Question 1

India has encouraged organic farming through several state level policies. Which one of the following Indian states became the first state in the country to go completely or wholly organic in terms of its agricultural practices?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on sustainable agriculture and organic farming in India. Several Indian states have promoted organic cultivation, but one state is officially recognised as the first to become completely organic in terms of its farming practices. Knowing that state is important for environment, agriculture and current affairs segments of competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the first Indian state to become wholly organic. "Wholly organic" means that the state has officially adopted organic methods across its cultivated area. The options are all north eastern or eastern states where hilly terrain and traditional farming are common. Only one of these states has been formally declared fully organic by the authorities. Concept / Approach: The key concept is awareness of major policy milestones in Indian agriculture, especially organic farming initiatives. Sikkim is widely known as the first Indian state that converted its entire agricultural land into certified organic land through planned policy measures and support schemes. Other states like Meghalaya, Manipur, Assam and Mizoram have significant organic potential, but they have not achieved complete state wide organic status in the same historic way as Sikkim did. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall newspaper reports and government announcements about organic farming in India. Step 2: Remember that Sikkim was repeatedly highlighted in national and international forums as the first fully organic state. Step 3: Compare this with other north eastern states, which have pockets of organic cultivation but were not declared wholly organic. Step 4: Evaluate each option. Meghalaya, Manipur, Assam and Mizoram have various schemes but lack the same official status. Step 5: Conclude that Sikkim is the correct answer and select it with confidence. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this from standard environment and agriculture sections of general studies books, where Sikkim is cited as a model state for organic policy. International agencies and Indian government documents frequently refer to Sikkim as the first state to achieve complete organic farming coverage. This consistent mention across multiple sources works as a strong alternative check to confirm that Sikkim is the right choice among the given options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Meghalaya has promoted organic cultivation but has not been officially declared the first wholly organic state of India. Manipur also has organic potential, yet it did not achieve the landmark status that Sikkim achieved in terms of complete coverage. Assam has launched schemes for natural farming but remains a mixed agriculture state with both conventional and organic practices. Mizoram encourages organic farming in hilly areas, but again it is not recognised as the first state to become fully organic. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to guess any north eastern state because many of them are associated with low chemical use. Another pitfall is confusing "high proportion of organic farming" with "officially declared wholly organic". Exam questions are usually based on formal declarations and recognitions, not just general perceptions. Therefore, it is important to memorise the key fact that Sikkim achieved the first complete organic status in India and to differentiate this from partial or ongoing efforts in other states. Final Answer: The first Indian state to go completely organic in its agricultural practices is Sikkim.

Question 2

Indian banks follow the Banking Ombudsman Scheme to protect customers. What is the primary role of the Ombudsman in a bank with respect to handling customer issues and complaints?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to consumer protection in the banking sector and the role of the Banking Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is an independent authority created to handle customer complaints against banks. Understanding this role helps you answer questions on financial awareness and regulatory mechanisms in India. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers to the Ombudsman in the context of banks in India. There is a specific Banking Ombudsman Scheme administered by the Reserve Bank of India. The options mention various possible functions like grievance redressal, inspection, policy suggestions and programme monitoring. Only one option correctly captures the primary and central duty of the Ombudsman. Concept / Approach: The Banking Ombudsman Scheme was introduced to provide an inexpensive, quick and impartial mechanism for resolving customer complaints relating to banking services. Therefore, the key phrase you should associate with the Ombudsman is "redressal of grievances" and "speedy resolution" of complaints. While the Ombudsman may indirectly influence service improvement, it does not directly monitor poverty programmes, approve corporate loans or primarily design new schemes. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Banking Ombudsman is appointed by the Reserve Bank of India to handle complaints from bank customers. Step 2: Understand that the scheme allows customers to approach the Ombudsman free of cost if their complaints are not resolved satisfactorily by the bank. Step 3: Read option A carefully, which emphasises quality and speedy redressal of grievances of customers. This aligns directly with the purpose of the scheme. Step 4: Compare other options, which talk about suggestions for new schemes, internal inspections, monitoring poverty programmes or approving loans. These are not the core function of the Ombudsman. Step 5: Conclude that option A correctly describes the primary role of the bank Ombudsman. Verification / Alternative check: If you have studied basic banking awareness, you will recall that the Banking Ombudsman acts as a quasi judicial authority for resolving disputes between customers and banks. Official descriptions always highlight grievance redressal and not routine supervision or policy making. You can also compare this with internal audit teams, which handle inspections, and bank boards, which decide on large loans. This comparison further confirms that grievance redressal is the correct function to associate with the Ombudsman. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Providing suggestions for innovative schemes is more related to bank management and product development teams, not to the Ombudsman, whose job is dispute resolution. Inspecting the internal working of branches is the duty of internal inspectors, auditors and sometimes the central bank, not of the Ombudsman. Monitoring poverty alleviation programmes falls under government departments and specialised agencies, not under the grievance redressal authority of banks. Approving loans for large corporate customers is the responsibility of credit committees and bank boards, which is completely different from the neutral role played by the Ombudsman. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse the Ombudsman with regulatory bodies or bank management, assuming that the post has broad powers over branch operations or policy. Another pitfall is to think that any authority associated with the Reserve Bank of India must also inspect banks routinely. In reality, the Ombudsman is focused on resolving specific customer complaints in a quick and fair manner. Keeping this narrow but important mandate in mind will help you choose the correct option reliably in exams. Final Answer: The Ombudsman in a bank is primarily responsible for providing quality and speedy redressal of grievances of customers under the Banking Ombudsman Scheme.

Question 3

In Indian classical music theory there are ten basic "thaats" or parent scales that form the foundation for many ragas. These ten thaats belong to which of the following systems of music?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is about the theoretical framework of Indian classical music. It asks specifically about the concept of ten "thaats", which are parent scales from which many ragas are derived. Recognising whether thaats belong to the Hindustani or Carnatic system is an important aspect of cultural and performing arts general knowledge. Given Data / Assumptions: The term used is "thaat", which refers to a type of scale in Indian classical music. The question mentions that there are ten such thaats or scales. The options list different musical traditions, including Hindustani and Carnatic music. Only one of these systems formally uses the ten thaat classification in its standard theory. Concept / Approach: In Indian classical music there are two major traditions: Hindustani music of North India and Carnatic music of South India. The concept of ten thaats as proposed by Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande is central to Hindustani music. Each thaat is a parent scale containing seven notes in a particular arrangement, and many ragas are grouped under these thaats. Carnatic music, on the other hand, uses the system of seventy two melakarta ragas as parent scales, not the ten thaats framework. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the term "thaat" is strongly associated with Hindustani classical music. Step 2: Recall that Bhatkhande classified Hindustani ragas under ten principal thaats, such as Bilawal, Kalyan and Bhairavi. Step 3: Remember that Carnatic music theory instead uses melakarta ragas and not the ten thaat system. Step 4: Eliminate Western classical, folk and Chinese traditional music, which have completely different theoretical bases. Step 5: Conclude that Hindustani music is the only correct answer among the given options. Verification / Alternative check: You can cross check this by recalling that music textbooks and general knowledge references often present a table of the ten Hindustani thaats and the ragas under them. They clearly attribute this system to North Indian classical music. For Carnatic music, standard books talk about melakarta and janya ragas instead. This clear difference between the two traditions confirms that the ten thaat system belongs to Hindustani music only. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Carnatic music is an Indian classical system but does not use the ten thaat scheme; it has its own melakarta raga system. Western classical music uses concepts like major and minor scales, modes and harmonies, not the Indian thaat framework. Folk music is a broad category with many regional styles, but it does not follow the formal ten thaat classification of Hindustani theory. Chinese traditional music has its own pentatonic and other scale systems and is unrelated to the Indian thaat terminology. Common Pitfalls: A typical mistake is to see the term "Indian classical music" in the question and immediately mark Carnatic music without considering the specific theory mentioned. Another pitfall is to assume that both Hindustani and Carnatic use the same parent scale system, which is not correct. To avoid confusion, always remember that ten thaats correspond to Hindustani music and seventy two melakarta ragas correspond to Carnatic music. This mental pairing helps you answer similar questions quickly and accurately. Final Answer: The ten thaats or parent scales referred to in the question belong to the system of Hindustani music.

Question 4

India has expanded grid connected solar power capacity rapidly in recent years. As per official data on installed capacity, which one of the following states is regarded as leading in solar energy generation in the country?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to the area of energy and environment related general knowledge. India has made major investments in solar power, and some states have emerged as leaders in installed solar capacity. Knowing which state is at the forefront of solar energy generation is useful for questions on sustainable development and infrastructure. Given Data / Assumptions: The focus is on leading state level solar energy generation in India. The term "leading" refers to highest installed solar power capacity based on official figures. The options list states that are all important players in the renewable energy sector. Only one of these states has consistently been cited as number one in installed solar capacity in recent official data. Concept / Approach: Rajasthan has emerged as a top performer in solar power generation because of its vast arid land, high solar radiation and strong policy support. It hosts some of the largest solar parks in the world and has repeatedly been reported as the state with the highest installed solar capacity. Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and others are also major contributors, but Rajasthan has taken a clear lead in utility scale solar projects in many recent assessments. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall news reports and official renewable energy updates about state wise solar capacity in India. Step 2: Identify Rajasthan as a state with very high solar potential and several mega solar parks such as those in Jodhpur and Jaisalmer regions. Step 3: Compare this with Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which are also strong in solar energy but are often ranked slightly lower than Rajasthan in total installed capacity. Step 4: Consider that Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are growing markets but have not surpassed Rajasthan in overall installed solar power. Step 5: Therefore, choose Rajasthan as the leading state in solar energy generation among the given options. Verification / Alternative check: Examination oriented reference books and standard online practice tests on Indian energy resources frequently mention Rajasthan as the leading solar state. They highlight that Rajasthan crossed significant capacity milestones and houses large solar parks recognised globally. Cross checking multiple such sources gives a consistent picture that Rajasthan is at the top in installed solar capacity, which confirms your selection. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Gujarat has been an early leader in solar energy and remains a major contributor, but it is generally ranked behind Rajasthan in total installed solar capacity in recent data. Haryana has good solar potential and several rooftop initiatives, yet its overall capacity is much smaller compared to Rajasthan. Uttar Pradesh is expanding its solar portfolio but is still not the leading state at the national level. Tamil Nadu is strong in both wind and solar, but again, when only solar capacity is considered, Rajasthan typically holds the number one position. Common Pitfalls: A common error is to remember older data where Gujarat was highlighted and to assume it still holds the top position. Another pitfall is confusing leadership in overall renewable energy capacity, where different states may dominate because of wind power, with leadership in solar capacity alone. To avoid confusion, remember that Rajasthan, with its large desert areas and multiple mega solar parks, is the key state to associate with maximum solar power generation in current general knowledge questions. Final Answer: The state of India that is regarded as leading in solar energy generation is Rajasthan.

Question 5

The river Ganga in the Himalayas is formed by the confluence of the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. At which of the following places do these two rivers meet to form the Ganga?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question falls under Indian physical geography and focuses on the origin of the river Ganga. Many Himalayan towns are located at important river confluences, and it is common for exams to ask which tributaries meet at which place. Knowing where Bhagirathi and Alaknanda join to form the Ganga is a frequently tested fact. Given Data / Assumptions: The rivers mentioned are Bhagirathi and Alaknanda, both Himalayan streams in Uttarakhand. The question asks for the specific place where these two rivers meet. The resulting river after the confluence is called the Ganga. The options are Himalayan towns such as Devprayag, Karnaprayag, Gangotri, Rudraprayag and Rishikesh. Concept / Approach: In Uttarakhand, several confluences are known as "prayag". Each prayag is formed by the meeting of specific rivers. Devprayag is the confluence where the river Bhagirathi, coming from the Gangotri region, meets the Alaknanda to form the Ganga. Other prayags involve different tributaries, such as Karnaprayag where the Pindar meets the Alaknanda, and Rudraprayag where the Mandakini joins the Alaknanda. Remembering this matching pattern helps solve many related questions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the mythological origin of the Ganga is linked with Gangotri, but the official name "Ganga" is given only after a particular confluence. Step 2: Identify Bhagirathi as the stream flowing from the Gangotri glacier, while Alaknanda flows from another Himalayan region through various prayags. Step 3: Remember that Devprayag is the place where Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet. Step 4: At this point downstream of Devprayag, the river is collectively known as the Ganga. Step 5: Therefore, among the options, Devprayag is the correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: Many school geography textbooks and pilgrimage maps of Uttarakhand show a sequence of the famous five prayags along the Alaknanda. These are Vishnuprayag, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag. Diagrams typically label Devprayag as the confluence where the Bhagirathi meets the Alaknanda and the joint stream is called Ganga. This consistent representation across sources provides a strong check that Devprayag is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Karnaprayag is the confluence of the Alaknanda and the Pindar, not of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. Gangotri is an important pilgrimage site near the origin of the Bhagirathi, but it is not a major confluence where the Alaknanda meets it. Rudraprayag is the confluence of the Alaknanda and the Mandakini, not the point where the Ganga is named. Rishikesh lies downstream on the Ganga and is a famous pilgrimage and yoga centre, but the river is already called Ganga before reaching there. Common Pitfalls: Students often mix up the different prayags because all of them involve the Alaknanda joining another river. Another mistake is to assume that the name Ganga starts right from Gangotri, because of its religious importance, rather than at a specific confluence. To avoid confusion, remember the pattern that Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet at Devprayag and from there the river is formally called Ganga. Creating a mental map or simple list of prayags with their tributaries helps fix this information for examinations. Final Answer: The rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet at Devprayag to form the Ganga.

Question 6

In geography certain high latitude countries are known for the natural phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun remains visible at local midnight during summer. Which one of the following countries is popularly known as the "Land of the Midnigh…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to world geography and tests recognition of famous country nicknames. Some countries in the Arctic region experience the natural phenomenon called the midnight sun, where the sun does not set for several weeks during summer. One of these countries is popularly called the "Land of the Midnight Sun". Given Data / Assumptions: The key phrase is "Land of the Midnight Sun". The options are European countries, some of which extend into the Arctic Circle. The question refers to a widely used nickname rather than a strict scientific description. Only one country among the options is commonly associated with this title in general knowledge references. Concept / Approach: The midnight sun is visible in areas north of the Arctic Circle during the summer months. Norway extends far into this region, including places like Tromsoe and the North Cape, where tourists visit specifically to see the midnight sun. Because of this, Norway is popularly referred to in many general knowledge sources as the "Land of the Midnight Sun". Sweden and Finland also experience the phenomenon in their northern parts, but the widely recognised nickname in exam literature is linked primarily with Norway. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the midnight sun occurs in countries that lie partly inside the Arctic Circle. Step 2: Identify Norway, Sweden and Finland as Scandinavian countries extending to high latitudes, while Germany and Denmark lie further south. Step 3: Remember that standard general knowledge books label Norway in particular as the "Land of the Midnight Sun". Step 4: Compare options and note that Germany and Denmark cannot fit the description because they do not reach far enough north. Step 5: Choose Norway as the correct answer based on common usage and exam convention. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this from commonly used GK guides, where lists of country nicknames are given. These tables almost always match "Norway – Land of the Midnight Sun". Travel brochures for Norway also highlight this phrase to promote tourism to northern regions where the sun remains visible at midnight. This repeated association across academic and popular sources confirms that Norway is the correct option. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Sweden does experience the midnight sun in its far north, but the specific popular nickname "Land of the Midnight Sun" is usually reserved for Norway in general knowledge questions. Germany lies much farther south in Europe and does not fall within the Arctic Circle, so it cannot have regular midnight sun conditions. Finland also has regions with midnight sun, yet the standard nickname used for Finland in exam tables is different, and the phrase in the question traditionally points to Norway. Denmark, including mainland Jutland, is located well south of the Arctic Circle, so it is not associated with this phenomenon or this nickname. Common Pitfalls: A common pitfall is to overthink the scientific aspect and argue that more than one Scandinavian country experiences the midnight sun, which is true in a strict sense. However, competitive exams usually follow traditional nicknames rather than strict geography alone. Another error is to select Sweden or Finland due to familiarity with their Nordic image. To avoid mistakes, memorise country nicknames as they appear in standard reference materials and connect "Land of the Midnight Sun" directly with Norway for exam purposes. Final Answer: The country popularly known as the "Land of the Midnight Sun" in general knowledge references is Norway.

Question 7

To improve access to holy Ganga water, the Central Government launched a scheme in the state of Bihar to deliver clean water of the river Ganga to domestic areas through the postal department. What is the name of this scheme?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question connects government schemes, the postal department and religious tourism. The Central Government launched a special scheme in Bihar to deliver holy Ganga water, known as Gangajal, to people's homes using the postal network. Identifying the correct name of this scheme is a typical current affairs based general knowledge task. Given Data / Assumptions: The scheme relates to delivery of clean Ganga water to households. The state mentioned is Bihar, and the implementing channel is the postal service. The options include names of several different schemes and programmes. Only one option clearly refers to delivery of Gangajal through the post. Concept / Approach: The key to this question is to match the description with the most appropriate and specific scheme name. The word Gangajal directly refers to water from the river Ganga used for religious purposes. A scheme that aims to deliver such water to people through post offices is logically called the "Gangajal Delivery Scheme". Other options mentioned, such as Mission Bhagiratha, National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme and Railway Travel Insurance, relate to very different policy areas and therefore can be ruled out. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the focus is on clean water of the Ganga being supplied to domestic areas via postal services. Step 2: Identify that "Gangajal" is the common term for holy water from the Ganga. Step 3: Examine option A, "Gangajal Delivery Scheme", which directly mentions both Gangajal and delivery. Step 4: Compare it with Mission Bhagiratha, which you may recall is a drinking water grid scheme in Telangana, not a postal delivery scheme. Step 5: Recognise that the other options relate to skills promotion, travel insurance or a broader cleaning programme, none of which match the description, and choose option A as correct. Verification / Alternative check: Reviewing major government schemes announced around the time this initiative started, you will find newspaper reports describing the postal department delivering Gangajal to people's homes under the "Gangajal Delivery Scheme". The reports highlight that bottled water from Haridwar and Rishikesh would be transported to Bihar and then distributed by India Post. This strong name and description match confirms that "Gangajal Delivery Scheme" is the right answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mission Bhagiratha in Telangana is a state level drinking water supply project and does not involve postal delivery of Ganga water in Bihar. The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme is related to skill development and incentives for employers to engage apprentices, not to religious water distribution. Railway Travel Insurance is a scheme that provides optional insurance coverage to train passengers and has no connection with Gangajal. Namami Gange is a flagship programme for cleaning and rejuvenating the river Ganga and improving river front infrastructure, not a targeted postal delivery scheme for holy water. Common Pitfalls: One common pitfall is to choose Namami Gange simply because it is the most famous Ganga related programme. However, the question is about delivery of holy water to homes via post offices, which is much narrower in scope. Another mistake is not paying attention to the word "Bihar" and "postal services", which point strongly toward a specialised scheme implemented by India Post. Careful reading of the description and matching with the function implied in the scheme name will help avoid these errors. Final Answer: The scheme launched by the Central Government in Bihar to deliver clean Ganga water through the postal department is called the "Gangajal Delivery Scheme".

Question 8

The G20 Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy held in April 2017 focused on cooperation in digital policies among major economies. In which of the following countries was this G20 Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy hoste…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from the area of international organisations and summits. The G20 brings together major advanced and emerging economies to discuss global economic issues. In 2017, there was a specific G20 Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy, and knowing the host country is part of exam level current affairs. Given Data / Assumptions: The meeting mentioned is the G20 Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy. The year is clearly given as April 2017. The options are European and other major economies that frequently host such meetings. Only one country actually hosted this particular digital economy ministerial in 2017. Concept / Approach: G20 meetings are hosted by the country that holds the G20 presidency for that year. In 2017, Germany held the G20 presidency and therefore hosted several related meetings, including the Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy in cities such as Duesseldorf. Recognising the link between the presidency and hosting duties is a simple way to deduce the correct answer even if you do not remember the specific city. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Germany was the G20 president in 2017 and hosted the main G20 summit in Hamburg. Step 2: Note that ministerial level meetings on topics like finance, foreign affairs and digital economy are typically organised in the same presidency year by the same country. Step 3: Look at the options and immediately connect 2017 with Germany as a strong candidate. Step 4: Consider that Italy, France, the United States of America and Japan have hosted G20 events in other years, but not this particular 2017 digital economy ministerial. Step 5: Select Germany as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Alternative verification can be done by recalling that the 2016 G20 summit was in China and the 2018 summit was in Argentina, so neither of these years fits the 2017 meeting described. Germany is consistently associated with the 2017 G20 presidency in current affairs notes. Digital economy and Industry 4 point 0 themes were especially highlighted by Germany during its presidency year, which further supports the idea that the Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy took place there. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Italy has hosted G20 events, such as the 2021 summit, but it was not the host for the 2017 digital economy ministerial. France has been involved in G20 discussions, yet it did not hold the G20 presidency in 2017 and therefore did not host this specific meeting. The United States of America is a key G20 member but was not the host country for the G20 Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy in April 2017. Japan has hosted other G20 meetings, including the 2019 summit in Osaka, but again this does not relate to the 2017 digital economy ministerial in question. Common Pitfalls: Many students confuse different years of G20 presidencies, especially when multiple host countries appear frequently in the news. Another pitfall is to guess the United States of America or Japan simply because of their strong technology sectors, without considering the specific timeline. To avoid such errors, it is helpful to memorise a simple chronological list of recent G20 host countries and to recall that Germany held the presidency in 2017, which ties it to the digital economy ministerial mentioned in this question. Final Answer: The G20 Digital Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy held in April 2017 was hosted by Germany.

Question 9

India and Bangladesh are linked by a passenger rail service between Kolkata and Dhaka that symbolises friendship between the two countries. Which of the following is the only train that runs directly between Kolkata and Dhaka?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question concerns international rail connectivity and India's relations with its neighbour Bangladesh. Passenger train services between Kolkata and Dhaka have important diplomatic and economic significance. The name of the train that connects these two cities is frequently asked in general knowledge examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: The route is between Kolkata in India and Dhaka in Bangladesh. The question asks for the only train that runs directly between these two cities. The options include several names that sound like they could relate to friendship or to Bangladesh. Only one name corresponds to the actual established train service between Kolkata and Dhaka. Concept / Approach: The key concept is recall of factual information about named international train services. The well known passenger train between Kolkata and Dhaka is called "Maitree Express". The word "Maitree" means friendship, reflecting the friendly relations between the two countries. Other option names like Dosti Express or Bangla Express may sound plausible but do not correspond to this specific India Bangladesh service. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question is about a direct train between Kolkata and Dhaka. Step 2: Recall from current affairs that India and Bangladesh reintroduced and developed the Maitree Express on this route. Step 3: Examine the options and note that "Maitree" clearly conveys friendship, matching the spirit of bilateral cooperation. Step 4: Recognise that Dosti Express and Bangla Express are not standard names of this route as per standard railway and GK references. Step 5: Select Maitree Express as the only correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by recalling news photographs and reports about the inauguration and operations of the Maitree Express, which often highlight passengers travelling between Kolkata and Dhaka for work, tourism and family visits. Standard general knowledge books and railway awareness notes also list Maitree Express as the train running on the Kolkata Dhaka route. This repeated mention in multiple sources confirms that Maitree Express is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Dosti Express sounds similar to a friendship themed name, but it is not the official name of the Kolkata Dhaka train service. Bangla Express may suggest a link to Bangladesh, yet there is no widely recognised international passenger service with this name connecting Kolkata and Dhaka. Padma Express is associated with Bangladesh Railways but is not the designated Kolkata Dhaka train under Indian exam oriented general knowledge. Ganga Sagar Express is the name of another train operating on a different route within India and does not serve as the Kolkata Dhaka international passenger service. Common Pitfalls: The main pitfall is to be misled by options that contain words like "Dosti" or "Bangla", which also suggest friendship and Bangladesh. Exam setters deliberately create such distractors. To avoid confusion, you should fix in your memory the exact name "Maitree Express" as the symbolic train of India Bangladesh friendship on this route. Associating "Maitree" with official diplomatic phrasing helps strengthen this memory. Final Answer: The only train that runs directly between Kolkata and Dhaka is the Maitree Express.

Question 10

Insider trading is a term often used in financial regulation and business news. Insider trading primarily relates to which of the following markets or activities?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is from the field of finance and securities regulation. Insider trading is a widely discussed topic because it involves unfair use of confidential information for profit. Understanding which market this term is associated with is essential for basic financial awareness and for questions related to corporate governance. Given Data / Assumptions: The term provided is "insider trading". The options include different types of markets and activities, such as trade, shares, credit, horse racing and real estate. The question asks "is related to", which means it wants the main domain where insider trading is a concern. Only one of these markets is directly associated with the legal and regulatory definition of insider trading. Concept / Approach: Insider trading refers to buying or selling securities, especially shares of a company, by individuals who have access to non public, price sensitive information about that company. Because such trading gives an unfair advantage, it is regulated by securities market authorities. Therefore, the term is specifically connected to the share market or stock market, not to general trade, banking credit, gambling or real estate transactions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the word "trading" and recall where you usually see news about insider trading cases. Step 2: Remember that insider trading usually involves company insiders like directors or employees dealing in shares. Step 3: Link this to the share market or stock exchanges where such securities are listed and traded. Step 4: Review the options. The share market clearly matches this description. Step 5: Select "Share market" as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify your reasoning by recalling that regulators such as the Securities and Exchange Board of India issue guidelines and investigate insider trading in listed companies. Newspapers report insider trading penalties in relation to share dealings, not physical goods markets or horse races. This strong association between insider trading and the securities market confirms that the share market is the correct option. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The trade sector is a broad term and may involve many kinds of buying and selling, but insider trading is a specific technical term tied to securities markets, not general trade. The credit market deals with loans, bonds and interest rates, but the classic definition of insider trading focuses on equity shares and related securities. Horse racing involves betting and gambling; while there can be cheating, it is not described using the term insider trading in financial law. The real estate market involves buying and selling land and buildings, and although information is important there too, the laws on insider trading are not framed around property transactions. Common Pitfalls: Some learners confuse insider trading with any unfair practice in any market and therefore treat the term loosely. Another pitfall is to think that because credit and real estate also involve significant money, insider trading must be linked to them as well. To avoid such confusion, remember that exam questions use the strict legal and regulatory meaning of insider trading, which is firmly anchored in the share market and securities regulation. Final Answer: Insider trading is primarily related to the share market, where insiders misuse confidential information to trade in company securities.

Question 11

On 22 May 2016, the Union Government of India appointed a new Lieutenant Governor for the Union Territory of Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry). Which one of the following leaders was appointed to this constitutional post?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to Indian polity and current affairs. It asks about the appointment of a Lieutenant Governor for the Union Territory of Puducherry in May 2016. Such appointments are often in the news and are also covered in general studies material, making them a common topic for examination questions. Given Data / Assumptions: The date of appointment is 22 May 2016. The post is Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Puducherry. The options list several well known political figures from different states and parties. The task is to identify which of these personalities took charge as Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry at that time. Concept / Approach: Lieutenant Governors administer certain Union Territories on behalf of the President of India. In May 2016, a prominent former Indian Police Service officer and social activist, Kiran Bedi, was appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. She had previously been in the news for her role in the anti corruption movement and for joining electoral politics, which made her appointment notable and widely reported. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the key clue: the Union Territory of Puducherry and the year 2016. Step 2: Recall that soon after the 2014 general elections, several new gubernatorial appointments were made, including one involving Kiran Bedi. Step 3: Remember reading that Kiran Bedi became the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, which was seen as an important political development. Step 4: Compare this memory with the options, noting that Kalyan Singh and Ram Naik served as Governors of states like Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, not as Lieutenant Governors of Puducherry. Step 5: Select Kiran Bedi as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by thinking back to newspaper headlines around May 2016, which introduced Kiran Bedi as the new Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. General studies compilations for that year also list her appointment in the section on important office holders. The other names in the options are tied to different gubernatorial posts in other states, which helps confirm that Kiran Bedi is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Kalyan Singh served as Governor of Rajasthan and has been a chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, but he was not appointed Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry in 2016. Ram Naik has served as Governor of Uttar Pradesh, not as Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. Mukul Sangma is known as a former Chief Minister of Meghalaya and is not associated with the constitutional post mentioned in the question. Najma Heptulla has served as Governor of Manipur and also held various ministerial roles, but she was not appointed as Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry on the specified date. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to confuse different gubernatorial appointments because many such changes happened in a short period. Another pitfall is to assume that any senior political leader listed among the options must have held that office. To avoid this, it helps to maintain an updated list of important office holders by state and Union Territory and to revise it periodically during exam preparation. Final Answer: On 22 May 2016, the Union Government appointed Kiran Bedi as the new Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Puducherry.

Question 12

In fluvial geomorphology different drainage patterns are identified on the basis of the arrangement of river channels and their tributaries. A drainage pattern in which the main river is joined by its tributaries approximately at right angles is kno…

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Introduction / Context: This question comes from physical geography, specifically the study of drainage patterns. Different patterns describe how rivers and their tributaries are arranged on the landscape. Recognising terms like dendritic, trellis, radial and rectangular is important for understanding river systems and for answering map based MCQs. Given Data / Assumptions: The key feature described is tributaries joining the main river approximately at right angles. The context is drainage pattern, not rock structure directly, though rock structure influences the pattern. The options include names of several recognised drainage patterns: dendritic, trellis, rectangular, radial and annular. Only one of these patterns is typically defined by tributaries meeting the main stream at near right angles in a parallel arrangement. Concept / Approach: A trellis drainage pattern develops in regions of alternating resistant and less resistant rock bands that have been folded or tilted. In such regions, the main river often follows a straight valley, while short tributaries flow from the sides and join it at nearly right angles, somewhat resembling a garden trellis. Dendritic patterns look like the branches of a tree with no strong structural control, and rectangular patterns form when joints or faults guide channels at right angles, but the description "tributaries joining a main river at right angles in a lattice like arrangement" most closely matches trellis. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the key phrase: tributaries join the main river approximately at right angles. Step 2: Recall the textbook illustration of trellis drainage, with a main channel and many short side streams entering it like the cross bars of a trellis. Step 3: Compare with dendritic drainage, where tributaries join at various angles in a tree like pattern, not consistently at right angles. Step 4: Compare with radial and annular patterns, which describe flow away from or around a central high respectively, not right angle junctions along a main channel. Step 5: Conclude that the pattern described is trellis drainage and choose that option. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify by recalling that exam guides often provide a table of drainage patterns with distinguishing characteristics. In these tables, trellis is associated with "parallel main streams with short tributaries joining at almost right angles in folded terrain". Rectangular is linked with prominent fault lines and right angled bends in the main stream course, which is a different emphasis. This match between the descriptive phrase and the trellis definition confirms the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Dendritic drainage resembles the pattern of a tree with channels joining at many different angles, which does not emphasise right angled junctions along a straight main stream. Rectangular drainage has right angled bends and joints in the main river itself, due to fractures in bedrock, rather than numerous side tributaries meeting at right angles in a trellis like pattern. Radial drainage refers to rivers flowing outward from a central elevated point, such as a volcano or dome, not to perpendicular tributaries on a main stream. Annular drainage forms where streams follow concentric paths around a structural dome or basin, again unrelated to the description in the question. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse trellis and rectangular because both involve right angles in some form. The key distinction is that trellis highlights a main river with many short side tributaries joining at right angles, while rectangular highlights the main river itself flowing along joints and turning at right angles. Another pitfall is to think that any branching pattern is dendritic, without paying attention to angle regularity. Careful reading of the defining feature in the question will help you choose trellis correctly. Final Answer: The drainage pattern where a river is joined by its tributaries approximately at right angles is called the trellis drainage pattern.

Question 13

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a flagship rural employment programme of the Government of India. Under the provisions of this Act, what is the maximum number of days of wage employment in a financial year tha…

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of important features of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). MGNREGA is a major social welfare legislation that guarantees wage employment to rural households. One of its core provisions is the number of days of employment that must be provided on demand, and this figure is directly asked in many exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The scheme mentioned is MGNREGA, a central act for rural employment. The question asks about the maximum number of days of employment in a financial year. The entitlement is for an eligible rural household, not per individual worker. Several day counts are provided as options, and only one matches the legal guarantee. Concept / Approach: MGNREGA initially guaranteed 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. This figure of 100 days is a core part of the original design and is widely quoted. Although some states have experimented with providing additional days under special conditions, the basic national guarantee remains 100 days, which is what general knowledge questions normally refer to. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the question carefully and note that it asks for the maximum number of days of employment guaranteed under the Act. Step 2: Recall from standard polity and economy books that MGNREGA is commonly described as guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment per rural household per year. Step 3: Look at the options and identify 100 days as one of the choices. Step 4: Consider that other figures like 90, 120, 150 or 180 days do not correspond to the basic statutory guarantee. Step 5: Choose 100 days as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can confirm this from any standard Indian polity textbook, which describes MGNREGA as providing at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year. Government information portals and exam oriented summaries repeat this figure. Some discussions mention proposals or special provisions for increasing the days in specific drought affected areas, but the legally guaranteed minimum on which exam questions are based is 100 days. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Ninety days is less than the mandated 100 days and therefore does not match the guarantee defined in the Act. One hundred twenty days and one hundred fifty days have been discussed only in limited contexts or state level schemes and are not the standard national guarantee under MGNREGA. One hundred eighty days would double the basic entitlement and has not been adopted as the core guarantee across India. Thus, all these values are incorrect when the question is about the official guaranteed number of days under the Act. Common Pitfalls: A typical pitfall is confusion between the MGNREGA guarantee and provisions of other rural schemes that talk about additional work days or seasonal employment. Students may also overcomplicate the question by recalling policy debates about increasing the entitlement beyond 100 days. For examination purposes, however, you should focus on the original statutory guarantee, which is 100 days of wage employment per rural household per financial year. Final Answer: Under MGNREGA, an eligible rural household is entitled to a maximum guarantee of 100 days of wage employment in a financial year.

Question 14

In Indian banking terminology, banks are classified as scheduled and non scheduled banks. A scheduled bank is a bank which meets certain criteria and is included in a specific schedule of the Reserve Bank of India. Which of the following statements …

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of a basic concept in Indian banking classification. The term "scheduled bank" appears frequently in economic surveys, RBI documents and financial newspapers. Knowing what exactly makes a bank a scheduled bank is important for both banking awareness and general economics sections in exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The concept mentioned is "scheduled bank". The context is specifically Indian banking regulation. The options present various possible definitions, including nationalisation status and regulatory bodies. Only one option matches the legal meaning used in the Reserve Bank of India Act. Concept / Approach: In India, a scheduled bank is defined as a bank that is included in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. Inclusion in this Schedule depends on certain conditions, such as minimum paid up capital and reserves, and the judgement of the RBI that the bank's affairs are not detrimental to the interests of depositors. This classification is independent of whether a bank is nationalised, private or foreign; what matters is whether it appears in the Second Schedule. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the question is about the formal definition of a scheduled bank, not about ownership. Step 2: Recall that scheduled banks are those listed in the Second Schedule of the RBI Act. Step 3: Examine the options. Option D explicitly mentions inclusion in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act. Step 4: Recognise that nationalisation or foreign ownership is not the deciding factor for this classification. Step 5: Select option D as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Any standard banking awareness book or RBI publication will define scheduled banks exactly in terms of their inclusion in the Second Schedule of the RBI Act. These sources also emphasise that both public sector and private sector banks can be scheduled if they meet the criteria. This clear and consistent definition provides a reliable check that option D is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A bank being fully nationalised means it is owned by the government, but some nationalised banks were once non scheduled before meeting the criteria, and many scheduled banks are not nationalised. A privately owned bank can be either scheduled or non scheduled depending on whether it is included in the Second Schedule, so private ownership alone does not define a scheduled bank. A bank based in a foreign country but operating in India may be a scheduled bank if it is included in the Second Schedule, but foreign origin is not a defining condition. Being regulated only by the Ministry of Finance is incorrect because all banks are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India, and the term scheduled specifically relates to the RBI Act, not exclusive ministry control. Common Pitfalls: The main pitfall is to associate "scheduled" with "nationalised" and assume that only public sector banks can be scheduled banks. Another mistake is to think that scheduled refers to some kind of timetable or government programme rather than a legal schedule attached to an Act. To avoid confusion, remember the precise phrase "included in the Second Schedule of the RBI Act" whenever you see the term scheduled bank. Final Answer: A scheduled bank is correctly defined as a bank that is included in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act.

Question 15

In Indian soil classification black soil is widely found in the Deccan plateau region and is important for cotton cultivation. Black soil is also commonly known by which of the following alternative names?

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Introduction / Context: This question focuses on Indian soils, a staple topic in physical geography. Black soil is one of the major soil types found in India and is closely associated with cotton cultivation. It has a traditional name that often appears in exams, and knowing this synonym helps in scoring easy marks. Given Data / Assumptions: The soil type in question is black soil. Black soil is common in the Deccan plateau regions of states like Maharashtra and Gujarat. The options give different soil names: Khadar, Bhangar, Alluvial, Regur and Laterite. Only one of these names is a widely accepted synonym for black soil in India. Concept / Approach: Black soil is also called Regur soil in Indian geography. It has high clay content, moisture retaining capacity and is considered ideal for cotton, which is why it is sometimes known as black cotton soil. Khadar and Bhangar are types of alluvial soil, and laterite soil is a separate category formed under intense leaching. Recognising the pairing of black soil with the term Regur is essential for exam preparation. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that black soil is commonly found in the Deccan trap region and supports cotton cultivation. Step 2: Remember that geography textbooks often mention that black soil is also called Regur soil. Step 3: Check the options and identify Regur soil as one of the choices. Step 4: Recognise that Khadar and Bhangar refer to new and old alluvial soil, not to black soil. Step 5: Select Regur soil as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by looking at standard Indian geography notes, which list the major soil types and their local names. These notes consistently state that black soil of the Deccan plateau is called Regur soil and sometimes black cotton soil. In contrast, Khadar, Bhangar, alluvial and laterite soils are classified separately and are not used as synonyms for black soil. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Khadar soil is the newer, more fertile variety of alluvial soil found in river floodplains, not the dark clayey soil of the Deccan. Bhangar soil is the older alluvial soil that lies above the floodplain level and again is distinct from black soil. Alluvial soil is a broad category formed by river deposits and includes Khadar and Bhangar, but it is not the same as black or Regur soil. Laterite soil develops in areas of high rainfall and temperature due to intense leaching and is reddish in colour, not black, so it cannot be a synonym for black soil. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to assume that any fertile sounding term, such as Khadar, can be linked with important crops like cotton, without checking the underlying soil type. Another pitfall is confusion between multiple local names for soils. To avoid this, you should memorise key associations: black soil equals Regur or black cotton soil; alluvial soil includes Khadar and Bhangar; laterite soil appears in high rainfall areas and is red or yellowish. Clear mental mapping of these categories makes questions like this straightforward. Final Answer: Black soil in India is also commonly known as Regur soil.

Question 16

National Thermal Power Corporation, commonly abbreviated as NTPC, is a major Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) in India. NTPC primarily operates in which of the following sectors of the economy?

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your awareness of important Central Public Sector Enterprises in India. NTPC is one of the largest public sector companies and frequently appears in questions on Indian economy and industry. Knowing the sector in which NTPC operates is a basic yet essential fact for competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The enterprise mentioned is NTPC, originally known as National Thermal Power Corporation. The question asks for the sector in which NTPC primarily operates. The options include sectors like education, health, power, transport and textile. Only one of these sectors correctly describes the main business of NTPC. Concept / Approach: The very name "National Thermal Power Corporation" indicates that the company is involved in power generation, particularly thermal power plants. Over time NTPC has diversified into various power related activities, including gas based and renewable power, but it remains fundamentally a power sector company. It is not engaged in core education, health, transport or textile businesses, although power supply supports all these sectors indirectly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Expand the abbreviation NTPC as National Thermal Power Corporation. Step 2: Notice the word "Power" in the name, which reveals the primary area of operation. Step 3: Review the options and identify the power sector as one of the choices. Step 4: Recognise that education, health, transport and textile are completely different domains and do not match NTPC's core business. Step 5: Select "Power" as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this easily from any list of major PSUs in India, where NTPC is described as the largest power generation company in the country. It operates a large number of coal, gas and renewable energy plants and supplies electricity to state utilities. None of the standard references describe NTPC as an education, health, transport or textile company, which confirms that the power sector is the right choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Education is the domain of universities, schools and institutions like the National Council of Educational Research and Training, not NTPC. Health is handled by hospitals, pharmaceutical firms and health ministries, and NTPC operates only as an electricity provider, not as a health service provider. Transport is the field of Indian Railways, road transport corporations, airlines and shipping companies, which are separate from NTPC's activities. Textile refers to the manufacturing of cloth and garments, a sector in which NTPC has no core operations, apart from providing power to textile units. Common Pitfalls: This question is generally straightforward, but a rare mistake occurs when students memorise the abbreviation without understanding its expansion. Another issue is overthinking diversification, as some PSUs have multiple business interests. In the case of NTPC, however, the dominant and defining sector remains power generation. Remembering this direct link between the name and the sector will help you answer quickly in the exam. Final Answer: NTPC is a Central Public Sector Enterprise that primarily operates in the power sector.

Question 17

Rodrigo "Digong" Duterte, known for his tough stance on crime, emerged as the winner in the 2016 presidential elections of which of the following countries?

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Introduction / Context: This question is from international current affairs and political leaders. Rodrigo "Digong" Duterte is a prominent political figure who gained global attention due to his controversial policies on crime and drugs. Recognising the country where he became president helps in understanding contemporary political developments in Asia. Given Data / Assumptions: The leader mentioned is Rodrigo "Digong" Duterte. The event is the 2016 presidential elections. The options are different countries: Mexico, the Philippines, Spain, Singapore and Indonesia. Only one of these countries elected Duterte as president in 2016. Concept / Approach: Rodrigo Duterte served as mayor of Davao City before contesting the presidential elections in the Philippines. In 2016, he won and became the President of the Republic of the Philippines. His strongman style and controversial anti drug campaign were widely covered in international media. None of the other listed countries have a political leader named Duterte who became president in 2016. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Rodrigo Duterte is associated with the Southeast Asian country of the Philippines. Step 2: Remember that he won the presidential election there in 2016. Step 3: Examine the options and identify "The Philippines" as one of the choices. Step 4: Confirm that Mexico, Spain, Singapore and Indonesia have their own distinct leaders and did not elect Duterte. Step 5: Select "The Philippines" as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: International news reports from 2016 widely covered Duterte's victory and his subsequent policies as President of the Philippines. General knowledge yearbooks also include entries on the leadership change in the Philippines, clearly listing him as president of that country. This consistent association across multiple sources confirms that the Philippines is the correct country among the options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mexico elected its own presidents with Spanish or Latin American names, but none named Rodrigo Duterte, and the political context is different. Spain is a European constitutional monarchy with a different political leadership structure and has no president named Duterte. Singapore has its own president and a long serving prime minister, and Duterte has no political role there. Indonesia is another Southeast Asian country but its presidents, such as Joko Widodo, are distinct from Duterte and represent a different national context. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes students mix up leaders from different countries in Asia and Latin America because of superficial similarities in issues like crime and drugs. Another pitfall is to confuse the Philippines with other island nations in the region. To avoid this, it is important to build clear mental associations: Duterte with the Philippines, Jokowi with Indonesia, and so on. Revising a simple table of major world leaders and their countries is an effective way to reduce such confusion. Final Answer: Rodrigo "Digong" Duterte won the 2016 presidential elections in the Philippines.

Question 18

In investment terminology the expression "gilt edged securities" is frequently used by investors, bankers and financial analysts. Gilt edged securities refer to which of the following types of securities?

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Introduction / Context: This question belongs to basic investment and banking awareness. The term "gilt edged securities" appears often in discussions about safe investments and government borrowing. Understanding what exactly counts as a gilt edged security helps you interpret economic news and answer finance related MCQs correctly. Given Data / Assumptions: The expression under discussion is "gilt edged securities". The context is investment terminology used by investors and financial institutions. The options refer to securities issued by different kinds of issuers: government, multinational companies, private sector firms, joint ventures and cooperatives. Only one option matches the standard definition used in finance. Concept / Approach: The word "gilt" originally referred to the gold edging on British government securities, which symbolised high credit quality and safety. In modern usage, gilt edged securities are high grade bonds issued by the government, considered to have very low default risk. In the Indian context, government securities issued by the central or state governments are commonly called gilts. Securities issued by private companies, even large ones, carry higher risk and are not classified as gilt edged. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that gilts are associated historically with government borrowing in markets like the United Kingdom and later other countries. Step 2: Understand that government securities are backed by the taxing power and credit of the government, making them relatively safe. Step 3: Review the options and identify "Securities issued by the Government" as the one that fits this description. Step 4: Recognise that securities issued by multinational or private companies do not enjoy the same guaranteed status as government bonds. Step 5: Select the option that links gilt edged securities specifically with government issued securities. Verification / Alternative check: Finance textbooks and RBI publications use the term government securities, often abbreviated as G Secs, and describe them as gilt edged instruments. Mutual fund fact sheets for gilt funds also explain that they invest primarily in government securities. These consistent references across multiple financial sources confirm that gilt edged securities are those issued by the government. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Securities issued by multinational companies may be high quality but still carry corporate credit risk and are not called gilts in standard terminology. Securities issued by private sector companies, whether large or small, fall under corporate bonds or debentures and are not automatically gilt edged. Securities issued by joint venture companies combine risks of multiple partners and again do not match the traditional meaning of gilt edged securities. Securities issued by cooperative societies can be even riskier and are not regarded as gilt edged by financial markets. Common Pitfalls: A common pitfall is to assume that any safe looking company or a famous multinational automatically issues gilt edged securities. Another mistake is to interpret "gilt edged" simply as "high quality" without understanding that, in exam context, it is tied specifically to government issued instruments. To avoid confusion, remember that in India and many other countries, gilts or gilt edged securities are government bonds, and that mutual funds called gilt funds invest primarily in such government securities. Final Answer: Gilt edged securities are securities issued by the Government, generally considered to be very safe investments with low default risk.

Question 19

The driest non polar desert location on Earth is found in which of the following countries?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This general knowledge question checks whether the learner knows about extreme climatic regions of the world, specifically the driest place on Earth. Many competitive exams test facts about deserts, rainfall patterns, and unique environmental conditions because they help build a broad understanding of world geography. Knowing that the Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the driest places on the planet helps candidates link climate, location, and human adaptation in harsh environments. Given Data / Assumptions: • The question asks for the country that contains the driest location on Earth. • The options provided are Kenya, Chile, Congo, and Libya. • We assume standard school level geography facts about deserts and climate. Concept / Approach: The approach is based on recalling key physical geography facts. The Atacama Desert, located along the Pacific coast of South America, is widely documented as one of the driest non polar deserts on Earth, with some weather stations recording virtually no rainfall for many years. This desert lies mainly in northern Chile. By identifying the desert and then mapping it to the correct country among the options, we can choose the right answer confidently. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall famous extremely dry regions, such as the Atacama Desert, Sahara Desert, and certain parts of Antarctica. Step 2: Remember that the Atacama Desert is known in geography textbooks as one of the driest places on Earth in terms of rainfall. Step 3: Identify the country where the Atacama Desert is mainly located, which is Chile in South America. Step 4: Compare this information with the given options: Kenya, Chile, Congo, and Libya. Step 5: Select Chile because it is the country that actually contains the famously dry Atacama region. Verification / Alternative check: A quick mental verification can be done by recalling that Kenya and Congo are in Africa near the equator with savanna and equatorial climates, and Libya is associated with the Sahara Desert, which although very dry, is not usually described as the single driest location on Earth in exam oriented material. Standard geography references often highlight the Atacama Desert in Chile as the textbook example of an extremely dry environment. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Kenya: Kenya has arid and semi arid regions, but it is more famous for savannas and wildlife reserves rather than hosting the absolute driest location on Earth. Congo: The Congo region is associated with dense tropical rainforests and heavy rainfall, which is the opposite of extremely dry conditions. Libya: Libya contains part of the Sahara Desert, which is very dry, but geography questions on the driest location usually highlight the Atacama Desert in Chile, not the Sahara. Common Pitfalls: Many learners quickly choose an African country such as Libya because they associate the Sahara Desert with dryness, without recalling that a specific desert in South America is even more famous for extreme aridity. Another common mistake is not distinguishing between a generally dry desert and the particular location often cited as the driest on Earth. Careful reading and recalling standard textbook facts prevents this confusion. Final Answer: The correct answer is Chile.

Question 20

In Indian banking, instant money transfer through a mobile phone based service is commonly known as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests awareness of modern electronic payment systems used in India. With the spread of smartphones, mobile based money transfer services have become extremely common and are regularly asked in banking awareness and general knowledge sections of competitive exams. Identifying the correct term for instant mobile transfers shows that the learner understands basic banking terminology and digital payment infrastructure. Given Data / Assumptions: • The transaction is described as money transfer through mobile. • The options given are IFSC, ATM, IMPS, and IFS. • The context is Indian banking and electronic fund transfer services. Concept / Approach: The key idea is to differentiate between different banking terms. IFSC is a code used to identify bank branches, ATM is an automated teller machine used mainly for cash withdrawal and some services, and IMPS stands for Immediate Payment Service, which enables instant interbank electronic fund transfer using mobile, internet, or ATM channels. The description in the question matches the function of IMPS, especially for mobile based instant transfers. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the keyword in the question, which is money transfer through mobile. Step 2: Recall that IMPS is an immediate fund transfer service that initially became popular through mobile banking channels. Step 3: Observe that IFSC is only a code for identifying branches and does not itself denote a transfer service. Step 4: Understand that an ATM is a device for cash withdrawal and certain services, not specifically mobile based transfer. Step 5: Match the description of instant mobile transfer with IMPS and select IMPS as the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: As a quick check, remember other systems such as NEFT and RTGS. NEFT and RTGS are primarily internet or branch based systems and historically were not designed exclusively as mobile oriented services. IMPS, on the other hand, was introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India primarily to enable instant 24x7 transfers, starting with mobile banking. This confirmation supports IMPS as the right answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: IFSC: It is a code used to uniquely identify bank branches for NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS, but it is not the name of a transfer service. ATM: An automated teller machine allows cash withdrawal and limited transactions but is not described as a mobile based money transfer system. IFS: This abbreviation does not correspond to a standard mainstream retail payment service in Indian banking in this context. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes confuse IFSC and IMPS because both appear together during online transfers. However, IFSC is only a branch code, while IMPS is the actual transfer mechanism. Another error is to think of ATM transfers through cards as mobile transfers, but the question clearly highlights mobile as the primary medium, which points toward IMPS. Carefully separating codes, devices, and services avoids these mistakes. Final Answer: The correct answer is IMPS.

Basic General Knowledge Questions