BPSC Prelims 2017 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

Quartz is a common mineral known for its excellent piezoelectric properties, which means it can generate an electrical charge when subjected to mechanical stress and vibrate at a precise frequency when an electric field is applied. This property makes it ideal for use in devices requiring precise timing, such as clocks and watches. Chemically, quartz is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2).

Explanation

Bromine is a non-metallic chemical element and is part of the halogen group (Group 17). At standard temperature and pressure, bromine exists as a reddish-brown liquid. It is one of only two elements (the other being mercury) that are liquid at room temperature. The liquid is volatile and readily vaporizes to form a dense, similarly colored gas.

Explanation

Oxy-acetylene welding is a widely used process that relies on the combustion of a mixture of oxygen and acetylene gases. When ignited, this gas mixture produces a high-temperature flame, typically reaching around 3500°C, which is hot enough to melt and fuse metals. This technique is commonly employed for welding, cutting, and brazing various materials.

Explanation

Galvanization is the process of applying a protective coating to steel or iron to prevent rusting. The most common method involves hot-dip galvanizing, where the metal is immersed in a bath of molten zinc. The zinc coating acts as a physical barrier against corrosion and also provides cathodic protection, sacrificing itself to protect the underlying iron.

Explanation

The visible spectrum of light, which is detectable by the human eye, typically ranges from approximately 380 nanometers (nm) to 750 nanometers (nm). Since 1 nanometer is equal to 10 Angstroms (Å), this range converts to 3800 Å to 7500 Å. Therefore, the option 3900 Å-7600 Å is the most accurate representation of the visible spectrum's wavelength range among the choices provided.

Explanation

Detergents used for cleaning clothes are typically synthetic compounds, distinct from traditional soaps. A primary class of these detergents comprises sulfonates, specifically alkyl sulfonates or alkylbenzenesulfonates. These molecules possess a long hydrocarbon chain and a sulfonate group (-SO3-) which makes them excellent emulsifiers, capable of suspending dirt and grease in water, even in hard water conditions.

Explanation

Human sweat is primarily composed of water, but it also contains various electrolytes and trace elements. While sodium and potassium are the most abundant electrolytes, elements such as magnesium, zinc, and iron are also excreted through sweat, albeit in smaller quantities. Since the options B (iron), C (magnesium), and D (zinc) all represent elements found in human sweat, the most appropriate answer is "more than one of the above."

Explanation

Blue vitriol is the common name for hydrated copper(II) sulfate. It is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula CuSO4·5H2O, indicating that each copper sulfate molecule is associated with five water molecules. This compound is known for its distinctive blue color and is used in various applications, including agriculture as a fungicide, in electroplating, and as a raw material for other copper compounds.

Explanation

The positively charged part at the center of an atom is called the nucleus. The nucleus contains subatomic particles known as protons, which carry a positive electric charge, and neutrons, which have no charge. It is the presence of protons within the nucleus that gives the entire central region of the atom its overall positive charge, while electrons, which are negatively charged, orbit the nucleus.

Explanation

Sublimation is a physical process where a substance transitions directly from the solid phase to the gas phase without passing through an intermediate liquid phase. This occurs when the vapor pressure of the solid is higher than the surrounding atmospheric pressure at certain temperatures. A common example is dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) changing directly into gaseous carbon dioxide at room temperature and standard atmospheric pressure.

Explanation

Insulin is a hormone primarily responsible for regulating the metabolism of carbohydrates in the human body. It allows cells in the muscles, fat, and liver to absorb glucose from the blood, which is then used for energy or converted into glycogen for storage. By facilitating glucose uptake, insulin lowers blood sugar levels. While it also influences fat and protein metabolism, its most direct and critical role is in carbohydrate processing.

Explanation

Both penicillin and sulfadiazine are types of antibiotics. Penicillin is a widely known beta-lactam antibiotic, while sulfadiazine is a sulfonamide antibiotic. Aspirin and paracetamol are analgesics and antipyretics, not antibiotics. Since more than one option (penicillin and sulfadiazine) fits the description of an antibiotic, option E, "more than one of the above", is the correct answer.

Explanation

All options listed—wheat, barley, rice, and maize—are cereal grains and are predominantly rich in carbohydrates. However, among these common staples, white rice typically has the highest percentage of carbohydrates by dry weight, often exceeding 80% in its uncooked form. While all are significant carbohydrate sources, rice often has a marginally higher carbohydrate content compared to the others.

Explanation

To determine the heaviest metal among the given options, we compare their densities. The density of gold (Au) is approximately 19.3 g/cm³. Silver (Ag) has a density of about 10.5 g/cm³. Mercury (Hg) has a density of around 13.6 g/cm³. Platinum (Pt) is significantly denser, with a density of approximately 21.45 g/cm³. Therefore, platinum is the heaviest metal among these choices.

Explanation

Stainless steel is fundamentally an alloy of iron and chromium, with a minimum of 10.5% chromium being necessary to provide its corrosion-resistant properties. While chromium is essential, many common types of stainless steel, such as austenitic stainless steels (e.g., 304, 316), also contain significant amounts of nickel to enhance properties like ductility and formability. Therefore, stainless steel is an alloy involving both iron and chromium, and often nickel, meaning that multiple components mentioned across options A (iron and nickel) and B (iron and chromium) are constituents. This makes option E, "None of the above/more than one of the above", the most appropriate answer as it acknowledges the complexity of stainless steel composition.

Explanation

Plaster of Paris is chemically known as calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO4·0.5H2O). It is produced by heating gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO4·2H2O) to remove some of its water content. Therefore, gypsum is the raw material from which Plaster of Paris is derived. Although Plaster of Paris itself is calcium sulfate hemihydrate, among the given options, gypsum is the closest chemically related substance and its direct precursor, making it the most appropriate answer.

Explanation

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are classified based on the types of bonds between carbon atoms. Alkanes contain only single carbon-carbon bonds, making them saturated. Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond. Alkynes are also unsaturated but contain at least one carbon-carbon triple bond. Therefore, a hydrocarbon with a double bond is an alkene.

Explanation

Vinegar is an aqueous solution, primarily composed of acetic acid. This organic compound, with the chemical formula CH3COOH, gives vinegar its characteristic sour taste and pungent smell. Typically, commercial vinegar contains about 5-8% acetic acid by volume. Methanol and ethanol are types of alcohol, while ethyl acetate is an ester, none of which are the primary active ingredient in vinegar.

Explanation

A car battery, specifically a lead-acid battery, relies on a chemical reaction involving an acid to produce electrical energy. The electrolyte used in these batteries is a solution of sulfuric acid (H2SO4). This acid reacts with the lead plates within the battery to facilitate the flow of electrons, which is how the battery generates power. Acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid are not used in standard car batteries.

Explanation

Soda water, also known as carbonated water, is made by dissolving carbon dioxide (CO2) gas under high pressure into water. When a bottle of soda water is opened, the external pressure drops, allowing the dissolved carbon dioxide gas to escape rapidly from the solution. This release of CO2 is what creates the fizz and bubbles commonly associated with carbonated beverages.

Explanation

Diu, a Union Territory, achieved the remarkable feat of becoming India's first city to operate entirely on renewable energy during daytime hours. By installing solar power plants and rooftop solar panels across the region, Diu successfully transitioned its energy consumption to be 100% reliant on solar energy during the day by 2018, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and electricity costs.

Explanation

Mahmoud Abu Zeid, also known as Shawkan, is an Egyptian photojournalist. He was awarded the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize in 2018 in recognition of his courageous work and commitment to freedom of expression, despite being imprisoned in Egypt at the time. He hails from Egypt, making option D the correct answer.

Explanation

The bilateral military exercise 'Harimau Shakti' is an annual joint exercise conducted between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army. The name 'Harimau Shakti' itself means 'Tiger Power' in Malay, signifying the joint strength of the two nations. The 2018 edition of this exercise was held between India and Malaysia, aiming to enhance interoperability and foster military cooperation.

Explanation

The Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) is a flagship national program of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), now known as the Ministry of Education. This initiative aims to connect institutions of higher education with local communities to address development challenges through appropriate technologies. The Second Edition of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan was launched by the MHRD to expand its reach and impact.

Explanation

The 'Incredible India' campaign is the official tourism promotion campaign of the Government of India. The Ministry of Tourism is responsible for promoting India as a global tourist destination. Collaborating with Google India to launch a 360° Virtual Reality (VR) video on 'Incredible India' is a strategic move by the Ministry of Tourism to leverage technology for showcasing India's diverse attractions to a wider audience.

Explanation

The first-ever nationwide food archaeology conference in India, titled ‘ArchaeoBroma’, was hosted in Mumbai. This unique event brought together archaeologists, historians, culinary experts, and enthusiasts to explore the rich history of food and culinary practices in India from ancient times. It was organized by the Centre for Extra-Mural Studies (CEMS) at the University of Mumbai.

Explanation

India's rank in the 2018 World Press Freedom Index (WPFI), published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), was 138th out of 180 countries. This reflected a drop of two places compared to its 136th position in the 2017 index. The WPFI evaluates the level of freedom available to journalists in each country, considering factors such as media independence, self-censorship, legal framework, transparency, and the quality of infrastructure that supports the production of news and information.

Explanation

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) was honored with the 2018 National Intellectual Property Award. This prestigious award was presented to CSIR in the category of "Top R D Institution/Organization for Patents and Commercialization." The recognition acknowledges CSIR's significant contributions to the development, protection, and successful commercialization of intellectual property, highlighting its leadership in scientific and industrial research and innovation within India.

Explanation

As per data released by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, based on the 2011 Census, West Bengal recorded the highest number of beggars among all Indian states. The state had approximately 81,244 beggars and vagrants at the time of the census. Following West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were the states with the next highest counts of beggars in the country.

Explanation

Surat district in Gujarat achieved the distinction of becoming India's first district to have all its Primary Health Centres (PHCs) fully powered by solar energy. This initiative involved equipping all 52 PHCs across the district with solar panels. The adoption of solar power ensured a continuous and reliable electricity supply for these health centers, significantly improving their operational efficiency and the quality of healthcare services provided, especially in remote areas.

Explanation

Anish Bhanwala, an Indian sports person, secured the Gold medal in the Men's 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event at the 2018 ISSF Junior Shooting World Cup. This prestigious competition was held in Sydney, Australia. Bhanwala's outstanding performance not only earned him the gold but also saw him establish a new junior world record in the event, solidifying his status as a promising talent in international shooting.

Explanation

Kamrup district is located in the state of Assam in India. Therefore, any pact concerning the development of villages within Kamrup would logically be signed by the government of Assam. In 2017, the Assam State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airport Authority of India (AAI) for the integrated development of villages in the Kamrup district as part of corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Explanation

According to data and reports available around 2017 concerning the provision of safe drinking water to tribal habitations, Madhya Pradesh had the highest number of fully covered tribal habitations. The state, with its significant tribal population, had made substantial progress in ensuring access to safe drinking water in these communities through various government schemes and programs focused on rural and tribal development.

Explanation

ISRO successfully launched the GSAT-6A communication satellite on March 29, 2018, from the Second Launch Pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. The satellite was carried into orbit by the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) flight number F08. This mission marked another significant achievement for ISRO in deploying advanced communication satellites for various applications.

Explanation

The International Day of Forests is observed annually on March 21. Each year, a specific theme is chosen by the United Nations to highlight a particular aspect of forests and trees. For the year 2018, the theme selected was "Forests and Sustainable Cities". This theme aimed to raise awareness about the importance of forests and trees in urban areas, emphasizing their role in improving air quality, moderating climate, providing recreational spaces, and contributing to overall urban sustainability and resilience. This theme would have been announced in late 2017 or early 2018.

Explanation

Abdel Fattah el-Sisi was elected President of Egypt in May 2014, following a period of political transition and instability in the country. He secured a significant victory in that election. By 2017, he was the incumbent president of Egypt, having been the most recently elected leader since the 2011 revolution and the subsequent overthrow of Mohamed Morsi. Therefore, based on information available up to 2017, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi was the current and most recently elected President of Egypt.

Explanation

The J. C. Daniel Award is the highest state honor in Malayalam cinema, presented annually by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy for outstanding contributions to the Malayalam film industry. For the year 2017, the prestigious award was conferred upon veteran lyricist, director, and screenwriter Sreekumaran Thampi. He was recognized for his immense and sustained contributions to Malayalam cinema over several decades, enriching the industry with his multifaceted talent in various roles.

Explanation

According to data released by the Indian Cellular Association (ICA) around late 2017 or early 2018, India achieved a significant milestone in mobile phone manufacturing. The country surpassed Vietnam to emerge as the world's second-largest producer of mobile phones. This represented a rapid growth in domestic manufacturing capabilities, driven by various government initiatives like 'Make in India' and a burgeoning local market, placing India only behind China in terms of global mobile phone production volume at that time.

Explanation

The 'Rupashree Scheme' is a flagship social welfare initiative launched by the State Government of West Bengal. This scheme aims to provide financial assistance to economically disadvantaged families for the marriage of their adult daughters. Under the Rupashree Scheme, eligible families receive a one-time grant to support marriage expenses, thereby reducing the financial burden on poor households and promoting the welfare and social security of girls in the state. The scheme was specifically rolled out by the West Bengal government to address this social need.

Explanation

NITI Aayog, under its Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), launched the ‘Atal New India Challenge’ to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The challenge aimed to support innovators who could develop products and solutions addressing critical national problems across various sectors. The initiative provided grants of up to ₹1 crore to selected applicants, enabling them to bring their innovative ideas to fruition and scale them up. This financial support was crucial for promoting a culture of innovation in India.

Explanation

The first meeting of the think tank on the Framework for National Policy on E-commerce was chaired by Suresh Prabhu. At the time, he was the Union Minister for Commerce and Industry. This think tank was constituted to formulate a robust and comprehensive national policy for the rapidly growing e-commerce sector in India, addressing various aspects from data localization to consumer protection. The discussions aimed to create an environment conducive to fair trade and innovation within the e-commerce ecosystem.

Explanation

Purnia district in Bihar does not share a border with Nepal. The districts of Bihar that share an international border with Nepal are West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, and Kishanganj. Purnia is located further south and east, away from the Nepalese border, unlike Madhubani, Kishanganj, and Sitamarhi, which are directly adjacent to Nepal.

Explanation

As of 2017, Bihar had two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not just one. These include the Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, which was inscribed in 2002, and the Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University) at Nalanda, which was inscribed in 2016. Since the question asks for the "only" site, and there are two, the correct option is E, "None of the above/more than one of the above".

Explanation

SACEP stands for the South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme. It is an inter-governmental organization established in 1982 by the governments of South Asia to promote and support environmental protection, conservation, and management in the region. The MoU approved between India and SACEP aimed to facilitate cooperation on mitigating oil and chemical pollution in the South Asian seas, underscoring the organization's focus on regional environmental challenges.

Explanation

The Uttar Pradesh government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Republic of Korea (South Korea) in 2017. This agreement aimed to enhance tourism cooperation, promote cultural exchange, and strengthen bilateral ties between the state and South Korea. The MoU focused on developing tourism infrastructure and increasing tourist footfall from South Korea to Uttar Pradesh.

Explanation

The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India. It is responsible for forestry research, education, and extension activities. Its headquarters is strategically located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, a region rich in diverse forest ecosystems, making it an ideal center for forestry studies.

Explanation

The Newton-Bhabha Fund is a joint initiative between the UK and India aimed at fostering research and innovation. In 2015, a significant grant under this fund was awarded to an India-UK Joint Team for a project titled "Groundwater Arsenic Contamination in the Ganga River Basin: Causes, Health Effects, and Sustainable Remediation." This collaborative effort involved scientists from both countries to address the critical issue of arsenic contamination.

Explanation

The Barh Super Thermal Power Station (BSTPS) is a major coal-based power plant owned by NTPC Limited, India's largest power utility. It is strategically located in Barh, a subdivision within the Patna district of Bihar. The power station plays a crucial role in meeting the electricity demands of the eastern region of India.

Explanation

In 2017, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) signed a Statement of Intent with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to promote solar energy development. This pact aimed to mobilize investments, facilitate knowledge sharing, and support solar energy deployment in ISA member countries, particularly focusing on the Asia and Pacific region where ADB operates extensively, to achieve their renewable energy goals.

Explanation

In 2017, India signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia and Bangladesh for cooperation on the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project in Bangladesh. Under this agreement, India would provide training to Bangladeshi personnel for the operation and maintenance of the nuclear power plant, which is being constructed by Russia's Rosatom, marking a significant step in regional civil nuclear cooperation.

Explanation

The Indus Valley Civilization is renowned for its sophisticated urban planning and architecture, with the most distinctive feature being the widespread and standardized use of burnt bricks in construction. Harappan cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa featured well-organized grid layouts, impressive drainage systems, and durable public and private buildings constructed primarily with uniform burnt bricks, indicating advanced engineering and urban governance.

Explanation

Megasthenes was a Greek ethnographer and explorer who served as an ambassador of Seleucus I Nicator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya in Pataliputra, India. His observations and writings about India were compiled in his famous work, "Indica," which provides valuable insights into Mauryan society and administration.

Explanation

Kautilya's Arthashastra is a foundational treatise on political science, economics, and military strategy from ancient India. It comprehensively details the principles and practice of statecraft, including topics like administration, economic policy, legal and judicial systems, intelligence gathering, and foreign relations, guiding rulers on effective governance.

Explanation

The Tripitakas, meaning "Three Baskets," constitute the canonical scriptures of Buddhism, particularly for the Theravada school. This collection comprises the Sutta Pitaka (discourses of the Buddha), Vinaya Pitaka (monastic rules), and Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical treatises), forming the core teachings and guidelines for Buddhist practitioners.

Explanation

Ashoka's Dhamma was a moral code propagated by Emperor Ashoka after his conversion to Buddhism, following the Kalinga War. Its central tenets revolved around promoting peace, non-violence (ahimsa), and ethical behavior among his subjects. While it also encompassed respect for elders and religious toleration, the emphasis on peace and non-aggression was paramount.

Explanation

The account of Mauryan society being divided into seven classes is prominently featured in "Indica," the work of Megasthenes. As a Greek ambassador to Chandragupta Maurya's court, Megasthenes observed Indian society and categorized its people into philosophers, farmers, soldiers, herdsmen, artisans, magistrates, and councillors, a classification distinct from traditional Indian Varna systems.

Explanation

The famous Chinese Buddhist pilgrim Fa-Hien visited India during the early 5th century CE, specifically between 399 CE and 412 CE. This period corresponds to the reign of Chandragupta II, who ruled the Gupta Empire from approximately 380 CE to 415 CE. Fa-Hien documented his travels and observations in his work "Fo-Kwo-Ki" (Record of Buddhist Kingdoms), providing valuable insights into the social, religious, and administrative conditions of India during the Gupta age, particularly in the empire of Chandragupta II.

Explanation

The Chola age is widely renowned for its highly developed and efficient system of local self-government, particularly the functioning of village assemblies. These autonomous village assemblies, known as 'ur' and 'sabha' (or 'mahāsabhā'), managed local affairs, including justice, taxation, and administration of temples and irrigation. Inscriptions like those from Uttaramerur provide detailed accounts of the election procedures and responsibilities of members, demonstrating a remarkable level of democratic participation and decentralized administration, which was a unique feature of the Chola empire.

Explanation

The towering, elaborately decorated gateways found at the entrance of temples, especially in South India, are known as Gopurams. These were a prominent feature of Dravidian architecture, particularly during the Chola, Pandya, and Vijayanagara periods. Gopurams often exceed the height of the main temple structure, serving as impressive entry points and covered with sculptures depicting various deities, mythological figures, and scenes. They signify the boundary of the temple complex and mark its sacredness.

Explanation

The magnificent remains of the Vijayanagara Empire are predominantly found in Hampi, located in present-day Karnataka, India. Hampi served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, which flourished from the 14th to the 16th century. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is dotted with numerous temples, palaces, monolithic sculptures, and other structures that stand as testament to the architectural and artistic prowess of the empire. The ruins spread over a vast area along the Tungabhadra River.

Explanation

Ghiyas ud din Balban, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1266 to 1287, was the first Muslim ruler in India to formulate a comprehensive 'theory of Kingship' akin to the 'divine right of kings'. Balban aimed to enhance the prestige and power of the Sultan. He proclaimed that the Sultan was the 'shadow of God' (Zill-i-Ilahi) on Earth and a 'deputy of God' (Niyabat-i-Khudai), thereby claiming a divine sanction for his rule. This theory was crucial for consolidating his authority and ensuring obedience from his nobles.

Explanation

Paper making technology reached India from Central Asia, primarily through Islamic influence, during the medieval period. The earliest definitive evidence and widespread use of paper in India began around the 12th century. This new medium gradually replaced older materials like palm leaves and birch bark for writing manuscripts.

Explanation

Emperor Akbar, known for his broad interests and patronage of arts and culture, was the first Mughal ruler to show significant interest in European paintings. Jesuit missionaries brought European artworks to his court, which influenced the Mughal miniature school. Akbar's royal atelier began incorporating European elements such as perspective and chiaroscuro into their works.

Explanation

The English East India Company was incorporated by royal charter on December 31, 1600, in England. At this time, the Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great was reigning over India. His rule extended from 1556 to 1605, making him the contemporary ruler when the Company was formed.

Explanation

Among the options, Gwalior, ruled by the Scindias, was a major princely state that was not formally annexed by the British. Sind was annexed in 1843, Satara in 1848 under the Doctrine of Lapse, and Awadh in 1856 on grounds of misgovernance. Gwalior maintained its status as a princely state under British paramountcy until India's independence.

Explanation

While the immediate objective of the Salt Satyagraha was to protest the unjust salt laws, Gandhiji's ultimate goal was to achieve 'Purna Swaraj' or complete independence for India. The breaking of the salt law was a symbolic act of civil disobedience aimed at challenging the entire edifice of British rule and mobilizing the masses towards self-rule, following the Purna Swaraj declaration of 1929.

Explanation

The Moplah Rebellion, also known as the Malabar Rebellion, was an armed revolt that occurred in 1921 in the Malabar district of Kerala. It was a peasant uprising by the Mappila Muslims against the British colonial rule and the local Hindu landlords (jenmis), fueled by agrarian grievances and religious sentiments. The rebellion was significant for its intensity and the scale of violence involved.

Explanation

The Swadeshi Movement was a powerful nationalist movement that emerged in India primarily in response to the partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon in 1905. It advocated for the boycott of British goods and the promotion of indigenous products and industries, aiming to achieve economic self-sufficiency and undermine British economic interests in India. The movement was a critical phase in the Indian freedom struggle.

Explanation

The Bihar Provincial Kisan Sabha (BPKS) was established in 1929 by Swami Sahajanand Saraswati. This organization played a crucial role in mobilizing peasants in Bihar against the zamindari system, advocating for their rights, and addressing issues such as tenancy, land revenue, and exploitation by landlords. It became a significant peasant movement in pre-independent India.

Explanation

Bihar became a separate province from Orissa under the provisions of the Government of India Act of 1935. While Bihar and Orissa were separated from the Bengal Presidency in 1912 to form a single province, the Act of 1935 further bifurcated this province into two distinct provinces: Bihar and Orissa, each with its own separate administrative structure. This act marked a significant constitutional development for the region.

Explanation

The Ashok Mehta Committee, appointed in 1977 to review the functioning of Panchayati Raj institutions, recommended the creation of Nyaya Panchayats. These were proposed as separate judicial bodies distinct from the development-oriented Panchayats, with the aim of providing speedy and inexpensive justice to rural populations. This recommendation sought to strengthen the judicial arm at the local level.

Explanation

Maintenance of Public Order is primarily a function of the State Government, handled by the state police forces. Local Self-Government bodies, such as Panchayats and Municipalities, are constitutionally mandated to manage local civic amenities and development initiatives. Functions like public health, sanitation, and provision of public utility services (e.g., water supply, street lighting) fall directly under their purview as outlined in the Eleventh and Twelfth Schedules of the Indian Constitution. Therefore, maintenance of public order is not a direct concern of local self-government.

Explanation

The Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution divides legislative powers between the Union and State governments. It comprises the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. 'Local government', which includes the system of Panchayati Raj, is explicitly listed as Entry 5 in the State List (List II). This means that state legislatures have the exclusive power to make laws with respect to matters related to Panchayati Raj and other forms of local government.

Explanation

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act mandated a minimum of one-third reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions. However, several states in India have taken further steps to provide 50% reservation for women in these institutions. Bihar was the first state to implement this in 2006. Subsequently, states like Uttarakhand (2008), Madhya Pradesh (2009), and Himachal Pradesh (2010) also legalized 50% reservation for women in their Panchayati Raj bodies.

Explanation

Article 109 of the Indian Constitution outlines the special procedure for Money Bills. Clause (1) of this article explicitly states that "A Money Bill shall not be introduced in the Council of States" (Rajya Sabha). This means that a Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, the House of the People, and not in the Rajya Sabha. After introduction and passage in the Lok Sabha, it is then sent to the Rajya Sabha for recommendations.

Explanation

The Indian Constitution is unique in its blend of federal and unitary features. It exhibits federal characteristics such as a dual polity, division of powers, a written constitution, and an independent judiciary. However, it also possesses strong unitary features like a powerful central government, single citizenship, a single constitution, emergency provisions, and the appointment of governors by the President. Therefore, it is often described as federal in nature but unitary in spirit, or quasi-federal, reflecting its adaptable structure.

Explanation

Article 124(2) of the Indian Constitution clearly states that every Judge of the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President of India. While the President makes these appointments after consultation with a collegium of judges, the formal appointing authority is the President.

Explanation

As per Article 64 and Article 89(1) of the Indian Constitution, the Vice-President of India is the ex officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). This means that the person holding the office of Vice-President automatically performs the duties of the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

Explanation

Article 75(3) of the Indian Constitution explicitly states that the Council of Ministers, which includes the Prime Minister, shall be collectively responsible to the House of the People, also known as the Lok Sabha. This ensures that the government maintains the confidence of the directly elected representatives.

Explanation

To be a Member of Parliament (MP), one must meet the age requirements for either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha. For a Member of the Lok Sabha, the minimum age is 25 years, as specified in Article 84(b) of the Constitution. For the Rajya Sabha, it is 30 years. Since 25 years is the lowest age at which one can become a member of either house of Parliament, it is considered the minimum age for a 'Member of the Parliament'.

Explanation

Article 124(2) of the Indian Constitution lays down the provisions for the appointment and tenure of Supreme Court judges. It specifies that a Judge of the Supreme Court shall hold office until they attain the age of sixty-five years. This is the constitutionally mandated retirement age.

Explanation

The Cabinet Secretary is the highest civil services officer of the Central Government. This individual heads the Cabinet Secretariat, acts as the administrative head of the civil services, and is the chief coordinator of central government administration. All other secretaries in the Union government hierarchy report to the Cabinet Secretary on administrative matters, making this position the apex of the bureaucratic structure.

Explanation

One of the primary problems in calculating National Income in India is the presence of a large non-organized (or unorganized) sector. This sector comprises informal businesses, small-scale enterprises, and a significant portion of agricultural activity where data collection is difficult, records are often informal or non-existent, and income generation is not formally reported. This leads to challenges in accurately estimating the output and income contributed by this sector to the national economy.

Explanation

NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) is the apex institution in India established to provide agricultural refinance. It was set up in 1982 with the mandate to facilitate credit flow for the promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, and other rural crafts. NABARD provides refinance assistance to commercial banks, regional rural banks, and cooperative banks for their lending to the agricultural and rural sectors.

Explanation

The 14th Finance Commission, which submitted its recommendations for the period 2015-2020, significantly increased the share of states in the net proceeds of shareable central taxes. It recommended that the percentage share of states should be 42%. This was a substantial increase from the 32% recommended by the 13th Finance Commission, aiming to enhance the fiscal autonomy and resources available to the states.

Explanation

The Service Sector consistently attracts the highest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) equity flow into India. This broad sector encompasses various sub-sectors such as financial services, banking, insurance, outsourcing, information technology, telecommunications, and trading. Its robust growth, large market, and potential for high returns make it a preferred destination for foreign investors compared to other sectors like construction or manufacturing.

Explanation

Urjit Patel served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from September 5, 2016, to December 10, 2018. Therefore, based on the knowledge available up to 2017, he was the incumbent Governor. Raghuram Rajan preceded him, serving until September 2016. Bimal Jalan was a former Governor much earlier. Arvind Subramanian was the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India during a similar period, not the RBI Governor.

Explanation

In India, landholdings are officially classified based on their size for statistical and policy purposes. A 'marginal landholding' is specifically defined as a landholding with an area of less than 1 hectare. This category primarily includes small and often subsistence farmers. Other classifications include small (1-2 hectares), semi-medium (2-4 hectares), medium (4-10 hectares), and large (10 hectares and above) landholdings.

Explanation

Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies, cultures, and populations. Its key features include trade liberalization (like reduction in import duties and abolition of import licensing), free flow of capital (such as Foreign Direct Investment), and technological diffusion across borders. Disinvestment of Public Sector Equity, which is the selling of government-owned assets to private entities, is a domestic economic policy rather than a direct component of globalization itself, although it might sometimes be influenced by or coincide with globalization efforts.

Explanation

The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) was enacted by the Indian Parliament in 2002 to combat the increasing issue of money laundering and to provide for the confiscation of property derived from such activities. While the Act was passed in 2002, it came into full force and effect across India on July 1, 2005. This delay allowed for the necessary regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to be established.

Explanation

TRIMS is an acronym used in the context of international trade policy, specifically referring to the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements. It stands for Trade-Related Investment Measures. The TRIMS Agreement prohibits certain policies that restrict or distort trade, such as local content requirements or export performance requirements, when applied to foreign investors, aiming to ensure non-discrimination and free competition in global markets.

Explanation

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was established on January 1, 2015, replacing the erstwhile Planning Commission of India. This change was implemented through a resolution of the Union Cabinet, signifying a major reform in the country's economic policy-making framework. Its primary role is to serve as a think tank of the Government of India, providing both directional and policy inputs, fostering cooperative federalism, and involving states in the economic policy-making process. The move aimed to shift from a top-down planning approach to a more collaborative and bottom-up strategy.

Explanation

The 'Gullak Bachcha Bank' is an innovative informal banking initiative primarily based in the slum areas of Patna, Bihar. This unique bank was established to instill saving habits and promote financial literacy among underprivileged children. It functions by collecting small deposits, often as little as one rupee, from children who are mostly daily wage earners or street vendors. The initiative empowers these children by providing a secure place for their savings, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility from a young age, and thereby encouraging a culture of thrift.

Explanation

In 2017, the Government of India, specifically the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, officially changed the base year for the All-India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) from 2004-05 to 2011-12. This significant revision was undertaken to more accurately reflect the contemporary structure and dynamics of the Indian economy. The new series incorporated an expanded and updated basket of commodities, increasing the number of items covered, and adjusted the weighting patterns to better represent current production and trade structures. This change aimed to provide a more precise measure of inflation at the wholesale level.

Explanation

According to the Indian Population Census, 2011, the state of Bihar recorded the lowest overall literacy rate among all states in India. Specifically, the percentage of literacy among both males and females in Bihar was significantly lower than in other regions. The male literacy rate stood at 71.20%, while the female literacy rate was 51.50%, leading to an aggregate literacy rate of 61.80%. These figures highlighted the significant educational challenges faced by the state at the time of the census.

Explanation

The average size of landholdings in Bihar, when compared with other states in India, is notably small. Agricultural census data consistently indicates that Bihar ranks as having the second lowest average size of operational landholdings. This characteristic is primarily attributed to high population density, leading to intense pressure on cultivable land, and the continuous fragmentation of holdings through successive generations due to inheritance laws and family divisions. This prevalence of small and marginal farms significantly influences agricultural practices and productivity in the state.

Explanation

Bihar has consistently recorded the lowest per capita income among Indian states for many years, including around 2017. Economic surveys and statistical data from that period indicate that Bihar's per capita Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) at current prices was significantly lower compared to other states like Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Nagaland. This reflects the state's economic challenges and lower levels of development in comparison to the national average and other regions.

Explanation

Bihar has historically recorded the lowest per capita consumption of electricity among all Indian states. As per data available around 2017, Bihar's per capita electricity consumption was significantly lower than the national average and that of other states. This is attributed to a combination of factors including lower levels of industrialization, lower household income, and challenges in electrification and distribution infrastructure within the state.

Explanation

Among the states listed, Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest average yield of cotton in India around the year 2017. States like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana (which was part of AP until 2014, and often has similar agricultural patterns) are known for good cotton productivity due to suitable climatic conditions, improved farming practices, and the use of hybrid seeds. West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam are not significant cotton-producing states and have much lower yields.

Explanation

Bihar is a densely populated state, and while its overall road infrastructure has been developing, the road length per lakh of population has historically been lower compared to the national average. However, determining whether it is precisely the "lowest" or "second lowest" among all Indian states in 2017 can be complex, as this metric can vary depending on the specific category of roads considered (e.g., National Highways, State Highways, rural roads) and comparison with all other states, including smaller ones. Therefore, without specific detailed comparative data for all states, it is plausible that its rank does not strictly fall into the "lowest" or "second lowest" category across all such comparisons, leading to "None of the above".

Explanation

Estimating the world population during 10000 BC is challenging due to the scarcity of direct evidence, and figures are largely based on archaeological inferences and demographic models. While estimates vary among scholars, common figures for the world population at the beginning of the Neolithic era (around 10000 BC) generally range from 1 million to 10 million. Given this wide range and the lack of a single universally agreed-upon precise figure among historians and demographers, none of the specific options (2, 3, 4, or 5 million) can be definitively chosen as the sole correct answer.

Explanation

The Cocos Plate is an oceanic tectonic plate located beneath the Pacific Ocean off the west coast of Central America. It is formed by oceanic crust along the East Pacific Rise and is actively subducting eastward beneath the North American Plate and the Caribbean Plate. Therefore, its geographical position places it between Central America and the larger Pacific Plate.

Explanation

The 'Rust Bowl' or 'Rust Belt' of the USA refers to a region in the northeastern and midwestern United States that has experienced industrial decline, deindustrialization, and economic stagnation since the 1970s. This broad region encompasses areas around the Great Lakes, including parts of New York, Pennsylvania (where Pittsburgh is located), Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois. Given that both the Great Lakes region and the Pittsburg region are integral parts of the Rust Belt, option E (more than one of the above) is the most accurate description.

Explanation

Prof. Amartya Sen, a Nobel laureate in Economics, is widely recognized for his pioneering work on welfare economics and social choice theory. His most significant contribution in development economics is the 'Capability Approach'. This approach focuses on what individuals are actually able to do and be, such as being well-nourished, healthy, or educated, rather than merely focusing on income or access to goods.

Explanation

Santos, a city located in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, is historically and currently the largest coffee-exporting port in the world. Brazil is the leading global producer and exporter of coffee, and the port of Santos serves as the primary gateway for the vast majority of this trade. While Sao Paulo is the major metropolitan area and state producing coffee, Santos is the specific port.

Explanation

According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) data, several states in India's North Eastern region have a very high percentage of their geographical area under forest cover. Among the options provided, Arunachal Pradesh consistently ranks as one of the states with the highest percentage of forest cover, often having more than 75% of its total area under forests.

Explanation

Alluvial soils are formed by the deposition of sediments like silt, sand, and clay, which are carried and deposited by rivers. These soils are typically found in river floodplains, deltas, and the fertile plains formed by large river systems, such as the Indo-Gangetic plain in India. Red, Black, and Laterite soils have different formation processes, not primarily through river deposition.

Explanation

The share of hydro-electric power in India's total electricity production varies slightly based on hydrological conditions and the specific year. However, around 2017, the contribution of hydro-electric power to the total electricity generated in India was approximately 12% of the total installed capacity, and similarly in terms of generation, it hovered around 10-12%. This makes 12% a reasonable estimate among the given options for its contribution to total electricity produced.

Explanation

The Census year 1921 is referred to as the 'Demographic Divide' in the population study of India. This is because prior to 1921, India's population growth was irregular and often stagnant due to high mortality rates from epidemics, famines, and wars. After 1921, there was a consistent and significant decline in mortality rates, leading to a steady and rapid increase in population, marking a clear demographic shift.

Explanation

Coimbatore is widely recognized as the "Manchester of South India" due to its extensive textile industry, particularly the concentration of cotton mills. The city benefits from a favorable climate, proximity to cotton-growing regions, and well-established infrastructure, which has historically made it the primary hub for cotton textile manufacturing in Tamil Nadu.

Explanation

Kerala is the leading producer of natural rubber in India. The state's tropical climate, abundant rainfall, and suitable soil conditions are ideal for rubber cultivation. It accounts for a predominant share of the country's total rubber production, far surpassing other states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh in this regard.

Explanation

National Waterway-1 (NW-1) is a major waterway in India, connecting Haldia in West Bengal to Allahabad (now Prayagraj) in Uttar Pradesh. This waterway navigates through the Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system, covering a distance of approximately 1620 kilometers. It is the longest national waterway in India and plays a crucial role in inland water transport.

Explanation

The Khetri copper belt is a significant mining region located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, India. This area is renowned for its extensive copper deposits and has been a primary site for copper mining for centuries. The Khetri Copper Complex is a major undertaking by Hindustan Copper Limited.

Explanation

The Punpun river is a major tributary of the Ganga river in Bihar. It originates in Palamu district of Jharkhand and flows through Gaya, Jehanabad, and Patna districts before joining the Ganga River near Fatuha, a town located east of Patna. This confluence point is a well-known geographical feature in the region.

Explanation

According to Koppen's Climatic Classification, the climate of North Bihar is best described as Cwg. In this classification, 'C' denotes warm temperate climates, 'w' indicates a dry winter season, and 'g' refers to the Gangetic plain type where the hottest month occurs before the summer solstice and the annual range of temperature is small. This accurately reflects the monsoon climate prevalent in the region.

Explanation

The districts of Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Champaran are located in the North Gangetic plains of Bihar. This region is characterized by its fertile alluvial soils, primarily formed by the deposition of sediments from perennial rivers like the Gandak, Bagmati, and Burhi Gandak. Newer alluvium, known as Khadar, is found in the floodplains and is renewed annually, making it highly fertile and predominant in these low-lying areas.

Explanation

Purnia district has historically been and continues to be the largest jute-producing district in Bihar. The region's fertile alluvial soil, high humidity, and sufficient rainfall create ideal conditions for the cultivation of jute. This favorable climate and soil combination make Purnia a key contributor to jute production in the state, supporting a significant agricultural economy based on this fiber crop.

Explanation

The Triveni Canal is a significant irrigation project in Bihar. It has been constructed on the Gandak River, one of the major rivers flowing through the state. The canal originates from the Gandak Barrage at Valmikinagar, near the Indo-Nepal border, and serves to irrigate vast agricultural lands in the North Bihar plains, particularly in the West Champaran district.

Explanation

Pavapuri is a highly revered pilgrimage site for Jains, located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It is the sacred place where Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, attained nirvana or salvation. The Jal Mandir, a beautiful temple situated in the middle of a large pond, marks the spot where his mortal remains were cremated.

Explanation

The Kaimur Plateau, which forms part of the Vindhyan Range in Bihar, is well-known for its rich mineral deposits. Among these, limestone is the most abundant and economically significant. The extensive limestone reserves in the Kaimur region are a vital raw material for the cement industry, leading to the establishment of several cement factories in and around the plateau area.

Explanation

Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, a renowned ascetic and a pivotal figure in the Indian peasant movement, published a prominent journal named 'Hunkar'. This journal served as the official mouthpiece of the All India Kisan Sabha, an organization he founded in 1936. 'Hunkar' played a crucial role in articulating the demands of the peasants and mobilizing them against landlordism and colonial exploitation.

Explanation

Sachindra Nath Sanyal established a branch of the Anushilan Samiti in Patna in 1913. This revolutionary organization, which originated in Bengal, aimed to spread revolutionary ideas and activities in various parts of India, including Bihar. Sanyal was a prominent revolutionary leader who played a significant role in organizing revolutionary groups and inspiring young nationalists in the region.

Explanation

The Kisan Sabha at Munger was organized in 1922-23 by a collaborative effort of several prominent leaders. Among them, Muhammad Zubair was elected as its president, and Shri Krishna Singh was the vice-president. As both Shri Krishna Singh and Mohammed Jubair (Muhammad Zubair) were instrumental in organizing this Kisan Sabha, the option "more than one of the above" is the correct choice, represented by E.

Explanation

The Bihar Socialist Party was formed in 1934, emerging from earlier socialist groups and conferences in the region. Jayaprakash Narayan was a key figure in its establishment and served as its first general secretary. He played a crucial role in shaping the socialist movement in Bihar and later, at the national level, as a founding member of the Congress Socialist Party.

Explanation

Many prominent leaders from Bihar were members of the Constituent Assembly of India. Among the options provided, A. N. Sinha (Anugrah Narayan Sinha), Rajendra Prasad, and Jagjivan Ram were all significant members from Bihar. Since more than one of the listed options were members, the correct answer is E, "more than one of the above".

Explanation

In 1937, following the provincial elections held under the Government of India Act 1935, the Muslim Independent Party formed the first ministry in Bihar. This interim government was led by Muhammad Yunus, who became the first Premier (Chief Minister) of Bihar. The Congress Party initially refused to form a government but later did so after assurances from the Viceroy.

Explanation

Rajendra Prasad, in his influential work "India Divided," attributed the genesis of Pakistan to Lord Minto. He argued that the introduction of separate electorates for Muslims through the Minto-Morley Reforms of 1909 was a crucial step that fostered communal division and separatist tendencies. This policy, designed by Minto, is considered by many historians, including Prasad, to have laid the groundwork for the eventual partition of the subcontinent and the creation of Pakistan.

Explanation

Patna Lawn was officially renamed Gandhi Maidan on the eve of India's independence in 1947. This historic ground, a prominent venue for political rallies and public gatherings during the freedom struggle, was dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi to honor his immense contributions to India's independence movement. The renaming symbolized the new nation's homage to the Father of the Nation.

Explanation

The Bombay Presidency Association was established in 1885 by a prominent group of Indian leaders, including Pherozeshah Mehta, K. T. Telang, and Badruddin Tyabji. All three individuals listed in options A, B, and D were co-founders of this important political organization. Therefore, stating that it was established by "more than one of the above" correctly reflects the collective effort in its formation.

Explanation

The Imperial Cadet Corps was established by Lord Curzon in 1901 during his tenure as Viceroy of India. The primary objective of the Corps was to provide military training and education to young Indian princes and sons of aristocratic families. This initiative aimed to create a loyal Indian officer cadre and integrate Indian elites more closely with the British imperial system.

Explanation

The Declaration of the Partition of Bengal was officially announced on 19th July 1905, by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India. This declaration proposed the division of the large province of Bengal into two separate entities. Although the partition came into effect on 16th October 1905, the initial announcement that triggered widespread protests and the Swadeshi Movement occurred on 19th July.

Explanation

Madan Lal Dhingra, an Indian revolutionary and nationalist, assassinated Sir Curzon Wyllie, a British Indian Army officer and political aide-de-camp to the Secretary of State for India, on July 1, 1909, in London. Dhingra was a member of the India House, an organization of Indian students in London led by Shyamji Krishna Varma. He was subsequently arrested, tried, and found guilty of murder. Dhingra was sentenced to death and executed by hanging on August 17, 1909.

Explanation

The Government of India Act, 1919, also known as the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, introduced several changes to the administration of British India. Among its provisions, the Act created the office of the High Commissioner for India in London. This new position was established to relieve the Secretary of State for India of some of his functions, particularly related to the agency work, stores, and trade. The High Commissioner acted as India's representative in the United Kingdom.

Explanation

The Indian National Congress did not participate in the First Round Table Conference, which took place from November 1930 to January 1931, because it was actively engaged in the Civil Disobedience Movement. While Mahatma Gandhi, representing the Congress, did attend the Second Round Table Conference in September-December 1931 following the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, the Congress boycotted the Third Round Table Conference, held in November-December 1932. Therefore, the Congress did not take part in both the First and Third conferences.

Explanation

Mahatma Gandhi presided over only one session of the Indian National Congress during his extensive involvement with the organization. This notable occasion was the 39th session of the Indian National Congress, which took place in Belgaum (now Belagavi), Karnataka, in 1924. This session is significant as it marks the only time Gandhi held the presidential position of the Congress.

Explanation

The Cabinet Mission was dispatched to India in March 1946 by the British government to discuss the transfer of power to Indian leadership. The mission comprised three members of the British Cabinet: Lord Pethick-Lawrence, who was the Secretary of State for India, Sir Stafford Cripps, President of the Board of Trade, and A. V. Alexander, First Lord of the Admiralty. Lord Wavell was the then Viceroy of India and played a crucial role in discussions with the Mission and Indian political leaders, but he was not a member of the Cabinet Mission itself.

Explanation

Choudhry Rahmat Ali, a Pakistani nationalist and one of the earliest proponents of the creation of Pakistan, authored the famous pamphlet "Now or Never; Are We to Live or Perish Forever?" in 1933. In this pamphlet, he coined the term "Pakistan" and advocated for a separate Muslim state in Northwest India. This publication played a significant role in shaping the demand for a separate homeland for Muslims.

Explanation

Lord William Bentinck, who served as the Governor-General of Bengal from 1828 to 1835 and later as the first Governor-General of India, declared 'Sati' illegal. He passed the Bengal Sati Regulation in 1829, outlawing the practice of Sati throughout British India. This reform was a major social intervention against a prevalent and deeply rooted custom, undertaken with the support of Indian reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy.

Explanation

The Punjab Land Alienation Act was passed in 1900. This legislation was enacted by the British Indian government to protect the agricultural classes of Punjab from losing their land to non-agricultural moneylenders. The Act aimed to prevent the transfer of agricultural land from land-owning agricultural tribes to non-agricultural classes, thereby curbing rural indebtedness and preventing the fragmentation of landholdings.

Explanation

The Department of States, later known as the Ministry of States, was established in July 1947, just before India's independence, to manage the integration of the numerous princely states into the Indian Union. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, then Minister of Home Affairs, was appointed as the head of this crucial department. He, along with his secretary V.P. Menon, played a pivotal role in negotiating the accession of princely states to India.

Explanation

Let the number be N. According to the division algorithm, N = 342q + 47, where q is the quotient. We need to find the remainder when N is divided by 19. Since 342 is divisible by 19 (342 = 19 × 18), we can rewrite the equation as N = (19 × 18)q + 47. Now, we divide the remainder 47 by 19: 47 = (19 × 2) + 9. Substituting this back, we get N = 19 × 18q + 19 × 2 + 9, which simplifies to N = 19(18q + 2) + 9. Therefore, when the number is divided by 19, the remainder is 9.

Explanation

A person spending 66 2/3% of their income means they save 100% - 66 2/3% = 33 1/3% of their income. This percentage can be expressed as a fraction: 33 1/3% = 100/300 = 1/3. Since their monthly saving is ₹1,200, which represents 1/3 of their total income, their total monthly income is 3 ₹1,200 = ₹3,600. Their monthly expenses are 2/3 of their income (66 2/3%), so expenses = (2/3) ₹3,600 = ₹2,400.

Explanation

Let the cost price (CP) of the article be ₹100. If the man gains 20% by selling it for a certain price, the initial selling price (SP1) is CP + 20% of CP = ₹100 + ₹20 = ₹120. If he sells the article at double the price, the new selling price (SP2) becomes 2 ₹120 = ₹240. The new profit will be SP2 - CP = ₹240 - ₹100 = ₹140. The percentage of profit is calculated as (Profit / CP) 100 = (₹140 / ₹100) * 100 = 140%.

Explanation

If 10 women complete a work in 7 days, then 1 woman completes 1/70 of the work in 1 day. Therefore, 5 women complete 5/70 = 1/14 of the work in 1 day. If 10 children complete the work in 14 days, then 10 children complete 1/14 of the work in 1 day. When 5 women and 10 children work together, their combined daily work rate is (1/14) + (1/14) = 2/14 = 1/7 of the work. If they complete 1/7 of the work in one day, they will complete the entire work in 7 days.

Explanation

To find the numbers divisible by 7 between 11 and 90, we identify the first multiple of 7 greater than 11 and the last multiple of 7 less than 90. The first multiple is 14 (7 x 2). The last multiple is 84 (7 x 12). The numbers form an arithmetic progression: 14, 21, ..., 84. The number of terms can be found using the formula: (Last Term - First Term) / Common Difference + 1. So, (84 - 14) / 7 + 1 = 70 / 7 + 1 = 10 + 1 = 11.

Explanation

The speed of the man in still water is 7.5 km/hr and the speed of the current is 1.5 km/hr. Downstream speed is 7.5 + 1.5 = 9 km/hr. Upstream speed is 7.5 - 1.5 = 6 km/hr. Let the distance to the place be D km. The time taken to row downstream is D/9 hours and upstream is D/6 hours. The total time taken is 50 minutes, which is 50/60 = 5/6 hours. So, D/9 + D/6 = 5/6. Combining the fractions gives (2D + 3D)/18 = 5/6, which simplifies to 5D/18 = 5/6. Multiplying both sides by 18 yields 5D = 5 (18/6) = 5 3 = 15. Therefore, D = 15/5 = 3 km.

Explanation

Let P be the principal, R be the annual interest rate, and A be the amount. The formula for compound interest is A = P(1 + R/100)ⁿ. Given that the amount is ₹4,624 in 2 years and ₹4,913 in 3 years, we can write two equations: P(1 + R/100)² = 4624 and P(1 + R/100)³ = 4913. Dividing the second equation by the first gives (1 + R/100) = 4913 / 4624 = 1.0625. Substituting this value back into the first equation, P (1.0625)² = 4624, which simplifies to P 1.12890625 = 4624. Solving for P, we get P = 4624 / 1.12890625 = ₹4,096.

Explanation

The face value of each share is ₹20, and it pays a 9% dividend. The annual dividend per share is 9% of ₹20, which is (9/100) 20 = ₹1.80. The man wants to earn an interest of 12% on his investment, which is the market value of the share. Let the market value of each share be M. So, the dividend of ₹1.80 should represent 12% of M. We can set up the equation: 12% of M = ₹1.80. This means (12/100) M = 1.80. Solving for M, we get M = (1.80 * 100) / 12 = 180 / 12 = ₹15.

Explanation

A invested ₹76,000 for the entire year (12 months). So, A's capital-time product is 76000 12. B invested ₹57,000. Let B join after 'x' months, meaning B's investment was for (12 - x) months. B's capital-time product is 57000 (12 - x). The profit is divided in the ratio of their capital-time products, which is given as 2:1 for A:B. Thus, (76000 12) / (57000 (12 - x)) = 2 / 1. Simplifying the equation, (76 12) / (57 (12 - x)) = 2. Dividing both numerator and denominator by 19, we get (4 12) / (3 (12 - x)) = 2. This becomes 48 / (3 * (12 - x)) = 2, or 16 / (12 - x) = 2. Solving for (12 - x), we get 12 - x = 16 / 2 = 8. Therefore, x = 12 - 8 = 4. B joined after 4 months.