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Category: Prelims Daily

Daily Current Affairs Questions for IAS Prelims.

  • 9 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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

  • 8 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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

  • 7 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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


    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

  • 6 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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 


    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


    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

  • 5 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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 


    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


    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

  • 4 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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 


    Q.1) Consider the following statement about the Saubhagya scheme:

    1. Saubhagya is a scheme launched to achieve electrification of all the villages in India.

    2. The Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC) is nodal agency for operationalisation of scheme throughout country.

    3. All States and Union Territories of the country are required to complete the target of electrification in their respective jurisdiction by 31st March, 2019.

    Which of the following statement is/are correct?

    a) All of the above

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 2 only

    d) 1 and 3 only

    Tikdam:

    Even if you have not read the minute details of the scheme like who will be the implementing agency, By when states and U &T are required to complete the target still you can solve the question by using common-sense. The full form of Saubhagya scheme is Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana, now as the name suggests it is definitely scheme for Household electrification and not village electrification. Village electrification is already being tackled by another scheme Deen Dayal gram jyoti Yojana. Why would Government launch another scheme with a same purpose? Thus once we eliminate statement 1 we will automatically get the answer using the elimination method without knowing the other 2 statements.

    Q.2) The India Hypertension Management Initiative (IHMI) is collaborative project of which of the following organisation/ministry/government?

    1. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

    2. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW)

    3. State Governments

    4. World Health Organization (WHO)

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) 2, 3 and 4 only

    b)  1, 2, 3 and 4

    c) 1 and 4 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3 only

    Q.3) Consider the following statement regarding the ‘UNAIDS’:

    1. It is a member of the United Nations Development Group.

    2. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) 1 only

    c) 2 only

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.4) With reference to the ‘Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).’, sometimes seen in news, consider the following statements:

    1. It is a Sea Zone.

    2. It is governed by State Governments.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a) 1 only

    b) Neither 1 nor 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) 2 only

    Q.5) Which of the following statements regarding the ‘BRICS’ members is/are correct?

    1. Only 3 members of the BRICS are members of the G-20.

    2. Brazil was the last member to join the Association.

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) Neither 1 nor 2

    b) 1 only

    c) 2 only

    d) Both are correct

    Q.6) How do you distinguish between kuchipudi and bharatnatyam dances?

    1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues i found in kuchipudi dance but not in bharatnatyam.

    2 . Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of bharatnatyam but have such a form of movements.

    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.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) The Rowlatt act aimed at

    a) compulsory economic support to war efforts

    b) imprisonment without trial and summary procedures for trial

    c) suppression of the khilafat movement

    d) imposition of restrictions on freedom of the press


    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

  • 2 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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 


    Q.1) Consider the following statement about Article 239AA:

    1. Art. 239AA provides that the Union Territory of Delhi shall now be called the National Capital Territory of Delhi and its administrator shall be known as Lt. Governor.

    2. The President shall make appointments to the Council of Ministers including the Chief Minister.

    3. It creates a legislative assembly for Delhi which can make laws on all matters of the state list and concurrent list including land except Police and Public order.

    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

    Answer: (a)

    Article 239AA creates a legislative assembly for Delhi which can make laws on the state list and concurrent list except on these matters: public order, land and police.

    Tikdam:

    Since DDA and MCD comes under the union Government (If you would have been following News, you must have come across news where Kejriwal is blaming Union Government for failures of MCD and DDA), therefore no way the delhi legislative assembly could have power to make laws on subject land. Once we eliminate statement 1 we will automatically get the answer by elimination method even without knowing other 2 statements.

    Q.2) With reference to the NASA’s Fermi Space Telescope, recently seen in news, consider the following statements:

    1. It is an X-ray telescope.

    2. It helps in studying Dark Matter.

    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

    Q.3) With reference to the ‘Hot Jupiters’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. They are a class of exoplanets.

    2. They have very long orbital period which is a same characteristic as Jupiter.

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) 2 only

    c) 1 only

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.4) Consider the following:

    Trade Agreements                                          Stages of Economic Integration

    1. Customs Union:                                           Third Stage

    2. Free Trade Agreement:                            First Stage

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched ?

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 only

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.5) Which Indian company has recently signed an agreement for Gas-based power plant in Bangladesh, which represents the largest investment in Bangladesh’s energy sector?

    a) Suzlon

    b) Adani Power

    c) Tata Power Company

    d) Reliance Power

    Q.6) Other than resistance to pests, what are the prospects for which genetically engineered plants have been created?

    a) To enable them to withstand drought

    b) To increase the nutritive value of the produce

    c) To enable them to grow and do photosynthesis in spaceships and space stations

    d) To increase their shelf life

    Q.7) The most effective contribution made by Dadabhai Naoroji to the cause of Indian National Movement was that he

    1. Exposed the economic exploitation of India by the British

    2. Interpreted the ancient Indian texts stored

    3. Stressed the need for eradication of all the social evils before anything else.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.8) With reference to Dhrupad, one of the major traditions of India that has been kept alive for centuries, which of the following statements are correct?

    1. Dhrupad originated and developed in the Rajput kingdoms during the Mughal Period)

    2. Dhrupad is primarily a devotional and spiritual music)

    3. Dhrupad Alap users Sanskrit syllables from Mantras.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    a) 1 and 2 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1, 2 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

  • 1 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    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 


    Q.1) Consider the following statement with respect to Malaria: (With TIKDAM)
    1. Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease affecting humans and other animals caused by Virus belonging to the Plasmodium type.
    2. The disease is most commonly transmitted by an infected female Anopheles mosquito.
    3. Five species of Plasmodium can infect and be spread by humans.
    Which of the following statement is/are correct?
    a) All of the above
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1 and 3
    d) 1 and 2

    Answer: (b)

    Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease affecting humans and other animals caused by parasitic Protozoans belonging to the Plasmodium type.

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/story/communicable-and-non-communicable-diseases/#post-93533

    Tikdam:

    The questions looks very difficult since it is almost impossible to remember how many species of Plasmodium can infect and be spread by humans. However using Tikdam technique we can easily solve the question. For example, statement 1 can be easily eliminated since it is a very basic fact that Malaria is the only famous disease not caused by Virus and Bacteria. It is caused by Protozoan(6th class Biology).

    Once we eliminate statement 1 we can automatically solve the question without even knowing statement 3.

    Q.2) With reference to the ‘Electoral Bonds’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
    1. They cannot be purchased by Cheque
    2. It is an instrument for making donations to political parties.
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) Both 1 and 2
    b) 1 only
    c) Neither 1 nor 2
    d) 2 only

    Q.3) The ‘Peace Clause’, recenly seen in news, is related to which of the following organisation?
    a) International Court of Justice
    b) World Trade Organisation
    c) SAARC
    d) Organisation of Islamic Cooperation

    Q.4) The famous case of National Legal Services Authority(NALSA) Vs. Union of India was related to
    a) Fundamental Rights of Physically Disabled persons
    b) Minorities
    c) Minorities other than Muslims
    d) Fundamental Rights of Transgenders

    Q.5) Consider the following statement regarding the ‘UNAIDS’:
    1. It is a member of the United Nations Development Group.
    2. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) Both are correct
    b) 1 only
    c) 2 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.6) The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere, because it absorbs
    a) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat
    b) the UV part of the solar radiation
    c) all the solar radiations
    d) the infrared part of the solar radiation

    Q.7) Which one of the following sets of elements was primarily responsible for the origin of life on the Earth?
    a) Hydrogen, Oxygen, Sodium
    b) Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen
    c) Oxygen, Calcium, Phosphorous
    d) Carbon, Hydrogen, Potassium

    Q.8) What are the reasons for the people’s resistance to the introduction of BT brinjal in India?
    1. BT brinjal has been created by inserting a gene from a soil fungus into its genome.
    2. the seeds of BT brinjal are terminator seeds and therefore, the farmers have to buy the seeds before every season from the seed companies.
    3. there is an apprehension that the consumption of BT brinjal may have adverse impact on health.
    4. there is some concern that the introduction of BT brinjal may have adverse effect on the biodiversity.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 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

  • 30 Nov 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & Tikdams

    Q.1) With reference to the ‘Minamata Convention’ which of the statements is/are correct?
    1. The convention is related to Mercury related Pollution
    2. India is not its signatory.
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) 2 only
    b) 1 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.2) Consider the following statements regarding the ‘United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)’:
    1. It is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.
    2. It also work for the issue of Environment Governance.
    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

    Q.3) The ‘MAHSR’ project, sometimes seen in news, is related to
    a) Railways
    b) Roads
    c) Airlines
    d) Ports

    Q.4) Consider the following regarding Cellulose:
    1. Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth
    2. Cellulose fibers can be obtained from the bark, wood or leaves of plants
    Which of the above is/are correct?
    a) Both 1 and 2
    b) Neither 1 nor 2
    c) 2 only
    d) 1 only

    Q.5) Consider the following:
    1. Shampoos
    2. Photographic film
    3. Capsules
    Which of the above contain Gelatin?
    a) 2 and 3 only
    b) 1 and 3 only
    c) 1, 2 and 3
    d) 1 and 2 only

    Q.6) Which of the following is/ are among the fundamental Duties of citizens laid down in the Indian Constitution?
    1. To preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture
    2. To protect the weaker sections from social injustice
    3. To develop the scientific temper and spirit of inquiry
    4. To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    a) 1 and 2 only
    b) 2 only
    c) 1, 3 and 4 only
    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.7) What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the supreme court of India?
    1. While appointing the Supreme Court judges, the president of India has to consult the CJI.
    2 the SC judges can be removed by the CJI only
    3 the salaries of judges are charged on the consolidated fund of India to which the legislature does not have to vote.
    4. All appointments of officers and staffs of the SC are made by the govt only after CJI correct
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 and 3 only
    b) 3 and 4 only
    c) 4 only
    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.8) To meet its rapidly growing energy demand, some opine that India should pursue research and development on thorium as the future fuel of nuclear energy. In this context what advantage does thorium hold over uranium?
    1. Thorium is far more abundant in nature than uranium.
    2. On the basis per unit mass of mined mineral, thorium can generate more energy compared to natural uranium.
    3. Thorium produces less harmful waste compared to uranium.
    Which of the above statements are correct?
    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. Join Full Year Prelims TS – prelims.civilsdaily.com

    3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

    4. Click here for Solutions

  • 29 Nov 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & Tikdams

    Q.1) 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.2) 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.3) 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.4) Recently, which of the following organisation has released the “Global Gender Gap Report 2017”?
    a) IMF
    b) World Economic Forum
    c) United Nations
    d) World Bank

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

    Q.6) According to the Constitution of India, it is the duty of the President of India to cause to be laid before the Parliament which of the following?
    1. The Recommendations of the Union Finance Commission
    2. The Report of the Public Accounts Committee
    3. The Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General
    4. The Report of the National Commission for the Scheduled Castes
    Select the correct answer the using the codes given below:
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 and 4 only
    c) 1, 3 and 4 only
    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.7) A deadlock between the Lok Sabha and rajyasabha calls for a joint sitting of the parliament during the passage of
    1. ordinary legislation
    2. money bill
    3. constitution amendment bill
    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) How do District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs) help in the reduction of rural poverty in India?
    1. DRDAs act as Panchayati Raj Institutions in certain specified backward regions of the country.
    2. DRDAs undertake area­specific scientific study of the cause of poverty and malnutrition and prepare detailed remedial measures.
    3. DRDAs secure inter­sectoral and inter­departmental coordination and cooperation for effective implementation of anti­ poverty programmes.
    4. DRDAs watch over and ensure effective utilisation of the funds intended for anti­poverty programme.
    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
    a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    b) 3 and 4 only
    c) 4 only
    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4


    IMPORTANT STUFF: 

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

    2. Join Full Year Prelims TS – prelims.civilsdaily.com

    3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

    4. Click here for Solutions