MPPSC Prelims 2017 Question Paper with Answers & Explanations

Explanation

Ghazi Malik, whose real name was Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, founded the Tughlaq dynasty in 1320 CE. He ascended the throne of the Delhi Sultanate after defeating Khusro Khan, the last ruler of the Khilji dynasty. Ghazi Malik adopted the title of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq upon becoming sultan, thereby establishing the Tughlaq dynasty. This dynasty ruled over the Delhi Sultanate from 1320 to 1413 CE.

Explanation

Alexander Cunningham is widely recognized as the 'Father of Indian Archaeology' due to his pivotal role in establishing and organizing the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1861. As its first Director-General, he systematically surveyed and excavated numerous ancient sites across India, laying the groundwork for future archaeological research. His meticulous work, including the documentation of artifacts, inscriptions, and architectural remains, provided a scientific framework for understanding India's ancient past. Cunningham's efforts transformed the study of Indian antiquities into a structured academic discipline.

Explanation

Mughal Emperor Akbar II bestowed the title of 'Raja' upon Ram Mohan Roy. This occurred when Akbar II, who reigned from 1806 to 1837, appointed Ram Mohan Roy as his envoy to Britain. Roy was sent to represent the emperor and plead for his pension and allowances before the British King William IV. Thus, the title of 'Raja' was a recognition of Roy's diplomatic mission on behalf of the Mughal emperor.

Explanation

The Act of 1909, also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, is primarily associated with the introduction of separate electorates. This provision granted Muslims the right to elect their representatives exclusively from their own community. This system formalized communal representation in Indian politics and was a significant step in the British policy of 'divide and rule'. While the Act also expanded legislative councils, the most controversial and impactful feature was the communal electorate.

Explanation

Muhammad Ghori defeated Jaichand of Kannauj in the Battle of Chandawar in 1194. Jaichand was a powerful Gahadavala king who ruled over a significant part of northern India. This victory was crucial for Muhammad Ghori as it further solidified his control over the Gangetic plains after his earlier victory in the Second Battle of Tarain. The defeat of Jaichand weakened the Rajput resistance and paved the way for the establishment of Turkish rule in India.

Explanation

The Khilji dynasty ruled the Delhi Sultanate for the shortest period, lasting approximately 30 years from 1290 to 1320 CE. In contrast, the Tughlaq dynasty ruled for about 94 years (1320-1414 CE), the Sayyid dynasty for 37 years (1414-1451 CE), and the Lodi dynasty for 75 years (1451-1526 CE). Despite its brief duration, the Khilji dynasty, particularly under Alauddin Khilji, saw significant military expansion and administrative reforms.

Explanation

Lord Dufferin served as the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888. A significant event during his time was the establishment of the Indian National Congress (INC) on December 28, 1885. The INC was formed as a platform for educated Indians to engage in political dialogue with the British Raj and advocate for greater representation in government. Although initially moderate in its demands, the Congress eventually became the leading force in India's independence movement.

Explanation

Abul Kalam Azad became the President of the Indian National Congress in 1923 at the age of 35, making him the youngest person to hold the position. In comparison, Jawaharlal Nehru was approximately 40 years old when he first became president in 1929. Ananda Mohan Bose presided over the Congress session in 1898 at around 51 years of age. Bhupendra Nath Bose served as President in 1914 when he was about 55 years old.

Explanation

While initial attempts at population enumeration were made in India as early as 1872, these were not synchronous or uniformly conducted across the country. The first regular and scientific census in India, which was synchronous and covered the entire country systematically, was conducted in 1881. This census was carried out under the supervision of W.C. Plowden, the Census Commissioner of India, during the tenure of Viceroy Lord Ripon, and established the decennial (ten-yearly) census tradition that continues to this day.

Explanation

Jawaharlal Nehru did not participate in the Second Round Table Conference. Mahatma Gandhi was the sole official representative of the Indian National Congress at the conference, which took place in London from September to December 1931. Mahadev Desai and Pyarelal Nayyar accompanied Gandhi as his secretaries. Madan Mohan Malaviya also attended the conference.

Explanation

The Caspian Sea is bordered by five countries: Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan. Iraq does not share a border with the Caspian Sea. It is located to the southwest of the Caspian Sea, separated by other countries.

Explanation

Kayals are shallow, brackish water lagoons or backwaters found along the Malabar Coast of Kerala, India. These unique geographical features are essentially inlets of the sea that are parallel to the coastline, often separated from the open ocean by sandbars or barrier islands. They are an interconnected network of lakes, canals, and rivers, playing a significant role in the region's ecosystem, transportation, and tourism. Famous examples include the Vembanad Kayal and Ashtamudi Kayal.

Explanation

Inselbergs are isolated hills or mountains that rise abruptly from a gently sloping or virtually level surrounding plain. They are primarily formed by the erosional action of wind and water, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, where differential weathering and erosion remove softer rock, leaving behind more resistant rock masses. Glaciers, on the other hand, are large, persistent bodies of dense ice that are constantly moving under their own weight. While glaciers are powerful agents of erosion and deposition, forming features like U-shaped valleys, cirques, and moraines, they are not the primary agents responsible for the formation of inselbergs. Therefore, the pairing of Inselberg with Glacier is incorrect.

Explanation

Stromboli is classified as an active volcano because it has been in an almost continuous state of eruption for at least the past 2,000 to 5,000 years. It is known for its persistent, mild to moderate explosive activity, often visible from a distance, earning it the nickname "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean". This characteristic eruptive pattern, involving frequent bursts of incandescent lava, is so distinctive that it is known as "Strombolian activity" worldwide. Stromboli continues to exhibit ongoing activity, with reports of lava flows and explosions as recently as February and April 2026.

Explanation

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted by the Parliament of India in 1974. This significant environmental legislation came into force on March 23, 1974. Its primary objective is to prevent and control water pollution across the country and to maintain or restore the wholesomeness of water. The Act also led to the establishment of Central and State Pollution Control Boards to regulate and monitor water quality.

Explanation

The 2011 Census of India reported the population density as 382 persons per square kilometer. This figure represents a significant increase from the 325 persons per square kilometer recorded in the 2001 Census. Population density is a crucial demographic indicator, showing how many people live in a given area. The increase reflects India's growing population over the decade.

Explanation

Nathu La is a mountain pass located in the Indian state of Sikkim, not Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated in the Dongkya Range of the Himalayas and connects Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. The other pairs are correctly matched: Lipulekh Pass is in Uttarakhand, Rohtang Pass is in Himachal Pradesh, and Palghat (Palakkad) Gap is in Kerala, bordering Tamil Nadu.

Explanation

A peneplain is a low-relief, gently undulating plain formed by prolonged erosion. This landform is primarily associated with the final stage of the geographical cycle of erosion, largely shaped by the action of rivers. Over millions of years, rivers and their tributaries wear down elevated terrain through fluvial erosion, reducing the landscape almost to its base level (often sea level). This extensive process of denudation, involving both vertical and lateral erosion, leads to the formation of a vast, nearly flat surface with minimal variations in height.

Explanation

The Toda are a small, traditionally pastoral community whose original habitat is the Nilgiri Mountains in southern India. They are considered one of the aboriginal tribes that have inhabited the Nilgiri Hills for a very long time. Their culture, religion, and economy are deeply intertwined with this region, revolving around their sacred buffalo herds and the natural environment of the Nilgiris. The Toda have lived in considerable isolation in these highlands for centuries, maintaining their unique way of life.

Explanation

Haldia Refinery is located in the state of West Bengal, India. It is operated by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and is situated in the East Midnapore district, near the confluence of the Haldi and Hooghly rivers. Commissioned in 1975, it is one of IndianOil's key refineries, playing a crucial role in supplying petroleum products to eastern and northeastern India.

Explanation

Papaver somniferum is the botanical name for the opium poppy, which is the plant from which opium and its derivatives like morphine and heroin are extracted. The other options are incorrect: Emblica Officinalis is the Indian gooseberry or Amla, Rauwolfia serpentina is known as Indian snakeroot or Sarpagandha, and Cinchona sp. refers to the genus of trees whose bark yields quinine, used to treat malaria. Therefore, Papaver somniferum is the correct botanical name for opium.

Explanation

Smallpox was officially declared eradicated from the world by the 33rd World Health Assembly on May 8, 1980. This historic achievement followed the last naturally occurring case of smallpox, which was diagnosed in Somalia in October 1977. The World Health Organization (WHO) spearheaded a global eradication campaign, which included widespread immunization and surveillance efforts. The certification of eradication by a global commission in December 1979 paved the way for the official declaration the following year.

Explanation

A bacteriophage, often shortened to phage, is a type of virus that specifically infects and replicates within bacteria. The term "bacteriophage" literally means "bacteria eater," reflecting their ability to destroy bacterial cells. These viruses inject their genetic material into a bacterium, hijacking its cellular machinery to produce more phages. This process ultimately leads to the lysis, or bursting, of the bacterial cell, releasing new viral particles. Therefore, a bacteriophage is a virus that infects bacteria.

Explanation

Meiosis is a specialized cell division that produces haploid gametes. In plants, this process occurs in the reproductive organs. Anthers are the part of the flower that produces pollen grains, and the formation of these pollen grains involves meiosis of microspore mother cells. Therefore, anthers are the best part to observe and study meiosis in plants. Shoot apex, root apex, and leaf cells primarily undergo mitosis for growth and development, not meiosis.

Explanation

Sound waves travel fastest in solids because the molecules in solids are much closer together and more tightly bonded than in liquids or gases. This close proximity and strong bonding allow the vibrations that constitute sound waves to be transferred more efficiently and quickly from one molecule to the next. In contrast, molecules in liquids are further apart, and even more so in gases, leading to slower sound propagation. The speed of sound is influenced by the elastic properties and density of the medium, with higher elasticity and lower density generally leading to faster sound travel.

Explanation

In the human eye, light from an object passes through the cornea, pupil, and lens. The lens then focuses this light onto the retina, which is a light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. The retina contains photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) that convert the light into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the brain via the optic nerve, where they are interpreted as an image. Therefore, the retina is the specific location where the image of an object is formed.

Explanation

The kidneys are vital organs in the human body responsible for filtering waste products and excess water from the blood. This process forms urine, which is then expelled from the body. This removal of metabolic waste products, such as urea, uric acid, and creatinine, along with excess salts and water, is the primary function of the excretory system. Therefore, the kidneys are a crucial component of the excretory system, maintaining the body's internal balance.

Explanation

Malaria is a serious disease caused by parasitic protozoans of the genus Plasmodium, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Protozoa are single-celled eukaryotic organisms, and the Plasmodium parasite multiplies in the liver and then infects red blood cells, leading to the characteristic symptoms of malaria. In contrast, cholera and diphtheria are bacterial infections, while pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, but not primarily protozoa. Thus, malaria is the correct answer as it is distinctly caused by protozoa.

Explanation

Convection is a mode of heat transfer that involves the movement of fluid particles. This process occurs when warmer, less dense parts of a fluid rise, and cooler, denser parts sink, creating a convection current that transfers heat. Solids have fixed particle positions and cannot flow, preventing heat transfer by convection. A vacuum lacks any matter, so there are no particles to move and transfer heat. Therefore, convection can only take place in substances that can flow, which are gases and liquids.

Explanation

Paul Muller is known for his discovery of the insecticidal properties of DDT, for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1948. The discovery of Vitamin D and its role in preventing rickets is primarily attributed to Elmer McCollum and Edward Mellanby in the early 20th century. Therefore, the pair "Vitamin D-Paul Muller" is not correctly matched.

Explanation

The power of a lens is measured in dioptres. A dioptre is the reciprocal of the focal length of the lens measured in meters. This unit quantifies how strongly a lens converges or diverges light. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as aeon refers to a long period of time, lumen is a unit of luminous flux, and candela is a unit of luminous intensity.

Explanation

Graphite is an excellent lubricant due to its unique layered structure. Its carbon atoms are arranged in hexagonal rings, forming sheets that can easily slide over one another. This weak interlayer bonding allows graphite to reduce friction between surfaces. It is particularly effective in high-temperature environments where liquid lubricants might break down. This property makes it valuable in various industrial applications.

Explanation

Nitrous oxide is commonly known as 'laughing gas' due to the euphoric and sometimes hallucinatory effects it can produce when inhaled. These effects often include feelings of giddiness and lightheadedness, which can lead to laughter. It is a chemical compound with the formula N2O. It has been used for its anesthetic and analgesic properties, particularly in dentistry, since the 19th century.

Explanation

Lightning is a massive discharge of electric energy. When lightning strikes a tree, this tremendous amount of electric energy is rapidly converted into heat energy due to the resistance of the tree's sap and wood. The intense heat generated by this conversion causes the water within the tree to instantly vaporize and expand explosively, and can ignite the tree's flammable components, leading to burning or even splitting the tree apart. Therefore, it is the electric energy in lightning that is responsible for its destructive power, including the ability to burn a tree.

Explanation

Tajamul Islam, an eight-year-old from Jammu and Kashmir, is famously associated with the sport of kickboxing. She achieved international recognition by winning a gold medal at the World Kickboxing Championship in Italy in November 2016, competing in the sub-junior category. This made her one of the youngest world champions in the sport's history. She has continued her success, becoming a two-time world kickboxing champion.

Explanation

Sameer Dad is a former Indian field hockey forward who was born in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. He represented India at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and has been involved with Madhya Pradesh hockey, including taking charge as head coach of the Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy. Kirti Patel is an Indian cricketer from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, and also a social media influencer. Michael Nath is a British author and academic. Amit Banerjee is an Indian cardio-thoracic surgeon, academician, and university administrator, or a computer science professor, or a professor at Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal. Therefore, Sameer Dad is the correct answer as he is a hockey player from Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

The tradition of cricket in India began with the establishment of the Parsi Club. The Parsi community was among the first Indians to embrace and promote cricket, forming clubs like the Oriental Cricket Club in Bombay (now Mumbai) around 1848. These pioneering efforts by the Parsis laid the foundation for organized cricket among native Indians. The Parsi Cricket Club, established in 1876, further elevated Parsi cricket, leading to significant matches against European teams and contributing to the sport's growth and popularity in India.

Explanation

Roop Singh Stadium is located in Gwalior, a major city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is an international cricket stadium named after the legendary Indian hockey player Roop Singh. The stadium has a rich history, having hosted several One Day International (ODI) matches, including the historic game where Sachin Tendulkar scored the first double century in ODI cricket in 2010.

Explanation

Amitabh Vijayvargiya is strongly associated with cricket. He has a cricket profile on CricHeroes, detailing his matches, runs, and wickets. Furthermore, he is a former captain of the Madhya Pradesh Ranji team and has served as the head of the MP Ranji selection committee. Vijayvargiya has also been a member of the BCCI's tour and program determination committee, highlighting his deep involvement in the sport.

Explanation

The Cricket World Cup played in 1987 was officially known as the Reliance Cup. This was due to sponsorship reasons, as Reliance Industries funded the tournament. It was the fourth Cricket World Cup and the first to be held outside England, co-hosted by India and Pakistan. Australia won the tournament, defeating England in the final.

Explanation

Sachin Tendulkar received the Arjuna Award in 1994 for his outstanding achievements in cricket. This prestigious award is given by the Government of India to recognize exceptional performance in sports. It was one of the first major government awards he received in his illustrious career.

Explanation

The Commonwealth Games began in 1930, with the inaugural event held in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. At its inception, the games were known as the British Empire Games. The idea for a multi-sport event bringing together nations of the British Empire had been discussed since the late 19th century, but it was Canadian journalist Melville Marks Robinson who played a pivotal role in establishing the first official games. Since then, the games have been held every four years, with exceptions for 1942 and 1946 due to World War II. The name officially changed to the Commonwealth Games in 1978.

Explanation

India, England, and Pakistan have all won the T-20 Cricket World Cup (Men). India has won three times (2007, 2024, 2026), England twice (2010, 2022), and Pakistan once (2009). While Australia had not won the tournament for a significant period, they secured their first T-20 World Cup title in 2021. Therefore, if this question refers to a period before 2021, Australia would have been the correct answer as a country that had never won the tournament.

Explanation

London has hosted the Olympic Games three times: in 1908, 1948, and 2012. The 1968 Summer Olympics, however, were held in Mexico City, Mexico. Therefore, 1968 is the year when the Olympics were not held in London among the given options.

Explanation

Video conferencing is an internet service that enables real-time audio and video communication between two or more participants in different locations. It facilitates live, interactive conversations by transmitting both sound and visual images simultaneously. This technology allows for virtual meetings and discussions, making it the precise service for 'audio' and 'video' conversation. While 'video chat' is a form of video conferencing, 'video conferencing' is the more comprehensive and accurate term for the service described.

Explanation

A web browser is an application software used to access and display content on the World Wide Web. Opera, Vivaldi, and Mozilla Firefox are all examples of web browsers, designed to navigate and render web pages. In contrast, Google Apps (now often referred to as Google Workspace) is a suite of web-based productivity and collaboration tools, which includes applications like Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Calendar. These applications run within a web browser but are not web browsers themselves.

Explanation

In computer security, "crackers" are individuals who break into computer systems with malicious intent. They aim to cause damage, steal information, or gain illegal profits by exploiting vulnerabilities, cracking passwords, or bypassing security measures. This malicious intent aligns directly with the definition of "black hat hackers," who are cybercriminals that exploit system weaknesses for personal or financial gain, disruption, or sabotage. While the term "cracker" is sometimes considered outdated, it is often used interchangeably with "black hat hacker" to distinguish malicious actors from ethical hackers. Therefore, crackers are also known as black hat hackers due to their shared malicious motivations and illegal activities.

Explanation

DuckDuckGo is a search engine, similar to Google or Bing, that allows users to find information on the internet. Its primary function is to provide search results for queries, including web pages, images, videos, and news. A key distinguishing feature of DuckDuckGo is its strong emphasis on user privacy, as it does not track user searches or collect personal data. While DuckDuckGo also offers browser extensions and a dedicated web browser, its core product and identity is as a privacy-focused search engine.

Explanation

Ethernet is a widely used technology for connecting devices in a local area network (LAN). A LAN covers a small geographical area, such as a home, office, or school, and typically provides high-speed data transfer rates. Ethernet cables and protocols are designed for this localized connectivity, enabling computers, printers, and other network devices to communicate within a limited space. Unlike Wide Area Networks (WANs) or Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) which span larger distances, Ethernet's scope is inherently local. While Wi-Fi is also a LAN technology, it is wireless, whereas Ethernet specifically refers to wired connections.

Explanation

A modem, which stands for modulator-demodulator, performs two essential functions for data transmission. First, it converts digital signals from a computer into analog signals, a process called modulation, so they can be transmitted over analog transmission mediums like telephone lines or cable networks. Second, upon receiving an analog signal, it converts it back into a digital signal that a computer or other device can understand, a process known as demodulation. This dual capability allows digital devices to communicate over analog infrastructure.

Explanation

The Government of India Act of 1935 introduced the 'Principle of Constitutional Autocracy' by vesting significant executive authority in the Governor-General at the center and Governors in the provinces, acting on behalf of the British Crown. While the Act granted provincial autonomy and expanded Indian participation in governance, it retained ultimate power and control with the British through extensive discretionary and overriding powers of these officials. This meant that despite the appearance of a constitutional government, the final authority rested with British appointees, effectively creating an autocratic system within a constitutional framework. The Act's limitations, such as British control over defense and foreign affairs, and the Governor-General's veto power, underscored this principle.

Explanation

Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist, is widely credited as the inventor of the World Wide Web (WWW). He developed the foundational technologies, including the first web server, the first web browser, and the Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), while working at CERN in 1989. His intention was to create a system for automated information-sharing among scientists. Bill Gates is known for co-founding Microsoft and his contributions to personal computer software, not the WWW. Ray Tomlinson is recognized for inventing email.

Explanation

A cricket ball rolling on level ground slows down and comes to rest due to the presence of forces opposing its motion. The primary forces at play are friction between the ball and the ground, and air resistance. These forces act in the opposite direction to the ball's movement, causing it to decelerate. According to Newton's first law of motion, an object in motion will stay in motion unless acted upon by an external force. In this case, the opposing forces of friction and air resistance are the external forces that bring the ball to a stop.

Explanation

Sultan Ghiyaauddin Khilji (also known as Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji) is credited with constructing the Jahaz Mahal in Mandu. This unique double-storeyed palace, often referred to as the "Ship Palace," was built between two artificial lakes, Munj Talao and Kapur Talao, giving it the appearance of a ship floating on water. It served as a large harem for the Sultan, housing thousands of women. The construction of the Jahaz Mahal took place during his reign from 1469 to 1500.

Explanation

Ain-ul-Mulk Multani was a prominent official and military commander who served the Delhi Sultanate during the Khalji and Tughlaq dynasties, beginning his career around 1296 CE. He held important positions under Alauddin Khilji, including governor of Malwa and Devagiri, and also served Muhammad bin Tughlaq and Firoz Tughlaq. In contrast, Iltutmish, a ruler of the Mamluk dynasty, reigned much earlier, from 1211 to 1236 CE. Due to this significant chronological difference, Ain-ul-Mulk Multani could not have served under Iltutmish.

Explanation

Angela Merkel served as the Chancellor of Germany from 2005 to 2021. She was never the President of Cote d'Ivoire. The President of Cote d'Ivoire since 2010 has been Alassane Ouattara. Therefore, the pairing of "The President of Cote d'Ivoire - Angela Merkel" is incorrect. Johann Schneider-Ammann was the President of Switzerland in 2016, Enrique Peña Nieto was the President of Mexico from 2012 to 2018, and Hage Geingob was the President of Namibia from 2015 until his death in 2024.

Explanation

The Ajanta mountain range is spread entirely within the state of Maharashtra in India. In contrast, the Aravalli Range extends across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi. The Satpura Range covers parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. Lastly, the Sahyadri, also known as the Western Ghats, traverses multiple states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Thus, Ajanta is the only range listed that is confined to a single Indian state.

Explanation

The tenure of the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission was originally set at five years or until the attainment of 70 years of age, whichever came earlier, as per the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. This provision ensured a substantial term for the Chairperson to carry out their duties. While the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, later reduced this tenure to three years, the question refers to the earlier established term. Therefore, based on the original Act, a tenure of five years was correct.

Explanation

N.M. Lokhande is widely recognized as the first leader to organize the labor movement in India. He established the Bombay Mill Hands Association in 1884, which is considered the first labor organization in the country. Lokhande actively campaigned for improved working conditions, including weekly holidays and reduced working hours for mill workers. His efforts led to the formation of the Factory Labour Commission in 1890, and he played a significant role in the enactment of the Factory Act of 1891. He also edited the labor journal "Deenbandhu" to voice workers' issues.

Explanation

Joe Root is an English international cricketer. He is a right-handed batsman who plays for England in Tests and One Day Internationals (ODIs) and has also captained the Test team. Root is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of his era and holds the record for both most Test and most ODI centuries for England. He was also part of the England team that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

Explanation

In July 2016, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Jacob Zuma, Jacob Zuma was the President of South Africa. Zuma served as the President of South Africa from 2009 until his resignation in 2018. Their meeting in July 2016 was part of Prime Minister Modi's four-nation Africa tour, aimed at strengthening ties, particularly in the economic sphere. During their discussions, they focused on boosting cooperation in various sectors, including defense, manufacturing, mining, and trade.

Explanation

Mohun Bagan Club, one of Asia's oldest football clubs, was founded on August 15, 1889, in Kolkata, West Bengal. It was initially established as Mohun Bagan Sporting Club by members of three prominent aristocratic Bengali families. The club's formation was a significant step towards promoting patriotic feelings and an awakening spirit among Bengalis during the Indian independence movement.

Explanation

Tsai Ing-wen became the first woman President of Taiwan and was inaugurated on May 20, 2016. She won the presidential election on January 16, 2016, with a landslide victory.

Regarding the other options: Myanmar's de facto leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, became State Counsellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs in March 2016, but she was not the president. The president of Myanmar at that time was Htin Kyaw. Angola has not had a female president. Ana Afonso Dias Lourenço became the First Lady of Angola in September 2017, and Isabel dos Santos, daughter of a former president, was appointed chair of the state oil company in June 2016, but neither held the presidential office. Namibia's first woman president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, was sworn into office on March 21, 2025, after winning the November 2024 presidential elections.

Explanation

Novak Djokovic won the Men's Singles Title of the French Open in 2016. He defeated Andy Murray in the final with a score of 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-4. This victory marked Djokovic's first French Open title and completed his career Grand Slam, making him the eighth man in singles to achieve this feat. He also became the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to hold all four major titles simultaneously.

Explanation

Manohar Aich was an Indian bodybuilder who earned the nickname 'Pocket Hercules' due to his short stature of 4 feet 11 inches combined with his exceptional strength and muscular physique. He achieved international recognition by winning the Mr. Universe title in 1952. Aich's career highlights also include winning the Mr. Hercules title in 1950 and three gold medals at the Asian Games. His dedication to developing his musculature through progressive resistance exercise clearly identifies him as a bodybuilder.

Explanation

'Ranjit Sub-1' and 'Bahadur Sub-1' are two new varieties of paddy (rice). These are high-yielding, submergence-tolerant rice varieties developed by the Assam Agricultural University, specifically designed to withstand floodwaters for extended periods, typically 10-15 days. They were developed using biotechnological tools to introgress a submergence-resistant gene from another rice variety. These varieties have been instrumental in helping farmers in flood-prone regions, particularly in Assam, to achieve better yields and reduce crop losses.

Explanation

Rodrigo Duterte was elected the 16th President of the Philippines in May 2016. The presidential elections in the Philippines were held on May 9, 2016, and Duterte won with 38.5% of the vote. He was officially proclaimed president-elect by the Philippine Congress on May 30, 2016. His six-year term as president began on June 30, 2016.

Explanation

Keshari Nath Tripathi administered the oath of office and secrecy to Mamata Banerjee as the Chief Minister of West Bengal on May 27, 2016. At that time, Keshari Nath Tripathi was serving as the Governor of West Bengal, a position he held from July 2014 to July 2019. The Governor of a state is constitutionally mandated to administer the oath to the Chief Minister. Therefore, option B is correct because he was the Governor of West Bengal during Mamata Banerjee's swearing-in ceremony.

Explanation

Himachal Pradesh was the first Indian state to launch a State Data Centre (SDC). The Himachal Pradesh State Data Centre (HPSDC) was commissioned on May 30, 2016, and inaugurated by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh on June 4, 2016, in Shimla. This SDC was also notable for being designed using a "green data centre" concept to minimize power requirements and increase power utilization efficiency. The SDC aims to provide 101 people-oriented services online through an integrated database, promoting paperless governance and efficient delivery of e-governance services.

Explanation

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formed its first government in Assam in May 2016, marking a historic victory for the party in the northeastern state. Sarbananda Sonowal was sworn in as the Chief Minister, leading a coalition that ended 15 years of Congress rule. In contrast, the BJP had formed governments in Rajasthan multiple times before 2016, with the first instance being in 1990. In Kerala, while the BJP secured its first MLA in 2016, it did not form the government. The BJP formed its first government in Odisha much later, in June 2024.

Explanation

Bhavani Prasad Mishra, a renowned Hindi poet and author, was born on March 29, 1913. His birthplace was the village of Tigaria, which is located in the Hoshangabad district of present-day Madhya Pradesh. Therefore, Hoshangabad is correctly identified as his birthplace.

Explanation

Sunil Lanba served as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Indian Navy. He assumed office on May 31, 2016, and demitted office on May 31, 2019, after a distinguished career spanning over four decades. As CNS, he also chaired the Chiefs of Staff Committee, coordinating tri-service defense matters.

Explanation

Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, was elected as the Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in June 2016. The voting by ICC's World Council took place in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He became the third Indian business leader to hold this prestigious position in the ICC's nearly 100-year history. Mittal succeeded Terry McGraw, Chairman Emeritus of S&P Global, who then became ICC's Honorary Chairman.

Explanation

The State Bank of India (SBI) was established on July 1, 1955. This occurred when the Government of India nationalized the Imperial Bank of India, which had been formed in 1921 by merging the three Presidency Banks (Bank of Bengal, Bank of Bombay, and Bank of Madras). The nationalization was a result of an act passed in Parliament in May 1955, leading to the creation of SBI with a new social purpose. The Reserve Bank of India initially acquired a controlling interest in the Imperial Bank of India, subsequently renaming it the State Bank of India.

Explanation

B.S. Bassi, the former Police Commissioner of Delhi, was appointed as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in May 2016. He was administered the oath of office by the then UPSC Chairman, Deepak Gupta. This appointment followed his retirement as Delhi Police Commissioner in February 2016. The UPSC is a constitutional body responsible for recruiting candidates to various civil services and posts under the Union government.

Explanation

President Pranab Mukherjee visited China from May 24 to May 27, 2016. This four-day state visit aimed to discuss a range of bilateral issues including political, economic, educational, and people-to-people domains, as well as regional and global concerns. During his visit, President Mukherjee engaged with Chinese leaders in both Guangzhou and Beijing. He addressed the India-China Business Forum in Guangzhou and held talks with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing.

Explanation

Ivan Dodig, a professional tennis player known for his doubles and mixed doubles expertise, is from Croatia. He has frequently partnered with Sania Mirza in mixed doubles tournaments, including the Australian Open and French Open. Dodig has represented Croatia in various international competitions, such as the Davis Cup and the Olympic Games. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Croatia.

Explanation

Suhel Seth's book, "Mantras for Success: India's Greatest CEOs Tell You How to Win," was released in London in June 2016. The book, co-written with journalist Sunny Sen, was launched on June 17, 2016, at the London School of Economics by Britain's universities and science minister Jo Johnson. It features insights and ethical codes from 21 Indian CEOs on how they achieved success in the corporate world.

Explanation

The sculpture stolen from a Khajuraho Temple and returned by the Prime Minister of Canada to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was known as the "Parrot Lady". This 900-year-old (or 12th-century) sandstone sculpture depicts a woman with a parrot near her ear. It was seized in Canada in 2011 and subsequently handed over to India in 2015 by then-Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) believes the statue was taken from one of the unprotected monuments in the Khajuraho region.

Explanation

Uttararamacharitam is not a work by Kalidasa. Meghadutam, Kumarasambhavam, and Ritusamharam are all renowned literary works attributed to the classical Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. Uttararamacharitam, on the other hand, is a famous Sanskrit play written by Bhavabhuti, another prominent Sanskrit dramatist. Bhavabhuti's play focuses on the later life of Rama and Sita, distinguishing it from Kalidasa's known compositions.

Explanation

Madhav Sangeet College, recognized as the oldest music college in Madhya Pradesh, is located in Gwalior. It was founded in 1918 by Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, a prominent figure in Indian classical music. Gwalior has a rich musical heritage, being home to the Gwalior Gharana, one of the oldest gharanas of Indian classical music. This historical connection to music makes Gwalior a fitting location for such a significant institution. The college offers various courses in fine arts and cultural studies.

Explanation

A closed economy is an economic system that does not engage in international trade or financial exchanges with other nations. This means the country is entirely self-sufficient, producing all goods and services domestically. Consequently, a closed economy neither imports goods and services from other countries nor exports its own products to them. This isolation from global markets is a defining characteristic, making it distinct from an open economy.

Explanation

The 12th Five-Year Plan in India covered the period from 2012 to 2017. This plan aimed to achieve "Faster, More Inclusive and Sustainable Growth." It commenced at a time when the global economy was facing challenges, and India's growth had slowed down. The plan set a target of 8 percent growth over the five-year period.

Explanation

India Vision 2020 was prepared by a committee chaired by Dr. S. P. Gupta. This committee was constituted by the Planning Commission of India in June 2000 to develop a vision statement for India's development strategy through 2020. The report aimed to identify critical challenges and suggest strategies for sustained and inclusive growth. The other committees listed, such as the Malhotra Committee and Narasimham Committee, are known for their recommendations on reforms in the Indian insurance and banking sectors, respectively, and are not associated with India Vision 2020.

Explanation

Carbon Trading is an emissions trading scheme designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, primarily associated with the Kyoto Protocol. The Montreal Protocol, on the other hand, is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of numerous substances responsible for ozone depletion. Therefore, Carbon Trading is not correctly matched with the Montreal Protocol as they address different environmental issues and are governed by separate international agreements.

Explanation

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) provides financial assistance exclusively to its member countries that are experiencing economic difficulties, such as balance of payments crises. These loans are typically granted to governments, not private entities or central banks directly, and often come with conditions requiring policy reforms. While the IMF offers various lending instruments tailored to different needs and income classifications, eligibility is always contingent upon a country's membership. Therefore, the IMF cannot grant loans to just any country or solely to developed countries, making option C the correct statement.

Explanation

K.L. Rahul was declared 'man of the Series' in the India - Zimbabwe One Day Cricket Series in 2016. He had an exceptional debut series, scoring 196 runs in 3 matches, which included an unbeaten century and two fifties. Rahul became the first Indian batsman to score a century on his One Day International debut, achieving this feat in the first match of the series. His consistent performance and historic debut innings were key factors in him receiving the award.

Explanation

Barabati Stadium is located in Cuttack, a city in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a prominent sports venue primarily used for cricket and association football. The stadium is owned and operated by the Odisha Olympic Association and is the home ground for the Odisha cricket team. It has hosted numerous national and international matches, including One Day Internationals and Test matches.

Explanation

Bal Krishna Sharma 'Naveen' is the author of the book Rashmirekha. Rashmirekha is listed as one of his notable poetry anthologies, alongside other works such as Kumkum, Apalak, Kwasi, Vinoba Stavan, Urmila, and Hum Vishpaee Janam Ke. Sharma, a prominent Hindi poet and freedom activist, published several collections of poems under his pen name 'Naveen'.

Explanation

Chandrashekar Azad was born in the village of Bhabhra, which was formerly part of the Jhabua district in Madhya Pradesh. This village is now known as Azadnagar and is located in the Alirajpur district, which was carved out of Jhabua district in 2008. Therefore, among the given options, Jhabua is the correct district where he was born. His birth date was July 23, 1906.

Explanation

Upendra, Munj, and Udayaditya were all significant rulers of the Parmar (Paramara) dynasty. Upendra, also known as Krishnaraja, is credited as the founder of the Paramara dynasty in the Malwa region in the early 9th century CE. Munj, or Vakpati Munja, was a powerful and influential Paramara king who reigned in the late 10th century CE, known for his military prowess and patronage of literature. Udayaditya was another Paramara king who ruled Malwa, succeeding Jayasimha I around 1070 CE and working to restore Paramara sovereignty. In contrast, Gangeyadev was a prominent ruler of the Kalachuri dynasty of Tripuri, not the Parmar dynasty.

Explanation

Dhangdev, also known as Dhanga, was a powerful and significant ruler of the Chandela dynasty of Jejakabhukti. He reigned from approximately 950 to 999 AD, or 945 to 1002 AD, and is credited with expanding the Chandela kingdom and establishing its sovereignty. During his rule, the Chandelas reached the peak of their power, and he was a great patron of art and literature. Dhangdev is particularly known for his contributions to the magnificent temples at Khajuraho, including the construction of the Kandariya Mahadeva temple dedicated to Shiva. The region ruled by the Chandelas was known as Jejakabhukti, which corresponds to the modern-day Bundelkhand region.

Explanation

Habib Tanvir, a renowned Indian playwright, theatre director, poet, and actor, was born on September 1, 1923, in Raipur. At the time of his birth, Raipur was part of the Central Provinces in British India, and is now the capital of Chhattisgarh. His early life and education took place in Raipur, where he also had his initial exposure to performance arts.

Explanation

Section 14 of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, explicitly provides for the arrangement of Special Courts. This section mandates that for the purpose of speedy trial, the State Government shall, with the concurrence of the Chief Justice of the High Court, establish an Exclusive Special Court for one or more districts. In districts with fewer cases, a Court of Session can be specified as a Special Court. These courts are empowered to directly take cognizance of offenses under the Act. The establishment of these courts is crucial for ensuring that cases under the Act are disposed of efficiently, ideally within two months.

Explanation

The investigating officer is required to complete the investigation and submit the report under Section 4 of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. This report must be submitted to the Special Court within a period of thirty days. This timeframe ensures a swift investigation and prosecution of offenses committed under the Act. This provision is crucial for the timely delivery of justice to victims of atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Explanation

The Aitareya Brahmana is directly associated with the Rigveda. It is one of the two Brahmanas that belong to the Rigveda, the other being the Kaushitaki Brahmana. These texts provide explanations and instructions on the Vedic rituals, symbolism, and mythology related to the hymns of the Rigveda. The Gopatha Brahmana belongs to the Atharvaveda, the Shatapatha Brahmana is part of the Shukla Yajurveda, and the Taittiriya Brahmana is associated with the Krishna Yajurveda.

Explanation

The 'Goods and Services Tax' (GST) was proposed by a task force headed by Dr. Vijay Kelkar. In 2002, the Vajpayee government established a task force under Kelkar to suggest tax reforms. This task force, officially known as the Task Force on Direct and Indirect Taxes, recommended a comprehensive GST based on the Value Added Tax principle in December 2002. The Kelkar Committee's recommendations in 2005 were instrumental in advocating for the rollout of GST in India.

Explanation

The Fundamental Duties were not originally present in the Constitution of India. They were incorporated into the Constitution by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. This amendment added a new Part IV-A to the Constitution, consisting of Article 51A, which enumerates the ten Fundamental Duties. These duties were introduced based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee. Later, an eleventh Fundamental Duty was added by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002.

Explanation

The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the land, establishing the framework for governance and defining the powers and responsibilities of both the Central Government and the individual states. It outlines the distribution of legislative, executive, and financial powers between these two levels of government, ensuring a clear division of authority. All governmental bodies, including the President, Prime Minister, and Parliament, derive their authority and functions directly from the provisions of the Constitution. Therefore, the Constitution serves as the ultimate source of power for both the states and the Central Government.

Explanation

A pressure group is an organization that attempts to influence public policy without seeking to directly hold political power. Trade unions are classic examples of pressure groups, as they advocate for the interests of their members (workers) by lobbying the government and employers on issues like wages, working conditions, and labor laws. In contrast, members of the Lok Sabha, a Panchayat, and the Cabinet are all directly involved in the governance and legislative processes, either as elected representatives or executive decision-makers, and thus are part of the government itself, not external pressure groups. Therefore, members of a trade union are considered a pressure group.