UPSC WEEKLY CURRENT AFF. TEST 16 TO 22 SEPT 2019 QUESTION PAPER

BY. MR. PRABHU LAL PRAJAPAT

WEEKLY CURRENT AFF TEST 16 TO 22 SEPT 2019

QUESTION PAPER

  

1. Consider the following statements.

1. UchhatarAvishkar Yojana (UAY) is a pan-IIT and IISc joint collaboration to develop a blueprint for research of immediate relevance to society.

2. IMPRINT India scheme aims to promote innovation of a higher order that directly impacts the needs of the Industry and thereby improves the competitive edge of Indian manufacturing.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1 only

 b) 2 only

 c) Both

 d) None

2. Consider the following statements regarding National Population Register (NPR).

1. The objective of the National Population Register is to create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country.

2. National Population Register is similar to decennial Census, which records biometric and family-tree details of Indian citizens.

3. It is mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1 only

 d) 1, 3

3. Consider the following statements regarding Kosi-Mechi Interlinking project.

1. Kosi-Mechi Interlinking project is the third major river interlinking project in the country to be approved by Central Government.

2. Kosi is an international river originating from Tibet and flows through plains of North Bihar.

3.  Mechi river is a tributary of river Mahanadi.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1 only

 c) 1, 3

 d) 2, 3

4. Consider the following statements regarding Fixed Dose Combinations (FDCs).

1. Fixed dose combinations (FDCs) are the cocktail of two or more active drug ingredients in a fixed ratio of doses.

2. They are less popular in India.

3. The Government is promoting Fixed Dose Combinations (FDCs) through Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Programme.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1, 3

 c) 2, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

5. Consider the following statements regarding United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

1. UNIDO is the specialized agency of the United Nationsthat promotes industrial development for poverty reduction.

2. UNIDO is also a member of United Nations Development Programme(UNDP).

3. UNIDO’s programmatic focus is on Safeguarding the environment.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1, 3

 c) 2, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

6. Consider the following statements regarding United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

1. UNRWA is the only UN agency dedicated to helping refugees from a specific region or conflict.

2. UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions from UN Member States.

3. India’s contribution to UNRWA has been decreasing from the past 3 years.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 2 only

 b) 1, 2

 c) 2, 3

 d) 1, 3

7. Consider the following statements regarding Quit India Movement.

1. The Quit India movement was started by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942.

2. The Congress was declared an unlawful association.

3. The entire movement was violentwith raids and setting fire at post offices, government buildings and railway stations.

Which of the above statement was incorrect?

 a) 1, 3

 b) 2, 3

 c) 3 only

 d) None of the above

8. Consider the following statements about Poliomyelitis.

1. It is a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children.

2. The virus is transmitted by person-to-person and spread through contaminated water or food.

3. With latest developments in medicine, Polio disease can be cured.

India became the first country globally to introduce fractional doses of IPV in childhood immunisation programme.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2, 3

 b) 1, 4

 c) 1, 3, 4

 d) 1, 2, 4

9. Consider the following statements regarding Common Services Centre (CSC) programme.

1. Common Services Centre (CSC) programme is an initiative of Ministry of Rural Development for delivery of various electronic services to villages in India.

2. They are positioned as change agents, promoting rural entrepreneurship and building rural capacities and livelihoods.

3. CSCs offer web-enabled e-governance services in rural areas.

4. Under the Digital India programme, at least one CSC is envisaged in 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats for delivery of various electronic services to citizens across rural India.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2, 3

 b) 1, 2, 4

 c) 2, 3, 4

 d) 1, 2, 3, 4

10. Consider the following statements regarding appointment of judges to the Supreme Court.

1. The judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the Collegium.

2. A distinguished jurist is eligible to become a judge of the Supreme Court with final approval of the President.

3. To become a judge of the Supreme court, the person should not exceed 65 years of age.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1, 3

 c) 2, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

11. Consider the following statements regarding Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

1. It is an International agreement between governments, that is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

2. CITES is legally binding on state parties to the convention, which are obliged to adopt their own domestic legislation to implement its goals.

3. CITES was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted at a meeting of members of IUCN.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

12. Consider the following pairs.

Operation                  Purpose

Operation Thirst:  Curb the menace of                                      selling  unauthorised                           packaged drinking water.

Operation Sunrise:  Assure the safety and                                security of the Indian                                     vessels transiting                                             through Persian Gulf.

Operation Sankalp: India-Myanmar target                                             insurgent groups                    camp in North East.

Which of the above are correctly matched?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1 only

 c) 1, 3

 d) 2, 3

13. Consider the following statements regarding PUNCH mission.

1. European Space Agency’s PUNCH mission will image regions beyond the Sun’s outer corona.

2. The mission will track the solar wind and also the coronal mass ejections – which are huge masses of plasma that get thrown out of the Sun’s atmosphere.

3. India’s planned satellite Aditya-L1 will also study the Sun’s corona.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1, 3

 c) 2, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

14. Consider the following statements regarding Bharat Ratna.

1. It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour.

2. Bharat Ratna is awarded to Indian citizens only.

3. In terms of Article 18 (1)of the Constitution, the award cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipient’s name and he/she may not use the expression in their biodata/letterhead/visiting card.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1, 3

 c) 2 only

 d) 2, 3

15. Consider the following statements regarding Khadi & Village Industries Commission.

1. The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is a statutory body which seeks to – plan, promote, facilitate, organise and assist in the establishment and development of khadi and village industries in the rural areas.

2. Its objective is to provide employment in rural areas and create self-reliance amongst people and building up a strong rural community spirit.

3. It functions under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

16. Consider the following statements regarding Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

1. Generalized System of Preferences is an exclusive European Union’s trade programme designed to promote economic growth in the developing world by providing preferential duty-free entry for various products.

2. The concept of GSP is very different from the concept of WTO’s Most Favored Nation (MFN) clause.

3. Generalized System of Preferences does not come under the purview of WTO.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

17. Consider the following statements about National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA).

1. The Authority’s main function is to ensure that traders are not realizing unfair profit by charging high price from consumers in the name of GST.

2. NAA is headed by the Ministry of Finance.

3. The GST law also provides for the creation of a Consumer Welfare Fund wherein undue benefits made by businesses under the GST law have to be deposited, in case it cannot be passed on to the identified recipient.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

18. Consider the following statements with reference to E-2020 initiative.

1. E-2020 is the initiative supported by WHO where countries were identified by WHO in 2016 as having the potential to become malaria-free by 2020.

2. The Global technical strategy for malaria 2016-2030, calls for the elimination of malaria in at least 10 countries by the year 2020.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1 only

 b) 2 only

 c) Both

 d) None

19. Consider the following statements regarding Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

1. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body established on the initiative of the G20.

2. FATF works to generate the necessary political will to bring about national legislative and regulatory reforms for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

3. A country is blacklisted if it is non-cooperative in the global fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.

4. The FATF has developed a series of Recommendations that are recognised as the international standard for combating of money laundering and the financing of terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2, 3

 b) 1, 3, 4

 c) 2, 3, 4

 d) 1, 2, 3, 4

20. Consider the following statements regarding UN Security Council.

1. Each year, the General Assembly elects five non-permanent members out of a total of 10, for a two-year term.

2. India has been a non-permanent member of the Security Council seven times previously with the most recent being the 2011–12 term.

3. India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat in the Security Council for the 2021-22 term has been supported by Pakistan and China.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

21. Consider the following statements regarding Total Polar Compounds (TPC).

1. TPC is used to measure the quality of cooking oil.

2. The level of TPC increases every time oil is re-heated.

3. According to FSSAI regulations, the maximum permissible limits for Total Polar Compounds (TPC) have been set at 50%, beyond which the cooking oil is unsafe for consumption.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 1, 3

 c) 2, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

22. Consider the following statements about Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH).

1. STH infectionscan lead to malnutrition, impaired mental and physical & cognitive development.

2. STH Infections cannot be prevented by Wearing slippers and shoes.

3. National Deworming Day is observed to deworm all preschool and school-age children between the ages of 1-19 years through schools and Anganwadi Centers.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 a) 1, 2

 b) 2, 3

 c) 1, 3

 d) 1, 2, 3

23. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘GreenCo Rating System’

1. It is developed by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII)

2. It is applicable to both manufacturing facilities and service sector units

Select the correct statements

1 Only

2 Only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

24. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Bharal’

1. It is found in Indian Himalayas only.

2. It is listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ under the IUCN Red List.

Select the correct statements

1 Only

2 Only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

25. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Rustom-2’

1. It is developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation.
2. It is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance unmanned air vehicle (UAV).

Select the correct statements

1. 1 Only
2. 2 Only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

26. Consider the following statements with respect ‘Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO)’

1. It is an intergovernmental counter-terrorist alliance of countries in the Muslim world, united around military intervention against ISIL and other counter-terrorist activities.
2. Most of its participants are members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Select the correct statements

1. 1 Only
2. 2 Only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

27. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Sa-Dhan’

1. It is an association of microfinance institutions (MFIs).
2. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had accorded it the status of a self-regulatory organization (SRO).

Select the correct statements

1. 1 Only
2. 2 Only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

28. Consider the following statements

1. India is the largest producer of cement in the world.

2. Maharashtra is the largest producer of aluminium in India

Select the correct statements

1 Only

2 Only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

29. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Tawang Monastery’

1. It is located in Arunachal Pradesh

2. It belongs to the Gelug school of Mahayana Buddhism

Select the correct statements

1 Only

2 Only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

30. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘WAVE Summit 2019’

1. It will be organised by NITI Aayog

2. It will be the largest gathering of young women students to promote entrepreneurship in waste management and providing alternatives to single use plastic carry bags.

Select the correct statements

a)     1 Only

b)     2 Only

c)      Both 1 and 2

d)     Neither 1 nor 2

31. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’

1. It is a nation-wide flagship campaign for achieving universal accessibility that will enable persons with disabilities to gain access for equal opportunity and live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life in an inclusive society.

2. It is conceptualised by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

Select the correct statements

a)     1 Only

b)     2 Only

c)      Both 1 and 2

d)     Neither 1 nor 2

32. Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Enemy Property’ in India

1. It refers to any property that was belonging to a person who migrated from India to an enemy country when a war broke out.

2. Enforcement Directorate is the Custodian of Enemy Properties in India.

Select the correct statements

a)     1 Only

b)     2 Only

c)      Both 1 and 2

d)     Neither 1 nor 2

33 Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is mandated with the responsibility of export promotion and development of which of the following products?

1. Alcoholic Beverages

2. Guar Gum

3. Herbal and Medicinal Plants

Select the correct statements

a)     1 and 2

b)     2 and 3

c)      1 and 3

d)     All of the above

34. Consider the following statements in respect of ‘4^th Indian Ocean Conference’:

1. It was held in Maldives.

2. The theme of the conference was 'Securing the Indian Ocean Region: Traditional and NonTraditional Challenges'.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only

b) only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) Neither 1 nor 2

35. With reference to the ‘Japan-India Annual Defence Ministerial Dialogue’, consider the following statements:

1. Both countries have decided to hold first Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2).

2. Both countries also finalised the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA).

3. The ACSA would permit the Indian Navy access to a Japanese base in Djibouti, while the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) would be permitted to use India’s military installations on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3

36. Consider the following statements:

1. The government of India has rolled out a programme for universal screening of children below 18 years for leprosy and tuberculosis (TB).

2. The existing Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram

(RBSK) infrastructure will be used for the screening.

3. RBSK envisages Child Health Screening and Early Intervention Services including leprosy and TB.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

37. Consider the following statements in respect of ‘SIM swap fraud’:

1. Under SIM swap, fraudsters manage to get a new SIM card issued against victim's registered mobile number through the mobile service provider.

2. With the help of this new SIM card, fraudsters get One Time Password (OTP), financial accounts and card related alerts, which they use to commit the fraud.

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

38. Consider the following statements in respect of ‘Antibiotic Resistance in River Ganga’:

1. Several studies have found presence of antibiotic as well as and metal resistant bacteria in river Ganga.

2. In simple terms, the ability of a microbe to withstand an antibiotic is referred to as resistance.

3. In the case of metals, bacteria had genes resistant to ions of silver, copper, iron, chromium, arsenic and zinc.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3

39. With reference to the ‘Digital Economy Report 2019’, consider the following statements:

1. It has been released by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

2. The governments may decide to restrict data flow for reasons such as privacy of data and protection of their citizens, security and economic development.

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

40. Consider the following statements in respect of ‘Wetland Conservation’:

1. The government of India has identified more than 100 wetlands for restoration in the next five years.

2. The concept of ‘Wetland Health Card’ would be introduced to monitor the entire ecosystem based on multiple parameters.

3. The government would form ‘Wetland Mitras’ (group of self-motivated individuals) for taking care of the identified wetlands across the country.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3

41. With respect to Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), consider the following statements:

1. It was introduced in the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2010-15 along with the Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS).

2. MEIS is a major export promotion scheme of GOI implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

3. Recently, a new scheme named Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP) has replaced MEIS.

Which of the statements mentioned above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only

B 2 and 3 only

C 1 and 3 only

D 1, 2 and 3

42. Consider the following statements:

1. India is home to nine species of vultures.

2. The first Vulture Care Centre (VCC) was set up at Pinjore(Haryana) in 2001.

Which of the statements mentioned above is/are INCORRECT?

A 1 only

B 2 only

C Both 1 and 2

D Neither 1 nor 2

43. Consider the following statements:

1. World Hindi Day is observed every year on 10th January by the United Nations.

2. Article 343(1) states that the Official Language of the Union government shall be Hindi in Devanagari script.

Which of the statements mentioned above is/are correct?

A 1 only

B 2 only

C Both 1 and 2

D Neither 1 nor 2

44. Consider the following statements:

1. Jal Shakti Abhiyaan was launched in the year 2019.

2. Jal Shakti Ministry of Government of India was formed after merging the Ministries of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation and the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

3. Initiative Jaldoot aims to spread awareness of the importance of water conservation among masses.

Which of the statements mentioned above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only

B 2 and 3 only

C 1 and 3 only

D 1, 2 and 3

45. With reference to Karan Vandana, consider the following statements:

1. It is a new hybrid variety of rice.

2. It has been developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

3. It will increase the unit costs for farmers

but return higher yield than normal varieties.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 and 2 only

B 2 and 3 only

C 2 only

D 1, 2 and 3

46. With reference to Preventive Detention, consider the following statements:

1. According to Article 22 of the Indian Constitution, the Parliament is authorized to prescribe the circumstances in which a person can be detained for more than three months without obtaining the opinion of an advisory board.

2. The 42nd Amendment Act of 1978 reduced the period of detention from three to two months, without obtaining the opinion of an advisory board.

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

47. Consider the following statements:

1. A certificate of origin is a document that informs, in which country a commodity or good was manufactured.

2. The digital platform for issuing the Certificate of Origin is designed and developed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

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

48. With reference to ‘Uranium’, consider the following statements:

1. Uranium is classified as a major mineral.

2. The state of Andhra Pradesh has the largest uranium deposits in India.

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

49. Consider the following statements:

1. One China Policy is related to China and Taiwan.

2. The Solomon Islands are located in the South Pacific Ocean.

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

50. Which of the following water bodies borders Saudi Arabia:

1. Red Sea

2. Gulf of Aden

3. Persian Gulf

4. Mediterranean Sea

Choose the correct option:

A 1 and 3 only

B 2 and 4 only

C 2, 3 and 4 only

D 1, 3 and 4 only

51. With reference to ‘Astra missile’, consider the following statements:

1. It is jointly developed by India and Israel.

2. It works on the Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) technology.

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

52. Consider the following statements:

1. Liberalized Remittance Scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Finance.

2. Corporations, partnership firms, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), Trusts, etc. are not eligible under this scheme to freely remit.

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

53. With reference to ‘POSHAN Abhiyaan’, consider the following statements:

1. The POSHAN Abhiyaan targets child stunting, undernutrition, and child wasting only.

2. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

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

54. Consider the following statements:

1. Margdarshan scheme is a scheme of the University Grants Commission (UGC).

2. The Wawe Summit-2019 focuses on empowering women to take up income generation activity and entrepreneurship in waste management.

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

55. With reference to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), consider the following statements:

1. It is one of the six main organs of the United Nations.

2. The Sustainable Development Report is released by UN DESA.

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

56. With reference to Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), consider the following statements:

1. It is the sum of the number of years of life lost and years lived with disability.

2. The use of DALYs to track disease burden was recommended by India’s National Health Policy, 2017.

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

57. Recently the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry clarified that no compulsory license would be required for manufacturers of goods, barring which of the following segments?

1. Tobacco items

2. Defence equipment

3. Hazardous chemicals

4. Industrial explosives

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

            A.         1 and 2 only

            B.         2 and 3 only

            C.         1 and 4 only

            D.         1, 2, 3 and 4

58. With reference to the Hindi Divas, consider the following statements:

1. It is an annual day celebrated on 14 September because Hindi language was first adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India as the official language of India on September 14, 1949.

2. Rajbhasha Awards, introduced in 2015 are also conferred upon on this day by Ministry of Culture.

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

59.With reference to the report of the Internal Working Group (IWG) to Review Agricultural Credit, consider the following statements:

1. The government should set up a federal institution, on the lines of goods and services tax (GST) Council to suggest and implement reforms in the field of agriculture.

2. The Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) should introduce a web portal on the lines of PSB Loans in 59 Minutes to allow quicker credit access for the agriculture sector.

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

60. With reference to the Committee on the Development of Housing Finance Securitisation Market, consider the following statements:

1. It recommended setting up of a government sponsored intermediary, through the National Housing Bank, to enable market making and standard setting.

2. It also recommended treating the assets underlying a securitisation transaction as bankruptcy remote under the insolvency laws for financial firms.

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

61. With reference to the 'Large Exposures Framework (NBFC)’, consider the following statements:

1. Recently RBI increased loan exposure limit of banks to a single NBFC (excluding gold loan companies) from 15% to 20% of its capital base.

2. NBFC can accept demand deposits and forms part of the payment and settlement system.

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

62. With reference to the Goods And Services Tax (GST) Network, consider the following statements:

1. It has been jointly registered by the Central and State Governments as a not-for-profit Company under Section 8 of the Companies act, 2013

2. The restructured GSTN, with 100% government ownership has equity structure between the Centre (50%) and the States (50%).

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

63. With reference to the recently announced measures to boost exports and housing sector, consider the following statements:

1. The Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) will replace scheme for Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP) for textiles.

2. Textile and all other sectors which currently enjoy incentives up to 2 % over MEIS will transit into RoDTEP from January 1, 2020.

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

64. Which of the following vulture species are considered as Critically Endangered?

1. Slender-billed Vulture

2. White-rumped vulture

3. Indian Vulture

4. Griffon Vulture

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

            A.         1 and 4 only

            B.         1 and 2 only

            C.         1, 2 and 3 only

            D.         1, 2, 3 and 4

65. With reference to the Tudor architecture style, consider the following statements:

1. It is a style of architecture that developed in India between 1485 and 1558.

2. The characteristic that became most associated with the Tudor style was 'black and white' construction.

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

66. With reference to Doordarshan, consider the following statements:

1. It is an autonomous public service broadcaster founded by the Government of India, owned by the Broadcasting Ministry of India.

2. It began as an experiment in 1959 in Delhi, became a service in 1965.

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

67.With reference to a study by the Food and Land Use Coalition (FOLU) on impact of global food industry on human health and environment, consider the following statements:

1. Global over-dependence on a relatively small number of staple foods leaves populations vulnerable to crop failures, with climate change adding to the strain.

2. India has 4 per cent of global freshwater resources to support 19 per cent of the world’s population.

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

68. Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?

Protected areas        States

1.Amrabad Tiger Reserve    Kerala

2.Bandhavgarh National Park    Maharashtra

3.Periyar National Park     Tamil Nadu

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

            A.         1 only

            B.         1 and 2 only

            C.         2 and 3 only

            D.         None of the above

69. Who among the following recently received the 11th International Hrant Dink Award?

            A.         Raymundo Pujante Cayabyab

            B.         Agnes Kharshiing

            C.         Ravish Kumar

            D.         Angkhana Neelapaijit

70. With reference to the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA), consider the following statements:

1. It received the assent of the J&K Governor in 1978.

2. It allows individuals to be detained under the PSA outside the state as well.

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

71. With reference to PACEsetter fund programme, consider the following statements:

1. It was constituted by France in 2015 at the COP 21, United Nations Climate Change Conference.

2. Its objective is to provide early-stage grant funding to accelerate the commercialization of innovative off-grid clean energy products, systems, and business models.

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

72. With reference to the Common Digital Platform for Issuance of electronic Certificates of Origin (CoO), consider the following statements:

1. It will be a single access point for all exporters, for all FTAs/PTAs and for all agencies concerned.

2. India has 15 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)/ Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with various partner countries.

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

76. With reference to the Central Advisory Board of Education, consider the following statements:

1. It is the oldest and the most important advisory body of the Government of India in education.

2. It provides a forum for widespread consultation and examination of issues relating to educational and cultural development.

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

74. With reference to "Shodh Shuddhi”, consider the following statements:

1. It is being implemented by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).

2. It will significantly help to improve the quality of research outcome by ensuring the originality of ideas and publication of the research scholars.

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

75. With reference to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2018-19, consider the following statements:

1. Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in Higher education has increased from 25.8 in 2017-18 to 26.3 in 2018-19.

2. Maharashtra comes at number one with the highest student enrolment.

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

76. With reference to Liquid funds, consider the following statements:

1. It belongs to the debt category of mutual funds.

2. It shall hold at least 50% of their net assets in liquid assets.

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

77. Consider the following statements with respect to Emergency Response Support System (ERSS)

It is a pan-India single number based emergency response system for citizens in emergencies.

Under the system, each State/ UT is required to designate a dedicated Emergency Response Centres (ERC) to handle emergency requests.

It is one of the key projects of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs under Nirbhaya Fund.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   1 and 2 only

c.   1 and 3 only

d.   1, 2 and 3

78. Consider the following statements with respect to Noctiluca Scintillans

1. It is a reddish marine microalgae.

2. Blooming of these microalgae is dangerous and can cause death to coral reefs.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

79. Consider the following statements

1. It is one of the longest lakes in India and the largest lakes in Kerala.

2. It is a wetland designated under the Ramsar Convention.

3. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located on the banks of this Lake.

Identify the lake using the descriptions given above:

a.   Ashtamudi Lake

b.   Veeranpuzha Lake

c.   Vembanad Lake

d.   Punnamada Lake

80. Consider the following statements with respect to Fateh Darwaza

1. It marks the victory of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb over Qutb Shahi dynasty.

2. It is the gateway to the Golconda Fort located in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

81. Consider the following statements with respect to Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT)

1. It is an advance tax imposed by government on companies which tries to minimise giving taxes.

2. Companies that have their corporate tax rate cut to 22 percent are not applicable to pay MAT.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

82. Consider the following statements with respect to Wannacry

1. It is a wormable type of ransomware.

2. Its threats remain rampant still now according to a recent report.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

83. Consider the following statements with respect to National Educational Alliance for Technology (NEAT) Scheme

1. The objective of the scheme is to use Artificial Intelligence to make learning more personalised and customised as per the requirements of the learner.

2. It was launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development.

3. University Grants Commission (UGC) would be the implementing agency for NEAT programme.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   3 only

b.   1 and 2 only

c.   2 and 3 only

d.   1, 2 and 3

84. Consider the following statements with respect to Controlled Human Infection Model (CHIM)

1. Under the model, volunteers will be infected with viruses or bacteria.

2. This model is being employed in vaccine development in the United States, the United Kingdom and Kenya, are being considered in India.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

85. Consider the following statements with respect to Convention on the Rights of the Child

1. It is an international treaty affirming the world’s commitment to protect and fulfil children’s rights.

2. India is a signatory of this convention.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

86. Consider the following statements with respect to Right to Information Act, 2005

1. Under the Act, a public authority is required to maintain records and every citizen has the right to get information from the public authority.

2. Educational institutions and non-profits that get substantial funds from the government fall under the purview of the Right to Information Act, 2005.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

87. Consider the following statements with respect to SITMEX-19

1. It is a maritime exercise between India, Singapore and Thailand.

2. The 7th edition of SITMEX is being held recently in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

a.   1 only

b.   2 only

c.   Both 1 and 2

d.   Neither 1 nor 2

88.With reference to Kargil to Kohima (K2K) consider the following statements:

1.Kargil to Kohima (K2K) Ultra-Marathon- “Glory Run” is being undertaken by IAF from Kargil War Memorial, Drass (J&K) to Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima (Nagaland).

2.Kohima and Kargil are the two forward most outposts of India in the East and in the North.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 ( a ) 1 only   

 ( b ) 2 only   

 ( c ) Both 1 and 2    

 ( d ) Neither 1 nor 2           

89. Consider the following statements about the Asiatic Lion Conservation Project:

1.It was launched by WWF to protect and conserve the world’s last ranging free population of Asiatic Lion and its associated ecosystem.

2.In India, it will be funded from the Centrally Sponsored Scheme- Development of Wildlife Habitat (CSS-DWH).

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 ( a ) 1 only   

 ( b ) 2 only   

 ( c ) Both 1 and 2    

 ( d ) Neither 1 nor 2

90. Consider the following statements about African Carnivores Initiative:

1.It emerged under the scope of the CMS-CITES Joint Work Programme 2015-2020.

2.It targets four iconic African carnivore species: African Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, and African Wild Dog.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 ( a ) 1 only   

 ( b ) 2 only   

 ( c ) Both 1 and 2    

 ( d ) Neither 1 nor 2           

91. Consider the following statements about the Sangam age:

1)Three Sangams in ancient Tamil Nadu called Muchchangam flourished under the royal patronage of the Cholas.

2)The second Sangam was held at Kapadapuram but the all the literary works had perished except Tolkappiyam.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 ( a ) 1 only   

 ( b ) 2 only   

 ( c ) Both 1 and 2    

 ( d ) Neither 1 nor 2

           

92. Which of the following statement/(s) about Cheras is/are true?

1)The Chera capital was Vanji and their important seaports included Tondi and Musiri.

2)The Pugalur inscription refers to the reign of the Chera rulers.

3)The renowned author of Silappathigaram, Elango Adigal was the brother of King Cheran Senguttuvan.

Select the correct option using the codes given below:

 ( a ) 1 and 2 only     

 ( b ) 2 and 3 only    

 ( c ) 1 and 3 only     

 ( d ) 1 2 and 3          

93. The Online Management, Monitoring and Accounting System (OMMAS) was developed to identify the targets and monitor the progress of which of the following schemes?

 (a) Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojna

 (b) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna

 (c) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna         

 (d) National Rural Drinking Water Mission             

94. Consider the following statements about the Bhakti movement:

1.In the later period, great apostles of Bhakti cult such as Ramananda, were not linked with any particular religious creed.

2.They condemned polytheism and believed in one god.

3.They strongly believed in Bhakti as the only means of salvation.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 ( a ) 1 and 2 only     

 ( b ) 2 and 3 only    

 ( c ) 1 only    

 ( d ) 1 2 and 3

           

95. Consider the following statements regarding Indian Forests(Amendment) Ordinance, 2017:

1.Following this, bamboo grown in non-forest areas will be waived off the requirement of permission for its transportation for economic use.

2. The ordinance has provided the same waiver for palms, stumps, brush-wood and canes.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 (a) 1 only     

 (b) 2 only     

 (c) Both 1 and 2      

 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 

96. Which of the following provisions of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is/are correct?

1. Poaching, smuggling and illegal trade of animals listed in Schedule 1 to Schedule 4 of WPA are prohibited.

2. Schedule 5 lists plants and its derivatives the cultivation, collection and trade of which are prohibited.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

 (a) 1 only 

 (b) 2 only 

 (c) Both 1 and 2  

 (d) Neither 1 nor 2         

97. Consider the following statements about Bio-Glue:

1. It is a super strong non-flexible material inspired by the glue secreted by slugs.

2. It is biocompatible and binds to tissues with a strength comparable to the body's own resilient cartilage.

3. It has numerous potential applications in the medical field.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

 ( a ) 1 and 3 only           

 ( b ) 2 and 3 only          

 ( c ) 3 only          

 ( d ) 1 2 and 3

           

98. “Even though income inequality might increase in the early stages of development, it declines as industrialised economies mature.” This famous proposition in development economics is generally referred to as:

 ( a ) The Laffer curve   

 ( b ) The Lorentz curve

 ( c ) The Kuznets curve

 ( d ) The Philips Curve 

99. Consider the following indicators of development

1) Child mortality

2) Life expectancy

3) Average years of schooling

4) Expected years of schooling

5) Per-capita Gross National income

Which of the above is captured by the Human Development Index?

 ( a ) 1 2 and 3 only       

 ( b ) 1 2 and 4 only       

 ( c ) 3 4 and 5 only        

 ( d ) 2 3 4 and 5 only    

100. Consider the following factors that can affect gender equality

1) Maternal mortality ratio

2) Adolescent birth rates

3) Proportion of parliamentary seats occupied by females

4) Female labour force participation rate

Which of the above factors form part of the Gender Inequality Index?

 (a) 1 and 2 only          

 (b) 1 3 and 4 only      

 (c) 2 and 4 only          

 (d) 1 2 3 and 4

ANSWER KEY

JATF WEEKLY CURRENT AFF. QUIZ 16 TO 22 SEPT. 2019

ANSWER KEY WITH EXPLACATION

1. Solution: d)

‘IMPRINT India’, is a pan-IIT and IISc joint collaboration to develop a blueprint for research of immediate relevance to society requiring innovation, direct scientific research into identified areas, ensure higher funding support for research into these areas and measure outcomes of the research efforts with reference to the impact on the standard of living in rural/urban areas.

2. Solution: d)

The next round of recording biometric and family-tree details of Indian citizens under the National Population Register (NPR) will be conducted in September 2020.

The exercise is different from the decennial Census and is not linked to the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

The objective of the NPR is to create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country. The database would contain demographic as well as biometric particulars.

The exercise was conducted earlier in two phases in 2010 and 2015.

For the purpose of NPR, a usual resident is defined as a person who has resided in a local area for six months or more or a person who intends to reside in that area for the next six months or more.

It is mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR.

3. Solution: c)

Union Government has approved Rs 4,900 crore Kosi-Mechi Interlinking project for interlinking of Kosi and Mechi rivers of Bihar. This is the second major river interlinking project in the country to be approved by Central Government after the Ken-Betwa project in Madhya Pradesh.

4. Solution: c)

 An FDC is a cocktail of two or more active drug ingredients in a fixed ratio of doses.

FDCs’ popularity in India is due to advantages such as increased efficacy, better compliance, reduced cost and simpler logistics of distribution.

Fixed dose combinations (FDCs) were declared “irrational” by a Health Ministry expert committee set up in 2014.

5. Solution: d)

 UNIDO is the specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability.

It is also a member of UNDP.

Members regularly discuss and decide UNIDO’s guiding principles and policies in the sessions of the Policymaking Organs.

6. Solution: b)

India has contributed USD 5 million in 2019 to UN Palestine refugee agency. The contribution was provided in support of UNRWA’s core programmes and services, including education, health care, and relief and social services.

India has increased its annual financial contribution fourfold to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) core budget, from USD 1.25 million in 2016 to USD 5 million in 2018.

7. Solution: c)

It was in 1942 when the world was going through the havoc caused by World War II. India too was facing the heat and after the Cripps Mission had failed, and on 8 August 1942, Mahatma Gandhi made a Do or Die callthrough the Quit India movement. Several national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Abdul Kalam Azad, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel were arrested.

The Congress was declared an unlawful association, leaders were arrested and its offices all over the country were raided and their funds were frozen.

The first half of the movement was peaceful with demonstrations and processions. The peaceful protest was carried till Mahatma Gandhi’s release.

8. Solution: d)

 Poliomyelitis (polio) is a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children. The virus is transmitted by person-to-person spread mainly through the faecal-oral route or, less frequently, by a common vehicle (e.g. contaminated water or food) and multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis.

Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In a small proportion of cases, the disease causes paralysis, which is often permanent. There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented by immunization.

9. Solution: c)

 Common Services Centre (CSC) programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY), Government of India. CSCs are the access points for delivery of various electronic services to villages in India, thereby contributing to a digitally and financially inclusive society.

CSCs are more than service delivery points in rural India. They are positioned as change agents, promoting rural entrepreneurship and building rural capacities and livelihoods. They are enablers of community participation and collective action for engendering social change through a bottom-up approach with key focus on the rural citizen.

10. Solution: c)

 Who appoints judges to the SC?

In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (2) of Article 124 of the Constitution of India, the appointments are made by the President of India.

The names are recommended by the Collegium.

11. Solution: d)

 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an International agreement to regulate worldwide commercial trade in wild animal and plant species.

• It restricts trade in items made from such plants and animals, such as food, clothing, medicine, and souvenirs.
• It was signed on March 3, 1973 (Hence world wildlife day is celebrated on march 3).
• It is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
• Secretariat — Geneva (Switzerland).
• CITES is legally binding on state parties to the convention, which are obliged to adopt their own domestic legislation to implement its goals.

12. Solution: b)

Operation Thirst – it is an all- India drive launched by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to curb menace of selling unauthorised packaged drinking water in railway stations.

13. Solution: c)

NASA has selected Texas-based Southwest Research Institute to lead its PUNCH mission which will image the Sun. This is a landmark mission that will image regions beyond the Sun’s outer corona. Dipankar Banerjee, solar physicist from Indian Institute of Astrophysics is also a Co-Investigator of the PUNCH mission. PUNCH, which stands for “Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere,” is focused on understanding the transition of particles from the Sun’s outer corona to the solar wind that fills interplanetary space.

14. Solution: d)

Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India. The provision of Bharat Ratna was introduced in 1954.

Eligibility: Any person without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex is eligible for these awards.

There is no written provision that Bharat Ratna should be awarded to Indian citizens only.

It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour.

The award was originally limited to achievements in the arts, literature, science and public services but the government expanded the criteria to include “any field of human endeavour” in December 2011.

In terms of Article 18 (1) of the Constitution, the award cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipient’s name. However, should an award winner consider it necessary, he/she may use the expression in their biodata/letterhead/visiting card etc. to indicate that he/she is a recipient of the award.

15. Solution: d)

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament (Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of 1956). In April 1957, it took over the work of former All India Khadi and Village Industries Board.

Functions: It is an apex organization under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, with regard to khadi and village industries within India, which seeks to – “plan, promote, facilitate, organise and assist in the establishment and development of khadi and village industries in the rural areas in coordination with other agencies engaged in rural development wherever necessary.”

16. Solution: c)

Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) is a U.S. trade program designed to promote economic growth in the developing world by providing preferential duty-free entry for up to 4,800 products from 129 designated beneficiary countries and territories.

 The objective of GSP was to give development support to poor countries by promoting exports from them into the developed countries. GSP promotes sustainable development in beneficiary countries by helping these countries to increase and diversify their trade with the United States.

17. Solution: c)

The National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA) has been constituted under Section 171 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017.

The Authority’s main function is to ensure that traders are not realizing unfair profit by charging high price from consumers in the name of GST.

The Authority’s core function is to ensure that the benefits of the reduction is GST rates on goods and services made by GST Council and proportional change in the Input tax credit passed on to the ultimate consumers and recipient respectively by way of reduction in the prices by the suppliers.

18. Solution: c)

Four countries from Asia — China, Iran, Malaysia and Timor-Leste — and one from Central America — El Salvador — reported no indigenous cases of malaria in 2018, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The countries were part of the global health body’s E-2020 initiative, launched in 2016, working in 21 countries, spanning five regions, to scale up efforts to achieve malaria elimination by 2020.

19. Solution: c)

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body established in 1989 on the

initiative of the G7. The objectives of the FATF are to set standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.

20. Solution: d)

India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat in the Security Council for the 2021-22 term has been endorsed unanimously by the Asia Pacific group, which comprises 55 countries, including Pakistan.

India has been a non-permanent member of the Security Council seven time previously: 1950-51, 1967-68, 1972-73, 1977-78, 1984-85, 1991-92 and 2011-12.

21. Solution: a)

What are Total Polar Compounds (TPC)?

In many countries, TPC is used to measure the quality of oil. The level of TPC increases every time oil is re-heated. Some of the studies show that TPC accumulation in oil without food is slower than that in oil frying with food.

Higher level of TPC in cooking oil leads to health issues like hypertension, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and liver disease. One of the studies also noticed high levels of glucose, creatinine and cholesterol with declined levels of protein and albumin in cooking oil.

22. Solution: c)

Helminths (worms) which are transmitted through soil contaminated with faecal matter are called soil-transmitted helminths (Intestinal parasitic worms).

Q.23) Solution (c) It is developed by Confederation of Indian Industries (CII). It evaluates the green initiative and rate of performance of industrial units who are pursuing environmentally sustainable practice and also certifies green building, green campus and green schools etc. GreenCo rating is applicable to both manufacturing facilities and service sector units. The rating is implemented at unit or facility level. The unit or facility has to be in operation for a minimum period of 3 years. In case of new plants/ facilities minimum 2 years operation is required.

Q.24) Solution (d) The bharal (Pseudois nayaur), also called the Helan Shan blue sheep, Chinese blue sheep, Himalayan blue sheep or naur, is a caprid found in Bhutan, Gansu, the high Himalayas of India, Inner Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Ningxia, Pakistan, Sichuan and Tibet. The Helan Mountains of Ningxia has the highest concentration of bharal in the world. IUCN Status – Least Concern

Q.25) Solution (c) Rustom 2 is a medium altitude UAV manufactured by the DRDO for the army, navy and air force

Q.26) Solution (d) The Collective Security Treaty Organization is an intergovernmental military alliance that was signed on 15 May 1992.

Q.27) Solution (c) Sa-Dhan is Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recognised self-regulatory organisation and industry association for the microfinance industry. Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN) and Sa-Dhan, the RBI-recognised self-regulatory organisation and industry association for the microfinance industry, along with FIDC, have jointly released the ‘Code for Responsible Lending’ (CRL) for the micro credit industry.

Q.28) Solution (d) China is the largest producer of cement in the world. India is 2nd . Odisha is the largest producer of aluminium in India.

Q.29) Solution (c) Tawang Monaster is located in Arunachal Pradesh. It is the largest monastery in India and second largest in the world after the Potala Palace in Lhasa. It was founded in 1680-81, by a monk named Merag Lodre Gyatso of the Gelug sect after the 4th Dalai Lama gave him a painting of goddess Palden Lhamo to be kept in the monastery. An 8-metre high gilded statue of Lord Buddha dominates the sanctum of the monastery. It belongs to the Gelug school of Mahayana Buddhism and had a religious association with Drepung Monastery of Lhasa. The library of the monastery has valuable old scriptures, mainly Kangyur and Tengyur.

Q.30) Solution (b) 'Wawe Summit 2019' (Waste Management Accelerators for Aspire Women Entrepreneurs) It will be the largest gathering of young women students to promote entrepreneurship in waste management and providing alternatives to single use plastic carry bags. Indian Institute of Waste Management (IIWM) and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) will be registering the interested participation and guiding them to connect from "Start Up India to Stand Up India"

Q.31) Solution (c) The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has conceptualised the “Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan)” as a nation-wide flagship campaign for achieving universal accessibility that will enable persons with disabilities to gain access for equal opportunity and live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life in an inclusive society. The campaign targets at enhancing the accessibility of built environment, transport system and Information & communication eco-System.

Q.32) Solution (a) As per the Enemy Property Act, 1968, ‘enemy property’ refers to any property that was belonging to a person who migrated from India to an enemy country when a war broke out. In India, after the war with China and Pakistan in 1962 and 1965, the government took over the properties, under the Defence of India Act, from persons who migrated to these countries. The confiscated property included both movable and immovable properties — securities, jewellery, land, and buildings.

Q.33) Solution (d) APEDA is mandated with the responsibility of export promotion and development of the following scheduled products: · Fruits, Vegetables and their Products. · Meat and Meat Products. · Poultry and Poultry Products. · Dairy Products. · Confectionery, Biscuits and Bakery Products. · Honey, Jaggery and Sugar Products. · Cocoa and its products, chocolates of all kinds. · Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages. · Cereal and Cereal Products. · Groundnuts, Peanuts and Walnuts. · Pickles, Papads and Chutneys. · Guar Gum. · Floriculture and Floriculture Products. · Herbal and Medicinal Plants. In addition to this, APEDA has been entrusted with the responsibility to monitor import of sugar

34. Answer: (c) Explanation: Both statements are correct. The 4th edition of Indian Ocean Conference was held in Maldives. The theme of the conference was 'Securing the Indian Ocean Region: Traditional and Non-Traditional Challenges'.

35. Answer: (c) Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Both countries have decided to hold first Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) for advancing cooperation towards peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. Statement 2 is not correct. The negotiations on the ACSA have shown progress since the announcement of the commencement of negotiations. Statement 3 is correct. The ACSA would permit the Indian Navy access to a Japanese base in Djibouti, while the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) would be permitted to use India’s military installations on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands located in the Indian Ocean.

36. Answer: (a) Explanation: Statement 1 and 2 are correct. The government of India has rolled out a programme for universal screening of children below 18 years for leprosy and tuberculosis (TB). In India, screening for disease is usually associated with non-communicable rather than communicable diseases. The existing Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) infrastructure will be used for the screening.

37. Answer: (c) Explanation: Both statements are correct. Under SIM swap, fraudsters manage to get a new SIM card issued against victim's registered mobile number through the mobile service provider. With the help of this new SIM card, they get One Time Password (OTP), financial accounts and card related alerts, which they use to commit the fraud.

38. Answer: (d) Explanation: All statements are correct. Several studies have found presence of antibiotic as well as and metal resistant bacteria in River Ganga. In simple terms, the ability of a microbe to withstand an antibiotic is referred to as resistance. In the case of metals, bacteria had genes resistant to ions of silver, copper, iron, chromium, arsenic and zinc.

39. Answer: (b) Explanation: Statement 1 is not correct. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has released the first edition of the 'Digital Economy Report 2019', previously known as the Information Economy Report. Statement 2 is correct. It also observed that governments may decide to restrict data flow for various reasons. It argued that this was necessary due to the lack of any global agreement for recognising ownership of community data.

40. Answer: (d) Explanation: All statements are correct. The government of India has identified more than 100 wetlands for restoration in the next five years. The concept of ‘Wetland Health Card’ would be introduced to monitor the entire ecosystem based on multiple parameters. Besides, for the community participation, the government would form ‘Wetland Mitras’ (group of self-motivated individuals) for taking care of the identified wetlands across the country.

41. B)  2 and 3 only

Explanation

Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) was implemented through the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2015-20 w.e.f. 1st April 2015. MEIS is one of the two schemes introduced under the Foreign Trade Policy of India (FTP 2015-20), as a part of Exports from India Scheme. The other scheme is Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS). Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

MEIS is a major export promotion scheme of GOI implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP) will replace the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), as MEIS is not compliant with world trade rules. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

42. D) Neither 1 nor 2

India is home to nine species of vultures named, Oriental White-backed Vulture (Gyps Bengalensis), Slender-billed Vulture (Gyps Tenuirostris), Long-billed Vulture (Gyps Indicus), Egyptian Vulture (Neophron Percnopterus), Red-Headed Vulture (Sarcogyps Calvus), Indian Griffon Vulture (Gyps Fulvus), Himalayan Griffon (Gyps Himalayensis), Cinereous Vulture (Aegypius Monachus), Bearded Vulture or Lammergeier (Gypaetus Barbatus). Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The Vulture Care Centre (VCC) was set up at Pinjore, Haryana in 2001. Later in 2004, the VCC was upgraded to being the first Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centres (VCBC). Hence, statement 2 is correct.

43. B) 2 only

The first world World Hindi Conference was organized in Nagpur on January 10, 1975. To commemorate the occasion, the Government of India since 2006 and not the United Nations is celebrating 10th January as World Hindi Day. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

Article 343(1) states that the Official Language of the Union government shall be Hindi in Devanagari script. Article 351 gives power to the Union Government to issue a directive for the development of the Hindi language. The Hindi language is one of the 22 languages of the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

44. C) 2 only

Karan Vandana is a new hybrid wheat variety. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

It has been developed by the Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR) under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Hence, statement 2 is correct.

It will reduce unit costs for farmers as well as return higher yield than normal varieties. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

45. A) 1 only

Explanation

Article 22 authorizes the Parliament to prescribe the circumstances and the classes of cases in which a person can be detained for more than three months under a preventive detention law without obtaining the opinion of an advisory board. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The 44th Amendment Act of 1978 has reduced the period of detention without obtaining the opinion of an advisory board from three to two months. However, this provision has not yet been brought into force. Therefore, the original period of three months still continues. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

46. B) 2 only

A Certificate of Origin is an instrument which establishes evidence o­n the origin of goods imported into any country. It contains information regarding the product, its destination, and the country of export. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The digital platform for issuing the Certificate of Origin has been designed and developed by the Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Regional & Multilateral Trade Relations (RMTR) Division, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

47. C) Both 1 and 2

Explanation

In pursuance to entry number 54 of the Union List, the Parliament passed ‘The Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957’. According to this act, Uranium is classified as a major mineral and is therefore managed by the Union Government. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The state of Andhra Pradesh is the largest producer of uranium in India. The Tummalapalle mine located in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh is considered to have one of the largest uranium reserves in the world. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

48. D) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

SITMEX is five days long maiden exercise amongst Singapore, India, and Thailand. It is aimed at strengthening their maritime inter-relationship. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

Exercise MAITREE is an annual training event that is conducted between India and Thailand, since 2006. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

49. C) Both 1 and 2

The One-China policy refers to the policy or view that there is only one state known as China. Under this policy, China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province that is to be reunified with the mainland. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

The Solomon Islands is a sovereign state that is located between Australia and the U.S. in the South Pacific Ocean. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

50. A) 1 and 3 only

Saudi Arabia is bordered by the Red Sea in the West and the Persian Gulf in the East. Hence, option A is the correct answer.

51. B) 2 only

ASTRA the first indigenously built air-to-air missile developed by DRDO, India. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

It works on the Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) technology that enables the fighter-pilots to shoot precisely at the enemy targets which are beyond their visual range. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

52. B) 2 only

Explanation

Liberalized Remittance Scheme is the scheme implemented by the Reserve Bank of India, and was launched in 2004. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

Under the scheme, all resident individuals, including minors, are allowed to freely remit up to USD 2,50,000 per financial year. The Scheme is not available to corporations, partnership firms, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), Trusts, etc. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

53. D)  Neither 1 nor 2

54. B) 2 only

55. D) Neither 1 nor 2

56. C) Both 1 and 2

57. D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

58. A.  1 only

Explanation :

Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s assertion on the occasion of Hindi Divas Samaroh 2019 that Hindi, as the most spoken language, could unite the country continued to draw sharp reaction from the Opposition parties. He also awarded Rajbhasha Gaurav Puraskar and Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar on the occasion. Hindi Divas is an annual day celebrated on 14 September because Hindi language was first adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India as the official language of India on September 14, 1949. It is mostly a government sponsored event in Central government of India offices, firms, schools and other institutions which aims to promote Hindi language. It is celebrated by organizing feasts, events & competitions. Rajbhasha Awards, introduced in 2015 are also conferred upon on this day by Union Home Ministry. Hence only statement 1 is correct.

59. C.  Both 1 and 2

Explanation :

The Internal Working Group (IWG) constituted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to Review Agricultural Credit submitted its report to the RBI Governor.

60. C.  Both 1 and 2

Explanation :

The Committee on the Development of Housing Finance Securitisation Market has submitted its report to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor. The Committee was chaired by Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Senior Advisor, Bain & Co. The Terms of Reference of the Committee were to review the existing state of mortgage securitisation market in India and make recommendations to address various issues relating to originators/investors as well as market microstructure.

The key recommendations of the Committee are as follows:

61. A.  1 only

Explanation :

Statement 1 is correct:

In a move to increase credit supply to the crisis-ridden NBFC sector, the RBI increased loan exposure limit of banks to a single NBFC (excluding gold loan companies) from 15% to 20% of its capital base. According to the extant 'Large Exposures Framework (LEF)', banks' exposure to a single non-banking financial company (NBFC) is restricted to 15% of their available eligible capital base, while general single counter-party exposure limit is 20%, which can be extended to 25% by banks' boards under exceptional circumstances. Now, it has been decided that a bank's exposure to a single NBFC (excluding gold loan companies) will be restricted to 20% of that bank's eligible capital base.

Statement 2 is incorrect:

62. C.  Both 1 and 2

Explanation :

The GST Network (GSTN) has decided to make Aadhaar authentication mandatory for new dealers from January 2020 to check malpractices in GST. Aadhaar authentication was earlier optional. Under the new rule, those who do not prefer Aadhaar authentication, can go for physical verification, which will be carried out in three days. Currently, Aadhaar authentication is optional and no physical verification is required. The decision was taken after noticing in the last two years that there is a good number of fly-by-night operators or ghost traders, who make fake invoices.

63. B.  2 only

Explanation :

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a fresh set of measures worth around 70,000 crore rupees to boost exports and housing sector.

The government will provide a 10,000 crore rupees special window with an aim to help complete ongoing affordable and middle-income housing projects.

64. C.  1, 2 and 3 only

Explanation :

Starting with just a few vultures, the total number of vultures in the Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centres (VCBCs) have increased to more than 700.

Three of India's resident vulture species - the Slender-billed Vulture Gyps tenuirostris, White-rumped vulture Gyps bengalensis and Indian Vulture Gyps indicus - are considered Critically Endangered. Griffon Vulture is listed as least concern. These vulture species have witnessed a catastrophic dip in population numbers by more than 90 percent since the 1990s, putting them on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN’s) list of critically endangered species. The major reason behind the vulture population getting nearly wiped out was the drug Diclofenac, found in the carcass of cattle the vultures fed on. The drug, whose veterinary use was banned in 2008, was commonly administered to cattle to treat inflammation.

65. B.  2 only

Explanation :

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting inaugurated the renovated Jayakar Bungalow, a classic heritage site situated inside the premises of NFAI in Pune. Jayakar Bungalow situated inside the campus of National Film Archives of India (NFAI), Pune, comprises digital library, three film review rooms, and some antique articles of value. This grade I heritage structure was built in 1945. It has a distinct Tudor style of architecture which is mostly found in Great Britain, one of its kind in Pune. It was once home to Mukundrao Ramrao Jayakar, a barrister and the first vice-chancellor of the University of Pune. It was then acquired by the Indian law society, before it was handed over to the Archives.

66. C.  Both 1 and 2

Explanation :

Doordarshan has recently completed 60 years of existence. Doordarshan (abbreviated as DD) is an autonomous public service broadcaster founded by the Government of India, owned by the Broadcasting Ministry of India and one of Prasar Bharati's two divisions. Headquarters is at New Delhi. Motto is Satyam Shivam Sundaram. Established in 1959. Doordarshan, which began as an experiment in 1959 in Delhi, became a service in 1965. By 1972, services were extended to Mumbai and Amritsar and then to seven other cities by 1975. All this time, it was part of the national broadcaster, All India Radio. On April 1, 1976, it transited to become a separate department in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Hence both statements are correct.

67. C.  Both 1 and 2

68. D. None of the above

69. B.  Agnes Kharshiing

Explanation :

Meghalaya-based rights activist Agnes Kharshiing received the 11th International Hrant Dink Award along with Turkish activist against male violence Nebahat Akkoç.

The International Hrant Dink Award commemorates the memory of Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink, who was killed in 2007. Since 2009, the Hrant Dink Award is presented annually by the Hrant Dink Foundation on Hrant Dink's birthday. The award is presented to individuals, organisations or groups that work for a world free from discrimination, racism and violence, and who take personal risks for achieving those ideals.

70. C.  Both 1 and 2

Explanation :

National Conference leader and former J&K chief minister Farooq Abdullah has been detained under the J&K Public Safety Act (PSA). Last month, former IAS officer Shah Faesal was stopped at New Delhi airport and sent back to Kashmir, where he has been detained under the Public Safety Act. The Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA) received the assent of the J&K Governor in 1978. The Act was introduced by the government of Sheikh Abdullah as a tough law to prevent the smuggling of timber and keep the smugglers “out of circulation”.

71. B.  2 only

72. C.  Both 1 and 2

73. C.  Both 1 and 2

74. B.  2 only

75. A.  1 only

76. A.  1 only

Explanation :
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has made it mandatory for Liquid funds to hold at least 20% of its net assets in liquid assets while mandating an exit load on investors that exit within seven days of making an investment. Liquid funds belong to the debt category of mutual funds. They invest in very short-term market instruments like treasury bills, government securities and call money. They are getting popular with retail investors due to their higher than savings bank account returns and easy liquidity.

77. Answer : d

Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) is a Pan-India single number (112) based emergency response system for citizens in emergencies. Each State/ UT is required to designate a dedicated Emergency Response Centres (ERC) to handle emergency requests. ERSS is one of the key projects of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs under Nirbhaya Fund. If you require emergency assistance from Police, Fire & Rescue, Health and other services, you may : Dial 112 from your phone; Press power button on your smart phone 3 times quickly to activate Panic call; In case of feature phone, long press ‘5’ or ‘9’ key to activate Panic call; Log on to State ERSS website and place your SOS request; Email SOS alert to State ERC; and Use 112 India Mobile App (available in Google Playstore and Apple store) to activate a panic call to ERC.

78. Answer : b

The recent blooming of Noctiluca Scintillans, a greenish marine microalgae, in the Gulf of Mannar, has caused the death of more than 180 colonies, mostly on the shoreward side of Shingle Island in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park.

79. Answer : c

80. Answer : c

81. Answer : c

·         Companies try to minimise giving taxes by taking advantage of depreciation, deductions, exemptions, etc from the government.

·         So the government imposes a Minimum Alternate Tax or MAT as an advance tax on these companies. This makes the companies give at least a minimum amount of tax.

·         On September 20, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the reduction of Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) for companies from 18.5 percent to 15 percent for those who continue to avail exemptions and incentives.

·         Also, companies that have their corporate tax rate cut to 22 percent without exemptions are not applicable to pay MAT.

82. Answer : c

83. Answer : b

·         Ministry of Human Resource Development has announced a new PPP Scheme, National Educational Alliance for Technology (NEAT) for using technology for better learning outcomes in Higher Education.

·         The objective is to use Artificial Intelligence to make learning more personalised and customised as per the requirements of the learner.

·         AICTE would be the implementing agency for NEAT programme.

·         The scheme shall be administered under the guidance of an Apex Committee constituted by MHRD.  

·         MHRD proposes to launch and operationalise NEAT in early November 2019.

84. Answer : c

• The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is close to finalising three projects worth Rs. 135 crore, involving Indian and European scientists, to develop new influenza vaccines.
• It involves a Controlled Human Infection Model (CHIM): volunteers who take part in trials will be infected, under expert supervision, with infectious viruses or bacteria.
• Such studies, which are being employed in vaccine development in the United States, the United Kingdom and Kenya, are being considered in India.

85. Answer : c

86. Answer : c

• Educational institutions and non-profits that get “substantial funds” from the government fall under the purview of the Right to Information Act, 2005, said the Supreme Court recently.
• Under the Act, a public authority is required to maintain records and every citizen has the right to get information from the public authority, added the SC.

87. Answer : a

• Sea Phase of maiden IN-RSN-RTN Trilateral Exercise Commences recently in Andaman Sea.
• SITMEX-19 (Singapore India Thailand Maritime Exercise), between Indian Navy, Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) commenced in the Andaman Sea from 18 Sep 19.
• Early, the harbour phase of SITMEX-19 was culminated at Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

88. Answer: c

Difficulty level: Easy

Explanation:

To commemorate 20^th year of Kargil Victory and to live up to the true tradition and motto of IAF i.e. “Touch the Sky with Glory”, a unique expedition Kargil to Kohima (K2K) Ultra-Marathon- “Glory Run” is being undertaken by IAF from Kargil War Memorial, Drass (J&K) to Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima (Nagaland). Kohima and Kargil are the two forward most outposts of India in the East and in the North where two of the fiercest battles were fought in 1944 and 1999 respectively. K2K – Glory Run commenced today will culminate on 06 Nov 19. In this unique tryst, a team of 25 Air Warriors will cover a distance of more than 4500 Km in 45 days by running an average of 100 Km per day. The aim of the expedition is to promote awareness for Pedestrian Safety and recently launched Fit India Movement by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and also to pay tribute to the brave hearts who have made the supreme sacrifice for our motherland. 

89. Answer: b

Difficulty level: Medium

Explanation:

•The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India has launched the “Asiatic Lion Conservation Project” with an aim to protect and conserve the world’s last ranging free population of Asiatic Lion and its associated ecosystem.

•The total budget of the project for 3 years that amounts to nearly Rs. 9784 lakh will be funded from the Centrally Sponsored Scheme- Development of Wildlife Habitat (CSS-DWH) with the contributing ratio being 60:40 of Central and State share

90. Answer: c

Difficulty level: Hard

Explanation:

•The African Carnivore Initiative emerged under the scope of the CMS-CITES Joint Work Programme 2015-2020, aiming to bring more coherence to the implementation of resolutions and decisions adopted by both CITES and CMS on the four African carnivore species.

•It is an umbrella initiative that targets four iconic African carnivore species: the African Lion (Pantheraleo), Cheetah (Acinonyxjubatus), Leopard (Pantherapardus), and African Wild Dog (Lycaonpictus).

The First Range State Meeting of the Joint CITES-CMS African Carnivore Initiative (ACI1) was held from 5 to 8 November 2018 in Bonn, Germany.

91. Answer: b

Difficulty level: Medium 

Explanation

•The Sangam Age constitutes an important chapter in the history of South India.

•According to Tamil legends, there existed three Sangams (Academy of Tamil poets) in ancient Tamil Nadu popularly called Muchchangam. These Sangams flourished under the royal patronage of the Pandyas.

•The first Sangam, held at then Madurai, was attended by gods and legendary sages but no literary work of this Sangam was available.

•The second Sangam was held at Kapadapuram but all the literary works had perished except Tolkappiyam.

•The third Sangam at Madurai was founded by Mudathirumaran.

92. Answer: d

Difficulty level: Hard

Explanation

•The Cheras ruled over parts of modern Kerala. Their capital was Vanji and their important seaports were Tondi and Musiri.

•The Pugalur inscription of the first century A.D refers to three generations of Chera rulers.

•Padirruppattu also provides information on Chera kings. Perum Sorru Udhiyan Cheralathan, Imayavaramban Nedum Cheralathan and Cheran Senguttuvan were the famous rulers of this dynasty.

•Cheran Senguttuvan belonged to 2nd century A.D. His younger brother was Elango Adigal, the author of Silappathigaram.

•Among his military achievements, his expedition to the Himalayas was remarkable. He defeated many north Indian monarchs. Senguttuvan introduced the Pattini cult or the worship of Kannagi as the ideal wife.

93. Answer: b

Difficulty level: Easy

Explanation:

•The Online Management, Monitoring and Accounting System or OMMAS GIS system was developed to identify targets and monitor progress of the PM gram Sadak Yojana. It is developed by e-governance department of C-DAC pune and is one of the biggest databases in India. The system manages and monitors all the phases of road development right from its proposal mode to road completion.

•The OMMAS also has separate module to track the expenses made on each road. Based on the data entered by state and district officers, OMMS generates detailed reports which are viewable in citizens section. OMMAS incorporates advanced features like E-payment, Password protected PDF files, Interactive Reports etc.

94. Answer: d

Difficulty level: Easy

Explanation

•In the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, Ramananda, Kabir and Nanak remained great apostles of the Bhakti cult. They drew inspiration from old masters but showed a new path.

•They helped the common people to shed age-old superstitions and attain salvation through Bhakti or pure devotion. Unlike the early reformers, they were not linked with any particular religious creed and did not believe in rituals and ceremonies.

•They condemned polytheism and believed in one god. They also denounced all forms of idolatry. They strongly believed in Bhakti as the only means of salvation. They also emphasised the fundamental unity of all religions.

95. Answer: a

Difficulty level: Easy

Explanation:

• The Indian Forest (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 was promulgated on November 23, 2017. It amends the Indian Forest Act, 1927.

• Under the Act, the definition of tree includes palms, bamboos, stumps, brush-wood and canes.

• The Ordinance amends this definition to remove the word bamboo. Following this, bamboo growing in non-forest areas will be waived off the requirement of permission for its felling or transportation for economic use.

• Bamboo, though taxonomically a grass, was legally defined as a tree under the Indian Forest Act, 1927. Before this amendment, the felling and transit of bamboo grown on forest as well non-forest land attracted the provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (IFA, 1927). This was a major impediment for bamboo cultivation by farmers on non-forest land.

96. Answer: a

Difficulty level: Easy

Explanation:

•The Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972 consists of 6 schedule lists, which give varying degrees of protection.

•Poaching, smuggling and illegal trade of animals listed in Schedules 1-4 are prohibited.

•Animals listed in Schedule 5 are called Vermin which can be hunted

oMice, rat, common crow, flying fox

•Schedule 6 lists plants and its derivatives the cultivation, collection, extraction and trade of which are prohibited.

oRed vanda, kuth, pitcher plant, ladies’ slipper orchid etc.

97. Answer: b

Difficulty level: Medium

Explanation:

• Scientists have developed a super strong, flexible adhesive material inspired by the glue secreted by slugs that sticks to biological tissues — even when wet — without causing toxicity.

•The “tough adhesive” is biocompatible and binds to tissues with a strength comparable to the body’s own resilient cartilage.

•The bio-glue has numerous potential applications in the medical field, either as a patch that can be cut to desired sizes and applied to tissue surfaces or can be also used as an injectable solution for deeper injuries.

98. Answer: c

Explanation:

•Simon Kuznets in 1955 put forward a set of stylised facts from his monumental study of inequality, the most important being— while the interpersonal inequality of income distribution might increase in the early stages of development, it declines as industrialised economies mature. Experience from US and China seemed to confirm this as inequality in both countries increased as they started to grow.

•This is often mentioned in articles about inequality since Thomas Pickety’s findings contradicted Kuznets’. Piketty's argument is that, in an economy where the rate of return on capital outstrips the rate of growth, inherited wealth will always grow faster than earned wealth. That is inequalities will keep growing even when economies mature. 

99. Answer: d

Explanation:

•The Human Development Index (HDI) is a summary index of life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators.

 The three dimensions:

oA long and healthy life: Life expectancy at birth

oEducation index: Mean years of schooling and Expected years of schooling

oA decent standard of living: GNI per capita (PPP US$)

100. Answer: d

Explanation:

•The GII is an inequality index published by the United Nations Development Programme. It measures gender inequalities in three important aspects of human development—reproductive health, measured by maternal mortality ratio and adolescent birth rates; empowerment, measured by proportion of parliamentary seats occupied by females and proportion of adult females and males aged 25 years and older with at least some secondary education; and economic status, expressed as labour market participation and measured by labour force participation rate of female and male populations aged 15 years and older. The GII is built on the same framework as the IHDI—to better expose differences in the distribution of achievements between women and men. It measures the human development costs of gender inequality. Thus the higher the GII value the more disparities between females and males and the more loss to human development.