Author: Prelims

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

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Q.1) Which of the following about the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is incorrect?

a) It is an inter-governmental body established by the Ministers of its Member Jurisdictions

b) It is a body created by the Government of India to streamline financial sector challenges

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

d) It is essentially a “policy-making body” which works to generate the necessary political will to bring about national legislative and regulatory reforms in these areas

Inspired by: US, Russia back India in bid to stop terror funding by Pakistan

Q.2) With reference to the ‘United Nations Convention against Torture’, recently seen in news, whiich of the following statements is/are correct?
1. India has already India signed the convention.
2. The convention forbids states to transport people to any country where there is reason to believe they will be tortured.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 2 only
b) Neither 1 nor 2
c) 1 only
d) Both 1 and 2

Q.3) Which of the following statements regarding the ‘Blue Economy’ is incorrect?
a) It is founded upon a systems approach, wherein renewable and organic inputs are fed into sustainably designed systems to fuel “blue growth.”
b) is envisaged as the integration of Ocean Economy development with the principles of social inclusion, environmental sustainability and innovative, dynamic business models
c) The concept of blue economy encompasses even maritime activities, such as shipping services.
d) All of the above are correct

Q.4) With reference to the proposed ‘National Testing Agency (NTA)’, which was recently in news, consider the following statements:
1. It will be registered under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860.
2. It will be an autonomous organsation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 1 only
c) 2 only
d) Both 1 and 2

Q.5) Consider the following locations:
1. Chitradurga
2. Pashan
3. Wheeler Island
Which of the above is/are test ranges of DRDO ?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.6) Consider the following pairs
National Park River flowing through the Park
1. Corbett National Park : Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
a) 1 and 2
b) 3 only
c) 1 and 3
d) None

Q.7) Consider the following organisms
1. Agaricus
2. Nostoc
3. Spirogyra
Which of the above is / are used as biofertilizer / biofertilizers
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 only
c) 2 and 3
d) 3 only

Q.8) Which of the following adds / add nitrogen to the soil?
1. Excretion of urea by animals
2. Burning of coal by man
3. Death of vegetation
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

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IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) Which of the following statement/s about the Participatory Guarantee System for India (PGS-India) programme for certification of organic produce is/are correct?
1. It involves a peer-review approach of certification.
2. Farmers play a role in certifying whether the farms in their vicinity adhered to organic-cultivation practices.
3. It is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture through the National Centre of Organic Farming.
Select the answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1 only
c) 2 only
d) All of the above
Inspired by: Come July, label mandatory for food certified as ‘organic’

Q.2) In which of the following cases of the Supreme Court of India the ‘Third Gender’ was recognized?
a) NALSA v. The Union of India (2014)
b) Joseph Shine v. The Union of India
c) Vishakha and Others vs. State
d) None of the above
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] This too is a right: the right to sexual privacy

Q.3) Which of the following are the objectives of the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)?
1. To encourage the development of organic farming and organic processing.
2. To provide the means of evaluation of certification programme for organic agriculture and products.
3. To accredit certification programmes of Certification Bodies seeking accreditation.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Inspired by: Come July, label mandatory for food certified as ‘organic’

Q.4) With reference to the Purchasing Managers’ Index(PMI) which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It shows the economic health of Service Sector.
2. Employment environment is one of its major indicators on which it is based.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 2 only
b) Neither 1 nor 2
c) 1 only
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: GDP growth seen slowing to 4-year low of 6.5% in 2017-18

Q.5) Which of the following country is not a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council?
a) Bahrain
b) Kuwait
c) Iraq
d) Qatar

Q.6) Due to improper / indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e­waste?
1. Beryllium
2. Cadmium
3. Chromium
4. Heptachlor
5. Mercury
6. Lead
7. Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
b) 1, 2, 3,5 and 6 only
c) 2, 4, 5 and 7 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Q.7) Acid rain is caused by the pollution of environment by
a) carbon dioxide and nitrogen
b) carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
c) ozone and carbon dioxide
d) nitrous oxide and sulphur dioxide

Q.8) With reference to food chains in ecosystems, consider the following statements :
1. A food chain illustrates the order in which a chain of organisms feed upon each other.
2. Food chains are found within the populations of a species.
3. A food chain illustrates the numbers of each organism which are eaten by others.
Which of the statements given above is / are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 1, 2 and 3
d) None

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) Consider the following statements about the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) Status under the World Trade Organisation (WTO):
1. Under MFN, a WTO member country is obliged to treat other trading nation in a non-discriminatory manner, especially with regard to customs duty and other levies.
2. India has accorded MFN status to all the WTO members, including Pakistan.
3. This status is given in accordance with the provisions of the General Agreement on Trade and Services under WTO.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 3 only
d) All of the above
Inspired by: Govt says no proposal to review Most Favored Nation status to Pakistan

Tikdam:

Statement 1: The words “Most Favoured” can be elusive in making you think that it is some special and discriminatory treatment but it is not.
Statement 2: The agreement requires every WTO member to extend this status to every other nation and hence India has extended it to all the members. But Pakistan is a defaulter/ violator in this case who has not accorded the MFN status to India. Just because it is a blanket statement having “all” in it, doesn’t mean it is wrong.
Statement 3: This requires specific knowledge and also reading carefully even when you know it well, you might mark it wrong in haste. Read carefully!
In conclusion, even in such a specific question, tikdam can at least help reach near action. But such questions inevitably require some amount of specific information/ knowledge.

Q.2) With reference to the ‘Environment Pollution and Prevention Control Authority (EPCA)’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an SC-mandated body.
2. It has enforced the graded response action plan (GRAP).
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 1 only
c) 2 only
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Hope for good air

Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding Aerosols
1.Aerosols are tiny particles made from super-fine solid particles only
2.Aerosols can modify the size of existing cloud particles,
and changes the rate of cloud’s reflection and absorption of sunlight .
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q.4) With reference to the ‘Government securities’, consider the following statements:
1. It is a tradable instrument.
2. These securities cannot be issued by the State Governments.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Inspired by: Govt seeks Parliament nod for Rs80,000 crore recap bonds

Q.5) With reference to the ‘internal complaints committee (ICC)’ mandated under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act of 2013, recently seen in news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It can include member from any NGO working for women’s causes.
2. The constitution of an ICC is compulsory in any branch or office that employs more than 10 people.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 1 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) 2 only
Inspired by: Notice to govt. on law for working women

Q.6) Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the process for determining the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights or both?
a) State Forest Department
b) District Collector/Deputy Commissioner
c) Tahsildar /Block Development Officer / Mandai Revenue Officer
d) Gram Sabha

Q.7) Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by
a) bacteria
b) protozoa
c) moulds
d) viruses

Q.8) ‘Economic Justice’ the objectives of Constitution has been as one of the Indian provided in
a) the Preamble and Fundamental Rights
b) the Preamble and the Directive Principles of State Policy
c) the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy
d) None of the above

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IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) Which of the following about the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) is incorrect?
a) It is a fund created under an Act of the Government of India
b) Currently, funds collected under CAMPA directly go into the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI)
c) These funds are meant to be used by states to implement agro-forestry in non-forest land to compensate for felled forest
d) None of the above
Inspired by: Key ministries disagree over CAMPA fund

Tikdam:

The name of the fund itself makes clear its intent and hence option (c) is eliminated.
Now, if one has followed current affairs in recent past, then at least the fact that it is part of an Act should be clear so even option (a) is eliminated.
Then there is choice between (b) and (d). If one has covered Laxmikanth then s/he should know that there are definite heads of funds which go to the Consolidated Fund of India and this fund doesn’t appear in that list. So answer comes to be option (b). Another way to think is that, if this is a separate fund itself, created by a statute, then there’s no chance it can go to the Consolidated Fund of India.

Q.2) Recently, the Union cabinet has approved a new model concession agreement (MCA), consider the following statements regarding it:
1. It will be applicable for new projects conceived under the Sagarmala programme.
2. The new agreement is based on private public partnership (PPP).
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Neither 1 nor 2
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: Modi govt signs off on radical makeover for ports sector

Q.3) With reference to the ‘Association of Southeast Asian Nations(ASEAN)’, consider the following statements:
1. ASEAN is an official United Nations Observer.
2. There is no official language of the ASEAN.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 2 only
b) Both 1 and 2
c) 1 only
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] A new plateau

Q.4) Which of the following is/are not (an)official language of the United Nations?
1. Arabic
2. Chinese
3. German
4. Spanish
5. Greek
Select the correct opiton using the codes given below.
a) 1, 2 and 4 only
b) 3 and 5 only
c) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Inspired by: Spat over Hindi as official language at UN

Q.5) With reference to the ‘Consolidated Fund of India (CFI)’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Indian state governments do not maintain their own consolidated funds.
2. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India audits these funds.
Select the correct answer using the codes givne below.
a) 2 only
b) Both 1 and 2
c) Neither 1 nor 2
d) 1 only
Inspired by: Key ministries disagree over CAMPA fund

Q.6) Which one of the following is the correct sequence of ecosystems in the order of decreasing productivity?
a) Oceans, lakes, grasslands, mangroves
b) Mangroves, oceans, grasslands, lakes
c) Mangroves, grasslands, lakes, oceans
d) Oceans, mangroves, lakes, grasslands

Q.7) Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used in
a) desert margins, liable to strong wind action
b) low flat plains, close to stream courses, liable to flooding
c) scrublands, liable to spread of weed growth
d) None of the above

Q.8) The Government enacted the Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act in 1996. Which one of the following is not identified as its objective?
a) To provide self­governance
b) To recognize traditional rights
c) To create autonomous regions in tribal areas
d) To free tribal people from exploitation

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IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) Consider the following statements about the official language of the United Nations:

1. English is the official language of the UN

2. A delegate at the UN may or may not choose to speak in the official language

Which of the statements above is/are correct?

a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) Neither 1 nor 2

Inspired by: Spat over Hindi as official language at UN 

Tikdam:

English is spoken by most people so it is obvious that it would be one of the official languages. So statement 1 is right. Also, there are more than 190 member nations at the UN. Obviosly, not everyone would know English or the other of official languages. So he must be permitted to speak in any other language aling with translation for others to understand. Compare Indian Parliament- members can address in any of the laguages and the translation is provided. So even statement 2 goes logically correct. And there we are, at the answer!

Q.2) With reference to Horticulture which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. In contrast to agriculture, horticulture does not include large-scale crop production.

2. It also includes science of growing flowers.

Select the correct answer using the codes gives below.

a) Both 1 and 2

b) Neither 1 nor 2

c) 1 only

d) 2 only

Inspired by: Horticulture crop output seen at record 305.4 mt in 2017-18

Q.3) With reference to the ‘Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Bill, 2017’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. The Bill would allow the government to take up infrastructure projects within prohibited areas around protected monuments.

2. The Bill seeks to have a new definition of “public works” under the Act.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

a) Neither 1 nor 2

b) 1 only

c) 2 only

d) Both 1 and 2

Inspired by: Click2read

Q.4) With reference to the ‘Electoral Bonds’, provisions of which are recently launched by the Indian Government, consider the following statements:

1. Bonds would be a bearer instrument in the nature of a promissory note

2. They can be used to make donations to registered political parties that have secured not less than 1% of the votes polled in the last election to the Lok Sabha or Assembly.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) Neither 1 nor 2

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) 1 only

Inspired by: Arun Jaitley notifies electoral bonds for political donations

Q.5) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) is related to

a) BRICS Countries

b) World Trade Organisation

c) Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

d) None of the above

Q.6) The demand for the Tebhaga Peasant Movement in Bengal was for

a) the reduction of the share of the landlords from one­half of the crop to one­third

b) the grant of ownership of land to peasants as they were the actual cultivators of the land

c) the uprooting of Zamindari system and the end of serfdom

d) writing off all peasant debts

Q.7) The Parliament can make any law for whole or any part of India for implementing international treaties

a) with the consent of all the States

b) with the consent of the majority of States

c) with the consent of the States concerned

d) without the consent of any State

Q.8) In the grasslands, trees do not replace the grasses as a part of an ecological succession because of

a) insects and fungi

b) limited sunlight and paucity of nutrients

c) water limits and fire

d) None of the above

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) Which of the following areas are parts of the Indian ocean?

1.    Gulf of aden

2.    Red sea

3.    Lombok strait

4.    Senkaku Island

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

a)    All of the above

b)    1,2 and 3

c)    2,3 and 4

d)    1,2 and 4

Tikdam:

-The questions looks tough since it is tough to remember the exact area of Indian ocean. Some of the places mentioned here are not very common places. However, using a bit of common sense, you can easily solve the question. If you would have following newspaper or our APP , You must be aware with Senkaku Island as both China and Japan are claiming this Island. Now neither Japan nor China are part of Indian ocean,Therefore no way Senkaku Island can be part of Indian ocean, Once we eliminate statement 4 we will automaticaly get the answer.

Q.2) Which of the following organisms come in the category of Microbes?

1. Bacteria

2. Archaea

3. Fungi

4. Protists

5. Viruses

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

b) 1, 3 and 4 only

c) 1 and 5 only

d) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

Inspired by: Astronauts identify unknown microbes in space for first time

Q.3) Symbiodinium provides coral host with photosynthetic products in return for nutrients and shelter. The Symbiodinium is basically a/an

a) Virus

b) Amoeba

c) Algae

d) Macroscopic Animal

Inspired by: Ancient jumping genes may control coral bleaching in warming oceans

Q.4) With reference to the Tetramorium krishnani, an insect recently seen in news, consider the following statements:

1. Scientists have recently discovered it in the Andaman Islands.

2. It is basically an Ant.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) Neither 1 nor 2

b) 1 only

c) 2 only

d) Both 1 and 2

Inspired by: Click2read

Q.5) With reference to the ‘International Union for Conservation of Nature’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. IUCN has observer status at the United Nations.

2. Its headquarters are in Gland, Switzerland.

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) Neither 1 nor 2

b) Both 1 and 2

c) 1 only

d) 2 only

Inspired by: Species we lost in 2017 and the ones that managed to hold on

Q.6) Consider the following pairs:

1. Nokrek Bio­ sphere Reserve : Garo Hills

2. Logtak (Loktak) Lake : Barail Range

3. Namdapha National Park : Dafla Hills

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

a) 1 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1, 2 and 3

d) None

Q.7) Consider the following:

1. Electromagnetic radiation

2. Geothermal energy

3. Gravitational force

4. Plate movements

5. Rotation of the earth

6. Revolution of the earth

Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth?

a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only

b) 1, 3, 5 and 6 only

c) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only

d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Q.8) Which of the following bodies does not/do not find mention in the Constitution?

1. National Development Council

2. Planning Commission

3. Zonal Councils

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 2 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

 

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) With reference to ‘Bitcoin’, frequently seen in news, consider the following statements:
1. It is based on the Blockchain Technology.
2. Bitcoins can be purchased from other users.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 1 only
c) 2 only
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: Govt warns against bitcoin trading, equates virtual currencies with ponzi schemes

Q.2) With reference to the ‘Capital adequacy ratio(CAR)’ which of the following statements are correct?
1. It is a measure of a bank’s capital.
2. It is expressed as a percentage of a bank’s risk weighted credit exposures.
3. It is used to protect depositors in Banks.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1 and 2 only
Inspired by: Govt. injects funds into 6 public banks

Q.3) Which of the following statements regarding the ‘Bio-CNG’ is incorrect?
a) Bio-CNG is a purified form of biogas with over 95% pure methane gas.
b) It is similar to natural gas in its composition and energy potential.
c) It is a fossil fuel.
d) None of the abvoe
Inspired by: Govt plans to set up bio-CNG plants and allied infrastructure

Q.4) The ‘Justice Srikrishna committee’, recently seen in news, is related to
a) Transparency and accountability of Municipal Corporations
b) Medical innovation in the Pharmaceutical Sector
c) Data Protection Law
d) Prompt corrective action (PCA)
Inspired by: Click2read

Q.5) “Which of the following mainly prohibits the formation of tropical cyclone near the Equator?
1. Lack of Coriolis force.
2. High variation of rainfall.
Select the correct answer using codes below:
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q.6) Variations in the length of daytime and night time from season to season are due to
a) the earth’s rotation on its axis
b) the earth’s revolution round the sun in an elliptical manner
c) latitudinal position of the place
d) revolution of the earth on a tilted axis

Q.7) The Narmada river flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why?
1. It occupies a linear rift valley.
2. It flows between the Vindhyas and the Satpuras.
3. The land slopes to the west from Central India.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) None

Q.8) On the planet earth, most of the freshwater exists as ice caps and glaciers. Out of the remaining freshwater, the largest proportion
a) is found in atmosphere as moisture and clouds
b) is found in freshwater lakes and rivers
c) exists as groundwater
d) exists as soil moisture

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) With reference to the ‘International Trade Centre’, consider the following statements:
1. It enjoys a joint mandate with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations (UN) .
2. It has country-based project offices.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 1 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) 2 only
Inspired by: India’s steel exports rise in 2017 as China’s plunge

Q.2) The National Action Plan Vision 2022, recently seen in news, is a plan undertaken by the
a) Department of Science and Technology
b) Department of Personnel and Training
c) Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries
d) None of the above
Inspired by: Click2read

Q.3) With reference to the ‘Clean Seas Campaign’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a Campaign lauched under the aegis of the UNEP.
2. The campaign contributes to the goals of the ‘Global Partnership on Marine Litter’.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) Both 1 and 2
c) 2 only
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Inspired by: Bali declares ‘garbage emergency’ amid sea of waste

Q.4) With reference to the ‘Advanced Air Defence (AAD)’ interceptor missile, sometimes seen in news, consider the following statements:
1. It is for exo-atmosphere or lower altitudes.
2. It is being developed as part the Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) Both 1 and 2
c) Neither 1 nor 2
d) 2 only
Inspired by: Click2read

Q.5) Consider the following animals:
1. Sea cow
2. Sea horse
3. Sea lion
Which of the above is/are mammal/mammals?
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.6) Consider the following statements
1. An amendment to the Constitution of India can be initiated by an introduction of a bill in the Lok Sabha only.
2. If such an amendment seeks to make changes in the federal character of the Constitution, the amendment also requires to be ratified by the legislature of all the States of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q.7) Consider the following statements:
Attorney General of India can
1. take part in the proceedings of the Lok Sabha
2. be a member of a committee of the Lok Sabha
3. speak in the Lok Sabha
4. vote in the Lok Sabha
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 4
c) 1, 2 and 3
d) 1 and 3 only

Q.8) With reference to the usefulness of the by­products of sugar industry, which of the following statements is / are correct?
1. Bagasse can be used as biomass fuel for the generation of energy.
2. Molasses can be used as one of the feedstocks for the production of synthetic chemical fertilizers.
3. Molasses can be used for the production of ethanol.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only –
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) With reference to the ‘Treasury bills’, consider the following statements:
1. Treasury bills are issued when the government need money for a shorter period 
2. T-bills are issued on behalf of the government by the SEBI
3. Treasury bills are presently issued in three maturities, namely, 91 day, 182 day and 364 day. 
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) All of the above
b) 1 and 2
c) 1 and 3
d) 2 and 3
Inspired by: Govt. to borrow more; fiscal deficit may widen

Tikdam:

This question is factual in nature since the third statement is little tricky. It is tough to remember exact number + days of maturity period of T-bills. However, using bit of logic, you can easily solve this question. Now as we know that Monetary policy in India is entirely controlled by RBI. Treasury bill is part of Monetary policy as Buying/selling of T-bills decreases and increases Money supply in India. Therefore no way statement 3 can be correct. Once we eliminate statement 3 we will automatically get the answer.

Q.2) With reference to the ‘Gulf of Aden’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is located in the Arabian Sea.
2. It touches the famous Horn of Africa.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) Both 1 and 2
c) 2 only
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Out at sea: on the Indian Ocean Region

Q.3) What is ‘Ekuverin’, recently seen in news?
a) Antimicrobial resistance drug against TB
b) Lightest material developed by the ISRO
c) India-Maldives joint military exercise
d) None of the above
Inspired by: Click2read

Q.4) Which of the following are responsible for Photo-chemical smog?
1. Nitrogen oxides
2. organic compounds
3.Sun-light
4.Ozone
Select the correct code:
a)1,2 and 3
b) All of the above
c)2,3 and 4
d)1,2 and 4

Q.5) If government is borrowing funds through ‘Government Bonds’, then what will be its effect on Fiscal Deficit?
a) It will increase
b) It will decrease
c) No affect
d) First increase and then decrease

Q.6) Consider the following
1. Star tortoise
2. Monitor lizard
3. Pygmy hog
4. Spider monkey
Which of the above found in India?
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Q.7) Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India?
1. Arsenic
2. Sorbitol
3. Fluoride
4. Formaldehyde
5. Uranium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2, 4 and 5 only
c) 1, 3 and 5 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Q.8) With reference to Indian History, the Members of the Constituent Assembly from the Provinces were
a) directly elected by the people of those Provinces
b) nominated by the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League
c) elected by the Provincial Legislative Assemblies
d) selected by the Government for their expertise in constitutional matters

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.

Dear student,

One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.

---

Q.1) In nitrogen cycle the nitrogen is converted into multiple chemical forms as it circulates among which of the following ecosystems?
1. Atmosphere
2. Terrestrial
3. Marine 
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1 and 2 only
Inspired by: Mobile phone radiation harmful for a cockroach’s health: Study

Q.2) With reference to the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The Act creates a non-justiciable right to mental healthcare.
2. The Act provides persons with mental illness protection from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.
3. The Act has decriminalized suicide attempts by ‘reading down’ the power of section 309 of the Indian Penal Code.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 2 and 3 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 3
d) 1 and 2 only
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Mental Healthcare Act: A paradigm shift

Q.3) Which of the following organisation has recently released the ‘World Development Indicators’?
a) IMF
b) OECD
c) World Bank
d) United Nations
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Countering growing inequality

Q.4) With reference to the ‘Compensatory and Afforestation Fund (CAF) Bill’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The Bill came into existence after an SC’s order.
2. The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), establised under the bill, is a temporary body.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 1 only
c) 2 only
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: ₹40,000-cr. forest fund in limbo

Q.5) Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) handles its cases using which of the following Tribunals?
1. NCLT(National company law tribunal)
2. Debt recovery tribunal.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) Neither 1 nor 2
c) 2 only
d) Both 1 and 2

Q.6) With reference to the history of Indian rock­cut architecture, consider the following statements:
1. The caves at Badami are the oldest surviving rock­cut caves in India.
2. The Barabar rock­cut caves were originally made for Ajivikas by Emperor Chandragupta Maurya.
3. At Ellora, caves were made for different faiths.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.7) Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic Engineering) allows genes to be transferred
1. across different species of plants
2. from animals to plants
3. from microorganisms to higher organisms
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.8) The Chinese traveller Yuan Chwang (Hiuen Tsang) who visited India recorded the general conditions and culture of India at that time. In this context, which of the following
statements is/are correct?
1. The roads and river­routes were completely immune from robbery.
2. As regards punishment for offences, ordeals by fire, water and poison were the instruments for determining the innocence or guilt of a person.
3. The tradesmen had to pay duties at ferries and barrier stations.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

---

IMPORTANT STUFF: 

1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

4. Click here for Solutions.