materialistic philosophy. It is also known as the Lokayata
Philosophy - the philosophy of the masses. According to Charvaka there is no other world. Hence,
death is the end of humans and pleasure the ultimate object in life. Charvaka recognises no existence
other than this material world.
➢ Out of the five elements earth, water, fire, air and ether, the Charvakas do not recognise ether as it
is not known through perception. The whole universe according to them is thus consisted of four
elements.
➢ Since God, soul, and heaven, cannot be perceived, they are not recognised by Charvakas. So, Option
(c) is not correct.

36. With reference to Ancient Indian History, Asvajit, Upali, Mogallana refers to
(a) Jaina poets
(b) Buddhist disciples
(c) Sanskrit literature
(d) Trading centres

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EXPLANATION:
Asvajit, Upali, Mogallana, Sari-putra and Ananda were the first five disciples of the Buddha. All the
teachings of the Buddha were divided into two Pitakas, namely: Vinaya Pitaka and Sutta Pitaka. The text
of Vinaya Pitaka was established under the leadership of Upali and that of Sutta Pitaka was settled under
the leadership of Ananda. The statue of Buddha that we see in any Buddhist temple today is normally
accompanied by the statues of His two great disciples. The one standing at the left side of Buddha's
statue is Maha Mogallan while the one at the right side is Ananda. So, Option (b) is correct.

37. With reference to the teachings of Buddhism, consider the following statements
1. ‘Nirvana’ is the ultimate goal in the life of a man
2. The life of the individual is determined based on the past actions
3. Individual should avoid both severe asceticism and luxurious life
How many of the statements given above is/are part of Buddha’s preachings?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The Buddha preached ‘nirvana,’ the ultimate goal in the life of a man. It means the shedding of all desires
and ending of suffering, which finally leads to freedom from rebirth. By the process of elimination of
desire, one can attain ‘nirvana.’ Therefore, the Buddha preached that desire is the real problem. Prayers
and sacrifices will not end the desire. So, unlike the emphasis on rituals and ceremonies in the Vedic
religion, he emphasized the moral life of an individual. So, Statement 1 is correct.
Buddhism laid great emphasis on the law of ‘karma.’ According to this law, the present is determined by
past actions. The condition of man in this life and the next depends upon his own actions. So, Statement
2 is correct.
The Buddha neither accepted nor rejected the existence of God. He was more concerned about the
individual and his actions.

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 ➢ He emphasized on the spirit of love. Love could be expressed towards all living beings by following
‘ahimsa’ (non-killing). Though the principle was well understood, it was not emphasized as much
as in Jainism.
➢ He said an individual should pursue the middle path, and both severe asceticism as well as
luxurious life are to be avoided. So, Statement 3 is correct.

38. Consider the following statements

1. The Sangha was well organised religious order of the Buddhists and governed by democratic
principles
2. The membership of Sangha was open to all people irrespective of age and gender
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
The Sangha was the religious order of the Buddhists. It was a well-organized and powerful institution
that popularised Buddhism. The Sangha was governed by democratic principles and was empowered to
enforce discipline amongst its members. There was a code of conduct for the monks and nuns and they
were bound to obey it. The Sangha had the power to punish the erring members. So, Statement 1 is
correct.
Membership of Sangha was open to all persons above fifteen years of age (not all age people), irrespective
of caste. Initially, the Buddha was not in favor of admitting women in the Sangha. However, he admitted
them at the repeated requests of his chief disciple, Ananda and his foster mother, Mahapajapati Gotami.
But Criminals, lepers and persons affected by infectious diseases were not given admission into the
Sangha. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

39. With reference to first Buddhist Council, Which among the following statement is incorrect?
(a) The council was held in 483 BCE in the Saptapami cave near Rajagriha
(b) The council was presided over by Mahakassapa
(c) The council ended in a permanent split in the Buddhist order into Sthaviravadins and
Mahasangikas
(d) The teaching of the Buddha were divided into three pitakas
EXPLANATION:
According to tradition shortly after the death of the Buddha the first Buddhist Council was held in 483
BCE in the Saptapami cave near Rajagriha . Mahakassapa presided over the assembly. All the teachings
of the Buddha were divided into two Pitakas, namely: Vinaya Pitaka and Sutta Pitaka. The text of Vinaya

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 Pitaka was established under the leadership of Upali and that of Sutta Pitaka was settled under the
leadership of Ananda.
The second council ended in a permanent split in the Buddhist order into Sthaviravadins and
Mahasangikas. The former upheld the orthodox Vinaya Pitaka, while the latter favored the new rules and
their further relaxation. Hence, a permanent split in the Buddhist order into Sthaviravadins and
Mahasangikas is not at first council. So, Option (c) is not correct.

40. Which among the following is/are correct regarding Ajivikas.

1. Ajivikas believed in transmigration of soul
2. Ajivikas introduced cosmic principles in place of natural personification of the Vedas
3. Ajivikas developed earliest atomic theory in India
Select the correct answer using the code given below
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
EXPLANATION:
The most prominent teacher of the Ajivika sect was Makkali Gosala He was at one time closely associated
with Mahavira but later went a separate path. The theory that Ajivikas believed in, was Fatalism. Ajivikas
believed in the transmigration of the soul, and every soul was fated to run the same course through a
period of 84,00,000 mahakalpas. All beings were driven by destiny (niyati), chance (Sangati) and nature
(bhava). So, Statement 1 is correct.
The three heterodox sects of Buddhism, Jainism and Ajivikism had much in common. All three were
against the sacrificial rituals of the Brahmanical religion and the monistic theories of the Upanishads.
The Ajivikas introduced cosmic principles in place of the natural personification of the Vedas and the
world-soul theory of the Upanishads. All three religions recognized the rule of natural law in the universe.
So, Statement 2 is correct.
The Ajivikas believed in niyati, the all-encompassing rule of the principle of order. According to them,
Niyati controlled everything – all actions, all phenomena. Human volition has no role and is completely
ineffectual. Thus, strict determinism was the central tenet of Ajivikism. Ajivikas developed India’s earliest
atomic theory. They practiced asceticism of the most severe form, which often ended in death by
starvation. So, Statement 3 is correct.

41. A new Trade and Partnership Agreement (TEPA) was signed between India and the European Free Trade
Association (EFTA) States. The EFTA constitutes
1. Iceland
2. Liechtenstein
3. Denmark

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 4. Norway
5. Netherlands
6. Switzerland
Select the correct answer using the code given below
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(c) 1, 2, 4 and 6 only
(d) 3, 4, 5 and 6 only
EXPLANATION:
India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) States (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and
Switzerland) have taken a significant stride forward in their quest for a Trade and Economic Partnership
Agreement (TEPA). The Ministerial meeting that was held in Brussels marked a significant milestone in
taking forward the negotiations on a TEPA between India and EFTA. Both sides emphasized the
importance of building their discussions on principles of trust and respect for each other's sensitivities
to achieve a fair, equitable and balanced agreement. Indeed, a TEPA between EFTA and India could
bring significant economic benefits, such as better integrated and more resilient supply chains and
new opportunities for businesses and individuals on both sides, leading to increased trade and
investment flows, job creation, and economic growth. So, Option (c) is correct.

42. What are the advantages of the direct-seeding method of paddy cultivation when compared to
transplanting rice?
1. Less water
2. Less labour
3. Less methane emissions
4. Low production cost
5. Prolonged crop maturity

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 Select the correct answer using the code given below
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
EXPLANATION:
Direct Seeding Technology or Direct Seeded Rice is a method of rice cultivation where paddy seeds are
directly sown in the field, eliminating the need for the traditional transplantation process. DSR does not
require flooding the rice field, puddling, or nursery management. It is a resource-efficient method
requiring less water, labor and time.DSR method saves 30% of the water that is being wasted in the
Puddled Transplanted System. It requires less water for irrigation and prevents the wastage of water. So,
Statement 1 is correct.

DSR method reduces production costs by skipping extensive field preparation, nursery raising, and
labour costs. It requires less labour as compared to the PTS method. DSR method reduces the overall
cost of cultivation by saving labor and water. So, Statements 2 and 4 are correct.
Direct-seeding method reduces methane emissions by using a shorter flooding period and less soil
disturbance than transplanting rice seedlings. It gives an early crop maturity of 8-10 days. It fits in
different cropping systems and provides the farmer with ample time to prepare the field for the next crop.
So, Statement 3 is correct and 5 is not correct.

43. With reference to genetic modification, consider the following statements

1. It involves altering the genes in a plant, animal or microorganism.
2. Chemicals, radiation, spontaneous changes and traditional processing can alter the characteristics
of an organism without targeting a specific gene.
3. Bt cotton is the only genetically modified (GM) crop approved for commercial cultivation in 2002 in
India.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
A GMO (genetically modified organism) is a plant, animal, or microorganism that has had its genetic
material (DNA) changed using technology that generally involves the specific modification of DNA,
including the transfer of specific DNA from one organism to another. Scientists often refer to this
process as genetic engineering. So, Statement 1 is correct.

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 Apart from genetic modification, there are other ways to alter genes. Chemicals, radiation, spontaneous
changes and traditional processing can also alter the characteristics of an organism without targeting
a specific gene. Spontaneous alteration most of the time, has little-to-no effect on the genes, takes place
naturally and is non-specific. So, Statement 2 is correct.
Bt cotton is the only genetically modified (GM) crop that was approved for commercial cultivation in
2002 by the Government of India. So, Statement 3 is correct.

44. With which of the following countries has India signed the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement
(ECTA)?
(a) United Arab Emirates
(b) Australia
(c) Thailand
(d) The Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN
EXPLANATION:
The India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement ("IndAus ECTA") were signed by Shri
Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public
Distribution and Textiles, Government of India and Mr. Dan Tehan, the Minister for Trade, Tourism
and Investment, Government of Australia in a virtual ceremony, in the presence of Hon'ble Prime
Minister of India and Australia. Terming' people to people' relations as the key pillar of the relationship
between India and Australia, the Prime Minister said, "This agreement will facilitate the exchange of
students, professionals, and tourists between us, which will further strengthen these relations.
"The IndAus ECTA, encompassing trade in goods and services, is a balanced and equitable trade
agreement, which will further cement the already deep, close and strategic relations between the two
countries and will significantly enhance the bilateral trade in goods and services, create new
employment opportunities, raise living standards and improve the general welfare of the peoples of the
two countries. So, Option (b) is correct.

45. With reference to Rang Ghar, consider the following statements

1. It is known as the first Amphitheater or the first Pavilion of Asia.
2. The British East India Company built it in the 19th century for the enjoyment of recreational/sports
activities in Uttarakhand.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
EXPLANATION:
Rang Ghar, believed to be Asia's oldest (first) surviving amphitheater in Asia, is located near the seven-
storied Rangpur Palace in Sivasagar, for those who are new to Sivasagar, the present-day Sivasagar
was the royal seat of the Ahom kings. So, Statement 1 is correct.

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 Rang Ghar in Sivasagar was a sports pavilion during the time of Ahom kings. The structure stands out
and is one of the finest examples of Ahom architecture. It was not just a venue for animal sports but
also for events such as wrestling and dance performances. Rang Ghar means House of Entertainment.
The royal family and the nobles, especially during the Rongali Bihu festival, would gather here to watch
buffalo fights and other traditional games and sports. It was built by Swargadeo Promotta Singha in
the year 1744 A.D. So, Statement 2 is not correct.

46. With reference to Khasis, consider the following statements

1. Khasis, the largest ethnic community in Meghalaya, is one of the last existing matrilineal societies
in the world.
2. They are known to be one of the earliest ethnic groups of settlers in the Indian sub-continent.
3. Though they are matrilineal societies, they follow a patrilineal system of property inheritance.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The Khasi tribe is one of the major ethnic groups in the Indian state of Meghalaya and is one of the last
remaining matriarchal societies in the world. The Khasi people primarily inhabit the Khasi Hills, one of
the seven sister states in the northeastern region of India. So, Statement 1 is correct

The Khasi, Jaintia, Bhoi, War collectively known as the Hynniewtrep people, predominantly inhabit the
districts of East Meghalaya, also known to be one of the earliest ethnic group of settlers in the Indian
sub-continent, belonging to the Proto Austroloid Monkhmer race. So, Statement 2 is correct.
The Khasi tribe still follows the ancient tradition of matrilineage, where women inherit ancestral
property, children adopt their mother's surname, and the local market is abuzz with independent
female vendors who have complete control over their business. In the Khasi society, it is only the
youngest daughter, or “Ka Khadduh,” is eligible to inherit the ancestral property. Hence, they follow a
matrilineal system of property inheritance. So, Statement 3 is not correct.

47. Consider the following statements with reference to digital-twin technology

1. A digital twin is a digital representation of a physical object, person, or process in a digital version of
its environment.
2. It helps an organization simulate real situations and their outcomes, ultimately allowing it to make
better decisions.
3. Besides manufacturing industries, it can be useful in smart city planning and healthcare services.

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 How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
A digital twin is a digital representation of a physical object, person, or process contextualized in a digital
version of its environment. Digital twins can help an organization simulate real situations and their
outcomes, ultimately allowing it to make better decisions. So, Statements 1 and 2 are correct.
➢ Digital twins play a pivotal role in the advancement of smart cities. By creating a digital twin of a
city, it provides a highly detailed, data-driven view of the city's operations. This enables urban
planners to test scenarios, predict outcomes, and make informed decisions about city management.
➢ It can help physicians and researchers better understand population health and even treat heart
disorders. In the healthcare sector, a digital twin is a patient's customized computer model. It enables
continuous monitoring, comprehension, and optimization of all human processes, as well as
continuous health knowledge, to improve life quality and well-being. So, Statement 3 is correct.

48. Consider the following statements with reference to blue holes

1. The blue holes are found on coastal karst platforms around the world.
2. No evidence of biological life forms has been found inside the blue holes.
3. The deepest blue hole found on the planet is in the Atlantic Ocean.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
Scientists have discovered a massive sinkhole off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. The giant
blue hole is around 900 feet deep, and scientists have dubbed it the second deepest blue hole found on
the planet. The blue holes found on coastal karst platforms around the world, including the Caribbean
Sea and the Yucatán Peninsula, contain unique environments within them. So, Statement 1 is correct.
Blue holes have also been identified as hotspots for microbial life. The microbes found here appear to
feed on hydrogen sulfide, which is toxic to other lifeforms. Along with several other blue holes in the
world, one of the blue holes in the Bahamas is known to have a mat of microbes completely covering the
walls. So, Statement 2 is not correct.
Researchers from the Sansha Ship Course Research Institute for Coral Protection recently discovered
that the world's deepest blue hole is located in the South China Sea. Using an underwater robot dubbed

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 "VideoRay Pro 4," they measured the depth of the sinkhole, known locally as a Longdong or the "Dragon
Hole," in the ocean floor located in the Xisha, or Paracel Islands. So, Statement 3 is not correct.

49. With reference to the National Manufacturing Innovation Survey (NMIS) 2021-22, consider the following
statements
1. It is a joint study by NITI Aayog and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization
(UNIDO) to evaluate the innovation performance of manufacturing firms in the India.
2. Karnataka ranked the most ‘innovative’ State by the National Manufacturing Innovation Survey.
3. Over 80% of manufacturing firms benefitted significantly in expanding markets and production and
reducing costs.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
The National Manufacturing Innovation Survey (NMIS) 2021-22 is a joint study by the Department of
Science and Technology (and not by the NITI Aayog) and the United Nations Industrial Development
Organization (UNIDO) to evaluate the innovation performance of manufacturing firms in the India. So,
Statement 1 is not correct.
➢ The NMIS study was conducted as a 2-pronged survey that examined the innovation processes,
outcomes, and barriers in manufacturing firms and also studied the innovation ecosystem that
affects innovation outcomes in these firms.
A survey on the degree of innovation among manufacturing firms found that Karnataka, overall, is the
most “innovative” State, followed by Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu (DNH&DD), Telangana,
and Tamil Nadu. So, Statement 2 is correct.
➢ Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu had the highest share of innovative firms at 46.18% ,39.10%
and 31.90%, respectively, with Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand reporting the lowest share of such
firms at 12.78%, 13.47% and 13.71%, respectively.
The Firm-level survey captured data related to types of innovations and innovative measures taken by
firms, including the process of innovation, access to finance, resources, and information for innovation,
besides also recording the factors impacting the innovation activities in a firm. One in four firms was
found to have successfully implemented an innovation in the observation period, and over 80% of these
firms benefitted significantly in expanding markets and production and reducing costs. So, Statement
3 is correct

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50. With reference to decarbonisation, consider the following statements
1. Decarbonising transportation can reduce the need for investment in core infrastructure of roads,
railways and ports.
2. It can help in achieving the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement, according to the transport outlook
report of the International Transport Forum.
3. The International Transport Forum is a think tank for transport policy administratively integrated
with the OECD.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
EXPLANATION:
According to ITF Transport Outlook, acting now and decarbonising transportation can reduce the need
for investment in core infrastructure — roads, railways and ports. Decarbonisation, in turn, can help in
achieving the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement. Every two years, the International Transport Forum
(ITF) publishes the ITF Transport Outlook, which provides an overview of current trends and future
prospects for the global transport sector based on its in-house transport models. So, Statements 1 and
2 are correct.
The International Transport Forum at the OECD is an intergovernmental organisation with 63 member
countries. It acts as a think tank for transport policy and organises the Annual Summit of transport
ministers. ITF is the only global body that covers all transport modes. So, Statement 3 is correct.

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