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 industries use Petcoke as an ingredient?
1. Cement
2. Limestone
3. Furnance oil
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 3
d) 1 and 3 only
Inspired by: SC eases petcoke ban for 2 sectors

Q.2) Which of the following are the functions/activities of the Labour Bureau?
1. Labour Intelligence
2. Labour Research
3. Monitoring and evaluation studies under the Minimum Wages Act 1948.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.3) With reference to the ‘Buenos Aires Declaration on Women and Trade’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an declaration under the aegis of the WTO.
2. India has supported this declaration.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) Both 1 and 2
b) 2 only
c) Neither 1 nor 2
d) 1 only
Inspired by: Click2read

Q.4) With reference to the Brahmaputra river, consider the following statements:
1. It originates on the Angsi Glacier.
2. Lohit is one of its tributaries.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Neither 1 nor 2
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: China denies building tunnel to divert Brahmaputra waters

Q.5) Which of the following agreement/declaration/convention is related to the WTO?
a) Bonn Agreement
b) Alpine Convention
c) Marrakesh Agreement
d) Fortaleza

Q.6) In the areas covered under the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 what is the role/ power of Gram Sabah?
1. Gram Sabah has the power to prevent alienation of land in the scheduled area)
2. Gram Sabah has the ownership of minor forest produce
3. Recommendation of gram Sabah is required for granting prospecting licence or mining lease for any mineral in the scheduled
areas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.7) In the parliament of India, the purpose of an adjournment motion is
a) to allow a discussion on a definite matter of urgent public importance
b) to leer opposition members collect information from the ministers
c) to allow a reduction of specific amount in demand for grant
d) to postpone th proceedings to check the inappropriate or violent behaviour on the part of some members

Q.8) How does National Biodiversity Authority help in protecting the Indian agriculture?
1. NBA checks the biopairacy and protects the indigenous and traditional genetic resources.
2. NBA directly monitors and supervises the scientific research on genetic modification of crop plants.
3 Applications for intellectual property rights related to genetic/ biological resources can not be made without the approval of NBA.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
a) 1
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) With reference to the ‘Trade Facilitation Agreement’, sometimes seen in news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an accord to simplify customs regulations for the cross-border movement of goods.
2. The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) entered into force on 22 February 2017.
3. India has not ratified the agreement yet.
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1 only
Inspired by: Click2read

Tikdam:

The second statement looks tough, since student who is following newspaper may be aware of the TFA and its details but he may or may not be aware of factual things like when it entered into force. It is extremely tough to remember exact date when any agreement or accord entered into force. However ignore the date you can still solve this question without even knowing the exact date by using a bit of smartness.-If you are reading newspaper you must be aware with the fact that India has ratified TFA and not only India has ratified, it has also created Trade facilitation council for the implementation of the TFA. Thus once you eliminate statement 3 you will automatically get the answer without even knowing the first2 statements.

Q.2) The primary aim of the Australian Group, sometimes seen in news is to help member countries to identify those exports which need to be controlled so as not to contribute to the spread of which of the following types of weapons?
1. Chemical
2. Biological
3. Nuclear
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1, 2 and 3
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 1 and 2 only
Inspired by: [op-ed snap] In an elite club: On India’s Wassenaar entry

Q,3) ‘The State of the World’s Children’ report, recently seen in news, was published by which of the following organisation?
a) Save the Children
b) UNICEF
c) Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation
d) None of the above
Inspired by: Click2read

Q.4) With reference to the ‘Advertising Standards Council of India’, consider the following statements:
1. It is a non-Government body.
2. Government has directed that ads violating ASCI code cannot be permitted on TV.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 2 only
c) 1 only
d) Both 1 and 2
Inspired by: Govt bans condom ads from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. because they are “indecent”

Q.5) Consider the following statements about Wassenaar Arrangement:
1. It was established in 1996 to contribute to regional and international security and stability by promoting transparency and greater responsibility in transfers of conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies, thus preventing destabilizing accumulations.
2.All permanent members of UN Security Council are its members.
Which of the following statement is/are correct?
a) Only 1
b) 1 and 2
c) Only 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q.6) What is the difference between the antelopes Oryx and Chiru?
a) Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid areas whereas Chiru is adapted to live in steppes and semi­desert areas of cold high mountains
b) Oryx is poached for its antlers whereas Chiru is poached for its musk
c) Oryx exists in western India only whereas Chiru exists in north east India only.
d) None of the statements given above is correct.

Q.7) Which of the following can be threats to the biodiversity of a geographical area?
1. Global warming
2. Fragmentation of habitat
3. Invasion of alien species
4. Promotion of vegetarianism
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Q.8) Consider the following:
1. Black necked crane
2. Cheetah
3. Flying squirrel
4. Snow leopard
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 1, 3 and 4 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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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) With reference to the ‘G33 countries’, sometimes seen in news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. All of its member countries are Developing Countries.

2. It deals with concerns regarding agriculture in relation to World Trade Organisation negotiations.

3.India is not a member of G33 group.

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) 1 and 3

b) 2 and 3

c) 1 and 2

d) All of the above

Inspired by: WTO: diverse views fuel bleak prospect for outcomes

Tikdam:

It is very obvious that India as a leader of Developing countries is expected to be member of any coalition of developing countries in WTO. If you are reading news-papers carefully you must be aware with the fact that G33 is dominated by India and after/before every WTO ministerial summit there is always meeting among G33 countries and usually it is presided by India. Once you eliminate statement 3 you will automatically get the answer without even knowing other 2 statements.

Q.2) The ‘Digital Infopedia’ platform, recently seen in news, is established under

a) Digital India Initiative

b) World Trade Organisation

c) United Nations General Assembly

d) International Solar Alliance

Q.3) Which of the following characteristics best describe atomic/physical properties of ‘Heavy Metals’?

1. High Density

2. Low Atomic weight

3. Low Atomic number

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) 1, 2 and 3

b)1 and 3 only

c) 2 and 3 only

d) 1 only

Inspired by: Govt plans study to settle dispute over use of PET bottles for medicines

Q.4) Accoring to a decision by Health Ministry, state-run National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) will assess the health impact of the use of PET bottles to package medicines. PET bottles are made up of a

a) Heavy metal

b) Polymer

c) Light Metal

d) Metalloid

Inspired by: Govt plans study to settle dispute over use of PET bottles for medicines

Q.5) Consider the following statement about advertisement standards council of India:

1.It is a regulatory organization under the Ministry of information & broadcasting.

2.ASCI seeks to ensure that advertisement confirm to its Code for Regulation.

Which of the following statement is/are correct?

a)    Only 1

b)    Only 2

c)    Both 1 and 2

d)    Neither 1 and 2

Inspired by: Govt bans condom ads from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. because they are “indecent”

Q.6) Consider the following kinds of organisms:

1. Bat

2. Bee

3. Bird

which of the above is/are pollinating agent/agents?

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 2 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.7) Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

a) Great Indian bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetah, Blue Bull, GIB

c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey, Saras (Crane)

d) Lion Tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur, Cheetah

Q.8) Consider the following statements:

If there were no phenomenon of capillarity

1. it would be difficult to use a kerosene lamp

2. one would not be able to use a straw to consume a soft drink

3. the blotting paper would paper would fail to function

4. the big trees that we see around would not have grown on the earth

Which of the following statements given above are correct?

a) 1, 2 and 3 only

b) 1, 3 and 4 only

c) 2 and 4 only

d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

 

---

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.

---

Q1) Which of the following was a non-violent peasant agitation in India?

a) Telangana stuggle

b) Bardoli movement

c) Naxalbari peasant Uprising

d) Tebhaga Movement

Tikdam:

If you know, the leader of the Bardoli Peasant movement was Sardar Patel. Then, you can easily figure out, it must be on Gandhian Prinicples(i.e. peaceful) as Patel was a great follower of Gandhi. Tittle ‘Sardar’ was given by Gandhi to Sardar Patel.

Q,2) With reference to the ‘Gross fixed capital formation(GFCF)’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. It is a macroeconomic concept.

2. It shows how much of the new value added in the economy is invested rather than consumed.

3. It is not a measure of total investment.

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Getting back on track

Q.3) Which of the following organisms are known (in some special cases) to have Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) ability to stop an antimicrobial from working against it?

1. Bacteria

2. Virus

3. Parasites

Select the correct option 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] Living in a world of emerging microbial resistance

Q.4) ‘Ajeya Warrior’, recently seen in news, is a periodic military exercise between/among which of the following countries?

1. India

2. United Kingdom

3. Nepal

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1, 2 and 3

d) 1 and 3 only

Inspired by: Joint Indo-UK military exercise focusing on inter-operability

Q.5) The National Action Plan on Antimicrobialm 2017 primarily focusses on

a) limiting antibiotics in effluent being dumped by drug makers into the environment

b) getting people to cut down on unnecessary antibiotic consumption

c) spreading awareness about threats from anntimicrobial resisitance.

d) None of the above

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Living in a world of emerging microbial resistance

Q.6) Consider the following statements:

1. The duration of the monsoon decreases from southern India to northern India)

2. The amount of annual rainfall in the northern plains of India decreases from east to west.

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) Which one of the following is the characteristic climate of the Tropical Savannah Region?

a) Rainfall throughout the year

b) Rainfall in winter only

c) An extremely short dry season

d) A definite dry and wet season

Q.8) In which one among the following categories of protected areas in India are local people not allowed to collect and use the biomass?

a) Biosphere reserves

b) National parks

c) Wetlands declared under Ramsar convention

d) Wildlife sanctuaries

 

---

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 is not a Bretton Woods institution?

a) International Monetary Fund

b) World Bank

c) Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

d) All of the above

Tikdam:

If you have some basic knowledge about the OECD, then you may know that OECD describes itself as ‘a
forum of countries describing themselves as committed to democracy and the market economy’. But
there is no such condition(for joining) in IMF and World Bank, as many planned economies are also part
of these two organisations. This makes a difference between IMF, World Bank and OECD. And thus, there
is a significant chance that Bretton Woods organisation should have same kind of
conditions(characteristics) for joining.

Q.2) With reference to the ‘Advance Pricing Agreement’, which was recently seen in the news, consider the following statements:

1. It is an agreement between a taxpayer and a tax authority.

2. They cannot be multilateral.

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: [pib] Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) signs two Indian Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) in November

Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding the geography of ‘Maldives’:

1. It is the smallest Asian country by both land area and population.

2. It touches the Laccadive Sea.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) Both 1 and 2

b) 2 only

c) 1 only

d) Neither 1 nor 2

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Island hopping

Q.4) With reference to the ‘G4 nations’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. In G4, the common denominator is the economy and long-term political motives.

2. South Africa is one of its members.

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) 2 only

b) Both 1 and 2

c) Neither 1 nor 2

d) 1 only

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Let us be realistic about the UNSC

Q.5) Which of the following statements regarding ‘the Wassenaar Arrangement’, recently seen in news, is/are correct?

1. It is a multilateral export control regime.

2. All of its members are Nuclear Power States.

3. India is its member.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

a) 1 and 3 only

b) 1, 2 and 3

c) 2 and 3 only

d) 1 and 2 only

Inspired by: Wassenaar Arrangement decides to make India its member

Q.6) Despite having large reserves of coal, why does India import millions of tonnes of coal?

1. It is the policy of India to save its own coal reserves for future and import it from other countries for the present use.

2. most of the power plants in India are coal based and they are not able to get sufficient applies of coal from within the country?

3. Steel companies need large quantity of coking coal which has to be imported

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

a) 1 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.7) Recently there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called rare earth metals. Why?

1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export.

2. Other than china, Australia, Canada, Chile, these elements are not found in any country.

3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is growing demand for these elements.

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) Consider the following protected areas:

1. Bandipur

2. Bhitarkanika

3. Manas

4. Sunderbans

Which of the above are declared Tiger Reserves?

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 1, 3 and 4 only

c) 2, 3 and 4 only

d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

---

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 statement about ‘International Solar Alliance:

1. The alliance is a treaty-based inter-governmental organization. 

2. The alliance’s primary objective is work for efficient exploitation of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

3. Countries that do not fall within the Tropics cannot join the ISA .

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only

b) All of the above

c) 2 and 3

d) 1 and 3

Inspired by: Solar Alliance comes into existence

Tikdam:

If you would have been following newspapers, you must have been aware of the fact that India and France were the key architects of the International solar alliance. It is obvious that France is not a tropical country since it lies in Europe and no country in Europe is a tropical country. Since France is the founding member of the ISA, no way statement 3 can be correct. Once we eliminate statement 3,we will automatically get the answer by elimination method without even knowing other 2 statements.

Q.2) With reference to the ‘the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act,’ Consider the following statements:

1. The act is also applicable to Private Clinical Establishments.

2. The act has taken effect in all Indian States, except the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) Both 1 and 2

b) 2 only

c) Neither 1 nor 2

d) 1 only

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Universal health coverage is the best prescription

Q.3) With reference to the ‘National Strategic plan (NSP) for control of Tuberculosis’, consider the following statements:

1. It was a part of the 12th Five year plan for the period 2012-17.

2. Under the plan, Government has announced the goal to eliminate TB by 2025.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) Neither 1 nor 2

b) 2 only

c) 1 only

d) Both 1 and 2

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Incentivizing new vaccine development

Q.4) Which of the following statements regarding the ‘Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction’ is/are correct?

1. India has acceded to the convention

2. It is a convention under the United Nations.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

a) 2 only

b) Neither 1 nor 2

c) 1 only

d) Both 1 and 2

Inspired by: Courts can turn down child repatriation, says Supreme Court

Q.5) The Finance Commission of India makes recommendations to the president with regard to:

1. The distribution of the proceeds of taxes between the union and the states.

2. The principles which should govern the grants-in-aid to be given to the states.

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) Both 1 and 2

b) 1 only

c) 2 only

d) Neither 1 nor 2

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] New India formula?

Q.6) Consider the following:

1. Assessment of the land revenue on the basis of nature of the soil and the quality of crops.

2. Use of mobile cannons in warfare

3. Cultivation of tobacco and red chillies

Which of the above was/were introduced into India by the English?

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2

c) 2 and 3

d) None

Q.7) With reference to the guilds (Shreni) if ancient India that played a very important role in the country’s economy, which of the

following statements is/are correct?

1. Every guild was registered with the central authority of the state and the king was the chief admen authority on them

2.The wages, rules of work, standards and prices were fixed by the guild

3. The guild had judicial powers over its own members.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 3 only

c) 2 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.8) The distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution is based on the scheme provide in the

a) Marley­Minto reforms 1909

b) Montagu Chelmsford act 1919

c) Govt. of India act, 1935

d) Indian independence act 1947

---

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 ‘Services Exports from India Scheme (SEIS),’ recently seen in news, consider the following statements:

1. Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS) aims to promote export of services from India by providing duty scrip credit for eligible exports

2. The scheme is valid for two years

3. It has been introduced as a part of Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020.

Select the correct option using the codes given below.

a) All the above

b) 1 and 2

c) 1 and 3

d) 2 and 3

Inspired by: Boost for exports as Government announces more incentives

Tikdam:

It is almost impossible to remember exact figure like 2 years and 5 years in every scheme. However using Tikdam technique you will be easily able to solve this question. Let us explain why. SEIS scheme was launched as a part of Foreign-trade policy 2015-2020 and since FTP have 5 year validity therefore no way schemes launched as part of FTP will have any different validity. Thus statement 2 can be eliminated. Once we eliminate statement 2 we will automatically get the answer by elimination method without knowing other 2 statements.

Q.2) With reference to the ‘Indian Railway Station Development Corp. Ltd (IRSDC),’ recently seen in news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. It is a joint venture company.

2. It is a statutory authority under the Ministry of Railways.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

a) Both 1 and 2

b) 2 only

c) 1 only

d) Neither 1 nor 2

Inspired by: Railways appoints IRSDC as nodal agency for station redevelopment plan

Q.3) With reference to the ‘United Nations Convention against Torture,’ recenlty seen in news, consider the following statements:

1. India has not signed the convention.

2. French is the only official language of the convention.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) Both 1 and 2

b) 1 only

c) Neither 1 nor 2

d) 2 only

Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Stand up against torture

Q.4) With reference to the ‘open market operation (OMO)’, consider the following statements:

1. It is related to buying and selling of Government Bonds in the market.

2. In India, the operations are carried out by the SEBI.

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: What to note in RBI monetary policy beyond rate action

Q.5) Consider following statement about Monetary policy committee:

1. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a committee of the Reserve Bank of India, headed by its Governor, which is entrusted with the task of fixing the benchmark policy interest rate (repo rate) to contain inflation within the specified target level.

2. MPC have six members, – the RBI Governor (Chairperson), the RBI Deputy Governor in charge of monetary policy, one official nominated by the RBI Board and the remaining three members representing the Government of India.

3. The MPC takes decisions based on majority vote (by those who are present and voting). In case of a tie, the RBI governor have the second or casting vote.

Which of the following statement is/are correct?

a) 1 and 2

b) 2 and 3

c) All of the above

d) 1 and 3

Q.6) Which of the following measures would result in an increase in the money supply in the economy?

1. Purchase of govt securities from the public by the central bank

2. Deposit of currency in commercial banks by the public

3. borrowing by the govt. from the central bank

4. Sale of govt. secs. To the public by the central bank

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

a) 1

b) 2 and 4 only

c) 1 and 3

d) 2, 3 and 4

Q.7) Which of the following would include Foreign Direct Investment on India?

1. Subsidiaries of foreign companies in India

2. Majority foreign equity holding in Indian companies

3. Companies exclusively financed by foreign companies

4. Portfolio investment

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

a) 1, 2, 3 and 4

b) 2 and 4 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3 only

Q.8) Consider the following statement:

The price of any currency in international market is decided by the

1. World Bank

2. Demand for goods/services provided by the country concerned

3. Stability of the government of the concerned country

4. Economic potential of the country in question.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

a) 1,2,3 and 4

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 3 and 4 only

d) 1 and 4 only

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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 

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Q.1) Which of the following countries is/are a member of GCC?
1.Saudi Arabia
2.Jordan
3.Iran
4.UAE
Select the correct code:
a) All of the above
b) 1 and 4
c) 1,3 and 4
d) 1,2 and 3

Tikdam:

People who have 0% idea about GCC could solve this question easily using some basic common sense. If you are reading our news-cards regularly you must be aware with the fact that Saudi Arabia and Iran does not see eye to eye with each other. Infact growing proximity of Qatar with Iran was one of the most important reason why UAE was suspended from GCC. Therefore, no way Iran and Saudi Arabia could be part of a same organization. Also, GCC is an organization of gulf monarchies and Iran is not a monarchy. Therefore, once you eliminate Iran from the equation only 1 option is left that is b which is also the answer.

Foreign Policy Watch: India-Middle East

Q.2) With reference to the ‘World Health Organization’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a member of the United Nations Development Group.
2. It is responsible for the publication of the World Health Report.
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

Q.3) Recenty, a Satellite ‘Sentinel-5P’, was in news. The satellite was designed for working in the area of
a) Gravitational Waves
b) Air Pollution
c) Astronomical observation
d) Water Pollution

Q.4) Which of the following statement is correct regarding the ‘Bail in’ clause of the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017 , recenlty seen in news?
a) It involves the rescue of a financial institution by internal parties, typically governments using taxpayers money
b) It involves the rescue of a financial institution by external parties, typically governments using taxpayers money
c) It is rescuing a financial institution on the brink of failure by making its creditors and depositors take a loss on their holdings
d) None of the above

Q.5) With reference to the ‘National Green Tribunal’, often seen in news, consider the following statements:
1. It follows the principles of Natural Justice
2. It was established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) Both 1 and 2
c) 2 only
d) 1 only

Q.6) Which of the following statements is/ are correct regarding Brahmo Samaj?
1. It opposed idolatry.
2. It denied the need for a priestly class for interpreting the religious texts.
3. It popularized the doctrine that the Vedas are infallible.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.7) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) acts as a bankers’ bank. This would imply which of the following?
1 Other bank retains their deposits with the RBI.
2 The RBI lends funds to the commercial banks in times of need)
3 The RBI advises the commercial banks on monetary matters.
Correct statement(s) is/are?
a) 2 and 3 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Q.8) Under which of the following circumstances may “capital gains” arise?
1. when there is an increase in the sales of a product
2 .when there is a natural increase in the value of the property owned)
3. when you purchase a painting and there is a growth in its value due to increase in its popularity.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 2 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 

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Q.1) Consider the following statement about Crypto-currency
1. Founded as a peer-to-peer electronic payment system, cryptocurrencies enable transfer of money between parties, without going through a banking system.
2. These employ cryptographic algorithms and functions to ensure anonymity (privacy) of the users (who are identified by an alphanumeric public key), security of the transactions and integrity of the payment systems.
3. Crypto-currencies have been banned in India.
Which of the following statement is correct?
a) All the above
b) 1 and 3
c) 1 and 2
d) 2 and 3

Tikdam:

The second statement of the question is bit technical and it will be difficult for a non-science student to guess the correctness of the statement. However using Tikdam technique you will be able to solve this tough question without even knowing the first 2statements.Let us explain why?
BitCoin cannot be banned as its not owned by any government. BitCoin is more like a democratic currency which is of the people, for the people and by the people. At most it could be regulated. If you would have been following news you must be aware with the fact that Government has recently appointed a committee to give suggestions regarding regulation of BITCOINS. If Government would have banned BITCOINS it would have been a very big news. Thus using a bit of common sense you can eliminate statement 3 and once you do that you will automatically get the answer using elimination method.

Q.2) With reference to the ‘Trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs)’, consider the following statements:
1. They are the objects orbiting Neptune.
2. TNOs are icy worlds.
Which of the satements given above is/are correct?
a) 2 only
b) 1 only
c) Neither 1 nor 2
d) Both 1 and 2

Q.3) With reference to Petcoke which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is made from Crude Oil Refining process.
2. It is also produced in the production of synthetic crude oil.
Select the correct opiton using the codes given below.
a) Neither 1 nor 2
b) 2 only
c) 1 only
d) Both 1 and 2

Q.4) The International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) was initiated by which of the following countries?
1. Russia
2. India
3. Iran
4. Afghanistan
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
b) 3 and 4 only
c) 1, 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2 and 3only

Q.5) The “Golden Quadrilateral” project, which is an infrastructure project sometimes seen news, is related to
a) Air-Traffic
b) Roads
c) Waterways
d) Railways

Q.6) The Lahore session of the Indian nat. congress 1929 is very important in history because
1. the congress passed a resolution demanding complete independence
2. rift between the extremists and moderates was resolved in that session
3. a resolution was passed rejecting two nation theory in that session
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) None of the above

Q.7) Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called “Bhumiparsh Mudra”. it symbolizes
a) Buddha’s calling of the earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation
b) Buddha’s calling of the earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara
c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the earth and finally dissolve into the earth and thus this life is transitory
d) both a and b are correct.

Q.8) The religion of early Vedic Aryans was primarily of
a) bhakti
b) image worship and yajnas
c) worship of nature and yajnas
d) worship of nature and bhakti

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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