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  • 28 Jan 2018 | Target Mains | 22th Weekly Test

    Q.1) PM Netyanhu described India-Israel relations as that of Marriage made in heaven. Despite the excellent Personal chemistry between the 2 Prime Minister’s, there are number of sticking points which are preventing relationship between both these countries to reach its potential. Discuss those inhibiting factors and suggest steps which can make way for this relationship to reach its potential.

    Q.2) What do you understand by de-hyphenated foreign policy? Is India right in following De-hyphenated foreign policy with respect to West Asia. Critically examine.

    Q.3) Given the current situation in India, Fiscal stimulus would only lead to crowding out effect in India with no effect on real GDP. Critically analyse

    Q.4) The minimum wages doesn’t satisfies original intentions i.e. elimination of poverty and it tends to reduce employment and family income. Critically discuss the statement in the context of proposed wage code bill?

    Q.5) What do you understand by Agri-Futures? It is commented that Agri-future can help smoothen the typical boom and bust problem in agri-prices.

    Q.6) ASER report 2018  indicates that legacy of learning deficit visible so far in elementary school children is now being reflected among young adults too. What are the reasons behind this trend? Also suggest innovative methods India can adopt to improve the learning outcomes in school?

    Q.7) Indian population is growing much faster in the north and south is paying the price. Comment

    Q.8) Do you think secular state like India should not give any pilgrimage subsidy? Critically discuss in the context of recent abolition of Haj subsidy by the central Government.

    Q.9) Discuss the contribution of Indian army in WW1?

    Q.10) Discuss the significance and concerns of 5th successful test-firing of the long-range ballistic missile Agni-V for India?

     

     

     

  • Flagship Prelims 2018 Batch 1 & 2 | TS 17 December CA discussion

    All aspirants who are giving tomorrow’s test should discuss all there doubts/queries about any question on this thread and not in the comments section of the test

    Around 20 questions of the test can be solved using Tikdam method

    Tikdams explanations in those selected questions are given in the explanation column itself

    By closely observing those questions after every test you will gradually learn the art of Tikdams which will assist you in clearing the UPSC prelims

    Highlights of tomorrow’s test:

    Q.1) ​With reference to the ‘Clean Seas Campaign’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a Campaign launched under the aegis of the UNEP.
    2. The campaign contributes to the goals of the ‘Global Partnership on Marine Litter’.

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) 1 only
    b) Both 1 and 2
    c) 2 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

    Q.2) 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.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) With reference to the ‘United Nations Convention against Torture,’ recently seen in news, consider the following statements:

    1. India has neither signed nor ratified this convention.
    2. It is an international human rights treaty, under the review of the United Nations, that aims to prevent torture and other acts of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment around the world.

    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

     

    Best of luck!

  • 27 Jan 2018 | 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) Universal Immunization Programme covers vaccinations for which of the following diseases?
    1. Tuberculosis
    2. Diphtheria
    3. Sudden infant death syndrome
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) 1 and 3 only
    b) 1 and 2 only
    c) 2 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2 and 3
    Inspired by: First India-designed vaccine passes WHO test

    Q.2) Which of the following organisation does Swachh Survekshan under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission)?
    a) Survey of India
    b) None is correct
    c) National Sample Survey Office (NSSO)
    d) Quality Council of India
    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Stumbling towards sustainable sanitation

    Q.3) With reference to the Himalayan Research Fellowships scheme, recently seen in news, consider the following statements:
    1. The financial support under the scheme will be provided under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS).
    2. Fellowships will be awarded for a maximum period of three years.
    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: Environment ministry to start ‘Himalayan Research Fellowships scheme’

    Q.4) Which of the following species of turtles are found in India?
    1. Leatherback
    2. Loggerhead
    3. Olive Ridley
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below
    a) 1 and 2 only
    b) 1 and 3 only
    c) 2 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2 and 3
    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] A turtle recovery plan

    Q.5) ‘Brasilia Declaration’ is related to which of the following issue?
    a) Road Safety
    b) Environment
    c) Black Money
    d) Human Rights
    Inspired by: Click2read

    Q.6) In the context of Indian economy,Open Market Operations’ refers to
    a) borrowing by scheduled banks from the RBI
    b) lending by commercial banks to industry and trade
    c) purchase and sale of government securities by the RBI
    d) None of the above

    Q.7) Priority Sector Lending by banks in India constitutes the lending to
    a) agriculture
    b) micro and small enterprises
    c) weaker sections
    d) All of the above

    Q.8) Which one among the following industries is the maximum consumer of water in India?
    a) Engineering
    b) Paper and pulp
    c) Textiles
    d) Thermal power


    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.

  • 24 Jan 2018 | 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 statements is correct?
    a) The Finance Bill is a Money Bill as defined in Article 110 of the Constitution
    b) The Finance Bill can be introduced only in Lok Sabha
    c) The Rajya Sabha can recommend amendments to the Bill
    d) All of the above
    Inspired by: Budget 2018-19: To cut graft, govt plans to take tax assessment beyond state borders

    Q.2) With reference to the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) which of the following statement is/are correct?
    1. The National Investment Fund is an institutional part of the NIIF.
    2. NIIF is registered with the SEBI as Alternative Investment Fund (AIF).
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 only
    b) Both 1 and 2
    c) Neither 1 nor 2
    d) 2 only
    Inspired by: NIIF, DP World to invest $3 bn

    Q.3) Which of the following counries are members of both the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership?
    1. Australia
    2. Laos
    3. Sri Lanka
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 and 3 only
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1, 2 and 3
    d) 2 only
    Inspired by: India pushes for concluding balanced RCEP deal that includes services pact

    Q.4) Disguised unemployment generally means:
    a) large number of people remain unemployed
    b) alternative employment is not available
    c) marginal productivity of labour is zero
    d) productivity of workers is low

    Q.5) Which of the following are the functions of the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)?
    1. Fund raising through suitable instruments including off-shore credit enhanced bonds.
    2. Investing in the corpus created by Asset Management Companies (AMCs) for investing in private equity.
    3. Preparing a shelf of infrastructure projects and providing advisory services.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1, 2 and 3
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1 and 3 only
    d) 1 and 2 only
    Inspired by: NIIF, DP World to invest $3 bn

    Q.6) During a thunderstorm, the thunder in the skies is produced by the
    1. meeting of cumulonimbus clouds in the sky
    2. lightning that separates the nimbus clouds
    3. violent upward movement of air and water particles
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 and 3
    c) 1 and 3
    d) None of the above produces the thunder

    Q.7) Consider the following pairs :
    Tribe State
    1. Limboo (Limbu) : Sikkim
    2. Karbi : Himachal Pradesh
    3. Dongaria : Odisha
    4. Bonda : Tamil Nadu
    Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
    a) 1 and 3 only
    b) 2 and 4 only
    c) 1, 3 and 4 only
    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.8) Consider the following liquid assets:
    1.Demand deposits with the banks
    2.Time deposits with the banks
    3.Savings deposits with the banks
    4.Currency
    The correct sequence of these decreasing order of Liquidity is
    a) 1­4­3­2
    b) 4­3­2­1
    c) 2­3­1­4
    d) 4­1­3­2


    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.

  • 23 Jan 2018 | 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 statements is incorrect?
    a) Banks and non-banking financial companies in India are due to switch to Indian Accounting Standards (IndAS) in upcoming times
    b) These norms are in line with international norms, the International Financial Reporting Standards
    c) These were designed to avoid credit shocks like those seen in the aftermath of the global financial crisis in 2008
    d) Banks and NBFCs currently do not have any well defined accounting principles and hence the need for new standards
    Inspired by: RBI, govt may give banks more time to switch to IndAS

    Q.2) The alternative investment fund (AIF) is related to which of the following regulatory body in India?
    a) Association of Mutual Funds
    b) Securities and Exchange Board of India
    c) Small Industries Development Bank of India
    d) Foreign Investment Promotion Board
    Inspired by: Online filing system stumps investors and intermediaries

    Q.3) With reference to the India Post Payments Bank, consider the following statements:
    1. The Government of India has 100% equity in the bank.
    2. The bank offers demand deposits of upto Rs 1 Lac only.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 1 only
    b) Both 1 and 2
    c) 2 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 1
    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Long live India Post Payments Bank

    Q.4) Which of the following are the objectives of AYUSH mission, sometimes seen in the news?
    1. To draw up schemes for promotion, cultivation and regeneration of medicinal plants used in these systems.
    2. To upgrade the educational standards in the Indian Systems of Medicines and Homoeopathy colleges in the country.
    3. To eventually scrap the Medical Council of India and esatablishment of a new National Medical Council.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 and 3 only
    b) 1, 2 and 3
    c) 1 and 2 only
    d) 2 and 3 only
    Inspired by: [op-ed snap Capacity building for primary health care

    Q.5) With reference to the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) which of the following statements is/are correct?
    1. The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO designated Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITWEC) of the INCOIS as a Regional Tsunami Service Provider (RTSP).
    2. It is a founding member of the Indian Ocean Global Ocean Observing System (IOGOOS).
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) Both 1 and 2
    b) 1 only
    c) 2 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 2
    Inspired by: India’s automated ocean pollution system to begin this year

    Q.6) Consider the following statements:
    1. National Development Council is an organ of the Planning Commission.
    2. The Economic and Social Planning is kept in the Concurrent List in the Constitution of India.
    3. The Constitution of India prescribes that Panchayats should be assigned the task of preparation of plans for economic development and social justice.
    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.7) Consider the following statements:
    1. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House.
    2. While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the presidential election, they
    have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.
    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.8) With reference to National Legal Services Authority, consider the following statements :
    1.Its objective is to provide free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of the society on the basis of equal opportunity.
    2.It issues guidelines for the State Legal Services Authorities to implement the legal programmes and schemes throughout the
    country.
    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


    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.

  • 22 Jan 2018 | 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) Recently, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has decided to bring out a Liveability Index. Consider the following about it:
    1. The index will cover all the cities and census towns in India
    2. The cities will be assesed by Ministry of Housing in order of the quality of life they offer
    Select the correct statement/s using the codes given below:
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) Neither 1 nor 2
    Inspired by: Govt plans liveability index of 116 cities

    Q.2) With reference to the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, often seen in the news, consider the following statements:
    1. The scheme is based on public private partnership model(PPP) model.
    2. The mission is a part of Housing for All by 2022.
    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: National Urban Policy: Single policy for multiple states

    Q.3) Recently, thhe ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has decided to bring out a liveability index. Consider the following statements regarding it:
    1. The index includes all the 99 smart cities.
    2. The ministry has also decided to involve the Economist Intelligence Unit, which brings out an annual liveability index of cities across the world.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) Both 1 and 2
    b) Neither 1 nor 2
    c) 1 only
    d) 2 only
    Inspired by: Govt plans liveability index of 116 cities

    Q.4) With reference to the Australian Group which of the following statements is/are correct?
    1. It works against the proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
    2. India is the first Asian member of the group.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) Neither 1 nor 2
    b) 2 only
    c) 1 only
    d) Both 1 and 2
    Inspired by: India joins chemical weapons parts export control bloc Australia Group

    Q.5) Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Indo-Tibetan Border Police’:
    1. It comes under the Ministry of Defence.
    2. It was raised under the CRPF Act.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 2 only
    b) Both are correct
    c) 1 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.6) Consider the following statements :
    1. Inflation benefits the debtors.
    2. Inflation benefits the bond­holders.
    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) Disguised unemployment generally means
    a) large number of people remain unemployed
    b) alternative employment is not available
    c) marginal productivity of labour is zero
    d) productivity of workers is low

    Q.8) Consider the following statements:
    1. The Council of Ministers in the Centre shall be collectively responsible to the Parliament.
    2. The Union Ministers shall hold the office during the pleasure of the President of India.
    3. The Prime Minister shall communicate to the President about the proposals for Iegislation.
    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


    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.

  • 21 Jan 2018 | Target Mains | 21th Weekly Test

    Q.1) Recently the government has approved the norms to relax the norms of FDI in single-brand retail. Discuss the pros and cons.

    Q.2) With the emergence of the market economy and enhanced capability of private sector, the government should not directly be in the business of providing goods and services. Discuss in the context of Recent proposal of the government to Privatize Air India.

    Q.3) Critically analyse the SC’s decision of making it optional for cinema halls to play the national anthem in cinema halls.

    Q.4) The SC has decided to revisit its earlier decision of criminalizing homosexuality. Do you think it is an infringement on the fundamental rights of citizens and the citizens should be given choice to make their own personal decisions? Also analyse what changes will decriminalizing homosexuality lead to?

    Q.5) What is surface ozone? How is it formed? Discuss the consequences of increasing level of surface ozone for the environment? What steps should be taken to bring down its increasing level?

    Q.6) Given Pakistan’s continuous support to terrorists and frequent breach of ceasefire along LOC, should India revoke Most favoured nation status given to Pakistan to send a strong message to Pakistan. Critically discuss

    Q.7) There appears to be no rational basis for how mandatory local content requirements contribute towards promoting the use of clean energy. In the light of the above statement, Critically examine India’s stand in the Indo-USA solar dispute in WTO.?

    Q.8) It is in India’s self-interest to ratify UN convention against torture. Critically discuss

    Q.9) Breach of Privacy concern and denial of service has always been associated with Aadhar. Discuss how newly introduced features like Virtual ID and Facial recognition will address these concerns.?

    Q.10) What do you understand by particularly vulnerable tribal group? Discuss key problems being faced by this group?

  • 20 Jan 2018 | 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 about the recently tested Agni-V Missile is/are incorrect?
    a) It is an intercontinental surface to air ballistic missile
    b) It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India
    c) Agni is one of the missile systems under the original Integrated Guided Missile Development Program
    d) None of the above
    Inspired by: Agni-V extends its reach

    Q.2) With reference to the Intercontinental ballistic missile(ICBM), consider the following statements:
    1. There is no minimum range criteria for the ICBM.
    2. Multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs) technology is present in all the ICBMs.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 1 only
    b) Both 1 and 2
    c) 2 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 2
    Inspired by: Agni-V extends its reach

    Q,3) With reference to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act 2015 (POA Amend. Act), consider the following statements:
    1. The act lays down a time limit for completing trials.
    2. The act provides the establishment of an exclusive special court.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 1 only
    b) Both 1 and 2
    c) 2 only
    d) Neither 1 nor 2
    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] The road from Tiruppur

    Q.4) Consider the following countries :
    1. China
    2. France
    3. India
    4. Israel
    5. Pakistan
    Which among the above are Nuclear Weapons States as recognized by the Treaty on the Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly known as Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)?
    a) 1 and 2 only
    b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
    c) 2, 4 and 5 only
    d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

    Q.5) Consider the following statements regarding FDI and FPI:
    1. FPI tends to involve establishing more of a substantial, long-term interest in the economy of a foreign country.
    2. FDI is an equity investment with a shorter time frame for investment return
    Which of the above is/are correct?
    a) 2 only
    b) 1 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.6) Consider the following statements:
    1. Natural gas occurs in the Gondwana beds.
    2. Mica occurs in abundance in Kodarma.
    3. Dharwars are famous for petroleum.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 1 and 2
    b) 2 only
    c) 2 and 3
    d) None

    Q.7) Consider the following crops
    1.Cotton
    2. Groundnut
    3. Rice
    4.Wheat
    Which of these are Kharif crops?
    a) 1 and 4
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1, 2 and 3
    d) 2, 3 and 4

    Q.8) “Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and the people used to be nomadic herders.”
    The above statement best describes which of the following regions?
    a) African Savannah
    b) Central Asian Steppe
    c) North American Prairie
    d) Siberian Tundra


    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.

  • 19 Jan 2018 | 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 about the masala bonds is correct?
    a) These are debt instruments
    b) These are issued in foreign markets by Indian corporates in respective foreign currencies
    c) The risk on account of currency fluctuation is minimised for overseas investors
    d) All of the above
    Inspired by: India will need at least $125 billion to fund renewables dream

    Q.2) With reference to the Steel Authority of India(SAIL), consider the following statements:
    1. It is listed in the National Stock Exchange.
    2. The Government of India owns 100% of SAIL’s equity
    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: Japan in driver’s seat for Indian bullet train deals: report

    Q.3) With reference to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) which of the following statements is/are correct?
    1. ICF International(USA), provided technical assistance for all four surveys conducted as on date.
    2. First survey was conducted beofre independence.
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) 1 only
    b) Neither 1 nor 2
    c) 2 only
    d) Both 1 and 2
    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Building on India’s family planning success

    Q.4) With reference to the Masala bonds, consider the following statements:
    1. The bonds can be issued in any currency.
    2. Masala bond makes investors bear the risk, instead of borrowers.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 1 only
    b) Both 1 and 2
    c) Neither 1 nor 2
    d) 2 only
    Inspired by: India will need at least $125 billion to fund renewables dream

    Q.5) Which of the following organisatons related to the United Nation come under the tag of the ‘Principal organs'(of the UN)?
    1. International Court of Justice
    2. Economic and Social Council
    3. Trusteeship Council
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) 1 and 3 only
    b) 1 and 2 only
    c) 2 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.6) The annual range of temperature in the interior of the continents is high as compared to coastal areas. What is / are the reason / reasons?
    1. Thermal difference between land and water
    2. Variation in altitude between continents and oceans
    3. Presence of strong winds in the interior
    4. Heavy rains in the interior as compared to coasts
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 only
    b) 1 and 2 only
    c) 2 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.7) Which of the following is / are the characteristic/ characteristics of Indian coal?
    1. High ash content
    2. Low sulphur content
    3. Low ash fusion temperature
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1 and 2 only
    b) 2 only
    c) 1 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.8) Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct?
    1. They are generally red in colour.
    2. They are rich In nitrogen and potash.
    3. Tiley are well­developed in Rajasthan and UP.
    4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1, 2 and 3
    b) 2, 3 and 4
    c) 1 and 4
    d) 2 and 3 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.

  • 18 Jan 2018 | 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 statement/s given below is correct?
    1. Real GDP is gross domestic product (GDP) evaluated at current market prices
    2. The main difference between nominal and real values is that real values are adjusted for inflation, while nominal values are not
    3. Nominal GDP will often appear higher than real GDP
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1 and 3 only
    d) 2 only
    Inspired by: Budget 2018: Govt may assume 12% nominal GDP growth rate for 2018-19

    Q.2) Recently, Justice Malimath Committee was in news. The committee is related to
    a) Civil Justice System
    b) Judicial Independence
    c) Judicial pendency
    d) Criminal Justice System
    Inspired by: Government to revisit Malimath report on criminal justice system

    Q.3) Which of the following statements defines the Real GDP?
    a) evaluated at market prices of some base year
    b) evaluated at market prices of current year
    c) total current revenue from all types of taxes net of transfer payments
    d) Non of the above
    Inspired by: Budget 2018: Govt may assume 12% nominal GDP growth rate for 2018-19

    Q.4) Banking ombudsman is appointed by:
    a) Finance Ministry
    b) Cabinet Secretary
    c) Reserve Bank of India
    d) Supreme Court

    Q.5) Which of the following constitute Capital Account?
    1. Foreign Loans
    2. Foreign Direct Investment
    3. Private Remittances
    4. Portfolio Investment
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
    a) 1, 2 and 3
    b) 1, 2 and 4
    c) 2, 3 and 4
    d) 1, 3 and 4

    Q.6) Consider the following historical places:
    1. Ajanta Caves
    2. Lepakshi Temple
    3. Sanchi Stupa
    Which of the above places is / are also known for mural paintings?
    a) 1 only
    b) 1 and 2 only
    c) 1, 2 and 3
    d) None

    Q.7) With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India, consider the following statements regarding Sankhya
    school:
    1 . Sankhya does not accept the theory of rebirth or transrmigration of soul.
    2. Sankhya holds that it is the self­knowledge that leads to liberation and not any exterior influence or agent.
    Which of the statements given above is /are correct?
    a) 1only
    b) 2 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.8) In the context of India, which of the following principles is/are implied institutionally in the parliamentary government?
    1. Members of the Cabinet are Members of the Parliament.
    2. Ministers hold the office till they enjoy confidence in the Parliament.
    3. Cabinet is headed by the Head of the State.
    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


    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.

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