Model question paper 24 - Ananta IAS Academy

Civils Prelims 2021 Model Questions (for GS Paper )

Set No. 24 (Prepared on 19 .9.2021)

Prepared by :P.Potayya Sarma

Mobile No.8143189271

1)Consider the following with reference to fertilizers :

Government of India is making available fertilizers, namely Urea and 22 grades of Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers including Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP), Muriate of Potash (MOP)& Single Superphosphate (SSP) to farmers at subsidized prices through fertilizer manufacturers/ importers. The subsidy on P&K fertilizers is being governed by NBS Scheme w.e.f 01.04.2010.

1) The subsidy is released to fertilizer companies as per Nutrient based subsidy rates so that they can make available fertilizers to farmers at affordable price.

2) NBS was expected to wean away farmers from applying too much urea containing only nitrogen and increase the consumption of P&K fertilizers which will result in balanced fertilization.

3) Under NBS, the fertilizers are provided to the farmers at the subsidized rates based on the nutrients (N, P, K & S) contained in these fertilizers.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

2)Consider the following with reference to Pune Air Quality :

1) The most awaited Pune emission inventory report to understand the contribution of various sources of emissions in Pune Air quality has been released by

, Vice-Chancellor of SPPU.

2) The final product yielded mapping of pollution sources in each 400m x 400m grid of PMR for 8 major pollutants namely, PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NOx, CO, SO2, BC, HC

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

3)Consider the following with reference to Open Banking ?:

1)Open banking is defined as the sharing and leveraging of customer-permissioned data by banks with third party developers and firms to build applications and services, including for example those that provide real-time payments, greater financial transparency options for account holders, marketing and cross-selling opportunities. Individual jurisdictions may define open banking differently

2) Open banking is a potential disruptor in financial system and may change the way of doing banking for both- customers and banks.

3)New pure tech-play entities have the potential to snatch market share from established but traditional financial institutions because they are technologically more advanced, digitally agile to cater to customer needs with higher efficiency, have better user interface, and are more competitive in pricing.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

4)Consider the following with reference to Regulations Review Authroity set up by RBI:

1)The Reserve Bank of India had set up a Regulations Review Authority (RRA) initially for a period of one year from April 1, 1999 for reviewing the regulations, circulars, reporting systems, based on the feedback from public, banks and financial institutions.

2)The recommendations of the RRA enabled streamlining and increasing the effectiveness of several procedures, simplifying regulatory prescriptions, paved the way for issuance of master circular and reduced reporting burden on regulated entities

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

5)Consider the following with reference to CPI inflation :

1)The rebound from the COVID-19 induced slump has been sharper than anticipated and economic activity is expected to rebound strongly in 2021-22. Headline consumer price index (CPI) inflation receded into the tolerance band beginning December 2020. Core inflation pressures remain elevated, reflecting pass-through from higher crude oil and non-oil commodity prices, high fuel and other taxes post-COVID and increased operating costs. The evolving COVID-19 trajectory and progress on vaccination remain the key drivers of economic activity and inflation, globally and in India.

2) RBI Act, 1934 requires that the Central Government shall, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), determine the inflation target in terms of consumer price index (CPI), once in every five years. Accordingly, in a notification on March 31, 2021, the Central Government, in consultation with the RBI, retained the inflation target at 4 per cent (with the upper tolerance level of 6 per cent and the lower tolerance level of 2 per cent) for the 5-year period April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2026.

3)The experience with successfully maintaining price stability and the gains in credibility for monetary policy since the institution of the inflation targeting framework in 2016 would be reinforced by the retention of the target and the tolerance band.¹ The experience during the COVID-19 period has testified to the flexibility of the framework to respond to sharp growth-inflation trade-offs and extreme supply-side shocks.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

6)Consider the following Crude Oil Prices and inflation :

1)Crude oil prices jumped sharply on production cuts by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) plus and on anticipation of stronger demand. Non-oil commodity prices have risen substantially across the board, putting upward pressures on inflation in commodity importing countries. Gold prices eased from the highs reached in August 2020 on a stronger US dollar and expectations of economic recovery.

2) While inflation is expected to remain subdued in advanced economies (AEs) and most of the emerging market economies (EMEs) on account of negative output gaps, the large fiscal and monetary stimuli and elevated commodity prices have raised inflation concerns over longer horizons in advanced economies and in the nearer-term in the case of EMEs.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

7)Consider the following with reference to Food inflation :

1) Food inflation has softened since December 2020, largely led by the sharp fall in prices of vegetables and moderation in prices of cereals. Going forward, the bumper kharif harvest, record rabi sowing, further easing of supply chains and effective supply management measures could moderate food inflation by 100 bps below the baseline.

2) Conversely, the recent hardening of global food prices and domestic demand-supply gaps in key food items like pulses, edible oils and fats, and eggs, fish and meat could lead to persistent upward pressures of around 100 bps on food inflation.

3) Higher inflation expectations could then add to sustained pressures on headline inflation. The baseline assumes a normal south-west monsoon in 2021 and any deviations in the actual outturn on either side would be a critical factor in determining the food as well as headline inflation

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

8)Consider the following with reference to Virus Mutation :

1) When viruses replicate in our body, a sort of battle ensues between them and the host. The host tries to get rid of the virus, which, in turn, tries to get established inside the host. This usually leads to mutations, some of which proliferate better than others.

It is more likely that vaccines would be as effective on this mutation as on other variants of this virus. The mRNA COVID-19 vaccines make spike protein (similar to what is actually present in the virus). Once the vaccine-induced spike protein goes inside our body, the antibodies against the virus generate as an immune response.

2) Our body generates a holistic immune response against the entire spike protein. The mutation has occurred in one part of the virus’ spike protein. Therefore, the antibodies which may have bound on one particular region of the spike protein in the absence of mutation, may not do so now.

3) But they may bind on other portions of the spike protein and this will produce an immune response. Therefore, the hypothesis that the vaccine would be as effective with this mutation as well.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

9)Consider the following with reference to agriculture infrastructure development :

1)The Union Budget 2021-22 has announced measures targeted at infrastructure development in agriculture, rural areas, and fisheries by enhancing credit flow and improving supply chains for perishables while ensuring continuation of direct procurement of cereals by the government.

2)The extension of the agriculture infrastructure fund to Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) and integration of additional 1,000 APMC mandis with electronic-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is expected to enhance farmers access to markets and prices and improve marketing efficiency in the agriculture sector.

3)The proposal to expand “operation green” from 3 (onions, tomatoes and potatoes) to 22 perishable commodities is expected to improve supply chains, reduce price fluctuations and boost exports of perishable agricultural commodities..

4) According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the US, there is around 60 per cent chance of a transition from La Niña to ENSO-Neutral during the April-June 2021, indicative of a normal south west monsoon

5) National Agriculture Market (eNAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which networks the APMC mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

10)Consider the following with reference to Industrial GVA : (2020-21)

Q3 : Third Quarter Q4: Fourth Qurter

1) Industrial sector GVA was driven by the manufacturing sector emerging out of contraction in Q3, although in Q4, there has been some setback due to sharp retrenchment of production of capital goods and consumer non-durables.

2) In contrast, the mining sector continued to languish, throttled by supply bottlenecks. Crude oil and natural gas production dropped due to lack of critical infrastructure and equipment, and operational difficulties amidst the pandemic.

3) Natural gas production crossed the pre-COVID levels in January 2021 following the start of production in KG-D6 field, which bodes well for the outlook.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

11)Consider the following with reference to IIP : (Q2:Quarter2 Q3:Quarter 3 ) (2020-2021)

1) The index of industrial production (IIP) emerged out of a prolonged contraction in September 2020 but it lost momentum again in November and January 2021 .

2) The improvement in manufacturing activity in Q3 was driven by basic metals, chemical and chemical products, motor vehicles and electrical equipment. 12 out of 23 industry groups entered positive territory in Q3 as compared to only 5 groups during Q2.

3) In terms of the use-based classification, the recovery in Q3 was led by consumer durables and infrastructure/construction goods on the back of increase in sales of automobiles and electronics, and higher domestic demand from the auto and white goods segment for steel. In capital goods sector, the moderation was offset by higher output of agricultural tractors, harvesters, threshers, tyres and tubes.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

12)Consider the following with reference to Services Sector : H1:first half H2: Second half (2020-21)

1) The services sector stepped out of contraction in H2:2020-21 with the phased unlocking of the economy, and recorded a growth of 1.4 per cent.

The construction sector recuperated faster than anticipated – entering positive territory in Q3 – and rose by 7.3 per cent in H2 due to demand from the residential sector and highway construction . Indicators such as finished steel consumption mirrored the recovery in construction activity . Robust collection of the goods and services tax (GST) and issuances of e-way bills suggest a strong upturn in domestic trading activity. The ongoing normalisation of trade, both domestic and international, boosted railway freight traffic .

2) IT companies continued to record steady growth. Growing demand for core transformation services⁵ and strong revenue conversion from earlier deals, coupled with low travel cost, supported IT companies during Q3. Sales of non-IT services companies remained in contraction zone in Q3, albeit with some moderation.

3) Cloud services, analytics and insights, cognitive business operations, internet of things (IoT) and quality engineering and transformation platform services led growth in the quarter.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

13)Consider the following with reference to Economic activity : (2020-2021)

1) Economic activity in India is gathering pace on improving business sentiment. Rural demand is leading the expansion, and there is growing evidence of catch-up in urban demand. The fiscal stimulus under AatmaNirbhar 2.0 and 3.0, coupled with increased allocation for capital expenditure under the Union Budget 2021-22, should accelerate public investment and crowd in private investment.

2) The production-linked incentives scheme is expected to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities and bolster exports. Despite gaining some traction, the contact-intensive services sector may take some time to reach pre-COVID levels.

3) The recent increase in COVID infections, if not contained, could push back the normalisation process and impede the broader revival of economic activity. The sharp rise in global crude oil and commodity prices and global financial market volatility impart downside risks to the recovery.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

14)Consider the following with reference to Economic activity : (2020-2021)

(Q1: first quarter) (Q2: Second quarter) (Q3: Third quarter) (Q4: Fourth quarter)

1) Japanese economy expanded by 11.7 per cent (q-o-q, SAAR) in Q4, extending the third quarter’s recovery from the worst recession witnessed in the first half of 2020. Resilient trade conditions as reflected in a strong pick-up in exports and high capital spending underpinned by significant government support led to the GDP expansion. With the third wave of COVID-19 infections and the re-imposition of the state of emergency in the Tokyo area, however, the momentum for recovery slowed down in Q1, accompanied by large contractions in retail sales and industrial production in January and February. The manufacturing PMI, on the other hand, expanded in February 2021 for the first time since April 2019, with March witnessing further expansion.

2)In the UK, GDP expanded in Q4, but it moderated from the record pace registered in Q3, leading to an overall contraction of 9.8 per cent in 2020. In early Q1:2021, infections reached new peaks, with newer and more contagious variants pushing the economy into its third nationwide lockdown in January. Furthermore, the new trading arrangement with the European Union (EU) post-Brexit is likely to weigh on activity in early 2021.

3)The economic recovery continued in China for the third consecutive quarter in Q4, resulting in an overall annual increase of 2.3 per cent in 2020 and making it the only major economy to register growth in a pandemic-ravaged year. China’s growth has been powered by strong and robust recovery in manufacturing and exports underpinned by policy support measures. By contrast, the recovery in consumption activity remains relatively weak. The Chinese economy seems to have lost some steam in Q1 from COVID-19 flare-ups in January and the associated containment measures.

4)The Caixin composite PMI – though in expansion – eased to a ten-month low in February. Even the Caixin manufacturing PMI for March turned out to be the lowest in the current 11-month period of expansion.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

15)Consider the following with reference to Network of Central Banks and Supervisors for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) :

1)In 2017, eight central banks and supervisors established the Network of Central Banks and Supervisors for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) which had 89 central banks and supervisors from around the world by March 2021. The NGFS recommended integration of climate-related factors into prudential supervision and emphasised the importance of a robust and internationally consistent climate and environmental disclosure framework.

2) A recent survey of 26 central banks reveals that central banks consider climate change to be an emerging challenge both in terms of its potential threat to the economy and impact on their operational frameworks (NGFS, 2020).

3)The prime motivation for the central banks is to mitigate financial risks on their balance sheets due to exposures to climate change related risks. Furthermore, central banks are in favour of formulating pro-active measures in moving towards a low-carbon economy while ensuring smooth monetary transmission over the long-term

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

16)Consider the following with reference to Green Swan :

1) The concept of “green swan” used by Bolton et al. (2020) was inspired by the famous concept of “black swan” developed by Taleb. The Black Swan. New York: Penguin Random House]. Black swan events are rare and unexpected events with low probability but heavy impacts. Such events can only be explained after they happen.

2)The higher global temperatures and the associated shifts in weather patterns are key risks to the growth and inflation outlook across AEs and EMEs through various channels. While the most evident channel is agricultural output, others could be adverse effects on labour productivity, mortality rates and investment decisions .

3) Thus, climate change poses severe challenges to the central banks’ mandate of price and financial stability. Conventional models followed by the central banks cannot predict climate-related risks accurately, including exposure to “green swan”³ risks, which are in nature of “climate black swan events”, i.e., extreme financially disruptive events that could be the next systemic financial crisis

AE: Advanced Economies

EMEs: Emerging Market Economies

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

17)Consider the following with reference to Crude Oil Prices :

1)Crude oil prices lost some steam in September-October (2020) on waning demand prospects but have picked up since November on vaccine optimism and extension of production cuts by OPEC plus.

2)The US stimulus and Brexit agreement further boosted the market sentiments. In February, prices surged to their highest level since the pandemic amidst tightening global supplies and falling crude inventories in the US and Europe. Saudi Arabia’s decision to voluntarily cut production by an additional 1.0 million barrels per day during February-April(2020) added to bullish sentiments.

3)Following an attack on Saudi Arabia’s oil facilities, Brent prices increased further, moving closer to US$70 per barrel in mid-March. However, prices corrected thereafter, on near-term demand concerns amidst rising infections and build up in the US crude inventories. Despite the correction, Brent crude prices increased by 21.9 per cent in Q1:2021

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

18)Consider the following with reference to El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) :

1) In 2020, the average temperature of global land and ocean surfaces was 1.17°C higher than the twentieth-century average of 13.9°C, making it the second warmest year on record.

2) The five warmest years since 1880 have been only recently after 2015. Global temperatures are expected to increase by another 1.5 degree between 2030 and 2052, and to continue upwards thereafter [Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), 2018].

3) The rise in global temperature is mainly attributed to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, El Niño–Southern Oscillation changes in the global atmospheric circulation have been wild, influencing, in turn, temperature and precipitation across the globe

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

19)Consider the following with reference to Fly ash (burnt coal ash from thermal power stations) :

1) Fly ash contains crystalline silica which is known to cause lung disease, in particular silicosis, if inhaled.

2)It impacts on the nervous system, causing cognitive defects, developmental delays, and behavioral problems while also increasing a person’s chance of developing kidney disease, and gastrointestinal illness.

3)Fly ash can be a cost-effective substitute for Portland cement in many markets.

4)Fly ash is a pozzolan, a substance containing aluminous and siliceous material that forms cement in the presence of water. In addition, it contains ferric oxide and calcium oxide.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

20)Consider the following with reference to NM-QTA :

1) The government in its budget-2020 has announced a National Mission on Quantum Technologies & Applications (NM-QTA) for developing quantum computing linked technologies in the country.

2)It aims at harnessing the potential of QTA and keep the country in league with the ones taking the lead in the domain

3)Quantum technology is opening up new frontiers in computing, communications, cyber security and encryption with wide-spread applications.It is expected that lots of commercial applications would emerge from theoretical constructs which are developing in this area.

4)The areas of focus for the Mission will be in fundamental science, translation, technology development, human and infrastructural resource generation, innovation and start-ups to address issues concerning national priorities.

5)Quantum technologies comprise quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum optics, quantum information processing, quantum internet and quantum artificial intelligence.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

21)Consider the following with reference to Edge computing :

1) Edge computing is a distributed, open IT architecture that features decentralised processing power, enabling mobile computing and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. Here, data is processed by the device itself or by a local computeror server, rather than being transmitted to a data centre.

2)Simply put, edge computing enables data to be analysed, processed, and transferred at the edge of a network.

3)The idea is to analyse data locally, closer to where it is stored, in real-time without latency, rather than send it far away to a centralised data centre. However, only the relevant data or information is collected and then sent, rather than all of the data collected.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

22)Consider the following with reference to nanopharmaceuticals :

1) A nanopharmaceutical is defined as a pharmaceutical preparation containing nanomaterials (1 to 100 nm in at least one dimension) intended for internal use or external application on human for the purpose of therapeutics, diagnostics and health benefits.

2)Nanopharmaceuticals offer the ability to detect diseases at much earlier stages and the diagnostic applications could build upon conventional procedures using nanoparticles

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

23)Consider the following with reference to bacteriophage :

1) A bacteriophage is a type of virus that infects bacteria. In fact, the word bacteriophage literally means ‘bacteria eater’, because bacteriophages destroy their host cells.

2)All bacteriophages are composed of a nucleic acid molecule that is surrounded by a protein structure.

3)Bacteriophages occasionally remove a portion of their host cells’ bacterial DNA during the infection process and then transfer this DNA into the genome of new host cells. This process is known as transduction

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

24)Consider the following with reference to neutrino :

1) A neutrino is a subatomic particle that is very similar to an electron, but has no electrical charge and a very small mass, which might even be zero.

2)Neutrinos are one of the most abundant particles in the universe.

3)Neutrinos are high-energy particles that pose no threat to us and pass through most solid objects without anyone even noticing. Neutrinos constantly bombard Earth and as per some estimates emerging from studies, 100 trillion neutrinos pass through your body every second!

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

25)Consider the following with reference to Agent Orange (used in Vietnam war) :

1) The active ingredient of Agent Orange is combination of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (also called as 2,4-D) and 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxyacetic acid(also called as 2,4,5-T).

2)Agent Orange contains dioxin, which is one of the most toxic chemicals known to man and has been linked to increased rates of cancers and birth defects.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

26)Consider the following with reference to Sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach) :

1) Recently, the Health and Family Welfare Ministry has issued advisory against spraying of chemical disinfectants on individual or group which is physically and psychologically harmful.

2)The Ministry said that inhalation of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl or NaClO) can lead to irritation of mucous membranes of nose, throat, respiratory tract and may also cause bronchospasm.

3)Sodium hypochlorite is most often encountered as a pale greenish-yellow dilute solution commonly known as liquid bleach, a household chemical widely used as a disinfectant or a bleaching agent.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

27)Consider the following with reference to Bluetongue (BT) Virus :

1)Bluetongue (BT) Virus: The Bluetongue (BT) virus is an insect-transmitted viral disease of domestic and wild ruminants that includes the camelid species.

2)The disease is widespread among the sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes and camels in India.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

28)Consider the following with reference to GEMINI :

1) GEMINI (Gagan Enabled Mariner’s Instrument for Navigation and Information) is a portable receiver linked to ISRO-satellites, that is “fail-proof” and warn fishermen of danger.

2)The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), a Hyderabad institute collaborated with Accord, a private company, to develop this receiver

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

29)Consider the following with reference to CYANOBACTERIUM :

1) Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 is a model marine cyanobacterium. There are other Synechococcus species and related organisms where this work can be extended.

2)scientists at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) have developed a method to improve the growth rate and sugar content of a marine cyanobacterium called Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002.

3)The cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) can also perform photosynthesis and produce sugar by fixing the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Apart from higher yield of sugars, cyanobacterial biomass also provides a nitrogen source in the form of proteins.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

30)Consider the following with reference to INFECTIONS :

1) Vertical transmission refers to the transmission of an infection from a pregnant woman to her child. It can be antenatal (before birth), perinatal (weeks immediately prior to or after birth) or postnatal (after birth).

2)The infections of which vertical transmission has been known to happen are HIV, Zika, Rubella and the Herpes Virus.

3)Recently, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has laid down the need for healthcare workers to factor in the consequences of the probable vertical transmission of COVID-19.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

31)Consider the following with reference to Pulsars :

1) Pulsars, or rapidly spinning neutron stars, are the extremely dense remains of stars that exploded as supernovas. They emit X-ray photons in bright, narrow beams that sweep the sky like a lighthouse as the stars spin.

2)Just as lighthouses have helped sailors navigate safely into harbor for centuries, future space travellers may receive similar guidance from the steady signals created by pulsars.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

32)Consider the following with reference to Methane hydrate called Fire Ice :

1) The Krishna-Godavari (KG) basin holds a massive reserve of methane hydrate and a rich source of cleaner natural gas, claims a study by the Pune-based Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) of the Science & Technology Ministry.

2)Methane hydrate also called ‘Fire Ice’ is a crystalline solid that consists of a methane molecule surrounded by a cage of interlocking water molecules. Methane hydrate is an “ice” that only occurs naturally in subsurface deposits where temperature and pressure conditions are favourable for its formation

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

33)Consider the following :

The Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020 provides for the creation of an ecosystem where the farmers and traders enjoy the freedom of choice relating to sale and purchase of farmers’ produce which facilitates remunerative prices through competitive alternative trading channels; to promote efficient, transparent and barrier-free inter-State and intra-State trade and commerce of farmers’ produce outside the physical premises of markets or deemed markets notified under various State agricultural produce market legislations; and to provide a facilitative framework for electronic trading.

To create an ecosystem where farmers and traders enjoy the freedom to sell and purchase farm produce outside registered mandis under state’s Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs).

To promote barrier-free inter-state and intra-state trade of farmers’ produce.

To reduce marketing/transportation costs and help farmers in getting better prices.

To provide a facilitative framework for electronic trading.

Impacts:

1)Ends the monopoly of traders.

2)Creating competition among buyers.

3)Yields better returns to farmers and raises incomes.

4)Farm produce can move freely from surplus to deficit regions.

5)Creates national market; high intimidation cost of mandis will end.

6)Consumer gets better and cheaper products.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

34)Consider the following :

The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Prices Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 provides for a national framework on farming agreements that protects and empowers farmers to engage with agri-business firms, processors, wholesalers, exporters or large retailers for farm services and sale of future farming produce at a mutually agreed remunerative price framework in a fair and transparent manner.

Farmers can enter into a contract with agribusiness firms, processors, wholesalers, exporters or large retailers for sale of future farming produce at a pre-agreed price.

Marginal and small farmers, with land less than five hectares, to gain via aggregation and contract (Marginal and small farmers account for 86% of total farmers in India).

To transfer the risk of market unpredictability from farmers to sponsors.

To enable farmers to access modern tech and get better inputs.

To reduce cost of marketing and boost farmer’s income.

Farmers can engage in direct marketing by eliminating intermediaries for full price realization.

Effective dispute resolution mechanism with redressal timelines.

Impacts:

1)Farmers will have assured price before sowing.

2)Transfers market risk from farmer to sponsor.

3)Gives farmers access to high quality seeds, fertilisers, pesticides.

4)Will attract private investment in farming and link farms to global markets

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

35)Consider the following :

SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) was launched by Prime Minister on 24th April 2020 as a Central Sector Scheme to promote a socio-economically empowered and self-reliant rural India.

1) The Scheme has the potential to transform rural India using modern technical tools of mapping and surveying. It paves the way for using the property as a financial asset by villagers for availing loans and other financial benefits. The Scheme will cover around 6.62 Lakh villages of the entire country during 2021-2025.

2)The pilot phase of the Scheme was implemented during 2020–2021 in the States of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh and select villages of Punjab and Rajasthan.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

36)Consider the following with reference to NEP 2020 :

NEP-2020 is the first education policy of the twenty-first century which was announced after 34 years of the previous National Policy on Education 1986. NEP-2020 is directed towards major reforms in both school and higher education level.

1)The new National Education Policy aims at making India into an equitable and vibrant knowledge society. It envisions an India-centred education system that contributes directly to transforming India into a Global Superpower.

2)NEP-2020 brought in sweeping reforms in School Education in the country. At the school level emphasis is being given to Universalisation of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) for children up to the age 8; 10+2 structure of school curricula is to be replaced by a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure; integrating curriculum to 21^st century skills, mathematical thinking and scientific temper; development of new comprehensive National Curricular Framework for School Education; national professional standards for teachers; assessment reforms and 360 degree holistic progress card of child; and vocational integration from class 6 onwards.

3)The comprehensive transformation aimed in the NEP will bring about a paradigm shift in the country’s education system and create an enabling and reinvigorated educational ecosystem for a new Atmanirbhar Bharat envisaged by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

37)Consider the following with reference to PMMSY :

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is a flagship scheme for focused and sustainable development of fisheries sector in the country with an estimated investment of Rs. 20,050 crores for its implementation during a period of 5 years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25 in all States/Union Territories, as a part of AatmaNirbhar Bharat Package. The investment of Rs. 20,050 crores under PMMSY is the highest ever in the fisheries sector. Out of this, an investment of about Rs 12340 crores is proposed for beneficiary-oriented activities in Marine, Inland fisheries and Aquaculture and about Rs 7710 crores investment for Fisheries Infrastructure.

1)PMMSY aims at enhancing fish production by an additional 70 lakh tonne by 2024-25, increasing fisheries export earnings to Rs.1,00,000 crore by 2024-25, doubling of incomes of fishers and fish farmers, reducing post-harvest losses from 20-25% to about 10% and generation of additional 55 lakhs direct and indirect gainful employment opportunities in fisheries sector and allied activities.

2)PMMSY is designed to address critical gaps in fish production and productivity, quality, technology, post-harvest infrastructure and management, modernization and strengthening of value chain, traceability, establishing a robust fisheries management framework and fishers’ welfare.

3)While aiming to consolidate the achievements of Blue Revolution Scheme, PMMSY envisages many new interventions such as fishing vessel insurance, support for new/up-gradation of fishing vessels/boats, Bio-toilets, Aquaculture in saline/alkaline areas, Sagar Mitras, FFPOs/Cs, Nucleus Breeding Centres, Fisheries and Aquaculture start-ups, Incubators, Integrated Aqua parks, Integrated coastal fishing villages development, Aquatic Laboratories Network and Extension Services, Traceability, Certification and Accreditation, RAS, Biofloc & Cage Culture, E-Trading/Marketing, Fisheries Management Plans, etc.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

38)Consider the following with reference to Crop residue :

1) As per estimates, about 145 MMTPA of crop residue remains unutilised and most of it is burnt in India in the open fields, creating severe air pollution that leads to health issues. Open burning of agro residue is considered a major contributor to the surge in PM 2.5 in Northern India in post-harvesting season.

2)With its gross calorific value comparable to the bituminous coal, the power generation potential of the entire 145 MMTPA biomass burnt through co-firing in coal-based power plants is equivalent to 28,000-30,000 MW of round the clock generation of renewable power which can produce the same amount of electrical energy as can be produced from solar capacity of 125,000-150,000 MW.

3)As per a statement issued by NTPC Ltd, it had first undertaken this unique initiative on pilot basis in 2017 for biomass co-firing by replacing some of the coal with pellet based fuel at NTPC Dadri, Uttar Pradesh. Post successful implementation, NTPC now plans to replicate the model in 17 of its state of the art plants. The invitation for bids would be done through e-tendering at SRM Portal. The bidding process will be followed by the Single Stage, Two Envelope Bidding System.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

39)Consider the following with reference to alternative clean fuel for trasportation (H-CNG) :

1)In a major step toward adopting alternative clean fuel for transportation, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has allowed use of H-CNG (18% mix of hydrogen) in CNG engines. The Ministry has been notifying various alternate fuels under Clean Fuels for transportation.

2)The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has also developed specifications (IS 17314:2019) of Hydrogen enriched Compressed Natural Gas (H-CNG) for automotive purposes, as a fuel. Certain CNG-engine were tested to understand the emission reduction using H-CNG as compared to ‘neat’ CNG.

3)A notification for amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989, for inclusion of H-CNG as an automotive fuel has been published on 25^th Sept 2020 by the Ministry. The draft rules in this respect were made available to the public on the 22nd July last. No objections and suggestions were received from the public in this respect.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

40)Consider the following with reference to Natural farming in Gujarat :

1)Sometime back, Governor of Gujarat Acharya Devvrat said that in the next five years, 12 lakh hectares will be brought under natural farming in the state. He mentioned that approximately 1.20 lakh farmers in Gujarat adopted natural farming during the ongoing kharif season and another 5.50 lakh were interested in the practice.

2)The governor enumerated on the many benefits of the practice—the input cost in natural farming tends to be ‘zero’; the requirement of irrigation is reduced to 60–70%, with an increase in organic carbon level from 0.5 to 0.9. The marketing of such produce faces no constraints, where the unit price of premium quality wheat can be marketed at Rs 4000 per quintal instead of the conventional rate of Rs1900.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

41)Consider the following with reference to Ventilation index :

1)Ventilation index, defined as the product of wind speed and mixing height, is a significant factor affecting Delhi’s Air Quality.

2)Winters are dominated by cold, dry air, and ground based inversion with low wind conditions, which makes the air stagnant and creates an unfavourable condition for dispersion.

3)The wind blows from India’s north and north-west to the east direction during winters which ultimately results in combination of pollution and fog, leading to heavy smog formation in Delhi esp. during winters. The severity is further escalated due to rise in local and regional air polluting sources.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

42)Consider the following with reference to Energy poverty / Energy security :

Talking about the need to overcome energy poverty, it is said that with over 16% of global population, we are currently using only 6% of the world’s primary energy. He stressed on the need to develop a reliable and compatible energy infrastructure in the country. The Minister said that with the per capita consumption of energy still one-third of the global average, India will have continue to develop all possible energy sources to meet this energy deficit, while fully cognizant of the sustainability dimensions of it. “The energy landscape in India is evolving like never before. Our Government is also taking a constant reality check on the undercurrent of energy transition that is underway in the country”, he added.

1)Talking about the Conference’s theme of Energy Security Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat, Shri Pradhan said that we have adopted a multi-pronged strategy for achieving sustainable energy growth with reduced oil dependency, and align with Atmanirbhar Bharat. We are developing alternative fuels as the next wave of transformative change with ethanol, second generation ethanol, compressed bio gas (CBG) and biodiesel in helping to reduce country’s import dependence. It is said “Oil Marketing Companies are in the process of setting up twelve 2G bio- refineries with an investment of Rs.14,000 crores. We are well on our way to meet the target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol and 5% blending of bio-diesel in diesel by 2030.”

2)Talking about the Conference’s theme of Energy Security Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat, it is said that we have adopted a multi-pronged strategy for achieving sustainable energy growth with reduced oil dependency, and align with Atmanirbhar Bharat.

3)We are developing alternative fuels as the next wave of transformative change with ethanol, second generation ethanol, compressed bio gas (CBG) and biodiesel in helping to reduce country’s import dependence. He said “Oil Marketing Companies are in the process of setting up twelve 2G bio- refineries with an investment of Rs.14,000 crores. We are well on our way to meet the target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol and 5% blending of bio-diesel in diesel by 2030.”

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

43)Consider the following with reference to Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA) :

The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA) is taking action on mission mode to provide employment to migrant workers who have returned to their native villages of 6 states namely Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The Abhiyaan is now empowering villagers with livelihood opportunities in 116 districts of these states.

1)By the 13th week a total of about 30 crore mandays employment has been provided and Rs 27,003 crore has been spent so far in the pursuit of objectives of the Abhiyaan.

2)A large number of structures have been created including 1,14,344 water conservation structures, 3,65,075 rural houses, 27,446 cattle shed, 19,527 farm ponds, and 10,446 Community Sanitary Complex.

3)6727 works have been taken up through District Mineral Funds, 1,662 Gram Panchayat have been provided internet connectivity, a total of 17,508 works related to solid and liquid waste management undertaken, and 54,455 candidates have been provided skill training through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) during the Abhiyaan.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

44)Consider the following :

1)Finance Act, 2020 amended provisions relating to TCS with effect from 1st October, 2020 to provide that seller of goods shall collect tax @ 0.1 per cent (0.075% up to 31.03.2021) if the receipt of sale consideration from a buyer exceeds Rs. 50 lakh in the financial year.

2)Further, to reduce the compliance burden, it has been provided that a seller would be required to collect tax only if his turnover exceeds Rs. 10 crore in the last financial year. Moreover, the export of goods has also been exempted from the applicability of these provisions.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

45)Consider the following with reference to Atal Tunnel :

1) Atal Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in the World. The 9.02 Km long tunnel connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year. Earlier the valley was cut off for about 6 months each year owing to heavy snowfall.

2)The Tunnel is built with ultra-modern specifications in the Pir Panjal range of Himalayas at an altitude of 3000 Mtrs (10,000 Feet) from the Mean Sea Level (MSL).

3)The tunnel reduces the road distance by 46 Kms between Manali and Leh and the time by about 4 to 5 hours.

4)It is horse shoe shaped, single tube double lane tunnel with a roadway of 8 Mtrs. It has an overhead clearance of 5.525 Mtrs

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

46)Consider the following with reference to Decade of Healthy Ageing (2020-2030) :

1) 1^st October, 2020 is the launch year of Decade of Healthy Ageing (2020-2030), many activities will be undertaken throughout the year, aimed at mainstreaming issues related to elderly and to deliberate upon ways to ensure better and effective delivery of services, making full use of convergence mechanisms. “This initiative is an opportunity to bring together governments, civil society, international agencies, professionals, academia, the media, and the private sector for concerted, catalytic and collaborative action to improve the lives of older people, their families, and the communities in which they live,”

2)Highlighting the importance of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI), he said, “With well-designed and judicious investments, ageing population can help build-up human, social, economic and environmental capital. However, this would call for investing in all the phases of life, fostering enabling societies, and creating flexible but vibrant for building a society for all ages.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

47)Consider the following with reference to importance of habitats :

1) The CZA-TERI titled “Economic valuation of ecosystem services, National Zoological Park, New Delhi ‘.The report highlights the importance of habitats such as zoos to human wellbeing and the need of replication across India.

2)The study first of its kind in India and perhaps the entire World, pegs the total annual economic value of the ecosystem services (biodiversity conservation, employment generation, carbon sequestration, education and research, recreational and cultural) at around 423 crore (2019-20) whereas, the total value of the one-time cost of services such as carbon storage and land value provided by the zoo is estimated to be around 55,000 crore.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

48)Consider the following with reference to POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants) :

1)The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and environment from POPs, which are identified chemical substances that persist in the environment, bio-accumulate in living organisms, adversely affect human health/ environment and have the property of long-range environmental transport (LRET).

2)Exposure to POPs can lead to cancer, damage to central & peripheral nervous systems, diseases of immune system, reproductive disorders and interference with normal infant and child development. POPs are listed in various Annexes to the Stockholm Convention after thorough scientific research, deliberations and negotiations among member countries.

3)Considering its commitment towards providing safe environment and addressing human health risks, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) had notified the ‘Regulation of Persistent Organic Pollutants Rules, on March 5, 2018 under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

4)The regulation inter alia prohibited the manufacture, trade, use, import and export seven chemicals namely (i) Chlordecone, (ii) Hexabromobiphenyl, (iii) Hexabromodiphenyl ether and Heptabromodiphenylether (Commercial octa-BDE), (iv) Tetrabromodiphenyl ether and Pentabromodiphenyl ether (Commercial penta-BDE), (v) Pentachlorobenzene, (vi) Hexabromocyclododecane, and (vii) Hexachlorobutadiene, which were already listed as POPs under Stockholm Convention

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

49)Consider the following with reference to rookery :

1) The Rushikulya river mouth is considered the second-biggest rookery in India after Gahirmatha. Mass nesting in the Gahirmatha marine sanctuary occurred from March 9-23, 2021 and over 349,000 eggs were laid during this period.

2)It’s been around one month since the mass nesting of last year. Moreover, the sand is hot due to the scorching sun. Even the turtles that had congregated in the sea about a fortnight ago, have almost disappeared.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

50)Consider the following with reference to Jhum cultivation & Mizoram :

1)Jhum (slash and burn farming), collection of non-timber forest produce, burning farm residues and clearance of land for various purposes are the major reasons for the forest fire.

2)Mizoram has a forest cover of 85.41 per cent of their total geographical area, which is highest in India. From 2002 to 2020, primary forests in Mizoram decreased by 4.8 per cent.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

51)Consider the following 2021 is the year of La Niña — the Pacific water currents :

2021 is the year of La Niña — the Pacific water currents that are known to bring cooler temperatures globally as compared to El Niño. But Indian weather scientists say global warming has offset this cooling effect of La Niña.

1)Rising heat has many implications for water security. First, it means that there will be greater evaporation from all waterbodies. It means that we need to work not just on storing water in millions of structures, but also plan for reducing losses due to evaporation.

2)One option is to work on underground water storage — wells in other words.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

52)Consider the following with reference to Stockholm+50 :

1) This is why as we approach Stockholm+50, we are looking at an increasingly inequitable world; where poverty and marginalisation are growing and where climate change risks are reaching not just the homes of the poor but also of the rich. We need, therefore, to change paths; to re-configure, not just our language but also our approach to, what we can call, our common future.

2)It’s been a generation since global leaders met in Stockholm in 1972 to discuss environmental challenges. Then the concerns were for the local environment; there was no talk of climate change or even the depletion of the ozone layer. All that came later. In 1972, the discussion was on the toxification of the environment as water and air were foul.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

53)Consider the following with regard to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) :

Measures taken by the Government on the fronts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy reforms, investment facilitation and ease of doing business have resulted in increased FDI inflows into the country. The following trends in India’s Foreign Direct Investment are an endorsement of its status as a preferred investment destination amongst global investors:

1) India has attracted highest ever total FDI inflow of US$ 81.72 billion during the financial year 2020-21 and it is 10% higher as compared to the last financial year 2019-20 (US$ 74.39 billion).

2) FDI equity inflow grew by 19% in the F.Y. 2020-21 (US$ 59.64 billion) compared to the previous year F.Y. 2019-20 (US$ 49.98 billion).

3) In terms of top investor countries, ‘Singapore’ is at the apex with 29%, followed by the U.S.A (23%) and Mauritius (9%) for the F.Y. 2020-21.

4)‘Computer Software & Hardware’ has emerged as the top sector during F.Y. 2020-21 with around 44% share of the total FDI Equity inflow followed by Construction (Infrastructure) Activities (13%) and Services Sector (8%) respectively.

5)Under the sector `Computer Software & Hardware’, the major recipient states are Gujarat (78%), Karnataka (9%) and Delhi (5%) in F.Y. 2020-21.

6)Gujarat is the top recipient state during the F.Y. 2020-21 with 37% share of the total FDI Equity inflows followed by Maharashtra (27%) and Karnataka (13%).

7)Majority of the equity inflow of Gujarat has been reported in the sectors `Computer Software & Hardware’ (94%) and `Construction (Infrastructure) Activities’ (2%) during the F.Y. 2020-21.

8)The major sectors, namely Construction (Infrastructure) Activities, Computer Software & Hardware, Rubber Goods, Retail Trading, Drugs & Pharmaceuticals and Electrical Equipment have recorded more than 100% jump in equity during the F.Y. 2020-21 as compared to the previous year.

9)Out of top 10 countries, Saudi Arabia is the top investor in terms of percentage increase during F.Y. 2020-21. It invested US$ 2816.08 million in comparison to US$ 89.93 million reported in the previous financial year.

10)227% and 44% increase recorded in FDI equity inflow from the USA & the UK respectively, during the F.Y. 2020-21 compared to F.Y.2019-20.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

54)Consider the following with reference to tropical cyclones :

1)The tropical cyclones forming over different Ocean basins are named by the concerned RSMCs & TCWCs. For north Indian Ocean including Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, the RSMC, New Delhi assigns the name to tropical cyclones following a standard procedure. The WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones (PTC) at its twenty-seventh Session held in 2000 in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman agreed in principle to assign names to the tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea.

2)After long deliberations among the member countries, the naming of the tropical cyclones over the north Indian Ocean commenced from September 2004. This list contained names proposed by then eight member countries of WMO/ESCAP PTC, viz., Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

3)Though these names may look like random ones but these names are carefully chosen and indicate something. For instance, the last cyclone in Arabian sea was given its name by Myanmar as Tauktae which means Gecko, a lizard. Similarly, the upcoming cyclone Yaas has been given by Oman and it refers to a tree.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

55)Consider the following with reference to e-Committee of Supreme Court of India :

1)The e-Committee of the Supreme Court has been at the forefront of introducing digital reforms in the field of law. In the past one year, the pandemic has also pushed advocates, judges and litigants to adopt high tech solutions due to the closure of offices and courts in light of lockdowns and public health concerns. Working remotely, virtual courts, digital workplaces and electronic case management have become integral to how the legal profession is practiced and conducted.

2)This has given us a rare opportunity to embrace technology not just as an interim measure but to transform our legal system to make it more efficient, inclusive, accessible and environmentally sustainable. The e-Courts Services Mobile Application is a step in this direction.”

3)It is further added that many advocates and litigants have already embraced the services offered through this mobile application with more than 57 lakh downloads so far. The application will pave the way for optimizing our legal system in an ever-evolving digital world”.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

56)Consider the following with reference to Mucormycosis or black fungus infection :

1) Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus infection, is not a new disease. Such infections were reported even before the pandemic. Its incidence however was very low. Now, due to COVID-19, this rare but fatal fungal infection is being reported in large numbers. Coronavirus Disease Associated Mucormycosis (CAM) is being seen in patients who are either recovering or have recovered from COVID-19. Let us build on our earlier post on the topic , to learn what we can do to protect ourselves and our dear and near ones.

2)Director AIIMS, explained the increased incidence during a press conference . “Earlier, mucormycosis was commonly spotted in people suffering from diabetes mellitus, a condition where one’s blood sugar (glucose) levels are abnormally high. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, those who have had a transplant, and people taking immunosuppressants (medications that weaken the immune system) also used to get it. But now due to COVID-19 and its treatment, an increase in number of cases is being witnessed. There are more than 20 cases of the fungal infection in AIIMS itself, all of whom are COVID positive. Many states have reported 400 to 500 cases, all among COVID patients.”

3)Mucormycosis is caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes. It is naturally found in air, water and even food. It enters the body through fungal spores from the air or can also occur on skin after a cut, burn, or skin injury.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

57)Consider the following with reference to Mango :

1) Mango in India is also referred as ‘king of fruits’ and referred as Kalpavriksha (wish granting tree) in ancient scriptures. While most of the states in India have mango plantations, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka have major share in total production of the fruit.

2)Alphonso, Kesar, Totapuri and Banganpalli are leading export varieties from India. Mango exports primarily take place in three forms: fresh mango, mango pulp, and mango slice.

3)Mangoes are processed by the APEDA registered packhouse facilities and then exported to various regions and countries including middle east, European Union, USA, Japan and South Korea.

4)Earlier , for the first time in this season, India has shipped a consignment of 2.5 Metric Tonne (MTs) of Geographical Indication (GI) certified Banganapalli & other variety Survarnarekha mangoes sourced from farmers in Krishna & Chittor districts of Andhra Pradesh

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

58)Consider the following with reference to Kilogram :

Kilogram, the familiar unit we use for weighing things, was originally defined as equivalent to the mass of 1 litre of water at 4°C. It is currently defined as equivalent to the mass of an International Prototype Kilogram made of platinum-iridium alloy, also known as ‘Le Grand K’, manufactured in 1889 and carefully stored in anenvironmentally monitored safe in a lower vault in the basement of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in Sèvres near Paris in France. Several identical copies are stored safely in countries around the world, including one at National Physical Laboratory in New Delhi. All kilogram weights used around the world must match the international prototype. The change in definition of the kilogram became necessary because it was found that, despite best efforts to maintain them, the international prototype kilograms have gained up to 50 micrograms of mass from surface contamination since theirmanufacture late in the 19th century. As a result, each country that has one of these standard masses has a slightly different definition of the kilogram. This led to efforts to develop a system precise enough to allow replacing the physical lump of metal with a definition based directly on a fundamental law of nature which is invariant

1)After decades of groundbreaking laboratory work, the world’s scientific and technical community, representing 60 countries, came together at a session of the 26th General Conference on Weights and Measures in Versailles, France, on 16 November 2018, to redefine four of the seven base units of measurement for the International System of Units (SI).

2)They include the kilogram (the unit of mass), the ampere (the unit of electric current), the kelvin (the unit of temperature) and the mole (the unit for amount of substance). The new definitions will come into effect from World Metrology Day, which falls on 20 May 2019. The new definition of the kilogram is based on the fundamental unit Planck’s constant, which has a value of 6.626070150×10-34 joule-seconds.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

59)Consider the following with reference to plastic materials :

1) RIC No. 2 is highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) that leach nonylphenol, a dangerous endocrine disrupter like BPA. HDPE is commonlyfound in grocery plastic bags, milk and juice cartons and so on. This plastic is relatively safe for limited uses provided food is not hot or oily.

2)RIC No. 4 is low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Like HDPE, it can release nonylphenol. LDPE is commonly used in toys, food wraps, Tetrapack cartons, disposable cups, and storage containers.

3)RIC No. 5 is polypropylene (PP), commonly found in many household food containers that tend to be more expensive than the rest. PP has been shown to be releasing plasticstabilising substance oleamide into the food. Heated PP also releases chemicals that could induce asthma.

4)RIC Nos 4 (LDPE) and 5 (PP) are relatively safer plastics for limited use when used with no hot or oily substances. About the safety of plastics, unfortunately, we have nothing that can be called ‘safe’; all kinds of plastics are significantly dangerous than alternatives. Perhaps if you are left with no choice and have to buy a food storage container or water bottle, remember “245”; Types 2, 4 and 5 are relatively less dangerous than all other types of plastics

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

60)Consider the following with reference to microplalstic :

1)Another subtype of plastics that completely escaped the attention from sensitised citizens is microplastic, which is commonly found in a number of cosmetic products and consumer plastics like foam mattresses and bean bags.

2)Once released in the environment, microplastics get accumulated in marine organisms such astiny zooplankton, ultimately leading to its death. It gets concentrated in higher trophic levels progressively with each higher-level predator.

3) Some of which goes in our seafood too, ultimately impairing our health. Microplastics are now found everywhere from the Arctic herring to the Antarctic krill and pose the greatest challenge to the marine biodiversity yet.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

61)Consider the following with reference to Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) :

1)Following these developments, in 1974 a group of countries joined together to form the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) with the purpose of overseeing that the export of nuclear materials and technology are not used to foster nuclear weapons development by the recipient states. Recently the Group consists of 48 countries, controlling most of the international nuclear trade under two sets of guidelines developed in association with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

2)The first guideline covers the export of nuclear materialsand technology, which include nuclear reactors and equipment thereof, plants and equipment for fabrication of nuclear fuel, plants and equipment for reprocessing the spent fuel, plants and equipment for heavywater production, etc.

3)The second guideline covers the export of nuclear-related (dual use) materials and technology like isotope separation and other industrial equipment which can be used for both nuclear and non-nuclear operations. Nuclear trade can happen only among the member countries

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

62)Consider the following with reference to Synthetic dyes (Colours & Holi) :

1)Rhodamine B (bright reddish violet), Auramine (yellow), Malachite green series (green), Methyl violet (violet), and Methylene blue (blue) are a few more examples of synthetic dyes which are used as Holi colours.

2)Most of these colours have harmful effects on our eyes, bones, lungs and other vital organs. Illustrations By: Rhodamine B causes genetic disorderand dysfunction of liver, kidney, spleen and urinary bladder.

3)Auramine produces skin itching, eye allergies and blurred vision. It also causes renal disorder, liver tumour and growth impairment. Malachite dye causes fatal effects on eyes, bones and lungs. It is also responsible for cancer of the breast, kidney, liver, spleen, testis, ovary and urinary bladder.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

63)Consider the following with reference to S gene-based RT-PCR Tests :

1) The RNA is extracted from the collected sample swab. RT-PCR, with the help of primers, picks up small fragments of RNA and amplifies them

2) If the fragment amplified from the sample has a fragment matching with the virus, we understand that it is a SARS-CoV-2 case

3) There is a chance that a primer is designed to pick up that particular region of the virus in which the mutation has now occurred, ie the S-gene. Due to the mutation, that particular region may escape the test and not get amplified (and the test may come as false negative).

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

64)Consider the following with reference to PCR :

There are two methods of testing available to find out if a person is infected with the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) or not. These two methods are: Molecular assays and immunoassays.

India currently uses the molecular assays method of testing.

Molecular assays can either be manual or automated. In this method, an oral swab sample is taken. Viral Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) material is isolated from the swab using several chemicals, since the novel coronavirus is an RNA virus.

The amount taken, however, is little, making it impossible to find the pathogen directly from such a sample.

A technique called the polymerase chain reaction technique (PCR) is used to increase the material.

1) An additional step of treating the sample with an enzyme, called reverse transcriptase, is needed to use the PCR technique.

2)The RNA is then converted into a complementary strand of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). This DNA is then usually replicated around 40 times over.

3)Enzymes and nucleotides, fluorescent probes and other primers — specific to the viral genetic material — are added during the replication process.

4)The fluorescent probes provide a visual signal and are released from each DNA strand, when replication of the strand is complete.

5)Replication would occur and the visual signal would be seen if the sample contained the novel coronavirus RNA.

6)India currently uses imported RT-PCR test kits to carry out testing using this method.

7)The Indian Council of Medical Research approved two test kits on March 23, 2020 after finding them to be 100 per cent sensitive to true positive and true negative samples.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

65)Consider the following with reference to Rapid tests / Immunoassays :

1) Immunoassays — also called rapid tests — follow the same principle used in pregnancy tests.

2)They identify Immunoglobulin M and Immunoglobulin G antibodies developed against the SARS-CoV-2.

3)Blood, serum and plasma can be used for the test. Antibodies, if present in the sample, bind to the antigen immobilised on the test strip and give a coloured reaction.

4)These test kits are easy to use, provide quick results and are also effective in identifying asymptomatic patients.

5)The results from this method, however, need to be confirmed using a more advanced test as there is a risk of getting false positives.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

66)Consider the following with reference to Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) :

We know 65% of human body is oxygen. Yes, oxygen is vital for respiration, the process that transfers energy from glucose to cells. In fact, every cell in our body requires oxygen. When we breathe air in, oxygen molecules enter the lungs and pass through lung walls into our blood.

Oxygen is crucial for the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19, since the disease affects lung functioning. Shortness of breath or difficulty of breathing is one of the most common symptoms in patients with severe COVID-19. It also hampers the supply of oxygen to various parts of the body. They hence need oxygen therapy, to be supplied through medical oxygen.

One of the ways in which this oxygen can be supplied is through Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO). LMO is nothing but high purity oxygen used for medical treatment, and is developed for use in the human body.

1) Why in Liquid State ? Due to its low melting and boiling points, oxygen is in a gaseous state at room temperature. Liquification enables storage in larger volume and easier transportation

2) There are several methods. The most common production method is separation of oxygen in what are known as Air Separation Units or ASUs. ASUs are basically plants that separate large volumes of gases. They use a method called Fractional Distillation Method to produce pure oxygen from atmospheric air, which consists mostly of nitrogen and oxygen – 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and remaining 1% other gases including argon, carbon dioxide, neon, helium, and hydrogen.

In this method, gases from the air are separated into various components after cooling them into a liquid state and then liquid oxygen is extracted from it.

3) Atmospheric air is first cooled to -181°C. Oxygen liquifies at this point. Since, the boiling point of Nitrogen is -196°C, it remains in a gaseous state. But Argon has a boiling point similar to that of oxygen (–186°C) and hence a significant amount of Argon liquifies along with Oxygen.

The resultant mixture of Oxygen and Argon is drained, decompressed and passed through a second low-pressure distillation vessel for further purification.

We then get the output as final purified liquid oxygen, which is then transported using cryogenic containers.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

67)Consider the following with reference to Cryogenic containers for oxygen :

1) Cryogenics is the production and behaviour of materials at very low temperatures.
A cryogenic liquid is defined as a liquid with a normal boiling point below –90°C.

2) Cryogenic liquid containers are specially designed for safe and economic transportation and storage of liquefied gases at cryogenic temperatures, lower than –90°C. These containers are highly insulated, in which liquid gases are stored at very low temperatures

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

68)Consider the following with reference to Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Technique :

1) Oxygen can also be produced non-cryogenically, in gaseous form, using selective adsorption. This method leverages the property that under high pressure, gases tend to be attracted to solid surfaces. The higher the pressure, the more the adsorption of gas.

2)If a gas mixture such as air is passed under pressure through a vessel containing an adsorbent bed of ‘zeolite’ that attracts nitrogen more strongly than oxygen, a part or all of the nitrogen will stay in the bed, and the gas exiting the vessel will be richer in oxygen, relative to the mixture entering the vessel.

3)Hospitals can also opt for on-site generation of oxygen by this method, where oxygen is produced from ambient air by concentrating it. Producing oxygen near hospitals has the additional advantage of eliminating need for transportation.

4)In addition to the above sources of medical oxygen, there are also portable oxygen generators known as Oxygen Concentrators that can be used at home.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

69)Consider the following with reference to safety precautions for Oxygen handling :

1) If the temperature is high enough, many substances will burn in oxygen. Hence, it is equally essential to ensure proper fire safety measures and train all staff in the safe handling of oxygen as the increased storage and handling of oxygen cylinders during COVID-19 heightens risk of hospital fires.

2) There are also additional requirements and rules for medical oxygen, including requiring a person to have a prescription to order medical oxygen

3) It is important for citizens to ensure judicious use of the vital product, especially during a public health emergency. Misuse or overstocking of these will only lead to panic and black marketing

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

70)Consider the following with reference to Koppili fault zone and earthquakes :

Koppili is a river flowing in North East India

1) The tremors have been attributed by the NCS to the Kopili fault zone closer to Himalayan Frontal Thrust. This is a seismically active area falling in the highest Seismic Hazard Zone V. It is associated with collisional tectonics because of the Indian Plate subducting beneath the Eurasian Plate. Subduction is a geological process in which one crustal plate is forced below the edge of another.

2)The Kopili fault zone is a 300 km long and 50 km wide lineament (linear feature) extending from the western part of Manipur up to the tri-junction of Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The fault itself is a transpressional fracture that generates lower crustal dextral strike-slip earthquakes.

3)The Kopili fault is currently the most active seismic zone in North East India. Squeezed between the subduction and collision zones of the Himalayan belt and Sumatran belt, the North East is highly prone to earthquake occurrences.

4) A tectonic depression filled up by the alluvium of the Kopilli river and its tributaries, the Kopili fault zone has witnessed many seismic activities in the past including the 1869 earthquake (7.8 magnitude) and the 1943 earthquake (7.3 magnitude). A study in the Imphal Valley to the Kopili fracture although later research contradicted this conclusion.

5)“There was a gap of 74 years between the two major earthquakes of 1869 and 1943. Multiple studies opined a major earthquake event around 2017 to repeat this cycle,”

“Recent seismicity discovered along the Kopili fault led to speculations that this fault is one of the most seismically active faults of the region and a major earthquake could be expected in the future, which has somehow been validated by latest event,”

6)A considerable portion of the Kopili fault zone and its neighbouring areas are characterised by alluvial soils that have a higher potential of trapping seismic waves, making the region the most earthquake prone zone in North East India.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

71)Consider the following with reference to Glacier burst :

1) A glacier burst at a remote place on the Indo-China border in Uttarkhand on the afternoon of April 23, 2021, according to a senior official. There is no word yet of any casualties.“A glacier has burst near Uttarakhand’s Joshimath on the India-China border.”

2)The area where the mishap has happened — Sumna in Chamoli district — doesn’t have any human habitation. The incident has happened around 100 kilomtres from the village of Reni, which was struck by an avalanche in February,2021. (Note: It was not confirmed yet as to whether the current incident is a glacial lake outburst or an avalanche.)

3)This area is really far away and has no human habitation. There are no telephone networks there. The last habited village is Fakti, which is around five kilometers from Reni. Sumna is around 100 kilometres from there. The only people there are the Border Roads Organisation officials and labourers.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

72)Consider the following with reference to Sulphur dioxide emissions :

1) The sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions from a volcanic eruption in the Caribbean reached India April 16, 2021 sparking fear of increased pollution levels in the northern parts of the country and acid rain. Sulphur dioxide reacts with water to form sulphuric acid which can come down with rainfall.

2)“Sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions from La Soufriere volcano eruption in the Caribbean have reached all the way to India,” tweeted the World Meteorological Organisation on April 16.

3)Volcanic “plumes can cause aviation and air quality hazards. The injection height is needed to initialise forecast models that predict the downwind evolution of the plume.”

4)La Soufrière volcano on St Vincent Island in the West Indies started erupting on April 9 after spewing out lava into a dome and threatening to erupt since December 2020. The last time the volcano had erupted was in 1979.

5)“Of the 45 currently erupting volcanoes on Earth, La Soufriere is among those that worry volcanologists the most,” This is because of its “explosive and erratic eruption style”.

6)The volcanic eruptions that occurred on April 10 were energetic enough for the plumes to be recorded at a height of 20 kilometres above the Earth’s surface by the Multi-Angle Imaging Spectro Radiometer instrument on NASA’s Terra satellite. NASA scientists have found evidence for the entry of sulphate aerosol particles (precursors for sulphuric acid) in the stratosphere, the second layer of the Earth’s atmosphere.

7)“Scientists watch closely for emissions reaching the relatively dry stratosphere because particles last much longer and travel much farther than if they remain in the lower, wetter troposphere,” said NASA . This might be the reason that the particles have reached as far as India and will likely travel beyond to reach South East Asia.

8)Volcanic emissions reaching the stratosphere can have a cooling effect on global temperatures. “The most significant climate impacts from volcanic injections into the stratosphere come from the conversion of sulphur dioxide to sulphuric acid, which condenses rapidly in the stratosphere to form fine sulphate aerosols,” says the United States Geological Survey.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

73)Consider the following with reference to aerosols increase the reflection of radiation :

1)“The aerosols increase the reflection of radiation from the Sun back into space, cooling the Earth’s lower atmosphere or troposphere,”.

2)Bigger eruptions during the past century have caused a decrease in temperature of 0.27 degree Celsius or more on the Earth’s surface for up to three years.

3)“The current thinking is that a volcano needs to inject at least 5 teragrams of SO2 into the stratosphere to have measurable climate impacts,”

4)La Soufrière has delivered around 0.4-0.6 teragram of SO2 into the upper atmosphere which is the highest-ever recorded after satellites started observing the Earth’s atmosphere in the mid 20th century. The amount of SO2 being vented out by the volcano could increase if the eruptions continue. NASA scientists also surmise that moderate eruptions are usually far greater in number than huge eruptions and could have a greater cumulative impact.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

74)Consider the following with reference to forest fires in Similipal Tiger Reserve :

1)The forest fires in Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve that have been raging for more than 10 days, pose a grave threat to tigers, elephants and other animals, in addition to people living far beyond the reaches of the protected area, experts said March 4, 2021.

2)Similipal has 21 ranges and eight forests have been affected. The core area is particularly vulnerable to uncontrolled fires due to its inaccessibility to fire fighters.

3)“The worry is that this is just the beginning of summer and the entire period of March to May is when the forest department is on high alert for fires. The inferno in the forest will also increase human-animal conflicts as many tigers, elephants, leopards and bears may come out from the forest to the nearby villages to save their lives from the forest fire,” .

4)The fires seemed to be both, a natural disaster and human-made mishap. Around 90 per cent of forest fires were human-made, with the rest being caused due to lightning and friction caused by falling rocks.

5)“Similipal is an invaluable treasure not only for the country but also for the entire world. The temperatures are extremely high this year; the dry deciduous forests are on fire and are being attended to on priority. The forest fire is under control and there is no loss of lives or any damage to the big trees. A standard operating procedure has been issued to deal with the situation and senior officials are present.

6)Fires were a natural part of the forest cycle, especially during the dry season. But they needed to be controlled and not allowed to sweep large areas.

7)“The recent forest fire in Similipal is a combination of a very dry summer and carelessness by people who had been hunting and collecting Mahuli flowers,”

8)Simlipal National Park is a national park and tiger reserve in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, covering 2,750 km. It is home to 1,076 vascular plants, 93 species of orchids, 400 medicinal plants and many wildlife species.

9)The area had been included in 2009 in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO. “Simlipal derives its name from the abundance of red silk cotton trees growing in the area”

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

75)Consider the following with reference to Rishiganga River :

The Himalayas are warming faster than other mountain ranges and the increased use of reinforced concrete in building construction, replacing the traditional wood and stone masonry there, is likely to create a heat-island effect and thus add to regional warming,” . . We have been saying for a long time to set up an early warning system in the Himalayas, like the one set up in coastal areas after the 2004 tsunami, but it’s still not there

1) A major disaster struck the Himalayan state of Uttrakhand February 7, 2021. A glacier broke after an avalanche in the Joshimath area of the state’s Chamoli district.

2)There are reports of missing people and damage to property. The Chamoli police said the Rishiganga Power Project had been damaged due a breach caused by the glacier in Tapovan area.

3)“The weather was nice and we were doing our daily chores. Suddenly, around 10:30 AM, a huge amount of water started coming in the Rishiganga river. There was a lot of noise. It was just like the Kedarnath tragedy. The power station got taken immediately and the 100-150 workers there are still missing. Now it is filled with mud. The river is also filled with mud.

When the deluge came, all the villagers rushed to higher elevation, but those who had gone to collect wood or taken their goats and cows for pasture, are missing,” Balwant Rana of Reni village along the banks of river Rishiganga said. Two teams of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have reached the spot and three National Disaster Response Force teams have been rushed from Dehradun.

4)According to experts, the reduced snowfall this winter in Uttarakahnd seems to have played a part in the disaster.“It is very unusual for something like this to happen at this time. During winters, the rain and snowfall replenishes the glaciers and fixes any structural issues. However, this year, there was reduced snowfall in the higher elevations. This could have been one of the reasons, although it is hard to say right now which glacier has been affected,” a scientist said on the condition of anonymity.

5)There are around 200 glaciers in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.

6)The scientist said the monitoring of glaciers during the winter was difficult due to the weather and the area was usually cut off. “It is only from March to September, when the weather is conducive, that we are able to monitor the glaciers,”

7)“Some 8,800 glacial lakes in the Himalayas are spread across countries and more than 200 of these have been classified as dangerous. Recent scientific evidence suggests that floods originating in the Himalayas are caused largely by landslides that temporarily block mountain rivers,”

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

76)Consider the following with reference to Kosi river :

1) The Bihar government will try to divert the course of the mighty Kosi river in Bhagalpur district to save an archaeological site discovered recently.

2)At Guwaradih village in Naugachhia sub-division of Bhagalpur district, several priceless artefacts have been found at the site during the excavation of a mound over the past year.These items could be 2,500-years-old and could be of interest for historians if conserved, archaeologists have said.

3)The Kosi currently flows around 300-400 metres from the site, while its old course is about two kilometres from the village.

4)Environmentalists said changing the Kosi’s course could be disastrous for Bihar as seen in 2008. At that time, the river had breached its mud embankments at Kushaha in Nepal.

5)It then caused extensive damage to life and property downstream in five densely populated districts of northeast Bihar namely Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnia and Araria. Some 500 people were killed and four million rendered homeless.

6)“The Kosi frequently changes its course naturally. If its course is artificially changed, it will cause floods and erosion in new areas, leading to massive displacement of people,”

7)Previous efforts to tame the river and confine it within embankments had proved disastrous. “Bihar already suffers annual flooding. Changing the Kosi’s course will increase our woes,”.

8) No river could be forced to flow in a pipeline.

9)“Two villages, Ahuti and Badi Khal, dominated by fisher folk, are located near this river. If the course is diverted, both will lose their existence. Villagers will have to flee. However, it will save Kaharpur village, populated by Rajputs,”

10)During the 2008 flood, around a million people were evacuated from their homes. More than 300,000 houses were destroyed and crops spread over at least 840,000 acres were damaged.The deluge, which the Bihar government described as the worst in the past 50 years, was declared as a ‘national calamity’ by the Government of India.

The floodwater also deposited sand and stone dust on farmland, crippling agricultural activities. Many villagers are still battling this problem.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

77)Consider the following with reference to Cyclone Nivar and Okchi & Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) :

1) Cyclone Nivar rapidly intensified in Bay of Bengal and was much more disruptive than India Meteorological Department (IMD) earlier predicted.

(IMD November 24, 2020 evening upgraded the storm from ‘severe’ to ‘very severe’: Expect winds up to 120 kilometres per hour (not 75 kmph as expected earlier) in the next 24 hours.)

“A change in wind speeds of about 30 knots (50-55 kmph) in 24 hours can be generally classified as rapid intensification. The ocean and atmospheric conditions are favourable for that,”

Sea-surface temperatures (SST) are 29-30 degree Celsius; there is low vertical wind shear in the region.

These can lead to rapid intensification, as was the case with Cyclone Gati that has devastated Somalia and Super Typhoon Goni. It pummelled the Philippines at an unprecedented 315 kmph.

“We saw similar conditions during Cyclone Ockhi in November 2017. SST was warmer than usual and the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) was favourable,”

2)Cyclone Nivar is rapidly intensifying in Bay of Bengal and may be much more disruptive than India Meteorological Department (IMD) earlier predicted.

IMD November 24, 2020 evening upgraded the storm from ‘severe’ to ‘very severe’: Expect winds up to 120 kilometres per hour (not 75 kmph as expected earlier) in the next 24 hours.

3)“A change in wind speeds of about 30 knots (50-55 kmph) in 24 hours can be generally classified as rapid intensification. The ocean and atmospheric conditions are favourable for that,”

4)Sea-surface temperatures (SST) are 29-30 degree Celsius; there is low vertical wind shear in the region.

5)These can lead to rapid intensification, as was the case with Cyclone Gati that has devastated Somalia and Super Typhoon Goni. It pummelled the Philippines at an unprecedented 315 kmph.

6)“We saw similar conditions during Cyclone Ockhi in November 2017. SST was warmer than usual and the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) was favourable,”

7)Ockhi intensified rapidly from a depression to a cyclone within nine hours and further to a very severe cyclone in 24 hours

8)It is found that the MJO and warm sea conditions provided favourable dynamic and thermodynamic conditions for the genesis of Cyclone Ockhi. The conditions also aided in rapid intensification of the cyclone.

9)In the case of Nivar too, southern Bay of Bengal is warmer (by 0.5-1°C) than usual. This is over a warm pool region of 28-30°C mean SSTs.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

78)Consider the following with reference to Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) :

1) The MJO is the major fluctuation in tropical weather on weekly-to-monthly timescales.

2) It can be characterised as an eastward moving ‘pulse’ of cloud and rainfall near the equator that typically recurs every 30-60 days, according to the Bureau of Meteorology of the Australian government.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

79)Consider the following with reference to Cyclone explanation (Eye Wall) :

1) The quantum of heat in the ocean near the east coast is also warmer than usual — that can keep a cyclone active. Also, the winds are favourable due to an active MJO.

2)Warm SST are what drive the convective bursts in the eye wall of the cyclone and lead to rapid intensification. Low-vertical shear allows the convection to intensify because a strong shear would steal away the energy from the convection.

3)Eye wall is the band of the strongest winds of a cyclone, which encircle a much calmer eye of the cyclone.

4)Other factors can also contribute in making Cyclone Nivar deadlier.

5)“Cyclones now seem to weaken relatively slower after hitting land because of the excess energy,”

6)This was also seen in the deep depression that brought torrents of rainfall to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in October.

7)“The intense convection at the eye wall produces hot towers reaching the atmospheric ceiling and causing strong descent into the eye of the cyclone which reduces pressure and strengthens the cyclone,”

8)The outer bands of Nivar are already on land but the cyclone is still intensifying. So, the destructive power of the cyclone can reach further onto land because of the warm ocean.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

80)Consider the following with reference to Oil spillage and cleaning up the oceans & Bioremediation :

Petroleum is a mixture of natural gas, condensate, and crude oil (viscous liquid mixture) consisting mainly of thousands of hydrocarbon compounds.

The present world crude oil production exceeds three billion tonnes a year, about half of which is transported through the sea routes. This, in turn, increases the risk of accidental oil spillage.

Oil spills have the potential to cause huge environmental damage: they end up accumulating in sub-surface sediments transferring the toxic organic materials to the marine food chain.

1) A grave ecological concern has emerged in recent times: A surge in oil extraction through offshore drilling that has resulted in spillage of oil — accidentally or due to negligence. Industrial effluent discharge, waste burn-out and other manmade disasters polluting the marine environment are among other concerns.

2)Cleaning up of the oil spillage from the oceans without damaging the marine ecosystem is becoming an increasingly challenging task. The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has developed an eco-friendly crude oil bioremediation mechanism technology using consortia of marine microbes wheat bran (WB) immobilized on agro-residue bacterial cells.

3)Bioremediation can be defined as any process that uses microorganisms or their enzymes to remove and or neutralize contaminants within the environment (i.e., within soil and water) to their original condition.

4)During the study, nine different hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria extracted from the ocean sediment and collected from a depth of 2,100 metres, were used.

5)These hydrocarbon degrading bacteria don’t depend on hydrocarbon for survival, but have a metabolic mechanism where they use petroleum products as carbon and energy source and thus, help cleaning up oil spills.

6)It was found that complete breakdown and degradation of crude oil was achievable using wheat bran marine bacterial consortia (which are low-cost non-toxic agro-residues) immobilised on low-cost nontoxic agro-residues bacterial cells in an environmentally sustainable manner.

7)It was also found that they were more effective in their immobilised state than the free bacteria cells in degrading the oil spills, in addition to being more versatile and resistant to adverse conditions.The NIOT study found that immobilised bacterial cells had better oil degrading capacity than the free bacterial cells. They could remove 84 per cent of the oils within 10 days. The free bacterial cells degraded a maximum of 60 per cent of the crude oil at optimised conditions.These findings evinced their efficacy in treating accidental bulk discharge of oil in marine environment through non-toxic clean-up technology.

8)In marine ecosystem, hydrocarbonoclastic deep sea microbial consortium (two or more group of bacteria) plays an important role in breaking down oil in the event of a spill. The microbial community serves as energetic primary degraders of complex mixture of petroleum hydrocarbons into various aldehydes, ketones and acidic metabolites.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

81)Consider the following with reference to oil spills in different places :

Mixtures of hydrocarbons released to the surface of marine waters are widely dispersed into different depths and end up in sediments due to oil-particle aggregation, severely affecting the local marine environment.

1) Deepwater horizon drilling accident was the largest accidental oil spill disaster in history that took place on April 20, 2010, releasing 779 million litres of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico.

2)An oil spill accident at East China Sea on January 6, 2018 released more than 136,000 tonnes of volatile petroleum products.

3)The Ennore oil spill occurred outside the Kamarajar Port in Ennore near Chennai in Tamil Nadu on 28 January, 2017, when an outbound empty tanker BW Maple collided with an inbound loaded oil tanker Dawn Kanchipuram releasing at 9.9 million gallons (37,000 m3) of oils into Bay of Bengal.

4)An oil spill accident at East China Sea on January 6, 2018 released more than 136,000 tonnes of volatile petroleum products. Deepwater Horizon drilling accident was the largest accidental oil spill disaster in history that took place on April 20, 2010 releasing 779 million litres of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico.

5)The recent MV Wakashio spill off Mauritius — about 1,000 tonnes of oil spilled into a sanctuary for rare wildlife after the Japanese ship struck a coral reef on 25 July, 2020.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

82)Consider the following with reference to tropical storms and Fujiwhara effect :

1) Two tropical storms, formed in the western Atlantic Ocean at nearly the same time, are likely to impact the Gulf of Mexico, sparking concerns of the rare Fujiwhara effect that occurs when two hurricanes combine to form a mega hurricane. The last time two tropical storms formed at the same time and struck the region was in 1933. But often, the effect is additive when hurricanes come together, and we usually end up with one massive storm instead of two smaller ones.

2)This generally occurs when the hurricanes pass really close to each other but the effect can have other implications when the storms are at a distance. The two current storms are likely to undergo a mild Fujiwhara effect with changes in expected tracks for both of them.

3)Tropical storm Marco would have already moved inland when Laura arrives, due to which the likelihood of a mega storm formation would be low. The last time a proper Fujiwhara effect happened was in 2009 in the Philippine Sea, when typhoons Parma and Melor interacted with each other.

4)There are other peculiarities of the Atlantic Hurricane season this year. Tropical storm formation started much earlier than usual and has also been much more active. The first named storm in the season was formed on May 16.

5) There are usually four named storms in the Atlantic Basin, which comprises the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, by August 23. There have been, however, more than thrice as many storms by the time this year.

6)Laura is currently over the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Jamaica, where it has caused heavy rainfall and flooding. The storm is on its way to Cuba, after which it will enter the Gulf of Mexico where it will gain strength on Tuesday and Wednesday ending up as a category III hurricane, making it much stronger than Marco.

7)It is forecasted that its track would be similar to tropical storm Marco and that it would also make landfall along the Louisiana coastline with impact on Texas as well. The fact that the same state is being hit by two tropical storms in quick succession is also unprecedented.

8)The major concern with back-to-back storms (in this case a tropical storm and a hurricane) is massive storm surges, which could inundate coastal areas and push river waters inland.

9)Marco could cause a surge of one-two metres above the mean sea level; the surge for Laura could be even higher. A storm surge is a rise in sea level that occurs during tropical storms, cyclones and hurricanes.

10)The surge causes large-scale flooding and brings saline water into agricultural fields and people’s homes, leading to long-term damage, including a decrease in soil quality. Another threat from the storms is of heavy rainfall which could range from 10-15 centimetres in the coastal areas.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

83)Consider the following with reference to Mount Sinabung volcano :

1) The Mount Sinabung volcano in Indonesia erupted on August 10, 2020 morning spouting ash at least 5,000 metres high into the sky.

2)The ash destroyed several nearby plantations. Meanwhile, the villagers have been advised to stay five kilometres from the crater’s mouth.

3)Officials, along with local military and police personnel, distributed 1,500 masks and assisted locals in cleaning the volcanic ash. The local fire department despatched five trucks to help with the cleaning, “This is an alert for all of us to avoid red-zone areas near Sinabung,”According to some residents, the village went dark for about 20 minutes and was coated with ash in a matter of a few minutes,

4)Mount Sinabung erupted in 2010 after a 400-year-long hiatus and has been continuously active since September 2013.In 2016, seven people died after Mount Sinabung erupted, spewing ash about three kilometres into the sky. More than a dozen people were killed when it erupted in 2014. Activity increased starting around April 2017, with a large ash eruption on August 2, 2017. Additional activity, including ash plumes, were observed over the next several months.

5)The largest eruption of the year occurred during the last week of December and continued into early 2018.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

84)Consider the following with reference to Northern Pakistan & Glacial Lake Outbursts :

1)Many communities in northern Pakistan have also been facing potential relocation as the risk of flash flooding from melting glaciers increases in the summers. Northern Pakistan is home to over 7000 glaciers, the highest number in a region besides the polar caps, and increasingly hot summers are melting glaciers and forming large glacial lakes that can burst and cause deadly floors in valleys nearby.

2)Pakistan had more than 3,000 glacial lakes and at least 33 of them were considered hazardous, putting seven million people at immediate risk, according to information shared by United Nations Development Programme-Pakistan (UNDP) in 2018.

3)A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in May hit Humza, a small village, and destroyed produce and left several families displaced. On 20 June an early warning of potential GLOFs around three glacial lakes that would impact the nearby communities.

4) “We may divert our attention and resources to deal with COVID-19, but we must not forget that the natural disasters compounded by climate change await our response.”

5)Several other communities across South Asia are also at risk as local and national response capacities remain stretched thin during the COVID-19 crisis, and as the monsoon brings flooding, landslides and other dangers to vulnerable coastal communities and cities.

6) “It is so important that the region comes together and works on solutions, disaster management, and preparedness for coming challenges together.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

85)Consider the following with reference to Covid-19, Locust swarms across South Asia and Central Asia :

1)“COVID-19 showed that policies and implementations vary between states and provinces, which is getting in the way of effectiveness and efficiency. Climate-related hazards are likely to worsen in the coming years and the region needs to start putting its differences aside if it wants to be well-prepared for upcoming crises.”

2)The ongoing locust swarms across parts of South and Central Asia, a result of climate change, recently pushed India and Pakistan to work together to fight the crop-devouring insects. Even though tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors continue, both countries have held ten border meetings in the past three years to discuss locust control.

3)COVID-19 is also posing additional challenges to containment efforts of what is considered the worst locust plague in nearly three decades as workers spraying pesticides on the insects deal with physical distancing limitations.

4)“Both COVID-19 and climate-related disasters are impacting and will continue to impact the region and also worsen the economies, which will, in turn, leave more people vulnerable,”. “Better cooperation is the only way forward.”

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

86)Consider the following with reference to Earthquakes :

1) Earthquakes usually occur along faults that are fractures between rocks and can range from a few millimetres to thousands of kilometres.

2)During an earthquake, seismic waves are generated in a short span of time after two blocks of earth slip past one another. The waves travel to the surface causing destruction.

3)The surface where they slip is known as the fault or fault plane.

4)Scientists have attempted to recreate these faults in their laboratories to try and understand the conditions in them during earthquakes.

5)The actual conditions, however, are so complex that it is difficult to recreate them with accuracy, making earthquake prediction difficult.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

87)Consider the following with reference to :

1) The WMO’s findings come even as 92 people were killed in lightning strikes in Bihar on June 25, 2020.

2)Bihar state is second after Uttar Pradesh with the maximum number of deaths due to lightning. At least 170 people died in Bihar due to lightning in 2019 between April 1 and July 31.

3)The number of lightning days across India have been increasing significantly every month, according to the report of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) released in September 2019. In fact, lightning strikes kill more people in India than any other extreme weather event

4)Such fatalities could be avoided if states share IMD’s forecast on lightning with people on time.

5)If the time between a lightning flash and thunder is less than 30 seconds, people should stay indoors and wait 30 minutes after the last observed flash to resume outdoor activities, according to the WMO.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

88)Consider the following with reference to Cyclone Nisarga :

1) Cyclone Nisarga made landfall as a severe cyclone with a wind speed of 100-110 kilometres per hour (kmph) and gusts of around 120 kmph on June 3, 2020 afternoon, near Alibaug, around 100 kilometres south of Mumbai.

The landfall process will take three hours to complete. Mumbai will bear the brunt of the cyclone with winds, heavy rainfall and storm surge.

More than 200 millimetres (mm) absolute rainfall is expected in some areas of the Konkan region, including Mumbai, Palghar, Thane and Raigad districts.

It will also cause heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in north central Madhya Pradesh.

Similar to Amphan, inundation from a storm surge will be an important aspect of cyclone Nisarga.

2)It is expected to have a surge of 1-2 metres higher than the normal sea tide in Maharashtra’s Mumbai, Raigad and Thane districts and will bring saline water in these areas as well.

Nisarga will decrease in intensity to a cyclone from a severe cyclone in the next four hours and maintain this intensity for the next six hours.

Many inland areas east of Mumbai and Raigad will also be impacted by cyclonic wind speeds.

The cyclone will subsequently de-intensify into a depression on June 4 afternoon. This means many areas in Madhya Pradesh and eastern Maharashtra can get heavy to very heavy rainfall.

This is the first time since 1891 that a cyclone is making landfall so close to Mumbai, according to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Nisarga is the second cyclone in the North Indian Ocean (NIO) region in 2020 after cyclone Amphan in the Bay of Bengal. It is the first one in the Arabian Sea this year, after the five that emerged there in 2019.

3)Nisarga is the 13th out of a total 17 cyclones that turned severe and formed in the NIO region in this period.

Five out of 11 cyclones turned severe from 2015-17, an increase of 76 per cent from 45 per cent.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

89)Consider the following with reference to Cyclone Amphan :

1) Cyclone Amphan, which started the landfall at 2.30 pm near Digha in West Bengal on May 20, is predicted to weaken as it moves towards inland regions close to Kolkata. The wind speeds in around the city, however, could be as high 130 kilometre per hour, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Amphan is likely to maintain its intensity after landfall to as far as central parts of Bangladesh till the morning of May 21, according to IMD. This will mean higher-than-usual wind speeds in several land areas.

“If a cyclone finds warm waters along the coast, it may not weaken as fast as it should,”

Cyclones get their energy from the ocean and once they hit land, their energy source disappears.

2)“Warmer oceans mean the cyclones can come close to the coast without getting weak. Some hurricanes off the United States coast and over the Grand Bahamas stalled, so they kept churning near the coast because of warm water. That increased the amount of rainfall on land,”

However, this may not happen with Amphan since the Bay of Bengal cannot get warmer than it already is.

3)“Its temperatures are so high that any warming will just create atmospheric convection and remove the energy. But these things become obvious only after we have observed a few cyclones,”

4)Cyclone Amphan was positioned around 95 kilometre south-southeast of Digha in West Bengal as an extremely severe cyclone on May 20 morning. It was earlier travelling at 20-22 kmph, but later fastened to 29 kmph, according to the May 20 morning cyclone

5)The cyclone started a landfall around 2.30 pm in West Bengal near Digha. The process continues for at least four hours, during which winds with speed ranging from 155-165 kmph, gusting up to 185 kmph, are expected to hit the coastal areas. Some of these areas in West Bengal are already witnessing heavy rainfall.

The city has never witnessed such wind speeds and the impacts on the city’s infrastructure can be known once the cyclone blows over. The highest wind speed recorded in Kolkata was 70 kmph during cyclone Aila in 2009.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

90)Consider the following with reference to Cyclones and Coastal states like Odisha(Chilka Lake) and West Bengal (Sunderban Delta) :

1) Cyclone Amphan may bring sea water around 25 kilometres inland because of a storm surge of four to six metres. The storm surge will cause large scale inundation and saline water ingress in the coastal areas of West Bengal and Bangladesh.

2)A storm surge is a rise in sea level that occurs during tropical cyclones. The surge will cause large-scale flooding and bring saline water in agricultural fields and people’s homes, leading to long-term damage, including a decrease in soil quality.

3)The inundation will occur along small rivers that feed into the Sundarbans delta.

Water ingress is a major issue in the Sundarbans even in normal tidal situations, in a live question and answer session on social media site Facebook May 18, 2020.

4)“The problem is aggravated because of the shallow nature of the West Bengal and Bangladesh coasts, especially in the delta region of the Sunderbans,” . “With a storm surge of this magnitude, the situation will be devastating,”

Rising sea levels due to anthropogenic global warming have already resulted in the migration of 1.5million of the Sundarbans’ residents.

5)The Bay of Bengal is currently rising twice as quickly as the average of other seas around the world. Intense cyclones like Amphan and Bulbul — that struck the region in November 2019 — add immediate intensity to a long and slow problem for the region.

6)During the landfall of cyclone Fani in Odisha’s Puri district — a strong storm surge opened up four new mouths in the brackish Chilika lake. This caused sea water to enter the lake for several months, disturbing its delicate salinity gradient.

Fisherfolk around Chilika — who also depend on the lake for their livelihood — reported a drop in catching fish until at least February 2020.

7)Amphan will bring other hazards to life and property in the region, both in the short and long terms. Initial damage will be done by the cyclone’s strong winds that will be as high as 165-175 km / hr, with gusts of up to 185 km / hr, This will cause property damage, including uprooting of trees .

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

91)Consider the following with reference to Dendrochronology (reflecting floods,droughts etc.) :

1) Dendrochronology is the study of tree rings that hold a wealth of information about not only a tree’s past but also that of the ecosystem in which it lives. Tree rings are layers of growth that a tree acquires in a year. The colour of old wood is always darker than a comparatively newer wood which creates a contrasting pattern of rings year on year. In the years of good growth, characterised by a healthy supply of resources, the ring is thick. It is thin when the ecosystem has dearth of resources. Trees can be great records for past and recent climates, much better than climate records as their density in a region is much greater than climate observatories and their information close enough to actual conditions.

2)Another study, which brought out a 226-year long chronology of teak trees from southern Myanmar, showed that intense floods and droughts have periodically occurred in the region and their continuation or even intensification in a warming climate can lead to adverse effects on traditional agriculture and forest based economies. The authors also correlated the extreme events to large scale climate phenomenon like El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and sea surface temperatures of the Pacific and Indian Ocean.

3)Another study, which brought out a 226-year long chronology of teak trees from southern Myanmar, showed that intense floods and droughts have periodically occurred in the region and their continuation or even intensification in a warming climate can lead to adverse effects on traditional agriculture and forest based economies. The authors also correlated the extreme events to large scale climate phenomenon like El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and sea surface temperatures of the Pacific and Indian Ocean.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

92)Consider the following with reference to concentration of carbon dioxide in atmosphere and severe heat waves in USA,Australia,Arctic :

1) WMO, in a report, said that the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere had breached all records in 2018. It is the highest-ever in the last three million years.

2)The rise in temperature coincides with the proportionate increase in the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The five-year assessment shows that the emission of GHGs like CO2 and methane has increased faster in 2015-19 than in the preceding 2011-2015 period. The growth rate is close to 20 per cent higher, according to this report.

3)At present, already on path to be declared one of the warmest years on record, witnessed severe heat wave and wildfires from the United States, Australia and the Arctic. The new WMO assessment shows that the 2015-2019 period saw heatwaves impacting all the continents.

4)“Heatwaves were the deadliest meteorological hazard in the 2015–2019 period,” the WMO report said. Wildfires were reported in unusual geographies like the Arctic, including Greenland, Alaska and Siberia. The fires in the Arctic alone temitted 50 Mt of CO2 into the atmosphere, which is more than such fires did in 11 years ending 2018

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

93)Consider the following with reference to Greenhouse Gas Bulletin :

1) Even as nations are set to meet next year to strengthen their Paris climate pledges, a new UN Environment Programme (UNEP) report warns that the world has to cut its emissions by 7.6 per cent each year between 2020 and 2030 to get on track towards the 1.5°C temperature goal of the Paris Agreement.

2)CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel use in the energy and industry sectors, which dominate total GHG emissions, grew 2 per cent in 2018, reaching a record 37.5 gigatonnes per year. CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel use in the energy and industry sectors, which dominate total GHG emissions, grew 2 per cent in 2018, reaching a record 37.5 gigatonnes per year.

3)The WMO Greenhouse Gas Bulletin, said “globally averaged concentrations of carbon dioxide reached 407.8 parts per million in 2018, up from 405.5 parts per million (ppm) in 2017”.

4)“It is worth recalling that the last time the Earth experienced a comparable concentration of CO2 was 3-5 million years ago. Back then, the temperature was 2-3 degrees Celsius (°C) warmer, sea level was 10-20 metres higher than now,”

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

94)Consider the following with reference to Jal Jeevan Mission and Puducherry :

1) JJM is a flagship programme of the Union Government, which aims to provide tap water connection to every rural household of the country by 2024. Under Jal Jeevan Mission, in 2021-22, in addition to Rs 50,011 Crore budgetary allocation for JJM, there is also Rs 26,940 Crore assured fund available under the 15th Finance Commission tied-grant to RLB/ PRIs for water & sanitation, matching State share and externally aided as well as State funded projects. Thus, in 2021-22, more than Rs. 1 lakh Crore is planned to be invested in the country on ensuring tap water supply to rural homes. This kind of investment in rural areas will boost the rural economy.

2)The UT of Puducherry is now planning for effective treatment & reuse of greywater coming out of homes. The UT is actively working towards water source sustainability.

3) The four regions, namely Pondicherry Region, Karaikal, Yanam and Mahe region are at different locations, geographically separated from each other.

4)Puducherry is blessed with various rivers and tributaries. Five rivers in Puducherry district, seven in Karaikal district, two in Mahé district and one in Yanam district drain into the sea, but none originates within the territory.

5)Puducherry has 84 irrigation tanks and more than 500 ponds which are the lifeline for groundwater recharging systems, drinking water and agriculture. Puducherry has been consistently working towards de-silting of ponds & rejuvenation of its local water bodies, which is crucial for drinking water supply schemes. An effective community mobilisation & participation is achieved through a well-charted IEC plan by the UT.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

95)Consider the following with reference to e-NAM :

1) The e-NAM is being implemented by the Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), being the lead agency for the project under the aegis of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, with the support of all the e-NAM States/UTs, State Marketing Boards, Mandi secretaries, Supervisors, Quality Assayers, Weighment Operators, Service Providers, Farmers, FPOs, Traders and eNAM team.

2)National Agriculture Market (eNAM), a pan-India electronic trading portal was launched on 14^th April 2016, by the Prime Minister , with the aim of networking the existing Mandis on a common online market platform as “One Nation One Market” for agricultural commodities in India.

3)This digital initiative of Government of India provides a single window service for all APMC related information and services, including commodity arrivals, quality assaying, competitive bid offers and electronic payment settlement directly into farmers’ accounts. This online digital market aims at reducing transaction costs, bridging information asymmetries, and helping expansion of market access for farmers and other stakeholders.

4)In last 4 years the e-NAM has registered a user base of 1.66 Cr Farmers, 1.31 lakh Traders, 73,151 Commission Agents and 1012 FPOs. As on 14^th May 2020, total volume of 3.43 Crore MT & 38.16 Lakh numbers (Bamboo & Coconut) collectively crossed a remarkable business milestone worth Rs. 1 lakh crore on e-NAM platform. Presently 150 commodities, including Foodgrains, Oilseeds, Fibers, Fruits & Vegetables, are traded on eNAM.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

96)Consider the following with reference to Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan (GKRA) :

1) The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA) is a 125-day Abhiyan launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 20th June, 2020 with a mission to address the issues of returnee migrant workers and similarly affected rural population by Covid-19 pandemic through a multi- pronged strategy of providing immediate employment & livelihood opportunities to the distressed, to saturate the villages with public infrastructure and creation of livelihood assets to boost the income generation activities and enhance long term livelihood opportunities by giving focus on 25 works in 116 selected districts across 6 States with a resource envelope of Rs 50,000 crore.

2)So far the Abhiyaan has been successful in meeting its objectives. The objectives of the Abhiyaan is to provide livelihood employment to the returnee migrants and similarly affected citizens in the rural areas.

3)So far about 27.21 crore mandays employment has been provided under theAbhiyaan.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

97)Consider the following with reference to Agricultural Reforms Bill :

1) The Prime Minister said yesterday was an historic day for the country in the field of agricultural reforms. The Agricultural Reforms Bill has been passed which has liberated our farmers from many restrictions. He wished the farmers across the country and said these reforms will give farmers more options in selling their produce. He said these reforms would protect the farmers from the middlemen, who take a large share of the farmers’ earnings.

2)Criticising the opposition who are spreading the lies on the Agriculture Reforms Bill the Prime Minister said some people who ruled this country for decades are attempting to mislead the farmers on this issue. He said the changes in the provisions of the agricultural market in APMC Act were also promised in the election manifesto of the opposition parties who are opposing the reforms now. He also refuted the lies propagated that the benefit of MSP will not be given to the farmers by the government and said that the government is committed to provide fair prices to farmers through MSP and Government procurement will continue as before. He added that with the new provisions coming into force, Farmers can harvest their crop and sell at his desired price in any markets of the country. He said realising the harm done by the APMC Act, the Chief Minister of Bihar removed this law in Bihar. He listed the initiatives of the Government to improve the lives of the farmers such as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, Neem coated Urea, network of cold storage is being built on a large scale in the country, investment is made on food processing industries and the creation of agricultural infrastructure fund.

3)The Prime Minister said the Government is constantly working to increase the income of farmers. A nationwide campaign is also being carried out to protect the livestock from diseases. In a clear message to the farmers of the country he urged them to be vigilant of those who are misleading them. He added these people are beating the knack of protecting the farmers, but actually they want to keep the farmers in many bonds. They are supporting the middlemen and supporting the looters of the farmers’ earnings. This is the need of the country and the demand of time.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

98)Consider the following :

Government of India has promulgated the following three Ordinances to implement reforms in agriculture sector:

1) The Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Ordinance, 2020 provides for the creation of an ecosystem, where the farmers and traders enjoy the freedom of choice relating to sale and purchase of farmers’ produce, which facilitates remunerative prices through competitive alternative trading channels; to promote efficient, transparent and barrier-free inter-state and intra-state trade and commerce of farmers’ produce outside the physical premises of markets or deemed markets notified under various State Agricultural Produce market legislations; to provide a facilitative framework for electronic trading and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

2) The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Ordinance, 2020, provides for a national framework on farming agreements that protects and empowers farmers to engage with agri business firms, processers, wholesalers, exporters or large retailers for farm services and sale of future farming produce at a mutually agreed remunerative price framework in a fair and transparent manner and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

3) The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Ordinance 2020 aims at increasing the competitiveness in the agriculture sector and enhancing the income of the farmer by liberalizing the regulatory system while protecting the interests of consumers. The Ordinance allows the Central Government to regulate the supply of certain food stuffs only under extraordinary circumstances (such as war, famine, extraordinary price rise and natural calamity of grave nature).

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

99)Consider the following with reference to SAMARTH Scheme :

1)The Ministry of Textiles is implementing the Samarth-Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector, a placement oriented programme targeting skill development of 10 lakh youth in the entire value chain of textiles, excluding Spinning & Weaving in the organized Sector.

2)Some of the advanced features of SAMARTH scheme include Training of Trainers (ToT), Aadhar Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS), CCTV recording of training programme, dedicated call centre with helpline number, mobile app based Management Information System (MIS) and on-line monitoring of the training process.

3)Under Samarth, 18 State Governments have been allocated a training target of 3.6 lakh beneficiaries for conducting training programme in traditional and organized sectors. The States have entered into MoU with Ministry on 14.08.2019. Sectoral Organizations of Ministry (DC-Handlooms, DC-Handicrafts, CSB & National Jute Board have been allocated a training target of 43,000 beneficiaries for skilling/up-skilling in traditional sectors.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c

100)Consider the following with reference to Restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM) :

1)The restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM) was launched in 2018-19 for holistic development of the bamboo sector through a cluster-based approach in a hub (industry) and spoke model to harness the opportunities by providing backward and forward linkages among the stakeholders – linking farmers to markets.

2) There is a huge potential to place Indian bamboo products in the domestic as well as global markets with the latest technologies, modern processing and by generating awareness on compliance requirements for destination countries. The Mission is streamlining its interventions to enhance domestic industrial activities as well as augmenting the farmer’s income with support from technical agencies and facilitative steps.

3) Direct subsidy of 50% is given to farmers at Rs 1.00 lakh per ha, 100% to Government agencies and also to entrepreneurs for setting up various product development units, etc.

4)The Mission is presently being executed by 21 States, including all the 9 States of NER through the respective State Bamboo Missions. NBM is also advising States to make available quality planting material to the farmers out to carry out plantations of commercially required species, set up common facility centres and other post-harvest units in complete sync with the requirement of existing and sunrise industries for a win-win situation for farmers and Indian bamboo industry.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

(a)1 only

(b)1 and 2 only

(d) None

Ans: c