UPSC prelims Current affairs: previous year questionsUPSC प्रीलिम्स करंट अफ़ेयर्स: पिछले वर्षों के प्रश्न

79 questions from the prelims papers of 2018 to 2025, newest first. Read the question, try it, then open the answer: it comes from the official UPSC answer key, with a short explanation.2018 से 2025 तक के प्रीलिम्स पेपरों से 79 प्रश्न, नए पहले। प्रश्न पढ़िए, हल कीजिए, फिर उत्तर खोलिए: वह आधिकारिक UPSC उत्तर-कुंजी से है, साथ में छोटी व्याख्या।

UPSC 2025, question 6प्रश्न 6
Consider the following statements: I. India has joined the Minerals Security Partnership as a member. II. India is a resource-rich country in all the 30 critical minerals that it has identified. III. The Parliament in 2023 has amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 empowering the Central Government to exclusively auction mining lease and composite license for certain critical minerals. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. I and II only
2. II and III only
3. I and III only
4. I, II and III
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) I and III only
India joined the US-led Minerals Security Partnership in 2023, and the 2023 amendment to the MMDR Act let the Centre exclusively auction concessions for specified critical minerals. Statement II is wrong: India depends heavily on imports for many of the 30 critical minerals it identified, such as lithium and cobalt.
UPSC 2025, question 8प्रश्न 8
Consider the following statements: I. India accounts for a very large portion of all equity option contracts traded globally thus exhibiting a great boom. II. India's stock market has grown rapidly in the recent past even overtaking Hong Kong's at some point of time. III. There is no regulatory body either to warn the small investors about the risks of options trading or to act on unregistered financial advisors in this regard. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. I and II only
2. II and III only
3. I and III only
4. I, II and III
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) I and II only
India's exchanges account for a very large share of the equity options contracts traded worldwide, and in early 2024 India's stock market capitalisation overtook Hong Kong's. Statement III is wrong because SEBI regulates the securities market, has warned retail investors about losses in futures and options, and acts against unregistered investment advisers.
UPSC 2025, question 21प्रश्न 21
Consider the following countries: I. Austria II. Bulgaria III. Croatia IV. Serbia V. Sweden VI. North Macedonia How many of the above are members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization?
1. Only three
2. Only four
3. Only five
4. All the six
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only four
Bulgaria (2004), Croatia (2009), North Macedonia (2020) and Sweden (2024) are NATO members, which makes four. Austria is a neutral state and Serbia follows a policy of military neutrality, so neither has joined.
UPSC 2025, question 32प्रश्न 32
Consider the following statements: Statement I: At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), India refrained from signing the 'Declaration on Climate and Health'. Statement II: The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a binding declaration; and if signed, it becomes mandatory to decarbonize health sector. Statement III: If India's health sector is decarbonized, the resilience of its health-care system may be compromised. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
2. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
3. Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
4. Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
India did not sign the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health, citing concern that cutting emissions from its health sector could hamper the expansion and resilience of health care, which matches Statement III. Statement II is wrong because the declaration is voluntary and non-binding.
Practise this topic:इस टॉपिक का अभ्यास: International Environment Agreements
UPSC 2025, question 35प्रश्न 35
Which one of the following launched the 'Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific'?
1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB)
2. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
3. The New Development Bank (NDB)
4. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) The Asian Development Bank (ADB)
The Asian Development Bank launched the Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific in 2024 to attract investment into nature-based solutions. The AIIB, NDB and IBRD are other multilateral lenders that did not launch this hub.
UPSC 2025, question 62प्रश्न 62
India is one of the founding members of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multimodal transportation corridor, which will connect
1. India to Central Asia to Europe via Iran
2. India to Central Asia via China
3. India to South-East Asia through Bangladesh and Myanmar
4. India to Europe through Azerbaijan
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) India to Central Asia to Europe via Iran
The INSTC, agreed by India, Iran and Russia in 2000, links Indian ports by sea to Iran and then by rail and road through Iran, the Caspian region and Central Asia to Russia and Europe. It does not pass through China, and the route to South-East Asia is a separate project.
UPSC 2025, question 64प्रश्न 64
The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35 °C. Which of the following statements best reflect(s) the implication of the above-said report? I. Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts. II. The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. I only
2. II only
3. Both I and II
4. Neither I nor II
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Both I and II
A wet-bulb temperature of 35 degrees Celsius is roughly the limit beyond which the body cannot cool itself by sweating, so survival of humans and animals is threatened. The official key also accepts the wider climate risks for peninsular India named in statement I, so both statements are taken as correct.
UPSC 2025, question 69प्रश्न 69
Consider the following countries: I. United Arab Emirates II. France III. Germany IV. Singapore V. Bangladesh How many countries amongst the above are there other than India where international merchant payments are accepted under UPI?
1. Only two
2. Only three
3. Only four
4. All the five
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only three
Through NPCI International partnerships, UPI can be used at merchants in the UAE, France and Singapore, among the countries listed. The official key counts three, which leaves out Germany and Bangladesh.
UPSC 2025, question 70प्रश्न 70
Consider the following statements about 'PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana': I. It targets installation of one crore solar rooftop panels in the residential sector. II. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy aims to impart training on installation, operation, maintenance and repairs of solar rooftop systems at grassroot levels. III. It aims to create more than three lakhs skilled manpower through fresh skilling, and up-skilling, under scheme component of capacity building. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. I and II only
2. I and III only
3. II and III only
4. I, II and III
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) I, II and III
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in 2024, aims to put rooftop solar on one crore households. Its capacity-building component, run by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, trains people in installing and servicing rooftop systems and aims to create more than three lakh skilled workers, so all three statements are correct.
UPSC 2025, question 82प्रश्न 82
Consider the following statements: I. Indian Railways have prepared a National Rail Plan (NRP) to create a 'future ready' railway system by 2028. II. 'Kavach' is an Automatic Train Protection system developed in collaboration with Germany. III. 'Kavach' system consists of RFID tags fitted on track in station section. Which of the statements given above are not correct?
1. I and II only
2. II and III only
3. I and III only
4. I, II and III
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) I and II only
The National Rail Plan aims at a future-ready railway system by 2030, not 2028, and Kavach was developed indigenously by RDSO with Indian industry, not with Germany. Kavach does use RFID tags fixed on the track, so statement III is correct and statements I and II are the incorrect ones.
UPSC 2025, question 90प्रश्न 90
Which organization has enacted the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss?
1. The European Union
2. The World Bank
3. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
4. The Food and Agriculture Organization
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) The European Union
The European Union adopted the Nature Restoration Law in 2024, setting binding targets to restore degraded ecosystems across member states. The World Bank, OECD and FAO are not legislative bodies and cannot enact such a law.
UPSC 2025, question 92प्रश्न 92
Consider the following statements in respect of BIMSTEC: I. It is a regional organization consisting of seven member States till January 2025. II. It came into existence with the signing of the Dhaka Declaration, 1999. III. Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Nepal are founding member States of BIMSTEC. IV. In BIMSTEC, the subsector of 'tourism' is being led by India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. I and II
2. II and III
3. I and IV
4. I only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) I only
BIMSTEC has seven members: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. It was founded by the Bangkok Declaration of 1997 with Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand, joined soon after by Myanmar, while Nepal joined later, so statements II and III are wrong; the official key also treats statement IV as incorrect.
UPSC 2025, question 93प्रश्न 93
Who amongst the following are members of the Jury to select the recipient of 'Gandhi Peace Prize'? I. The President of India II. The Prime Minister of India III. The Chief Justice of India IV. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1. II and IV only
2. I, II and III
3. II, III and IV
4. I and III only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) II, III and IV
The Gandhi Peace Prize jury is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of the single largest Opposition party in the Lok Sabha, along with eminent persons. The President of India is not a member of the jury.
UPSC 2025, question 95प्रश्न 95
Consider the following statements regarding AI Action Summit held in Grand Palais, Paris in February 2025: I. Co-chaired with India, the event builds on the advances made at the Bletchley Park Summit held in 2023 and the Seoul Summit held in 2024. II. Along with other countries, US and UK also signed the declaration on inclusive and sustainable AI. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. I only
2. II only
3. Both I and II
4. Neither I nor II
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) I only
France co-chaired the Paris AI Action Summit with India, and it followed the Bletchley Park (2023) and Seoul (2024) AI summits. The United States and the United Kingdom declined to sign the summit declaration on inclusive and sustainable AI, so statement II is wrong.
UPSC 2025, question 96प्रश्न 96
Consider the following pairs: I. International Year of the Woman Farmer : 2026 II. International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism : 2027 III. International Year of Peace and Trust : 2025 IV. International Year of Asteroid Awareness and Planetary Defence : 2029 How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All the four
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) All the four
The UN General Assembly has designated 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, and 2029 as the International Year of Asteroid Awareness and Planetary Defence. All four pairs are correct.
UPSC 2025, question 97प्रश्न 97
Consider the following statements with regard to BRICS: I. 16th BRICS Summit was held under the Chairship of Russia in Kazan. II. Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS. III. The theme of the 16th BRICS Summit was Strengthening Multiculturalism for Just Global Development and Security. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. I and II
2. II and III
3. I and III
4. I only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) I and II
Russia hosted the 16th BRICS Summit at Kazan in October 2024, and Indonesia joined as a full member in January 2025. The summit theme was 'Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security', so swapping in 'Multiculturalism' makes statement III wrong.
UPSC 2025, question 99प्रश्न 99
Consider the following statements in respect of the first Kho Kho World Cup: I. The event was held in Delhi, India. II. Indian men beat Nepal with a score of 78–40 in the final to become the World Champion in men category. III. Indian women beat Nepal with a score of 54–36 in the final to become the World Champion in women category. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. I only
2. II and III only
3. I and III only
4. I, II and III
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) I only
The first Kho Kho World Cup was held in New Delhi in January 2025, and India beat Nepal in both finals. The scores in statements II and III are swapped: the women won 78-40 and the men won 54-36, so only statement I is correct.
UPSC 2025, question 100प्रश्न 100
Consider the following statements: I. In the finals of the 45th Chess Olympiad held in 2024, Gukesh Dommaraju became the world's youngest winner after defeating the Russian player Ian Nepomniachtchi. II. Abhimanyu Mishra, an American chess player, holds the record of becoming world's youngest ever Grandmaster. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. I only
2. II only
3. Both I and II
4. Neither I nor II
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) II only
Gukesh became the youngest world chess champion in December 2024 by beating China's Ding Liren in the World Championship match; the Chess Olympiad is a team event, and he did not defeat Nepomniachtchi in such a final. Abhimanyu Mishra of the USA became the youngest Grandmaster ever in 2021, so only statement II is correct.
UPSC 2024, question 11प्रश्न 11
Consider the following airports: 1. Donyi Polo Airport 2. Kushinagar International Airport 3. Vijayawada International Airport In the recent past, which of the above have been constructed as Greenfield projects?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) 1 and 2 only
Donyi Polo Airport at Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) and Kushinagar International Airport (Uttar Pradesh) were built on new sites as greenfield airports. Vijayawada airport at Gannavaram is an existing airport that was upgraded and expanded, so it is not a greenfield project.
UPSC 2024, question 24प्रश्न 24
Consider the following statements regarding World Toilet Organization: 1. It is one of the agencies of the United Nations. 2. World Toilet Summit, World Toilet Day and World Toilet College are the initiatives of this organization, to inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis. 3. The main focus of its function is to grant funds to the least developed countries and developing countries to achieve the end of open defecation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 2 only
2. 3 only
3. 1 and 2
4. 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) 2 only
The World Toilet Organization is a global non-profit founded in Singapore in 2001, not a UN agency. It started the World Toilet Summit, World Toilet Day (later adopted by the UN) and the World Toilet College. Its work is advocacy, training and awareness rather than giving grants to countries, so only statement 2 is correct.
UPSC 2024, question 26प्रश्न 26
Which one of the following is the correct description of "100 Million Farmers"?
1. It is a platform for accelerating the transition towards food and water systems that are net-zero (carbon), nature-positive and that aims to increase farmer resilience.
2. It is an international alliance and a network of individuals and farming organisations interested in supporting and strengthening the development of the organic animal husbandry.
3. It is a digital platform fully integrated with service providers and built on blockchain that lets buyers, sellers and third parties trade fertilizers quickly and securely.
4. It is a platform with the mission of encouraging the farmers to form Farmer Product Organisations or Agribusiness Consortiums, thus facilitating the access to global open markets to sell their products.
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) It is a platform for accelerating the transition towards food and water systems that are net-zero (carbon), nature-positive and that aims to increase farmer resilience.
100 Million Farmers is a World Economic Forum initiative that brings together companies, governments and farmer groups to move food and water systems towards net-zero emissions and nature-positive outcomes while building farmer resilience. It is not an organic livestock network, a blockchain fertiliser exchange or an FPO-formation programme.
UPSC 2024, question 60प्रश्न 60
Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO?
1. Chhau dance
2. Durga puja
3. Garba dance
4. Kumbh mela
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Garba dance
Garba of Gujarat was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2023. Chhau dance was inscribed in 2010, Kumbh Mela in 2017 and Durga Puja in Kolkata in 2021, so Garba was the most recent of the four.
UPSC 2024, question 65प्रश्न 65
Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO: 1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya How many of the above properties were included in 2023?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only two
Santiniketan in West Bengal and the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas in Karnataka were both inscribed at the World Heritage Committee session in September 2023. Rani-ki-Vav at Patan was inscribed in 2014 and the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in 2002.
Practise this topic:इस टॉपिक का अभ्यास: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
UPSC 2024, question 67प्रश्न 67
Consider the following countries: 1. Italy 2. Japan 3. Nigeria 4. South Korea 5. South Africa Which of the above countries are frequently mentioned in the media for their low birth rates, or ageing population or declining population?
1. 1, 2 and 4
2. 1, 3 and 5
3. 2 and 4 only
4. 3 and 5 only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) 1, 2 and 4
Italy, Japan and South Korea have fertility rates far below the replacement level of about 2.1, rapidly ageing societies and shrinking populations, with South Korea having the lowest fertility rate in the world. Nigeria and South Africa have comparatively young and growing populations.
UPSC 2024, question 81प्रश्न 81
Consider the following statements regarding 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam': 1. Provisions will come into effect from the 18th Lok Sabha. 2. This will be in force for 15 years after becoming an Act. 3. There are provisions for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes Women within the quota reserved for the Scheduled Castes. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. 1, 2 and 3
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1 and 3 only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 2 and 3 only
The Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023 reserves one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, including one-third of the seats already reserved for SCs and STs, for a period of 15 years. It takes effect only after a fresh delimitation based on the first census after the Act, so it did not apply from the 18th Lok Sabha.
Practise this topic:इस टॉपिक का अभ्यास: Landmark Constitutional Amendments
UPSC 2024, question 82प्रश्न 82
Which of the following statements about 'Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023' are correct? 1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh. 2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune). 3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation. 4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise. Select the answer using the code given below:
1. 1, 2 and 3
2. 1, 2 and 4
3. 1, 3 and 4
4. 2, 3 and 4
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) 2, 3 and 4
Mitra Shakti is the India and Sri Lanka joint military exercise, not an India and Bangladesh one, so statement 1 is wrong. Its 2023 edition began at Aundh in Pune, focused on joint counter-terrorism operations under a UN mandate, and included Indian Air Force participation alongside the Army.
UPSC 2024, question 86प्रश्न 86
Who of the following is the author of the books "The India Way" and "Why Bharat Matters"?
1. Bhupender Yadav
2. Nalin Mehta
3. Shashi Tharoor
4. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar wrote The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World (2020) and Why Bharat Matters (2024), both on India's foreign policy. Shashi Tharoor and Nalin Mehta are also authors, but of different books.
UPSC 2024, question 87प्रश्न 87
Consider the following pairs: Country : Reason for being in the news 1. Argentina : Worst economic crisis 2. Sudan : War between the country's regular army and paramilitary forces 3. Turkey : Rescinded its membership of NATO How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. Only one pair
2. Only two pairs
3. All three pairs
4. None of the pairs
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only two pairs
Argentina was in the news for a severe economic crisis with very high inflation, and Sudan for the war that broke out in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Turkey remains a NATO member; it was in the news over approving Finland's and Sweden's accession, not leaving the alliance.
UPSC 2024, question 91प्रश्न 91
Consider the following statements: Statement-I: There is instability and worsening security situation in the Sahel region. Statement-II: There have been military takeovers/coups d'état in several countries of the Sahel region in the recent past. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
Since 2020 there have been military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and neighbouring Chad and Guinea, and the new juntas pushed out Western and UN forces. This political upheaval has weakened counter-insurgency efforts and worsened the security situation in the Sahel, so Statement-II explains Statement-I.
UPSC 2024, question 92प्रश्न 92
Consider the following statements: Statement-I: India does not import apples from the United States of America. Statement-II: In India, the law prohibits the import of Genetically Modified food without the approval of the competent authority. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
India does import apples from the USA; in 2023 it removed the retaliatory extra duty it had imposed on US apples, so Statement-I is incorrect. Statement-II is correct: under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and related rules, genetically modified food cannot be imported or sold without approval from the competent authority.
UPSC 2024, question 96प्रश्न 96
Consider the following statements: Statement-I: The European Parliament approved The Net-Zero Industry Act recently. Statement-II: The European Union intends to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 and therefore aims to develop all of its own clean technology by that time. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
The European Parliament approved the Net-Zero Industry Act in April 2024 to scale up EU manufacturing of clean technologies such as solar panels, batteries and heat pumps. Statement-II is wrong: the EU's legally binding climate neutrality target is 2050, and the Act aims for about 40% of its clean-tech needs to be made in the EU by 2030, not all of it.
Practise this topic:इस टॉपिक का अभ्यास: International Environment Agreements
UPSC 2024, question 97प्रश्न 97
Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Recently, Venezuela has achieved a rapid recovery from its economic crisis and succeeded in preventing its people from fleeing/emigrating to other countries. Statement-II: Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Venezuela has the largest proven crude oil reserves in the world, so Statement-II is correct. Statement-I is incorrect: the country has not made a rapid recovery, and more than seven million Venezuelans have left in one of the largest displacement crises in the world.
UPSC 2024, question 98प्रश्न 98
With reference to the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme, consider the following statements: 1. To implement the scheme, the Central Government provides 100% funding. 2. Under the Scheme, Cadastral Maps are digitised. 3. An initiative has been undertaken to transliterate the Records of Rights from local language to any of the languages recognized by the Constitution of India. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) 1, 2 and 3
DILRMP has been a Central Sector scheme with 100% central funding since 2016. It covers computerisation of land records and digitisation of cadastral maps, and it includes an initiative to transliterate Records of Rights from the local language into any of the Eighth Schedule languages, so all three statements are correct.
UPSC 2024, question 99प्रश्न 99
With reference to the 'Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan', consider the following statements: 1. This scheme guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy and six months post-delivery health care service in any government health facility. 2. Under this scheme, private sector health care providers of certain specialities can volunteer to provide services at nearby government health facilities. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 2 only
PMSMA provides free, assured antenatal check-ups to pregnant women in their second and third trimesters on the 9th of every month at government health facilities, and it invites private obstetricians and other specialists to volunteer their services there. It does not guarantee six months of post-delivery care, so only statement 2 is correct.
UPSC 2024, question 100प्रश्न 100
With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, consider the following statements: 1. The entry age group for enrolment in the scheme is 21 to 40 years. 2. Age specific contribution shall be made by the beneficiary. 3. Each subscriber under the scheme shall receive a minimum pension of ₹ 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years. 4. Family pension is applicable to the spouse and unmarried daughters. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1, 3 and 4
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 2 only
4. 1, 2 and 4
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 2 and 3 only
PM-SYM is a voluntary contributory pension scheme for unorganised workers in which the worker pays an age-specific monthly contribution, matched equally by the Centre, and receives an assured pension of 3,000 rupees a month from age 60. The entry age is 18 to 40 years, not 21 to 40, and family pension (50%) goes only to the spouse, not to unmarried daughters.
UPSC 2023, question 30प्रश्न 30
Consider the following infrastructure sectors: 1. Affordable housing 2. Mass rapid transport 3. Health care 4. Renewable energy On how many of the above does UNOPS Sustainable Investments in Infrastructure and Innovation (S3i) initiative focus for its investments?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Only three
The UNOPS S3i initiative was set up to invest in affordable housing, renewable energy and health infrastructure in developing countries. Mass rapid transport is not one of its focus areas, so the answer is three.
UPSC 2023, question 51प्रश्न 51
Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojana: 1. It is a safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments. 2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women. 3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women. 4. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age. How many of the statements given above are correct?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only two
Janani Suraksha Yojana is a centrally sponsored safe motherhood intervention under the National Health Mission, not a State scheme. It aims to cut maternal and neonatal deaths by giving cash help to poor pregnant women for institutional delivery, so statements 2 and 3 are correct. Free treatment of sick infants up to one year comes under Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram, not JSY.
UPSC 2023, question 78प्रश्न 78
Which one of the following countries has been suffering from decades of civil strife and food shortages and was in news in the recent past for its very severe famine?
1. Angola
2. Costa Rica
3. Ecuador
4. Somalia
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Somalia
Somalia has faced decades of civil war and insurgency along with repeated droughts. In 2022 and 2023 its worst drought in decades pushed parts of the country towards famine, drawing global attention.
UPSC 2023, question 87प्रश्न 87
Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Recently, the United States of America (USA) and the European Union (EU) have launched the 'Trade and Technology Council'. Statement-II: The USA and the EU claim that through this they are trying to bring technological progress and physical productivity under their control. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
The EU-US Trade and Technology Council was launched in 2021 to coordinate approaches to trade, technology standards, supply chains and emerging technologies, so Statement-I is correct. The two sides describe it as a forum for cooperation based on shared democratic values, not as a way to bring technological progress and productivity under their control, so Statement-II is incorrect.
UPSC 2023, question 90प्रश्न 90
Consider the following statements: 1. Recently, all the countries of the United Nations have adopted the first-ever compact for international migration, the 'Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM)'. 2. The objectives and commitments stated in the GCM are binding on the UN member countries. 3. The GCM addresses internal migration or internally displaced people also in its objectives and commitments. How many of the above statements are correct?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) None
None is correct. The GCM was endorsed by the UN General Assembly in December 2018 by a recorded vote, with countries such as the United States and Hungary voting against, so not all members adopted it. It is a non-binding framework and deals only with international migration, not internal migration or internally displaced persons.
UPSC 2023, question 93प्रश्न 93
Consider the following pairs: Regions often mentioned in news : Reason for being in news 1. North Kivu and Ituri : War between Armenia and Azerbaijan 2. Nagorno-Karabakh : Insurgency in Mozambique 3. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia : Dispute between Israel and Lebanon How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) None
None of the pairs is correct. North Kivu and Ituri are provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo hit by armed group violence, Nagorno-Karabakh was the region at the centre of the Armenia-Azerbaijan war, and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia are Ukrainian regions in the Russia-Ukraine war.
UPSC 2023, question 94प्रश्न 94
Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Israel has established diplomatic relations with some Arab States. Statement-II: The 'Arab Peace Initiative' mediated by Saudi Arabia was signed by Israel and Arab League. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
Israel has diplomatic relations with Egypt, Jordan and, since the 2020 Abraham Accords, the UAE, Bahrain and Morocco, so Statement-I is correct. The Arab Peace Initiative was a Saudi proposal endorsed by the Arab League at its Beirut summit in 2002; Israel never signed it, so Statement-II is incorrect.
UPSC 2023, question 95प्रश्न 95
Consider the following pairs with regard to sports awards: 1. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award : For the most spectacular and outstanding performance by a sportsperson over period of last four years 2. Arjuna Award : For the lifetime achievement by a sportsperson 3. Dronacharya Award : To honour eminent coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams 4. Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar : To recognize the contribution made by sportspersons even after their retirement How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only two
Pairs 1 and 3 are correct: the Khel Ratna rewards the most outstanding performance over the previous four years, and the Dronacharya Award honours eminent coaches. The Arjuna Award is for consistently good performance over four years (lifetime achievement is honoured by the Dhyan Chand Award), and the Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar goes to organisations and corporates that promote sport, not retired sportspersons.
UPSC 2023, question 96प्रश्न 96
Consider the following statements in respect of the 44th Chess Olympiad, 2022: 1. It was the first time that Chess Olympiad was held in India. 2. The official mascot was named 'Thambi'. 3. The trophy for the winning team in the open section is the Vera Menchik Cup. 4. The trophy for the winning team in the women's section is the Hamilton-Russell Cup. How many of the statements given above are correct?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only two
The 44th Chess Olympiad at Mamallapuram near Chennai in 2022 was the first held in India, and its mascot was a knight named 'Thambi', so statements 1 and 2 are correct. The trophies are swapped: the Hamilton-Russell Cup goes to the open section winner and the Vera Menchik Cup to the women's section winner.
UPSC 2023, question 97प्रश्न 97
Consider the following pairs: Area of conflict mentioned in news : Country where it is located 1. Donbas : Syria 2. Kachin : Ethiopia 3. Tigray : North Yemen How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) None
None of the pairs is correct. Donbas is in eastern Ukraine, Kachin is a conflict-hit state in northern Myanmar, and Tigray is a region of northern Ethiopia.
UPSC 2023, question 98प्रश्न 98
In the recent years Chad, Guinea, Mali and Sudan caught the international attention for which one of the following reasons common to all of them?
1. Discovery of rich deposits of rare earth elements
2. Establishment of Chinese military bases
3. Southward expansion of Sahara Desert
4. Successful coups
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Successful coups
All four countries saw military takeovers in recent years: Mali in 2020 and 2021, Chad and Guinea in 2021, and Sudan in 2021. These were part of a wave of coups across the Sahel and West Africa.
UPSC 2023, question 100प्रश्न 100
Consider the following statements about G-20: 1. The G-20 group was originally established as a platform for the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors to discuss the international economic and financial issues. 2. Digital public infrastructure is one of India's G-20 priorities. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Both 1 and 2
The G20 began in 1999, after the Asian financial crisis, as a forum of finance ministers and central bank governors and was raised to leaders' level in 2008. During its 2023 presidency India made digital public infrastructure one of its key priorities, so both statements are correct.
UPSC 2022, question 19प्रश्न 19
With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: 1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it. 2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately. 3. It has seamless portability across the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 3 only
The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission is voluntary: hospitals choose whether to join, and citizens choose whether to create a health ID (ABHA) and share their records. Its digital health records are designed to be portable, so a patient's data can be accessed by providers anywhere in the country.
UPSC 2022, question 66प्रश्न 66
Consider the following: 1. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank 2. Missile Technology Control Regime 3. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation India is a member of which of the above?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 3 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) 1, 2 and 3
India is a founding member of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and its second largest shareholder. It joined the Missile Technology Control Regime in 2016 and became a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in 2017.
Practise this topic:इस टॉपिक का अभ्यास: Economic Institutions of India
UPSC 2022, question 67प्रश्न 67
Consider the following statements: 1. Vietnam has been one of the fastest growing economies in the world in the recent years. 2. Vietnam is led by a multi-party political system. 3. Vietnam's economic growth is linked to its integration with global supply chains and focus on exports. 4. For a long time Vietnam's low labour costs and stable exchange rates have attracted global manufacturers. 5. Vietnam has the most productive e-service sector in the Indo-Pacific region. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. 2 and 4
2. 3 and 5
3. 1, 3 and 4
4. 1 and 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 1, 3 and 4
Vietnam has grown fast for years on export-led manufacturing, closely tied to global supply chains, helped by low labour costs and a stable currency. It is a one-party state ruled by the Communist Party, so statement 2 is wrong, and there is no basis for calling its e-service sector the most productive in the Indo-Pacific.
UPSC 2022, question 74प्रश्न 74
Consider the following statements: 1. The India Sanitation Coalition is a platform to promote sustainable sanitation and is funded by the Government of India and the World Health Organization. 2. The National Institute of Urban Affairs is an apex body of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in Government of India and provides innovative solutions to address the challenges of Urban India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
The India Sanitation Coalition was launched in 2015 at FICCI as a multi-stakeholder platform of businesses, civil society and others; it is not funded by the Government of India and the WHO, so statement 1 is wrong. The National Institute of Urban Affairs is the premier institute of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for research and solutions on urban issues.
UPSC 2022, question 76प्रश्न 76
With reference to the "United Nations Credentials Committee", consider the following statements: 1. It is a committee set up by the UN Security Council and works under its supervision. 2. It traditionally meets in March, June and September every year. 3. It assesses the credentials of all UN members before submitting a report to the General Assembly for approval. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 3 only
2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3
4. 1 and 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) 3 only
The Credentials Committee is a nine-member body appointed by the UN General Assembly at the start of each regular session, not by the Security Council. It examines the credentials of member states' representatives and reports to the General Assembly, which approves the report; it does not follow a March, June and September meeting cycle.
UPSC 2022, question 78प्रश्न 78
With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements: 1. The UN General Assembly can grant observer status to the non-member States. 2. Inter-governmental organisations can seek observer status in the UN General Assembly. 3. Permanent Observers in the UN General Assembly can maintain missions at the UN headquarters. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) 1, 2 and 3
The General Assembly grants observer status to non-member states such as the Holy See and the State of Palestine, and also to many intergovernmental organisations such as the African Union. Permanent observers may keep permanent observer missions at UN Headquarters in New York, so all three statements are correct.
UPSC 2022, question 82प्रश्न 82
Consider the following statements: 1. Bidibidi is a large refugee settlement in north-western Kenya. 2. Some people who fled from South Sudan civil war live in Bidibidi. 3. Some people who fled from civil war in Somalia live in Dadaab refugee complex in Kenya. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 and 2
2. 2 only
3. 2 and 3
4. 3 only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 2 and 3
Bidibidi is one of the world's largest refugee settlements, but it is in north-western Uganda, not Kenya, so statement 1 is wrong. It hosts refugees from the South Sudanese civil war, while the Dadaab camps in eastern Kenya house mainly Somalis who fled conflict in their country.
UPSC 2022, question 83प्रश्न 83
Consider the following countries: 1. Armenia 2. Azerbaijan 3. Croatia 4. Romania 5. Uzbekistan Which of the above are members of the Organization of Turkic States?
1. 1, 2 and 4
2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 5
4. 3, 4 and 5
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 2 and 5
The Organization of Turkic States, renamed from the Turkic Council in 2021, has Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey and Uzbekistan as full members. Armenia, Croatia and Romania are not Turkic-speaking states and are not members.
UPSC 2022, question 84प्रश्न 84
Consider the following statements: 1. Gujarat has the largest solar park in India. 2. Kerala has a fully solar powered International Airport. 3. Goa has the largest floating solar photovoltaic project in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 and 2
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 3
4. 3 only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 2 only
Cochin International Airport in Kerala became the world's first fully solar-powered airport in 2015. At the time of the exam the largest solar park in India was the Bhadla park in Rajasthan, not one in Gujarat, and the largest floating solar plant was at Ramagundam in Telangana, not in Goa.
UPSC 2022, question 86प्रश्न 86
Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news?
1. It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea.
2. China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea.
3. A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities.
4. Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man's land, some South-East Asian countries claim them.
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea.
The Senkaku Islands are a group of small uninhabited islands in the East China Sea, administered by Japan but claimed by China, which calls them the Diaoyu Islands, and also by Taiwan. They are natural islands, not artificial ones, and the dispute has not been decided by the International Court of Justice.
UPSC 2022, question 87प्रश्न 87
Consider the following pairs: Country : Important reason for being in the news recently 1. Chad : Setting up of permanent military base by China 2. Guinea : Suspension of Constitution and Government by military 3. Lebanon : Severe and prolonged economic depression 4. Tunisia : Suspension of Parliament by President How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. Only one pair
2. Only two pairs
3. Only three pairs
4. All four pairs
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) Only three pairs
In September 2021 Guinea's military seized power and suspended the constitution, Lebanon was in an economic crisis the World Bank described as one of the worst in modern times, and Tunisia's President Kais Saied suspended Parliament in July 2021. China's only overseas military base is in Djibouti, not Chad, so three pairs are correct.
UPSC 2022, question 88प्रश्न 88
Consider the following pairs: Region often mentioned in the news : Country 1. Anatolia : Turkey 2. Amhara : Ethiopia 3. Cabo Delgado : Spain 4. Catalonia : Italy How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. Only one pair
2. Only two pairs
3. Only three pairs
4. All four pairs
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Only two pairs
Anatolia is the Asian part of Turkey and Amhara is a region of Ethiopia, so the first two pairs are correct. Cabo Delgado is a province of northern Mozambique affected by insurgency, and Catalonia is a region of Spain, not Italy.
UPSC 2021, question 50प्रश्न 50
Consider the following statements: 1. 21st February is declared to be the International Mother Language Day by UNICEF. 2. The demand that Bangla has to be one of the national languages was raised in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 2 only
International Mother Language Day on 21 February was declared by UNESCO in 1999, not UNICEF. The demand to make Bangla a national language was raised in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan in 1948 by Dhirendranath Datta, which led to the Language Movement.
UPSC 2021, question 81प्रश्न 81
Consider the following statements: 1. 'Right to the City' is an agreed human right and the UN-Habitat monitors the commitments made by each country in this regard. 2. 'Right to the City' gives every occupant of the city the right to reclaim public spaces and public participation in the city. 3. 'Right to the City' means that the State cannot deny any public service or facility to the unauthorized colonies in the city. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 3 only
3. 1 and 2
4. 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) 2 and 3
The 'Right to the City' idea says that all city dwellers, including those in informal or unauthorised settlements, should be able to use and shape public spaces, take part in city decisions and get basic services. It is a concept promoted in forums such as UN-Habitat's New Urban Agenda, but it is not a formally agreed human right that UN-Habitat monitors country by country.
UPSC 2021, question 97प्रश्न 97
Consider the following statements: Statement 1: The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Arbor Day Foundation have recently recognized Hyderabad as 2020 Tree City of the World. Statement 2: Hyderabad was selected for the recognition for a year following its commitment to grow and maintain the urban forests. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
1. Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is the correct explanation for Statement 1
2. Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct but Statement 2 is not the correct explanation for Statement 1
3. Statement 1 is correct but Statement 2 is not correct
4. Statement 1 is not correct but Statement 2 is correct
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Statement 1 is not correct but Statement 2 is correct
Hyderabad was named a 2020 Tree City of the World by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Arbor Day Foundation, not by UNCDF, so Statement 1 is wrong. The recognition is given for a year to cities that show commitment to growing and maintaining urban forests, so Statement 2 is correct.
UPSC 2021, question 98प्रश्न 98
Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000: 1. American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award. 2. The award was received mostly by 'Formula One' players so far. 3. Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others. Which of the above statements are correct?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 1 and 3 only
Tiger Woods won the first Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award in 2000, and Roger Federer has won it more times than anyone else (five). Formula One drivers have won it only occasionally, so statement 2 is wrong.
UPSC 2021, question 99प्रश्न 99
Consider the following statements in respect of the 32nd Summer Olympics: 1. The official motto for this Olympics is 'A New World'. 2. Sport Climbing, Surfing, Skateboarding, Karate and Baseball are included in this Olympics. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 2 only
The 32nd Summer Olympics (Tokyo 2020, held in 2021) used the slogan 'United by Emotion', not 'A New World', so statement 1 is wrong. Sport climbing, surfing, skateboarding and karate were added for these Games, and baseball (with softball) returned to the programme.
UPSC 2021, question 100प्रश्न 100
Consider the following statements in respect of the ICC World Test Championship: 1. The finalists were decided by the number of matches they won. 2. New Zealand was ranked ahead of England because it won more matches than England. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
In the first ICC World Test Championship, finalists were decided by the percentage of points earned, a method adopted after COVID-19 disrupted the schedule, not by the number of matches won. New Zealand finished ahead of England on percentage of points, so neither statement is correct.
UPSC 2020, question 10प्रश्न 10
Consider the following pairs: International agreement/set-up : Subject 1. Alma-Ata Declaration : Healthcare of the people 2. Hague Convention : Biological and chemical weapons 3. Talanoa Dialogue : Global climate change 4. Under2 Coalition : Child rights Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 4 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 2, 3 and 4 only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 1 and 3 only
The Alma-Ata Declaration (1978) was about primary health care for all, and the Talanoa Dialogue was a UNFCCC process launched at COP23 to review climate action, so pairs 1 and 3 are correct. Biological and chemical weapons are covered by the BWC and CWC, not the Hague Conventions, and the Under2 Coalition is a group of sub-national governments committed to climate action, not child rights.
UPSC 2020, question 65प्रश्न 65
In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20?
1. Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey
2. Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand
3. Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam
4. Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey
Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey are all G20 members. Malaysia, New Zealand, Iran, Vietnam and Singapore are not members, which rules out the other three groups.
Practise this topic:इस टॉपिक का अभ्यास: Economic Institutions of India
UPSC 2019, question 54प्रश्न 54
Consider the following statements : 1. The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a 'Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air'. 2. The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument. 3. A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly. 4. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC. Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. 1 and 3 only
2. 2, 3 and 4 only
3. 2 and 4 only
4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 2 and 4 only
UNCAC is the first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument, and UNODC serves as the guardian of both UNCAC and UNTOC, helping states implement them. The Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants supplements UNTOC, not UNCAC, and the chapter on asset recovery is a highlight of UNCAC, not UNTOC, so statements 1 and 3 are wrong.
UPSC 2019, question 88प्रश्न 88
Which of the following adopted a law on data protection and privacy for its citizens known as 'General Data Protection Regulation' in April 2016 and started implementation of it from 25th May, 2018?
1. Australia
2. Canada
3. The European Union
4. The United States of America
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) The European Union
The General Data Protection Regulation is a European Union law adopted in April 2016 that became enforceable on 25 May 2018. It governs how personal data of people in the EU is collected and processed.
UPSC 2019, question 89प्रश्न 89
Recently, India signed a deal known as 'Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field' with which of the following countries?
1. Japan
2. Russia
3. The United Kingdom
4. The United States of America
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Russia
India and Russia signed this Action Plan in October 2018 during the annual summit in New Delhi. It covers cooperation such as new nuclear power units and work in third countries.
UPSC 2018, question 7प्रश्न 7
What is/are the consequence/consequences of a country becoming the member of the 'Nuclear Suppliers Group'? 1. It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies. 2. It automatically becomes a member of "The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)". Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) 1 only
Membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the club of countries that controls trade in nuclear material and technology, makes it easier for a member to obtain advanced nuclear technology and fuel from other members, so statement 1 is accepted. Joining the NSG does not make a country a party to the NPT, which is a separate treaty that must be signed and ratified on its own, so statement 2 is wrong.
UPSC 2018, question 14प्रश्न 14
"Rule of Law Index" is released by which of the following?
1. Amnesty International
2. International Court of Justice
3. The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights
4. World Justice Project
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) World Justice Project
The Rule of Law Index is published by the World Justice Project, an independent organisation based in Washington, D.C. It ranks countries on factors such as limits on government powers, absence of corruption and access to justice.
UPSC 2018, question 18प्रश्न 18
Very recently, in which of the following countries have lakhs of people either suffered from severe famine/acute malnutrition or died due to starvation caused by war/ethnic conflicts?
1. Angola and Zambia
2. Morocco and Tunisia
3. Venezuela and Colombia
4. Yemen and South Sudan
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (d) Yemen and South Sudan
Around 2017 and 2018, the civil war in Yemen and the conflict in South Sudan left millions of people facing famine or acute malnutrition, and famine was formally declared in parts of South Sudan in 2017. The other pairs were not facing conflict-driven famine on that scale.
UPSC 2018, question 24प्रश्न 24
The term "two-state solution" is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of
1. China
2. Israel
3. Iraq
4. Yemen
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) Israel
The two-state solution is the proposal to settle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by having an independent State of Palestine existing alongside the State of Israel.
UPSC 2018, question 30प्रश्न 30
International Labour Organization's Conventions 138 and 182 are related to
1. Child labour
2. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
3. Regulation of food prices and food security
4. Gender parity at the workplace
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) Child labour
ILO Convention 138 sets the minimum age for admission to employment, and Convention 182 deals with the worst forms of child labour. Both are core child labour conventions, and India ratified them in 2017.
UPSC 2018, question 33प्रश्न 33
In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the 'Additional Protocol' with the 'International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'?
1. The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.
2. The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA.
3. The country will have the privilege to buy uranium from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
4. The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (a) The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.
India ratified the Additional Protocol in 2014 as part of its civil nuclear arrangements; it applies to the civilian facilities India has placed under IAEA safeguards and gives the IAEA more information and access for them. India's military nuclear facilities stay outside IAEA inspection, and the protocol does not make India a member of the NSG.
UPSC 2018, question 34प्रश्न 34
Consider the following countries: 1. Australia 2. Canada 3. China 4. India 5. Japan 6. USA Which of the above are among the 'free-trade partners' of ASEAN?
1. 1, 2, 4 and 5
2. 3, 4, 5 and 6
3. 1, 3, 4 and 5
4. 2, 3, 4 and 6
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 1, 3, 4 and 5
ASEAN has free trade agreements with Australia (together with New Zealand), China, India, Japan and South Korea. It had no free trade agreement with Canada or the USA as of 2018.
UPSC 2018, question 37प्रश्न 37
Consider the following pairs: Towns sometimes mentioned in news : Country 1. Aleppo : Syria 2. Kirkuk : Yemen 3. Mosul : Palestine 4. Mazar-i-sharif : Afghanistan Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. 1 and 2
2. 1 and 4
3. 2 and 3
4. 3 and 4
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (b) 1 and 4
Aleppo is in Syria and Mazar-i-Sharif is in northern Afghanistan. Kirkuk and Mosul are both in Iraq, not in Yemen or Palestine.
UPSC 2018, question 90प्रश्न 90
Consider the following pairs: Regions sometimes mentioned in news : Country 1. Catalonia : Spain 2. Crimea : Hungary 3. Mindanao : Philippines 4. Oromia : Nigeria Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
1. 1, 2 and 3
2. 3 and 4 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 2 and 4 only
Answer and explanationउत्तर और व्याख्या
Answer:उत्तर: (c) 1 and 3 only
Catalonia is a region of Spain that held an independence referendum in 2017, and Mindanao is the large southern island of the Philippines. Crimea is a peninsula on the Black Sea, internationally recognised as part of Ukraine and annexed by Russia in 2014, and Oromia is a region of Ethiopia, not Nigeria.

Questions and answer keys are published by the Union Public Service Commission (upsc.gov.in). Explanations are written by IndiaDigital; if one looks wrong, use the report link under it.प्रश्न और उत्तर-कुंजियाँ संघ लोक सेवा आयोग (upsc.gov.in) द्वारा प्रकाशित हैं। व्याख्याएँ IndiaDigital ने लिखी हैं; कोई गलत लगे तो उसके नीचे दिए लिंक से बताइए।

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