UPPSC Prelims (GS I) Mock Test - 8 - UPPSC (UP) MCQ

Chennai receives the lowest rainfall during the South-West Monsoon.
Reasons: ​Chennai is located near the equator and the sea, making the climate hot and humid. It is located on the Coromandal coast and the Bay of Bengal branch of the South-West Monsoon passes parallel to the coast. Due to the existence of the Western Ghats, the Arabian Sea branch could not cross over.

The Celebration of Panchayati Raj Day

• Date: 24th April
• National Significance: Panchayati Raj Day is a significant day for the Panchayati Raj System in India, observed by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj annually on 24th April.
• Historical Background: The first National Panchayati Raj Day was declared by the Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, on 24th April 2010.
• Government Decision: Since 2011, the central government of India has officially designated the 24th of April each year as National Panchayati Raj Day.

The Concept of Light Transmission:

• Opaque: Opaque objects do not allow any light to pass through them. For example, a mirror is an opaque object because it reflects all light falling on it without letting any light pass through.
• Translucent: Translucent objects allow some light to pass through them but not enough to see clearly through it. An example of a translucent object is wax paper, where light penetrates to some extent but the details behind it are not visible.
• Transparent: Transparent objects allow light to pass through them completely, enabling a clear view of objects on the other side. Glass is a common example of a transparent object because it allows light to pass through without any distortion.

• The first cable car service in East Uttar Pradesh has been launched in Mirzapur district.
• The service was inaugurated by Amit Shah in Vindhyanchal, Mirzapur.
• Both devotees and locals, including priests and souvenir stall owners, were excited about this new service.
• It is expected that the introduction of the cable car service will attract more visitors to the Kali Khoh and Ashtabhuja temples, with an average of 2,000 pilgrims visiting daily.
• Plans for ropeway projects in Chitrakoot and Vindhyachal were initially announced in 2016.
• The ropeway project in Mirzapur involves two parts, with the octagon serving as the main terminal on the hill. The first 199-meter ropeway line takes visitors to the octagon, while the second 102-meter line transports people to the Kali Khoh.

The given explanation states that ocean salinity is low in the equatorial region due to various factors related to ocean currents and atmospheric conditions. Here's a breakdown:

• Ocean Currents: Cold currents flowing along the western coasts of continents in tropical and sub-tropical regions contribute to lower average temperatures in these areas, except in the equatorial regions.
• Atmospheric Conditions: In coastal and equatorial regions, there is higher precipitation due to increased evaporation. Fronts that cause rapid air pressure and temperature gradients are mainly formed in middle latitudes, leading to sudden temperature changes, rising air, cloud formation, and rainfall.

Based on the explanation provided, it is concluded that both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason (R) is the correct explanation of the assertion (A).

The Phillips Curve Relationship

• Representation: The Phillips Curve illustrates the connection between Inflation and Unemployment.
• Inverse Relationship: According to the Phillips Curve, there is an inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment. Higher inflation is linked with lower unemployment rates, and vice versa.
• Phillips' Conjecture: Economist A.W. Phillips suggested that as unemployment rates decrease, the labor market tightens, leading firms to increase wages in order to attract scarce labor. Conversely, higher unemployment rates reduce this pressure.
• Business Cycle Impact: The Phillips Curve represents the average relationship between unemployment and wage behavior throughout the business cycle. It indicates the rate of wage inflation that would occur if a specific level of unemployment persisted over time.

The Importance of Sustainable Development Principles

• Definition of Sustainable Development: The concept of sustainable development was first articulated by the 1987 Bruntland Commission Report, defining it as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
• Components of Sustainable Development: Sustainable development encompasses three crucial components of human existence - economical, ecological, and human aspects. It aims to ensure a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity.
• Rational Use of Natural Resources: Sustainable development emphasizes the rational use of natural resources to prevent depletion and environmental degradation. It advocates for the responsible management of resources to ensure their availability for future generations.
• Promoting Conservation and Preservation: The current generation plays a vital role in promoting development practices that conserve natural assets, preserve the regenerative capacity of ecosystems, and avoid imposing additional costs or risks on future generations. This approach ensures that resources are utilized in a sustainable manner.
• Ensuring Inter-Generational Equity: Sustainable development requires that the needs of future generations are not compromised by the actions of the present generation. It emphasizes maintaining the ability of future generations to fulfill their requirements without depleting essential resources.
• Sustainable Resource Extraction: One key principle of sustainable development is the sustainable extraction of renewable resources. This involves ensuring that the rate of resource extraction does not exceed the rate of natural regeneration, promoting long-term resource availability.

Therefore, incorporating the principles of sustainable development, such as conserving natural vitality, changing personal attitudes towards the environment, improving human life quality, and rational resource use, is essential for fostering a sustainable and balanced future for all.

• Fibres Possess High Tensile Strength and High Modulus: Fibers have the ability to be stretched significantly beyond their original size and still retain their shape. They exhibit high tensile strength, meaning they can withstand pulling forces without breaking, and high modulus, indicating their resistance to deformation.
• Fibres Impart Crystalline Nature: Fibers contribute to a crystalline structure, which affects their physical properties such as strength, flexibility, and durability. This crystalline nature is important in determining the overall behavior of the fibers.
• Characteristic Features of Fibres Due to Strong Intermolecular Forces: The unique properties of fibers, including their strength and resilience, are a result of strong intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonding. These forces play a crucial role in defining the behavior and characteristics of different types of fibers.
• Additional Information: Fibers are commonly used in clothing to provide coverage and protection to the body. They offer comfort, durability, and a variety of functional benefits in various textile applications.

According to the Constitution of India, the statement that "He should be qualified for election as a member of the Lok Sabha" is not correct.

Here are some key points regarding the Vice President and the Constitution:

• A resolution for the removal of the Vice President can only be passed after a notice of at least 14 days has been given.
• The Vice President has the option to resign by submitting the resignation to the President of India.
• The Vice President is elected by both the elected and nominated members of the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha.

Understanding the Location of Mount Krakatoa

• Mount Krakatoa Location: Indonesia

The volcanic island of Krakatoa, also known as Krakatau, is positioned in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra. This island belongs to the Indonesian province of Lampung.

Brundtland Report:

• Back in 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission provided a definition for sustainable development, stating it as "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
• This concept of sustainable development gained significant attention during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). It aligns with the belief of environmentalists who advocate for the responsibility of ensuring a healthy planet for future generations. The idea is that the current generation needs to safeguard the environment for the well-being of generations to come.

The correct answer is: Option 3 - "3 only"

Sunderban Biosphere Reserve:

• The Sunderban Biosphere Reserve is where mangrove forests are found.
• The Sundarbans has been declared a World Heritage site and included in the global network of Biosphere Reserves.
• It is the largest delta and mangrove forest in the world.
• Located between the rivers Muriganga, Harinbhahga, and Raimangal.
• This area has a diverse range of flora and fauna, acting as a natural fish nursery.
• The average temperature and rainfall in this region provide an equable climate.
• The Sundarbans mangrove forest is one of the largest in the world, situated on the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers.
• It showcases a complex network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and salt-tolerant mangrove forests.

Sunflower oil is extracted from sunflower seeds and is commonly used for frying food. It contains high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, primarily linoleic acid and oleic acid. These fatty acids are considered healthy fats and are beneficial for our health.

• Sunflower oil is rich in essential Vitamin E and low in saturated fats.
• It contains polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fats, which help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Therefore, the assertion that sunflower oil is rated as good quality edible oil due to its high amount of unsaturated fatty acids is correct, and the reason provided is a valid explanation for this characteristic.

• Area wise, Lakhimpur Kheri is the largest district in Uttar Pradesh.
• Lakhimpur Kheri is the largest district in Uttar Pradesh, India, situated on the border with Nepal.
• It serves as the administrative capital of the city of Lakhimpur and is a part of the Lucknow division.
• The district has a total area of 7,680 square kilometers (2,970 sq mi).

• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974
  • The Act provides regulatory authority to State Pollution Control Boards (SPCB).
  • A Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) formulates policies.
  • CPCB coordinates activities of different State Boards.
  • The Act grants power to SPCB and CPCB.
  • It was amended in the year 1988.
  • The 1988 amendment act empowered SPCB and CPCB to close a defaulting industrial plant.

• Other pollution control and environmental protection laws
  • The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974.
  • The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981.
  • Environment (Protection) Act of 1986.

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3 only

• Key Points
  • It encompasses 6.7 million km² and is shared by eight countries: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana and Suriname, as well as the overseas territory of French Guiana.
  • The basin encompasses a variety of landscapes and ecosystems. These include Rainforests, floodplains, forests, Savannas, and Rivers.

• Important Points
  • Amazon river: It is the greatest river in South America and the largest drainage system in the world in terms of the volume of its flow and the area of its basin.
  • Its westernmost source is high in the Andes Mountains, within 100 miles (160 km) of the Pacific Ocean, and its mouth is in the Atlantic Ocean, on the northeastern coast of Brazil.
  • Millions of years ago, the Amazon River once flowed from east to west, emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
  • When the Andes Mountains began to rise (due to great pressure on the tectonic plates) along the eastern side of the South American continent about 20 million years ago, this emerging mass blocked the flow of the Amazon River.
  • Freshwater lakes formed as a result, and the flow of the river gradually reversed to its current eastern course. About 10 million years ago, the river reached the Atlantic Ocean, close to the city of Belem in Brazil.

The Indo-Greeks:

• Persian invasion is traced back to 550 BCE when Cyrus invaded the North-Western front of India. Greek Invasion is traced back to 327 BC when Alexander invaded North-West India. Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect.
• At the beginning of the second century B.C., the Indo-Greeks occupied a large part of north-western India. Hence, Statement 2 is not correct.
• In 180 BC, Graeco-Bactrian king Demetrius attacked India.
• He occupied southern Afghanistan and parts of Punjab.
• The Greek kings understood Indian culture and became political entities with a mix of Indian culture and Greek cultures.
• The most famous Indo-Greek ruler was Menander or Milinda.
• He had his capital at Sakala in Punjab, and he invaded the Ganga-Yamuna doab.
• He was converted to Buddhism by Nagasena, who is also known as Nagarjuna.
• Menander asked Nagasena many questions relating to Buddhism.
• These questions and Nagasena's answers were recorded in the form of a book known as Milinda Panho or the Question of Milinda.

The correct answer is Both I and II.

Key Points

• The average height of the troposphere is 13 km.
• Fog and hailstorm occur in the troposphere.
• It is the lowest layer of the earth atmosphere.
• Troposphere contains most of the mass of the atmosphere (about 75-80%).
• This layer consists of clouds, snow, rain.
• It is the wettest layer of the atmosphere
• The temperature in this layer gets colder as it rises above the earth.
• It could get colder by 6.5°C per kilometer.
•  However, the change of temperature with height varies based on weather.
• Troposphere contains about 75% of all the air and water vapor (that forms clouds and rain) of the atmosphere.
• The layer after the troposphere is stratosphere, and the boundary that lies between the troposphere and the stratosphere is termed as the tropopause.
• The troposphere extends about 10 km (6.2 miles) above sea level. The height of the troposphere changes with latitude and season.

• 'Dohad Yellow' is an improved variety of Gram:
  • The variety 'Dohad Yellow' is specifically related to the crop Gram.
  • This variety is named after Dahod, a city in Gujarat situated on the banks of the Dudhimati River.
• Gram, also known as chickpea:
  • Gram is a widely consumed crop by humans and animals.
  • It is primarily grown as a rainfed crop.
  • Usually cultivated as a dry crop in the Rabi season.
  • Gram can be grown in various soil types, ranging from light to heavy soils.
  • In North India, it is commonly cultivated in sandy loam to clay loam soils, while in South India like the Deccan plateau and Maharashtra, it thrives on black cotton soils.

The correct answer is Rashtrakutas widely patronized Kanada Literature.

Key Points

• Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakutas dynasty.
• He is said to have conquered Kalinga, Kosala, Kanchi, Srisril, Malava, Lata, etc., and occupied Maharashtra by defeating Chalukya King Kirtivarma.
• Krishna I was the son and successor of Dantidurga.
• He conquered the territories that were still under the Chalukyas.
• The greatest king of the Rashtrakuta dynasty was Amoghavarsha I.
• Amoghavarsha I was a great patron of education and literature.
• Amoghavarsha was converted into Jainism by Jinasena, a Jaina monk.
• Rashtrakutas patronized Jainism and played an important role in establishing Jainism in Deccan. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
• The Rashtrakutas widely patronized Sanskrit literature. There were many scholars in the Rashtrakuta court. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect.
  • The Kannada literature saw its beginning during the period of the Rashtrakutas. 
• Amoghavarsha Kavirajamarga was the first poetic work in the Kannada language. Hence, Statement 3 is correct.
• Pampa was the greatest of the Kannada poets. His famous work was Vikramasenavijaya.
• Ponna was another famous Kannada poet and he wrote Santipurana.
• The art and architecture of the Rashtrakutas can be found at Ellora and Elephanta.
• The Kailashnath Temple at Ellora was built by the Rashtrakuta King Krishna I. Hence, Statement 4 is correct.

The Correct Answer is Tomar Dynasty

• Tomar Dynasty:
  • Tomar dynasty is considered one of the minor early medieval ruling houses of northern India.
  • According to Puranic evidence, its early location was in the Himalayan region.
  • It is believed to be one of the 36 Rajput tribes according to bardic tradition.
  • The Tomar dynasty's history spans from the reign of Anangpal, who founded the city of Delhi in the 11th century CE, to the incorporation of Delhi within the Chauhan kingdom in 1164.
  • Even though Delhi later became part of the Chauhan kingdom, evidence suggests that Tomara kings such as Anangapala and Madanapala continued to rule as feudatories until the final conquest of Delhi by the Muslims in 1192–93.
  • Anangpal II, also known as Anangpal Tomar, was a prominent figure from the Tomar dynasty.
  • Anangpal II was the founder of Dhillika Puri, which eventually evolved into Delhi.
  • Early history of Delhi is inscribed on the iron pillar of Masjid Quwaatul Islam, located adjacent to Qutub Minar.

Additional Information

• Parmar Dynasty:
  • The Paramara dynasty was an Indian dynasty that ruled Malwa and surrounding areas in west-central India between the 9th and 14th centuries.
  • They are classified among the Agnivanshi Rajput dynasties in medieval bardic literature.
  • The dynasty was established around the 9th to 10th century.
  • Notable rulers like Siyaka and Munja played significant roles in the dynasty's expansion and consolidation.
• Solanki Dynasty:
  • The Solankis were another Agnikula clan of the Rajputs, believed to have descended from the Badami Chalukyas.
  • Their capital was Anhilwara, which is now known as Sidhpur Patan.
  • The Solankis were patrons of the Somnath Temple.
  • Under rulers like Mularaja, the dynasty saw the beginning of Gujarati culture, language, and script.
• Chauhan Dynasty:
  • The Chauhan dynasty was known for its strong political influence in the Shakambari region during the 11th century.
  • Members of the dynasty were famous for their bravery and loyalty.
  • Prithviraj Chauhan, a renowned ruler from this dynasty, was known for his valor.
  • Originally belonging to the Agnivanshi Clan, the Chauhans were descendants of the Fire God.

The correct answer is Kuroshio Current

Key Points

• Kuroshio Current is a warm ocean current.
• It is also known as Japan Current.
• It belongs to the North Pacific ocean.
• Its average annual sea-surface temperature is above 24ºC.
• It is a Biodiversity hotspot, which means that the waters that circulate here are home to a diverse range of species.

Important Points

• CANARIES CURRENT: It is a cold ocean current in the Atlantic Ocean.
• LABRADOR CURRENT: It is a cold ocean current of the North Atlantic Ocean.
• OYASHIO CURRENT: It is a cold ocean current in the North Pacific Ocean.

Additional Information

• OCEAN CURRENT: When ocean water flows in a definite direction it is known as an ocean current. There are two types of ocean currents:

1. Surface current(due to the effect of air)
2. Deep ocean current (due to the effect of salinity and temperature)

• Also, there are two types of current:

1. Warm Current (high in temperature)
2. Cold Current (low in temperature)

Hence, Kuroshio Current is a cold ocean current.

Key Points:
Maximum Number of Ministers: The maximum number of ministers that can be part of the Union Cabinet of India is 15% of the total strength of Lok Sabha.

• According to the Constitution of India, the total number of ministers in the council of ministers must not exceed 15% of the total number of members of the Lok Sabha.
• Ministers must be members of parliament.
• If a minister is not a member of either house of parliament for six consecutive months, they will lose their ministerial post automatically.

Additional Information:  
Upon losing the confidence of Lok Sabha, the council of ministers shall resign to facilitate the formation of a new government.

• A minister can make decisions without being considered by the council of ministers as per Article 78(c).
• All Union Cabinet members are required to submit in writing to the President to propose a proclamation of emergency by the President in accordance with Article 352.

The correct answer is Option 3.
In News

The Indian Express: What is Israel’s Iron Dome, how does it intercept rockets?

Key Points

• What is the Iron Dome?
  • It is a short-range, ground-to-air, air defence system that includes a radar and Tamir interceptor missiles that track and neutralise any rockets or missiles aimed at Israeli targets. It is used for countering rockets, artillery & mortars (C-RAM) as well as aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.
• How does it work, and what makes it so effective?
  • The Iron Dome has three main systems that work together to provide a shield over the area where it is deployed, handling multiple threats. It has a detection and tracking radar to spot any incoming threats, a battle management and weapon control system (BMC), and a missile firing unit. The BMC basically liaises between the radar and the interceptor missile.
• Once the missile is fired, it “should be able to manoeuvre, should be able to see the small target on her own and thereafter go and shoot”.
• But it is impossible to hit the target directly each time, which is why “there is something in each missile called proximity fuse” which is a “laser-controlled fuse”. 
• A proximity fuse is a fuse that detonates an explosive device automatically when it approaches within a certain distance of its target. Hence, Option 3 is correct.
• When passing within certain proximity of the target, this activates and blasts the missile with shrapnel that destroys the target.
• The warhead is exploded in such a way that it caters for the velocity of the missile and the target.
• Before the invention of the proximity fuse, detonation was induced by direct contact, a timer set at launch, or an altimeter.
• All of these earlier methods have disadvantages. The probability of a direct hit on a small moving target is low; a shell that just misses the target will not explode.
• A time- or height-triggered fuse requires good prediction by the gunner and accurate timing by the fuse. If either is wrong, then even accurately aimed shells may explode harmlessly before reaching the target or after passing it.

The Doklam Plateau Location

• Position: The Doklam plateau is located to the west of Bhutan.

In News

• The Hindu: Why are the China-Bhutan boundary talks significant?

Key Points on Doklam

• Doklam, also known as Donglang in China, is a region that consists of a high plateau and a valley within the borders of Bhutan.
• The region is bordered by China's Chumbi Valley to the north, Bhutan's Ha District to the east, and the Indian state of Sikkim to the west, indicating its position to the western side of Bhutan.
• Since 1961, Bhutanese maps have identified Doklam as part of Bhutan, although China also asserts its claim over the area.
• Despite multiple rounds of boundary discussions between Bhutan and China, the dispute over the area remains unsettled.
• This region holds strategic importance for all three countries involved.
• In 2017, a military standoff occurred between India and China when China attempted to extend a road southwards on the Doklam plateau near the Doka La pass. Indian forces intervened to stop the road construction.
• India stated that it had taken action on behalf of Bhutan, a nation with which India maintains a special relationship.
• The Bhutanese government officially objected to China's road construction activities in the contested region.

The correct answer is Consolidated Fund of India
Key Points

• Article 266(1) of the Constitution of India makes provision for the Consolidated Fund of India.
• Source of Credit:
  • Direct and indirect taxes Loans taken by the Indian government.
  • Returning of loans/interests of loans to the government by others.
• The government meets all its expenditures from this fund.
• The government needs parliamentary approval to withdraw money from this fund.
• The expenditure charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India is not subjected to vote but the discussion can be held
• The Comptroller and Auditor General of India audit these funds.
• The following expenditure shall be expenditure charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India –
  • the emoluments and allowances of the President and other expenditures as related to its office.
  • the salaries and allowances of the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Council of State and the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of the People.
  • Debt charges for which the Government of India is liable including interest, sinking fund charges and redemption charges, and other expenditures related to the raising of loans and the service and redemption of Debt.
  • the salaries, allowances, and pensions were payable to or in respect of Judges of the Supreme Court.
  • the pension payable to or in respect of Judges of the federal court the pension payable to in respect of the Judges of the High Court.
  • the salary allowances and pension payable to or in respect of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
  • any sums required to satisfy any judgment, decree, or award of any Court or Arbitral Tribunal.
  • any other expenditure declared by the constitution or by Parliament by law to be so charged.

Key Points

• Jalaluddin Khilji, whose real name was Malik Feroz Khilji, was the first Khalji Sultan who invaded the Ranthambore fort.
• He is remembered as a benevolent ruler and is also known as a ‘Saint ruler’.
• Jalaluddin attempted to lay siege to the Ranthambore Fort, but his attempt was unsuccessful.

Additional Information

• In 1301, Allaudin Khilji, the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, conquered the neighbouring kingdom of Ranasthambhapura, modern-day Ranthambore.
  • Alauddin Khilji took over the fort of Ranthambore and defeated Hammir, the last Chauhan ruler of Ranthambore.
  • After capturing the fort, Alauddin appointed Ulugh Khan as its governor.
  • Therefore, Alauddin Khilji took over Ranthambore in 1301.
• Mohammed Ghori was also known as Sihabuddin Mohammed Bin Sham or Muenuddin.

The correct answer is Only 2.
Key Points

• The Urban Population in Uttar Pradesh is 22.7%.
• It is lower than the National Average that is 31.16%.
• It is less than the Rural Population in the state.
• Around 77.7% of the population in the state is living in rural areas. Hence statement 1st is incorrect. 
• The highest urban population is found in the Ghaziabad district.
• It is 67.6%. Hence statement 2nd is correct.
• The lowest urban population is found in the Shravasti district.
• It is 3.5%.

Additional Information

Highest Urban Population in Uttar Pradesh

Lowest Urban Population in Uttar Pradesh

Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in Ayodhya and Vrindavan. It commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. The festival includes various rituals and is marked by the "Dahi Handi" event, where participants form human pyramids to break a pot of curd.

The Uttar Pradesh government commemorates Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to honor the memories of those who lost their lives during the partition of India in 1947. This observance serves as a reminder to promote social harmony and unity while eliminating discrimination and animosity, fostering a sense of collective history among citizens.