DAY – 38 : Insta 75 Days Revision Plan-2025 : ART & CULTURE

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• Question 1 of 30 1. Question 1 points Consider the following pairs regarding features associated with Stupa architecture: Harmika : Relic chamber located at the base Medhi : Elevated circular terrace for circumambulation Torana : Ceremonial gateway Anda : Hemispherical dome structure How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs (c) Only three pairs (d) All four pairs Correct Solution: C Pair 1 is incorrect: The Harmika is a square railing-like structure on top of the Anda, symbolizing the abode of gods. The relic chamber is typically within the Anda or at its base. Pair 2 is correct: The Medhi is the raised circular platform or terrace around the base of the Anda, used for ritual circumambulation (pradakshina). Pair 3 is correct: Toranas are the ornate ceremonial gateways, usually placed at the cardinal directions, providing access to the stupa precinct. Pair 4 is correct: The Anda is the main hemispherical dome structure of the stupa, representing the mound of dirt covering the Buddha’s remains or the universe. Incorrect Solution: C Pair 1 is incorrect: The Harmika is a square railing-like structure on top of the Anda, symbolizing the abode of gods. The relic chamber is typically within the Anda or at its base. Pair 2 is correct: The Medhi is the raised circular platform or terrace around the base of the Anda, used for ritual circumambulation (pradakshina). Pair 3 is correct: Toranas are the ornate ceremonial gateways, usually placed at the cardinal directions, providing access to the stupa precinct. Pair 4 is correct: The Anda is the main hemispherical dome structure of the stupa, representing the mound of dirt covering the Buddha’s remains or the universe.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following pairs regarding features associated with Stupa architecture:

• Harmika : Relic chamber located at the base

• Medhi : Elevated circular terrace for circumambulation

• Torana : Ceremonial gateway

• Anda : Hemispherical dome structure

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

• (a) Only one pair

• (b) Only two pairs

• (c) Only three pairs

• (d) All four pairs

Solution: C

Pair 1 is incorrect: The Harmika is a square railing-like structure on top of the Anda, symbolizing the abode of gods. The relic chamber is typically within the Anda or at its base.

Pair 2 is correct: The Medhi is the raised circular platform or terrace around the base of the Anda, used for ritual circumambulation (pradakshina).

Pair 3 is correct: Toranas are the ornate ceremonial gateways, usually placed at the cardinal directions, providing access to the stupa precinct.

Pair 4 is correct: The Anda is the main hemispherical dome structure of the stupa, representing the mound of dirt covering the Buddha’s remains or the universe.

Solution: C

Pair 1 is incorrect: The Harmika is a square railing-like structure on top of the Anda, symbolizing the abode of gods. The relic chamber is typically within the Anda or at its base.

Pair 2 is correct: The Medhi is the raised circular platform or terrace around the base of the Anda, used for ritual circumambulation (pradakshina).

Pair 3 is correct: Toranas are the ornate ceremonial gateways, usually placed at the cardinal directions, providing access to the stupa precinct.

Pair 4 is correct: The Anda is the main hemispherical dome structure of the stupa, representing the mound of dirt covering the Buddha’s remains or the universe.

• Question 2 of 30 2. Question 1 points With reference to the Ajanta caves, consider the following statements: The caves only belong to the Mahayana phase of Buddhism. They exclusively contain Chaitya halls and lack Viharas. The paintings predominantly use the tempera technique. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: While Mahayana themes are prominent, Ajanta caves span different periods and include Hinayana phase caves as well (earlier Chaityas and Viharas). Caves 9, 10 (Chaityas) and 8, 12, 13, 15A (Viharas) belong to the earlier Hinayana phase. Statement 2 is incorrect: Ajanta caves contain both Chaityas (prayer halls, e.g., Caves 19, 26) and Viharas (monasteries or dwelling caves, e.g., Caves 1, 2, 16, 17). Statement 3 is correct: The paintings at Ajanta predominantly employ the tempera technique on a dry plaster surface, involving pigments mixed with a binding medium. Fresco technique (painting on wet plaster) is less characteristic of Ajanta. Therefore, only statement 3 is correct. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: While Mahayana themes are prominent, Ajanta caves span different periods and include Hinayana phase caves as well (earlier Chaityas and Viharas). Caves 9, 10 (Chaityas) and 8, 12, 13, 15A (Viharas) belong to the earlier Hinayana phase. Statement 2 is incorrect: Ajanta caves contain both Chaityas (prayer halls, e.g., Caves 19, 26) and Viharas (monasteries or dwelling caves, e.g., Caves 1, 2, 16, 17). Statement 3 is correct: The paintings at Ajanta predominantly employ the tempera technique on a dry plaster surface, involving pigments mixed with a binding medium. Fresco technique (painting on wet plaster) is less characteristic of Ajanta. Therefore, only statement 3 is correct.

#### 2. Question

With reference to the Ajanta caves, consider the following statements:

• The caves only belong to the Mahayana phase of Buddhism.

• They exclusively contain Chaitya halls and lack Viharas.

• The paintings predominantly use the tempera technique.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 3 only

• (c) 1 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: B

Statement 1 is incorrect: While Mahayana themes are prominent, Ajanta caves span different periods and include Hinayana phase caves as well (earlier Chaityas and Viharas). Caves 9, 10 (Chaityas) and 8, 12, 13, 15A (Viharas) belong to the earlier Hinayana phase.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Ajanta caves contain both Chaityas (prayer halls, e.g., Caves 19, 26) and Viharas (monasteries or dwelling caves, e.g., Caves 1, 2, 16, 17).

Statement 3 is correct: The paintings at Ajanta predominantly employ the tempera technique on a dry plaster surface, involving pigments mixed with a binding medium. Fresco technique (painting on wet plaster) is less characteristic of Ajanta.

Therefore, only statement 3 is correct.

Solution: B

Statement 2 is incorrect: Ajanta caves contain both Chaityas (prayer halls, e.g., Caves 19, 26) and Viharas (monasteries or dwelling caves, e.g., Caves 1, 2, 16, 17).

Therefore, only statement 3 is correct.

• Question 3 of 30 3. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Gandhara School of Art: It primarily used grey sandstone as its medium. It showed significant Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) influence. The themes were exclusively Buddhist. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: Grey or bluish-grey schist/sandstone was the primary material used for sculptures in the Gandhara region. Statement 2 is correct: The Gandhara school is renowned for its significant synthesis of Indian themes with Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) artistic styles and techniques, visible in drapery, anatomical realism, and facial features. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the primary focus of Gandhara art was indeed Buddhist, depicting the Buddha and Bodhisattvas and scenes from Buddhist Jataka tales, there are instances of secular themes and even depictions of Greco-Roman deities and other figures. Therefore, all three statements are correct. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: Grey or bluish-grey schist/sandstone was the primary material used for sculptures in the Gandhara region. Statement 2 is correct: The Gandhara school is renowned for its significant synthesis of Indian themes with Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) artistic styles and techniques, visible in drapery, anatomical realism, and facial features. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the primary focus of Gandhara art was indeed Buddhist, depicting the Buddha and Bodhisattvas and scenes from Buddhist Jataka tales, there are instances of secular themes and even depictions of Greco-Roman deities and other figures. Therefore, all three statements are correct.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Gandhara School of Art:

• It primarily used grey sandstone as its medium.

• It showed significant Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) influence.

• The themes were exclusively Buddhist.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 1 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: A

Statement 1 is correct: Grey or bluish-grey schist/sandstone was the primary material used for sculptures in the Gandhara region.

Statement 2 is correct: The Gandhara school is renowned for its significant synthesis of Indian themes with Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) artistic styles and techniques, visible in drapery, anatomical realism, and facial features.

Statement 3 is incorrect: While the primary focus of Gandhara art was indeed Buddhist, depicting the Buddha and Bodhisattvas and scenes from Buddhist Jataka tales, there are instances of secular themes and even depictions of Greco-Roman deities and other figures.

Therefore, all three statements are correct.

Solution: A

Statement 1 is correct: Grey or bluish-grey schist/sandstone was the primary material used for sculptures in the Gandhara region.

Therefore, all three statements are correct.

• Question 4 of 30 4. Question 1 points Which one of the following pairs of Philosophical School and its founder/proponent is correctly matched? (a) Vaisheshika : Kapila (b) Nyaya : Gautama (c) Samkhya : Kanada (d) Yoga : Jaimini Correct Solution: B Option (a) is incorrect: Vaisheshika school was founded by Kanada (Uluka). Kapila is associated with the Samkhya school. Option (b) is correct: The Nyaya school of philosophy, focusing on logic and epistemology, was founded by Akshapada Gautama. Option (c) is incorrect: Samkhya school was founded by Kapila. Kanada founded Vaisheshika. Option (d) is incorrect: Yoga school was systematized by Patanjali. Jaimini is associated with the Purva Mimamsa school. Therefore, only pair (b) is correctly matched. Incorrect Solution: B Option (a) is incorrect: Vaisheshika school was founded by Kanada (Uluka). Kapila is associated with the Samkhya school. Option (b) is correct: The Nyaya school of philosophy, focusing on logic and epistemology, was founded by Akshapada Gautama. Option (c) is incorrect: Samkhya school was founded by Kapila. Kanada founded Vaisheshika. Option (d) is incorrect: Yoga school was systematized by Patanjali. Jaimini is associated with the Purva Mimamsa school. Therefore, only pair (b) is correctly matched.

#### 4. Question

Which one of the following pairs of Philosophical School and its founder/proponent is correctly matched?

• (a) Vaisheshika : Kapila

• (b) Nyaya : Gautama

• (c) Samkhya : Kanada

• (d) Yoga : Jaimini

Solution: B

Option (a) is incorrect: Vaisheshika school was founded by Kanada (Uluka). Kapila is associated with the Samkhya school.

Option (b) is correct: The Nyaya school of philosophy, focusing on logic and epistemology, was founded by Akshapada Gautama.

Option (c) is incorrect: Samkhya school was founded by Kapila. Kanada founded Vaisheshika.

Option (d) is incorrect: Yoga school was systematized by Patanjali. Jaimini is associated with the Purva Mimamsa school.

Therefore, only pair (b) is correctly matched.

Solution: B

Option (a) is incorrect: Vaisheshika school was founded by Kanada (Uluka). Kapila is associated with the Samkhya school.

Option (b) is correct: The Nyaya school of philosophy, focusing on logic and epistemology, was founded by Akshapada Gautama.

Option (c) is incorrect: Samkhya school was founded by Kapila. Kanada founded Vaisheshika.

Option (d) is incorrect: Yoga school was systematized by Patanjali. Jaimini is associated with the Purva Mimamsa school.

Therefore, only pair (b) is correctly matched.

• Question 5 of 30 5. Question 1 points With reference to the Bhakti movement, consider the following statements: It universally rejected idol worship and ritualism. The Alvars and Nayanars were prominent early Bhakti saints in South India. It emphasized devotion and love as the means to achieve salvation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: While some strands of the Bhakti movement, particularly Nirguna bhakti, criticized excessive ritualism and idol worship, many Saguna bhakti traditions embraced devotional worship of deities through idols and rituals. It was not a universal rejection. Statement 2 is correct: The Alvars (devotees of Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) were Tamil poet-saints who spearheaded the early Bhakti movement in South India between the 6th and 9th centuries CE. Statement 3 is correct: A central tenet across diverse Bhakti traditions was the emphasis on intense personal devotion (bhakti), love, and surrender to a chosen deity as the primary path to salvation, often accessible to all regardless of caste or gender. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: While some strands of the Bhakti movement, particularly Nirguna bhakti, criticized excessive ritualism and idol worship, many Saguna bhakti traditions embraced devotional worship of deities through idols and rituals. It was not a universal rejection. Statement 2 is correct: The Alvars (devotees of Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) were Tamil poet-saints who spearheaded the early Bhakti movement in South India between the 6th and 9th centuries CE. Statement 3 is correct: A central tenet across diverse Bhakti traditions was the emphasis on intense personal devotion (bhakti), love, and surrender to a chosen deity as the primary path to salvation, often accessible to all regardless of caste or gender. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

#### 5. Question

With reference to the Bhakti movement, consider the following statements:

• It universally rejected idol worship and ritualism.

• The Alvars and Nayanars were prominent early Bhakti saints in South India.

• It emphasized devotion and love as the means to achieve salvation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: B

Statement 1 is incorrect: While some strands of the Bhakti movement, particularly Nirguna bhakti, criticized excessive ritualism and idol worship, many Saguna bhakti traditions embraced devotional worship of deities through idols and rituals. It was not a universal rejection.

Statement 2 is correct: The Alvars (devotees of Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) were Tamil poet-saints who spearheaded the early Bhakti movement in South India between the 6th and 9th centuries CE.

Statement 3 is correct: A central tenet across diverse Bhakti traditions was the emphasis on intense personal devotion (bhakti), love, and surrender to a chosen deity as the primary path to salvation, often accessible to all regardless of caste or gender.

Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

Solution: B

Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

• Question 6 of 30 6. Question 1 points Consider the following pairs: (Literary Work) – (Associated Language/Period) Silappadikaram – Sangam Tamil Literature Gita Govinda – Sanskrit Padmavat – Awadhi How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs (c) All three pairs (d) None of the pairs Correct Solution: C Pair 1 is correct: Silappadikaram, authored by Ilango Adigal, is one of the Five Great Epics of Tamil literature, belonging to the Sangam period or slightly later. Pair 2 is correct: Gita Govinda, a lyrical poem depicting the relationship between Krishna and Radha, was composed by Jayadeva in Sanskrit in the 12th century CE. Pair 3 is correct: Padmavat, an epic poem narrating the story of Padmini, was written by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in the Awadhi dialect of Hindi during the 16th century CE. Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched. Incorrect Solution: C Pair 1 is correct: Silappadikaram, authored by Ilango Adigal, is one of the Five Great Epics of Tamil literature, belonging to the Sangam period or slightly later. Pair 2 is correct: Gita Govinda, a lyrical poem depicting the relationship between Krishna and Radha, was composed by Jayadeva in Sanskrit in the 12th century CE. Pair 3 is correct: Padmavat, an epic poem narrating the story of Padmini, was written by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in the Awadhi dialect of Hindi during the 16th century CE. Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched.

#### 6. Question

Consider the following pairs: (Literary Work) – (Associated Language/Period)

• Silappadikaram – Sangam Tamil Literature

• Gita Govinda – Sanskrit

• Padmavat – Awadhi

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

• (a) Only one pair

• (b) Only two pairs

• (c) All three pairs

• (d) None of the pairs

Solution: C

Pair 1 is correct: Silappadikaram, authored by Ilango Adigal, is one of the Five Great Epics of Tamil literature, belonging to the Sangam period or slightly later.

Pair 2 is correct: Gita Govinda, a lyrical poem depicting the relationship between Krishna and Radha, was composed by Jayadeva in Sanskrit in the 12th century CE.

Pair 3 is correct: Padmavat, an epic poem narrating the story of Padmini, was written by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in the Awadhi dialect of Hindi during the 16th century CE.

Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched.

Solution: C

Pair 1 is correct: Silappadikaram, authored by Ilango Adigal, is one of the Five Great Epics of Tamil literature, belonging to the Sangam period or slightly later.

Pair 2 is correct: Gita Govinda, a lyrical poem depicting the relationship between Krishna and Radha, was composed by Jayadeva in Sanskrit in the 12th century CE.

Pair 3 is correct: Padmavat, an epic poem narrating the story of Padmini, was written by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in the Awadhi dialect of Hindi during the 16th century CE.

Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched.

• Question 7 of 30 7. Question 1 points The term ‘Pietra Dura’ refers to: (a) A style of miniature painting developed under the Mughals. (b) An architectural ornamentation technique involving inlay of precious stones. (c) A form of stucco decoration found in Sultanate period monuments. (d) A structural element characteristic of Dravidian temples. Correct Solution: B Pietra Dura (Italian for “hard stone”) is an intricate inlay technique using precisely cut and fitted, highly polished coloured stones (like lapis lazuli, onyx, jasper, agate) to create images or patterns, set into a stone base. This technique gained prominence in Mughal architecture, notably in the Taj Mahal and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah. (a) is incorrect; refers to painting styles. (c) is incorrect; stucco is plaster decoration. (d) is incorrect; refers to structural parts of South Indian temples. Therefore, option (b) is the correct description. Incorrect Solution: B Pietra Dura (Italian for “hard stone”) is an intricate inlay technique using precisely cut and fitted, highly polished coloured stones (like lapis lazuli, onyx, jasper, agate) to create images or patterns, set into a stone base. This technique gained prominence in Mughal architecture, notably in the Taj Mahal and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah. (a) is incorrect; refers to painting styles. (c) is incorrect; stucco is plaster decoration. (d) is incorrect; refers to structural parts of South Indian temples. Therefore, option (b) is the correct description.

#### 7. Question

The term ‘Pietra Dura’ refers to:

• (a) A style of miniature painting developed under the Mughals.

• (b) An architectural ornamentation technique involving inlay of precious stones.

• (c) A form of stucco decoration found in Sultanate period monuments.

• (d) A structural element characteristic of Dravidian temples.

Solution: B

Pietra Dura (Italian for “hard stone”) is an intricate inlay technique using precisely cut and fitted, highly polished coloured stones (like lapis lazuli, onyx, jasper, agate) to create images or patterns, set into a stone base. This technique gained prominence in Mughal architecture, notably in the Taj Mahal and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah.

(a) is incorrect; refers to painting styles.

(d) is incorrect; refers to structural parts of South Indian temples.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct description.

Solution: B

(a) is incorrect; refers to painting styles.

(d) is incorrect; refers to structural parts of South Indian temples.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct description.

• Question 8 of 30 8. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Kathakali dance: It originated in the region of modern-day Kerala. It traditionally depicts stories primarily from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Facial expressions (Mukhabhinaya) and hand gestures (Mudras) are central to its narrative style. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is correct: Kathakali is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama form that originated in the Kerala region of South India during the 17th century. Statement 2 is correct: Traditionally, Kathakali narratives, known as ‘Attakatha’, are drawn heavily from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the Puranas. Statement 3 is correct: Kathakali relies heavily on elaborate facial expressions (Mukhabhinaya), codified hand gestures (Mudras), and body movements to convey the story and characters, often without spoken dialogue from the main performers. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is correct: Kathakali is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama form that originated in the Kerala region of South India during the 17th century. Statement 2 is correct: Traditionally, Kathakali narratives, known as ‘Attakatha’, are drawn heavily from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the Puranas. Statement 3 is correct: Kathakali relies heavily on elaborate facial expressions (Mukhabhinaya), codified hand gestures (Mudras), and body movements to convey the story and characters, often without spoken dialogue from the main performers.

#### 8. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Kathakali dance:

• It originated in the region of modern-day Kerala.

• It traditionally depicts stories primarily from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

• Facial expressions (Mukhabhinaya) and hand gestures (Mudras) are central to its narrative style.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 1 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

Statement 1 is correct: Kathakali is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama form that originated in the Kerala region of South India during the 17th century.

Statement 2 is correct: Traditionally, Kathakali narratives, known as ‘Attakatha’, are drawn heavily from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the Puranas.

Statement 3 is correct: Kathakali relies heavily on elaborate facial expressions (Mukhabhinaya), codified hand gestures (Mudras), and body movements to convey the story and characters, often without spoken dialogue from the main performers.

Solution: D

Statement 1 is correct: Kathakali is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama form that originated in the Kerala region of South India during the 17th century.

Statement 2 is correct: Traditionally, Kathakali narratives, known as ‘Attakatha’, are drawn heavily from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the Puranas.

• Question 9 of 30 9. Question 1 points Consider the following pairs: (Traditional Craft/Textile) – (Region of Origin) Kalamkari Painting – Andhra Pradesh Phulkari Embroidery – Punjab Chikankari Work – Lucknow How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs (c) All three pairs (d) None of the pairs Correct Solution: C Pair 1 is correct: Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art of hand-painting or block-printing on cotton textile, originating in Andhra Pradesh (specifically Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam styles). Pair 2 is correct: Phulkari (‘flower work’) is a traditional embroidery technique native to the Punjab region (both India and Pakistan), characterized by vibrant floral patterns on coarse cotton cloth. Pair 3 is correct: Chikankari is a delicate and intricate traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, typically done using white thread on fine fabrics like muslin or cotton. Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched. Incorrect Solution: C Pair 1 is correct: Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art of hand-painting or block-printing on cotton textile, originating in Andhra Pradesh (specifically Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam styles). Pair 2 is correct: Phulkari (‘flower work’) is a traditional embroidery technique native to the Punjab region (both India and Pakistan), characterized by vibrant floral patterns on coarse cotton cloth. Pair 3 is correct: Chikankari is a delicate and intricate traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, typically done using white thread on fine fabrics like muslin or cotton. Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched.

#### 9. Question

Consider the following pairs:

(Traditional Craft/Textile) – (Region of Origin)

• Kalamkari Painting – Andhra Pradesh

• Phulkari Embroidery – Punjab

• Chikankari Work – Lucknow

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

• (a) Only one pair

• (b) Only two pairs

• (c) All three pairs

• (d) None of the pairs

Solution: C

Pair 1 is correct: Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art of hand-painting or block-printing on cotton textile, originating in Andhra Pradesh (specifically Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam styles).

Pair 2 is correct: Phulkari (‘flower work’) is a traditional embroidery technique native to the Punjab region (both India and Pakistan), characterized by vibrant floral patterns on coarse cotton cloth.

Pair 3 is correct: Chikankari is a delicate and intricate traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, typically done using white thread on fine fabrics like muslin or cotton.

Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched.

Solution: C

Pair 1 is correct: Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art of hand-painting or block-printing on cotton textile, originating in Andhra Pradesh (specifically Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam styles).

Pair 3 is correct: Chikankari is a delicate and intricate traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, typically done using white thread on fine fabrics like muslin or cotton.

Therefore, all three pairs are correctly matched.

• Question 10 of 30 10. Question 1 points With reference to the ‘Ashtadhyayi’, consider the following statements: It is a foundational text on Sanskrit grammar. It was authored by Panini. It primarily deals with Vedic rituals and sacrifices. How many of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Ashtadhyayi is considered the foundational and most authoritative work on Sanskrit grammar, laying down comprehensive rules for the language. Statement 2 is correct: It was composed by the ancient Indian grammarian Panini, likely around the 5th or 4th century BCE. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Ashtadhyayi is focused solely on grammar and linguistics (phonology, morphology, syntax) of Classical Sanskrit. It does not deal with Vedic rituals or sacrifices, which are the subject matter of texts like the Brahmanas and Shrautasutras. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Ashtadhyayi is considered the foundational and most authoritative work on Sanskrit grammar, laying down comprehensive rules for the language. Statement 2 is correct: It was composed by the ancient Indian grammarian Panini, likely around the 5th or 4th century BCE. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Ashtadhyayi is focused solely on grammar and linguistics (phonology, morphology, syntax) of Classical Sanskrit. It does not deal with Vedic rituals or sacrifices, which are the subject matter of texts like the Brahmanas and Shrautasutras. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

#### 10. Question

With reference to the ‘Ashtadhyayi’, consider the following statements:

• It is a foundational text on Sanskrit grammar.

• It was authored by Panini.

• It primarily deals with Vedic rituals and sacrifices.

How many of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

Statement 1 is correct: The Ashtadhyayi is considered the foundational and most authoritative work on Sanskrit grammar, laying down comprehensive rules for the language.

Statement 2 is correct: It was composed by the ancient Indian grammarian Panini, likely around the 5th or 4th century BCE.

Statement 3 is incorrect: The Ashtadhyayi is focused solely on grammar and linguistics (phonology, morphology, syntax) of Classical Sanskrit. It does not deal with Vedic rituals or sacrifices, which are the subject matter of texts like the Brahmanas and Shrautasutras.

Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Solution: B

Statement 1 is correct: The Ashtadhyayi is considered the foundational and most authoritative work on Sanskrit grammar, laying down comprehensive rules for the language.

Statement 2 is correct: It was composed by the ancient Indian grammarian Panini, likely around the 5th or 4th century BCE.

Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

• Question 11 of 30 11. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Tholu Bommalata: It is a form of shadow puppetry of Andhra Pradesh. Its earliest reference is found in literary works of Andhra Bhoj, Krishnadevaraya. The narratives are drawn from Silappathikaram. How many of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Tholu Bommalata is a form of shadow puppetry from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. These are known for life sized vibrant leather puppets. The puppets are usually made from animal’s skin including goat, deer or buffalo. Hence statement 1 is correct The puppetry dates back to the 3rd or 4th Its earliest mention appears in the 13th century Telugu text Panditaradhya Charitra. It was patronised by Pallavas, Chalukyas as well as Vijayanagara empires. Hence statement 2 is incorrect The narratives are often drawn from various Epics, featuring comedic interludes and character specific entry directions. Most of the themes include episodes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Silappathikaram is the earliest Tamil epic; it is a poem of about 5730 lines. Hence statement 3 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: A Tholu Bommalata is a form of shadow puppetry from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. These are known for life sized vibrant leather puppets. The puppets are usually made from animal’s skin including goat, deer or buffalo. Hence statement 1 is correct The puppetry dates back to the 3rd or 4th Its earliest mention appears in the 13th century Telugu text Panditaradhya Charitra. It was patronised by Pallavas, Chalukyas as well as Vijayanagara empires. Hence statement 2 is incorrect The narratives are often drawn from various Epics, featuring comedic interludes and character specific entry directions. Most of the themes include episodes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Silappathikaram is the earliest Tamil epic; it is a poem of about 5730 lines. Hence statement 3 is incorrect

#### 11. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Tholu Bommalata:

• It is a form of shadow puppetry of Andhra Pradesh.

• Its earliest reference is found in literary works of Andhra Bhoj, Krishnadevaraya.

• The narratives are drawn from Silappathikaram.

How many of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Tholu Bommalata is a form of shadow puppetry from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

• These are known for life sized vibrant leather puppets.

• The puppets are usually made from animal’s skin including goat, deer or buffalo.

Hence statement 1 is correct

• The puppetry dates back to the 3rd or 4th

• Its earliest mention appears in the 13th century Telugu text Panditaradhya Charitra.

• It was patronised by Pallavas, Chalukyas as well as Vijayanagara empires.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• The narratives are often drawn from various Epics, featuring comedic interludes and character specific entry directions.

• Most of the themes include episodes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

• Silappathikaram is the earliest Tamil epic; it is a poem of about 5730 lines.

Hence statement 3 is incorrect

Solution: A

• Tholu Bommalata is a form of shadow puppetry from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

• These are known for life sized vibrant leather puppets.

• The puppets are usually made from animal’s skin including goat, deer or buffalo.

Hence statement 1 is correct

• The puppetry dates back to the 3rd or 4th

• Its earliest mention appears in the 13th century Telugu text Panditaradhya Charitra.

• It was patronised by Pallavas, Chalukyas as well as Vijayanagara empires.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• The narratives are often drawn from various Epics, featuring comedic interludes and character specific entry directions.

• Most of the themes include episodes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

• Silappathikaram is the earliest Tamil epic; it is a poem of about 5730 lines.

Hence statement 3 is incorrect

• Question 12 of 30 12. Question 1 points Consider the following pairs: Key Concept : Literary work Origin of universe : Rig Veda Chaturvarna system : Atreya Brahmana Bramhan is the ultimate reality: Jabala Upanishad Which of the pairs given above is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Concept of origin of the universe is available from the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda. The Nasadiya sukta hymn of the Rig Veda deals with origin of the universe. It is a significant hymn exploring the philosophical and cosmological ideas relating to the beginning of existence. Hence pair 1 is correct The Chaturvarna or the four-fold division of the vedic society (Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras) has been mentioned in the Purusashukta hymn present in the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda. The hymn describes the origin of the four varnas from different parts of a cosmic being, Purusha Hence pair 2 is incorrect The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is a Foundational text in Hinduism that primary deals with nature of reality atman (or the self) and the ultimate reality known as Brahman The text explores the concept of Brahman as the ultimate reality and provides that Brahman is beyond description, quality and is the ultimate truth. Hence pair 3 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: A Concept of origin of the universe is available from the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda. The Nasadiya sukta hymn of the Rig Veda deals with origin of the universe. It is a significant hymn exploring the philosophical and cosmological ideas relating to the beginning of existence. Hence pair 1 is correct The Chaturvarna or the four-fold division of the vedic society (Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras) has been mentioned in the Purusashukta hymn present in the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda. The hymn describes the origin of the four varnas from different parts of a cosmic being, Purusha Hence pair 2 is incorrect The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is a Foundational text in Hinduism that primary deals with nature of reality atman (or the self) and the ultimate reality known as Brahman The text explores the concept of Brahman as the ultimate reality and provides that Brahman is beyond description, quality and is the ultimate truth. Hence pair 3 is incorrect

#### 12. Question

Consider the following pairs:

Key Concept : Literary work

• Origin of universe : Rig Veda

• Chaturvarna system : Atreya Brahmana

• Bramhan is the ultimate reality: Jabala Upanishad

Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Concept of origin of the universe is available from the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda.

• The Nasadiya sukta hymn of the Rig Veda deals with origin of the universe.

• It is a significant hymn exploring the philosophical and cosmological ideas relating to the beginning of existence.

Hence pair 1 is correct

• The Chaturvarna or the four-fold division of the vedic society (Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras) has been mentioned in the Purusashukta hymn present in the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda.

• The hymn describes the origin of the four varnas from different parts of a cosmic being, Purusha

Hence pair 2 is incorrect

• The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is a Foundational text in Hinduism that primary deals with nature of reality atman (or the self) and the ultimate reality known as Brahman

• The text explores the concept of Brahman as the ultimate reality and provides that Brahman is beyond description, quality and is the ultimate truth.

Hence pair 3 is incorrect

Solution: A

• Concept of origin of the universe is available from the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda.

• The Nasadiya sukta hymn of the Rig Veda deals with origin of the universe.

• It is a significant hymn exploring the philosophical and cosmological ideas relating to the beginning of existence.

Hence pair 1 is correct

• The hymn describes the origin of the four varnas from different parts of a cosmic being, Purusha

Hence pair 2 is incorrect

• The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is a Foundational text in Hinduism that primary deals with nature of reality atman (or the self) and the ultimate reality known as Brahman

• The text explores the concept of Brahman as the ultimate reality and provides that Brahman is beyond description, quality and is the ultimate truth.

Hence pair 3 is incorrect

• Question 13 of 30 13. Question 1 points Recently, the first ever International Pashmina festival was organised by: (a) India (b) Nepal (c) Bhutan (d) Tibet Correct Solution: B The first three-day international pashmina festival cum exhibition was organised by Nepal Pashmina Industries Association and the Confederation of Nepalese Industries. Nepal is one of the prominent producers of authentic Pashmina often branded as Chyangra Pashmina to emphasize its high quality and originality (named due to the Chyangra or Pashmina goat). The production involves traditional weaving methods passed down for generations. Genuine Pashmina is often branded as Chyangra pashmina with a government certified label in Nepal. During inauguration of the first ever Pashmina pair in Nepal the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies say that Nepali Pashmina has made its identity in the international arena competing with countries like China and Mongolia. Nepali Pashmina has a good market in countries including America and Japan and also in Europe. Hence option B is correct Incorrect Solution: B The first three-day international pashmina festival cum exhibition was organised by Nepal Pashmina Industries Association and the Confederation of Nepalese Industries. Nepal is one of the prominent producers of authentic Pashmina often branded as Chyangra Pashmina to emphasize its high quality and originality (named due to the Chyangra or Pashmina goat). The production involves traditional weaving methods passed down for generations. Genuine Pashmina is often branded as Chyangra pashmina with a government certified label in Nepal. During inauguration of the first ever Pashmina pair in Nepal the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies say that Nepali Pashmina has made its identity in the international arena competing with countries like China and Mongolia. Nepali Pashmina has a good market in countries including America and Japan and also in Europe. Hence option B is correct

#### 13. Question

Recently, the first ever International Pashmina festival was organised by:

• (c) Bhutan

Solution: B

• The first three-day international pashmina festival cum exhibition was organised by Nepal Pashmina Industries Association and the Confederation of Nepalese Industries.

• Nepal is one of the prominent producers of authentic Pashmina often branded as Chyangra Pashmina to emphasize its high quality and originality (named due to the Chyangra or Pashmina goat).

• The production involves traditional weaving methods passed down for generations.

• Genuine Pashmina is often branded as Chyangra pashmina with a government certified label in Nepal.

• During inauguration of the first ever Pashmina pair in Nepal the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies say that Nepali Pashmina has made its identity in the international arena competing with countries like China and Mongolia.

• Nepali Pashmina has a good market in countries including America and Japan and also in Europe.

Hence option B is correct

Solution: B

• The first three-day international pashmina festival cum exhibition was organised by Nepal Pashmina Industries Association and the Confederation of Nepalese Industries.

• Nepal is one of the prominent producers of authentic Pashmina often branded as Chyangra Pashmina to emphasize its high quality and originality (named due to the Chyangra or Pashmina goat).

• The production involves traditional weaving methods passed down for generations.

• Genuine Pashmina is often branded as Chyangra pashmina with a government certified label in Nepal.

• Nepali Pashmina has a good market in countries including America and Japan and also in Europe.

Hence option B is correct

• Question 14 of 30 14. Question 1 points Consider the following statements: Unlike Marble Temples built under the Chandela school, Solanki temples were carved out of monolithic granite. Unlike Maru-Gurjara temples, temples of Khajuraho School were built in a special way so that morning sun rays fall directly on the garbhagriha. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: D The Khajuraho School developed in Central part of India under patronage of Chandela rulers; it was also known as Chandela School; these temples were made of sandstone. The Solanki school or the Maru-Gurjara style developed in North Western part of India in Gujarat and Rajasthan under patronage of Solanki rulers; these temples were built using variety of materials including sandstone, black salt and soft Marble. Hence statement 1 is incorrect Under the Khajuraho School, the Panchayatan style of Temple making was followed; the temples are generally North or East facing. Most of the temples under the Solanki school are East facing; these temples are designed such that every year during the equinoxes, the sun rays fall directly onto the central shrine. Hence statement 2 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: D The Khajuraho School developed in Central part of India under patronage of Chandela rulers; it was also known as Chandela School; these temples were made of sandstone. The Solanki school or the Maru-Gurjara style developed in North Western part of India in Gujarat and Rajasthan under patronage of Solanki rulers; these temples were built using variety of materials including sandstone, black salt and soft Marble. Hence statement 1 is incorrect Under the Khajuraho School, the Panchayatan style of Temple making was followed; the temples are generally North or East facing. Most of the temples under the Solanki school are East facing; these temples are designed such that every year during the equinoxes, the sun rays fall directly onto the central shrine. Hence statement 2 is incorrect

#### 14. Question

Consider the following statements:

• Unlike Marble Temples built under the Chandela school, Solanki temples were carved out of monolithic granite.

• Unlike Maru-Gurjara temples, temples of Khajuraho School were built in a special way so that morning sun rays fall directly on the garbhagriha.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: D

• The Khajuraho School developed in Central part of India under patronage of Chandela rulers; it was also known as Chandela School; these temples were made of sandstone.

• The Solanki school or the Maru-Gurjara style developed in North Western part of India in Gujarat and Rajasthan under patronage of Solanki rulers; these temples were built using variety of materials including sandstone, black salt and soft Marble.

Hence statement 1 is incorrect

• Under the Khajuraho School, the Panchayatan style of Temple making was followed; the temples are generally North or East facing.

• Most of the temples under the Solanki school are East facing; these temples are designed such that every year during the equinoxes, the sun rays fall directly onto the central shrine.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

Solution: D

• The Khajuraho School developed in Central part of India under patronage of Chandela rulers; it was also known as Chandela School; these temples were made of sandstone.

Hence statement 1 is incorrect

• Under the Khajuraho School, the Panchayatan style of Temple making was followed; the temples are generally North or East facing.

• Most of the temples under the Solanki school are East facing; these temples are designed such that every year during the equinoxes, the sun rays fall directly onto the central shrine.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• Question 15 of 30 15. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Warli Art: The paintings are always drawn with a circular mandala design at the centre surrounded by figures represented by sticks and dots. The paintings are exclusively done on walls of religious places by drawing black motifs on a white clay background. How many of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: D Warli is a tribal art from Maharashtra. The name of the painting comes from the people who have been carrying out this painting tradition that goes back to 2500-3000 BC, called the Warlis- indigenous people of the Sahyadris that occupy mainly the Gujarat-Maharashtra border. Warli paintings are traditionally done on walls using basic graphic vocabulary including triangles circles and squares or dots and crooked lines. These ritualistic paintings have a central motif or a chauk which is surrounded by scenes including fishing, hunting, farming, dancing, animals and festivals. Drawing mandala at the centre is not a part of original Warli art. Warli is a tribal art while mandala is part of Hindu as well as Buddhist tradition. Hence statement 1 is incorrect The base of Warli painting is made out of mixture of mud, branches and cow dung that make a red ochre background. For painting only white pigment is used which is made of mixture of gum and rice powder. Hence statement 2 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: D Warli is a tribal art from Maharashtra. The name of the painting comes from the people who have been carrying out this painting tradition that goes back to 2500-3000 BC, called the Warlis- indigenous people of the Sahyadris that occupy mainly the Gujarat-Maharashtra border. Warli paintings are traditionally done on walls using basic graphic vocabulary including triangles circles and squares or dots and crooked lines. These ritualistic paintings have a central motif or a chauk which is surrounded by scenes including fishing, hunting, farming, dancing, animals and festivals. Drawing mandala at the centre is not a part of original Warli art. Warli is a tribal art while mandala is part of Hindu as well as Buddhist tradition. Hence statement 1 is incorrect The base of Warli painting is made out of mixture of mud, branches and cow dung that make a red ochre background. For painting only white pigment is used which is made of mixture of gum and rice powder. Hence statement 2 is incorrect

#### 15. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Warli Art:

• The paintings are always drawn with a circular mandala design at the centre surrounded by figures represented by sticks and dots.

• The paintings are exclusively done on walls of religious places by drawing black motifs on a white clay background.

How many of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: D

• Warli is a tribal art from Maharashtra.

• The name of the painting comes from the people who have been carrying out this painting tradition that goes back to 2500-3000 BC, called the Warlis- indigenous people of the Sahyadris that occupy mainly the Gujarat-Maharashtra border.

• Warli paintings are traditionally done on walls using basic graphic vocabulary including triangles circles and squares or dots and crooked lines.

• These ritualistic paintings have a central motif or a chauk which is surrounded by scenes including fishing, hunting, farming, dancing, animals and festivals.

• Drawing mandala at the centre is not a part of original Warli art.

• Warli is a tribal art while mandala is part of Hindu as well as Buddhist tradition.

Hence statement 1 is incorrect

• The base of Warli painting is made out of mixture of mud, branches and cow dung that make a red ochre background.

• For painting only white pigment is used which is made of mixture of gum and rice powder.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

Solution: D

• Warli is a tribal art from Maharashtra.

• Warli paintings are traditionally done on walls using basic graphic vocabulary including triangles circles and squares or dots and crooked lines.

• These ritualistic paintings have a central motif or a chauk which is surrounded by scenes including fishing, hunting, farming, dancing, animals and festivals.

• Drawing mandala at the centre is not a part of original Warli art.

• Warli is a tribal art while mandala is part of Hindu as well as Buddhist tradition.

Hence statement 1 is incorrect

• The base of Warli painting is made out of mixture of mud, branches and cow dung that make a red ochre background.

• For painting only white pigment is used which is made of mixture of gum and rice powder.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• Question 16 of 30 16. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Mohiyattam: It depicts the dance of Shiva in the form ‘Mohini’. The earliest literary source of Mohiniyattam is the Devi Bhagvata Purana, composed in Sanskrit. A blend of Malayalam and Sanskrit languages is used for narration during the performance. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 3 only Correct Solution: D Mohiniyattam, literally interpreted as the dance of Mohini, the celestial enchantress of Hindu mythology is a classical solo dance from Kerala. Mohini is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, not Lord Shiva. According to a Puranic story, Lord Vishnu took the disguise of a Mohini in front of the asuras during churning of the ocean as well as during killing of Bhasmasura. Hence statement 1 is incorrect The earliest reference of Mohiniyattam can be found in the text Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by Mazhamagalam Narayan Namputiri and in Ghoshyatra written by Kunjan Nambiar. Mohiniattam as seeing today has evolved through a long process of evolution It’s origin to the temples of Kerala. This dance form of Kerala was structured into the present-day classical format by Travancore kings- Maharaja Kartika Tirunal and his successor Maharaja Swati Thirunal in the 18th and 19th centuries CE. Hence statement 2 is incorrect The performance of Mohiniyattam is accompanied by music and songs. The story is presented in the language called Manipravalam which is a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam. Hence statement 3 is correct Incorrect Solution: D Mohiniyattam, literally interpreted as the dance of Mohini, the celestial enchantress of Hindu mythology is a classical solo dance from Kerala. Mohini is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, not Lord Shiva. According to a Puranic story, Lord Vishnu took the disguise of a Mohini in front of the asuras during churning of the ocean as well as during killing of Bhasmasura. Hence statement 1 is incorrect The earliest reference of Mohiniyattam can be found in the text Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by Mazhamagalam Narayan Namputiri and in Ghoshyatra written by Kunjan Nambiar. Mohiniattam as seeing today has evolved through a long process of evolution It’s origin to the temples of Kerala. This dance form of Kerala was structured into the present-day classical format by Travancore kings- Maharaja Kartika Tirunal and his successor Maharaja Swati Thirunal in the 18th and 19th centuries CE. Hence statement 2 is incorrect The performance of Mohiniyattam is accompanied by music and songs. The story is presented in the language called Manipravalam which is a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam. Hence statement 3 is correct

#### 16. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Mohiyattam:

• It depicts the dance of Shiva in the form ‘Mohini’.

• The earliest literary source of Mohiniyattam is the Devi Bhagvata Purana, composed in Sanskrit.

• A blend of Malayalam and Sanskrit languages is used for narration during the performance.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 2 only

• (b) 1 and 3 only

• (c) 1, 2 and 3

• (d) 3 only

Solution: D

• Mohiniyattam, literally interpreted as the dance of Mohini, the celestial enchantress of Hindu mythology is a classical solo dance from Kerala.

• Mohini is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, not Lord Shiva.

• According to a Puranic story, Lord Vishnu took the disguise of a Mohini in front of the asuras during churning of the ocean as well as during killing of Bhasmasura.

Hence statement 1 is incorrect

• The earliest reference of Mohiniyattam can be found in the text Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by Mazhamagalam Narayan Namputiri and in Ghoshyatra written by Kunjan Nambiar.

• Mohiniattam as seeing today has evolved through a long process of evolution

• It’s origin to the temples of Kerala.

• This dance form of Kerala was structured into the present-day classical format by Travancore kings- Maharaja Kartika Tirunal and his successor Maharaja Swati Thirunal in the 18th and 19th centuries CE.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• The performance of Mohiniyattam is accompanied by music and songs.

• The story is presented in the language called Manipravalam which is a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam.

Hence statement 3 is correct

Solution: D

• Mohiniyattam, literally interpreted as the dance of Mohini, the celestial enchantress of Hindu mythology is a classical solo dance from Kerala.

• Mohini is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, not Lord Shiva.

• According to a Puranic story, Lord Vishnu took the disguise of a Mohini in front of the asuras during churning of the ocean as well as during killing of Bhasmasura.

Hence statement 1 is incorrect

• The earliest reference of Mohiniyattam can be found in the text Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by Mazhamagalam Narayan Namputiri and in Ghoshyatra written by Kunjan Nambiar.

• Mohiniattam as seeing today has evolved through a long process of evolution

• It’s origin to the temples of Kerala.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• The performance of Mohiniyattam is accompanied by music and songs.

• The story is presented in the language called Manipravalam which is a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam.

Hence statement 3 is correct

• Question 17 of 30 17. Question 1 points Consider the following pairs: Literary Work : Author Shulbasutra : Baudhayana Aryabhatiya Bhasa : Aryabhatta Ganita Kaumudi : Bhoja Parmar How many of the pairs given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Shulbasutra was written by It is the earliest book on mathematics that was written around 6th century BC The book has a mention of formula for the square root of 2 and even some concepts very similar to Pythagorean theorem It also contains Geometry related to construction of fire altars Hence pair 1 is correct Aryabhatiya Bhasha is a commentatory on Aryabhatiya, composed by Kelallur Nilakantha Somayaji. Somayaji was a mathematician and astronomer associated with the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics; another noted work was the astronomical treatise Tantrasamgraha. Hence pair 2 is incorrect Ganita Kaumudi (moonlight of mathematics) was written by Narayan Pandit in 1356. It deals with mathematical operations. Narayan Pandit was a medieval mathematician. Bhoja Parmar wrote a Sanskrit treatise, Yukti Kalpa Taru which deals with various techniques used in ship building during ancient times. Hence pair 3 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: A Shulbasutra was written by It is the earliest book on mathematics that was written around 6th century BC The book has a mention of formula for the square root of 2 and even some concepts very similar to Pythagorean theorem It also contains Geometry related to construction of fire altars Hence pair 1 is correct Aryabhatiya Bhasha is a commentatory on Aryabhatiya, composed by Kelallur Nilakantha Somayaji. Somayaji was a mathematician and astronomer associated with the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics; another noted work was the astronomical treatise Tantrasamgraha. Hence pair 2 is incorrect Ganita Kaumudi (moonlight of mathematics) was written by Narayan Pandit in 1356. It deals with mathematical operations. Narayan Pandit was a medieval mathematician. Bhoja Parmar wrote a Sanskrit treatise, Yukti Kalpa Taru which deals with various techniques used in ship building during ancient times. Hence pair 3 is incorrect

#### 17. Question

Consider the following pairs:

Literary Work : Author

• Shulbasutra : Baudhayana

• Aryabhatiya Bhasa : Aryabhatta

• Ganita Kaumudi : Bhoja Parmar

How many of the pairs given above are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Shulbasutra was written by

• It is the earliest book on mathematics that was written around 6th century BC

• The book has a mention of formula for the square root of 2 and even some concepts very similar to Pythagorean theorem

• It also contains Geometry related to construction of fire altars

Hence pair 1 is correct

• Aryabhatiya Bhasha is a commentatory on Aryabhatiya, composed by Kelallur Nilakantha Somayaji.

• Somayaji was a mathematician and astronomer associated with the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics; another noted work was the astronomical treatise Tantrasamgraha.

Hence pair 2 is incorrect

• Ganita Kaumudi (moonlight of mathematics) was written by Narayan Pandit in 1356.

• It deals with mathematical operations.

• Narayan Pandit was a medieval mathematician.

• Bhoja Parmar wrote a Sanskrit treatise, Yukti Kalpa Taru which deals with various techniques used in ship building during ancient times.

Hence pair 3 is incorrect

Solution: A

• Shulbasutra was written by

• It is the earliest book on mathematics that was written around 6th century BC

• The book has a mention of formula for the square root of 2 and even some concepts very similar to Pythagorean theorem

• It also contains Geometry related to construction of fire altars

Hence pair 1 is correct

• Aryabhatiya Bhasha is a commentatory on Aryabhatiya, composed by Kelallur Nilakantha Somayaji.

• Somayaji was a mathematician and astronomer associated with the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics; another noted work was the astronomical treatise Tantrasamgraha.

Hence pair 2 is incorrect

• Ganita Kaumudi (moonlight of mathematics) was written by Narayan Pandit in 1356.

• It deals with mathematical operations.

• Narayan Pandit was a medieval mathematician.

• Bhoja Parmar wrote a Sanskrit treatise, Yukti Kalpa Taru which deals with various techniques used in ship building during ancient times.

Hence pair 3 is incorrect

• Question 18 of 30 18. Question 1 points Consider the following pairs regarding Fairs of India: Fair : Celebrated in Shamlaji Fair : Gujarat Baneshwar Fair : Jharkhand Kolayat fair : Rajasthan Gangasagar Fair : West Bengal How many of the pairs given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: C Shamlaji Fair is celebrated by tribal community in Gujarat in the honour of Lord Shamlaji, who is thought to be the incarnation of Lord Krishna or Vishnu During the fair, devotees gather in large number to worship and take a holy bath in the adjoining Meshwo river. Hence pair 1 is correct Baneshwar Fair is an annual trible fair held in Dungarpur district of Rajasthan. It is held in the month of January or February near the confluence of Som and Mahi rivers. It is a major fair in tribal culture and is often described as Kumbh Mela of the tribals. Hence pair 2 is incorrect Kolayat fair is held in Rajasthan On the day of Kartik Purnima people come to take a dip in the holy Kolayat lake to get rid of their sins. The fair is named after Kapil Muni who undertook intense meditation for the benefit of humanity. A large cattle fair is also organised during this time. Hence pair 3 is correct Gangasagar Fair is held in West Bengal. It is celebrated in the month of January- February at the mouth of Hooghly River (Southern tip of Sagar Island in West Bengal). Lakhs of pilgrims reach the site; the special attention is the presence of Naga Sadhus It is held at the Kapil Muni temple on the Sagar Island. Hence pair 4 is correct Incorrect Solution: C Shamlaji Fair is celebrated by tribal community in Gujarat in the honour of Lord Shamlaji, who is thought to be the incarnation of Lord Krishna or Vishnu During the fair, devotees gather in large number to worship and take a holy bath in the adjoining Meshwo river. Hence pair 1 is correct Baneshwar Fair is an annual trible fair held in Dungarpur district of Rajasthan. It is held in the month of January or February near the confluence of Som and Mahi rivers. It is a major fair in tribal culture and is often described as Kumbh Mela of the tribals. Hence pair 2 is incorrect Kolayat fair is held in Rajasthan On the day of Kartik Purnima people come to take a dip in the holy Kolayat lake to get rid of their sins. The fair is named after Kapil Muni who undertook intense meditation for the benefit of humanity. A large cattle fair is also organised during this time. Hence pair 3 is correct Gangasagar Fair is held in West Bengal. It is celebrated in the month of January- February at the mouth of Hooghly River (Southern tip of Sagar Island in West Bengal). Lakhs of pilgrims reach the site; the special attention is the presence of Naga Sadhus It is held at the Kapil Muni temple on the Sagar Island. Hence pair 4 is correct

#### 18. Question

Consider the following pairs regarding Fairs of India:

Fair : Celebrated in

• Shamlaji Fair : Gujarat

• Baneshwar Fair : Jharkhand

• Kolayat fair : Rajasthan

• Gangasagar Fair : West Bengal

How many of the pairs given above are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: C

• Shamlaji Fair is celebrated by tribal community in Gujarat in the honour of Lord Shamlaji, who is thought to be the incarnation of Lord Krishna or Vishnu

• During the fair, devotees gather in large number to worship and take a holy bath in the adjoining Meshwo river.

Hence pair 1 is correct

• Baneshwar Fair is an annual trible fair held in Dungarpur district of Rajasthan.

• It is held in the month of January or February near the confluence of Som and Mahi rivers.

• It is a major fair in tribal culture and is often described as Kumbh Mela of the tribals.

Hence pair 2 is incorrect

• Kolayat fair is held in Rajasthan

• On the day of Kartik Purnima people come to take a dip in the holy Kolayat lake to get rid of their sins.

• The fair is named after Kapil Muni who undertook intense meditation for the benefit of humanity.

• A large cattle fair is also organised during this time.

Hence pair 3 is correct

• Gangasagar Fair is held in West Bengal.

• It is celebrated in the month of January- February at the mouth of Hooghly River (Southern tip of Sagar Island in West Bengal).

• Lakhs of pilgrims reach the site; the special attention is the presence of Naga Sadhus

• It is held at the Kapil Muni temple on the Sagar Island.

Hence pair 4 is correct

Solution: C

• Shamlaji Fair is celebrated by tribal community in Gujarat in the honour of Lord Shamlaji, who is thought to be the incarnation of Lord Krishna or Vishnu

• During the fair, devotees gather in large number to worship and take a holy bath in the adjoining Meshwo river.

Hence pair 1 is correct

• Baneshwar Fair is an annual trible fair held in Dungarpur district of Rajasthan.

• It is held in the month of January or February near the confluence of Som and Mahi rivers.

• It is a major fair in tribal culture and is often described as Kumbh Mela of the tribals.

Hence pair 2 is incorrect

• Kolayat fair is held in Rajasthan

• On the day of Kartik Purnima people come to take a dip in the holy Kolayat lake to get rid of their sins.

• The fair is named after Kapil Muni who undertook intense meditation for the benefit of humanity.

• A large cattle fair is also organised during this time.

Hence pair 3 is correct

• Gangasagar Fair is held in West Bengal.

• It is celebrated in the month of January- February at the mouth of Hooghly River (Southern tip of Sagar Island in West Bengal).

• Lakhs of pilgrims reach the site; the special attention is the presence of Naga Sadhus

• It is held at the Kapil Muni temple on the Sagar Island.

Hence pair 4 is correct

• Question 19 of 30 19. Question 1 points Consider the following statements: Tumaini festival is the only festival to be held within a refugee camp. The Tumaini festival received the Global Peace Award in 2024. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: A The Tumaini festival is a cultural event held annually within the Dzaleka refugee camp in Malawi, South East Africa. It is the only festival of its kind in the world that is held within a Refugee camp the festival is organised and managed by refugees and creates a platform for these people and promote cultural exchange it attracts tourists all over the world and features performances from all around the world it showcases various kinds of artistic expressions including music, dance, visual art, theaters and so on Recently in 2024, it received a Cultures of Resistance Award. Hence statement 1 is correct The Prime Minister of India was honoured with the Global Peace Award for minority upliftment in 2024. Hence statement 2 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: A The Tumaini festival is a cultural event held annually within the Dzaleka refugee camp in Malawi, South East Africa. It is the only festival of its kind in the world that is held within a Refugee camp the festival is organised and managed by refugees and creates a platform for these people and promote cultural exchange it attracts tourists all over the world and features performances from all around the world it showcases various kinds of artistic expressions including music, dance, visual art, theaters and so on Recently in 2024, it received a Cultures of Resistance Award. Hence statement 1 is correct The Prime Minister of India was honoured with the Global Peace Award for minority upliftment in 2024. Hence statement 2 is incorrect

#### 19. Question

Consider the following statements:

• Tumaini festival is the only festival to be held within a refugee camp.

• The Tumaini festival received the Global Peace Award in 2024.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: A

• The Tumaini festival is a cultural event held annually within the Dzaleka refugee camp in Malawi, South East Africa.

• It is the only festival of its kind in the world that is held within a Refugee camp

• the festival is organised and managed by refugees and creates a platform for these people and promote cultural exchange

• it attracts tourists all over the world and features performances from all around the world

• it showcases various kinds of artistic expressions including music, dance, visual art, theaters and so on

• Recently in 2024, it received a Cultures of Resistance Award.

Hence statement 1 is correct

• The Prime Minister of India was honoured with the Global Peace Award for minority upliftment in 2024.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

Solution: A

• The Tumaini festival is a cultural event held annually within the Dzaleka refugee camp in Malawi, South East Africa.

• It is the only festival of its kind in the world that is held within a Refugee camp

• the festival is organised and managed by refugees and creates a platform for these people and promote cultural exchange

• it attracts tourists all over the world and features performances from all around the world

• it showcases various kinds of artistic expressions including music, dance, visual art, theaters and so on

• Recently in 2024, it received a Cultures of Resistance Award.

Hence statement 1 is correct

• The Prime Minister of India was honoured with the Global Peace Award for minority upliftment in 2024.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• Question 20 of 30 20. Question 1 points With reference to Sangameshwar Temple, consider the following statements: It is so named due to its construction at the confluence of the Krishna and Bhavanshi rivers. Built under patronage of the Chola rulers, it features Shiva and Shakti as Ardhanarishwar. How many of the statement given above are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: A The Sangameshwar temple is located at Nandyal district in Andhra Pradesh on the banks of river Krishna. It was built on the confluence of river Krishna and Bhavanshi and hence the name Sangameshwar. It gets submerged annually in the backwaters of the Srisailam dam. Hence statement 1 is correct The temple was built by Chalukya Dynasty It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hence statement 2 is incorrect Incorrect Solution: A The Sangameshwar temple is located at Nandyal district in Andhra Pradesh on the banks of river Krishna. It was built on the confluence of river Krishna and Bhavanshi and hence the name Sangameshwar. It gets submerged annually in the backwaters of the Srisailam dam. Hence statement 1 is correct The temple was built by Chalukya Dynasty It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hence statement 2 is incorrect

#### 20. Question

With reference to Sangameshwar Temple, consider the following statements:

• It is so named due to its construction at the confluence of the Krishna and Bhavanshi rivers.

• Built under patronage of the Chola rulers, it features Shiva and Shakti as Ardhanarishwar.

How many of the statement given above are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: A

• The Sangameshwar temple is located at Nandyal district in Andhra Pradesh on the banks of river Krishna.

• It was built on the confluence of river Krishna and Bhavanshi and hence the name Sangameshwar.

• It gets submerged annually in the backwaters of the Srisailam dam.

Hence statement 1 is correct

• The temple was built by Chalukya Dynasty

• It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

Solution: A

• The Sangameshwar temple is located at Nandyal district in Andhra Pradesh on the banks of river Krishna.

• It was built on the confluence of river Krishna and Bhavanshi and hence the name Sangameshwar.

• It gets submerged annually in the backwaters of the Srisailam dam.

Hence statement 1 is correct

• The temple was built by Chalukya Dynasty

• It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Hence statement 2 is incorrect

• Question 21 of 30 21. Question 1 points With reference to the Civil Registration System (CRS) and the RBD Act, 1969 (as amended in 2023), consider the following statements: The Registrar General of India operates under the Ministry of Law and Justice to supervise the registration system. Private hospitals are not authorized to report births and deaths directly under CRS. Data from CRS is auto-synced with population databases like NPR and central scheme records. How many of the above given statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: The Registrar General of India (RGI) functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), not the Ministry of Law and Justice. The RGI is also responsible for conducting the Census of India and overseeing the Civil Registration System (CRS). Statement 2 is incorrect: Private hospitals are legally required to report births and deaths to the designated local registrars. While they don’t act as registrars themselves (unlike government hospitals), they are mandated data providers under the law. Statement 3 is correct: A significant reform under the 2023 amendment is the automatic synchronization of CRS records with key population and service databases—such as the National Population Register (NPR), ration card databases, and central scheme registries, enabling interoperability in governance. Hence, only Statement 3 is correct, and the correct answer is (a) Only one. Incorrect Solution: A Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: The Registrar General of India (RGI) functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), not the Ministry of Law and Justice. The RGI is also responsible for conducting the Census of India and overseeing the Civil Registration System (CRS). Statement 2 is incorrect: Private hospitals are legally required to report births and deaths to the designated local registrars. While they don’t act as registrars themselves (unlike government hospitals), they are mandated data providers under the law. Statement 3 is correct: A significant reform under the 2023 amendment is the automatic synchronization of CRS records with key population and service databases—such as the National Population Register (NPR), ration card databases, and central scheme registries, enabling interoperability in governance. Hence, only Statement 3 is correct, and the correct answer is (a) Only one.

#### 21. Question

With reference to the Civil Registration System (CRS) and the RBD Act, 1969 (as amended in 2023), consider the following statements:

• The Registrar General of India operates under the Ministry of Law and Justice to supervise the registration system.

• Private hospitals are not authorized to report births and deaths directly under CRS.

• Data from CRS is auto-synced with population databases like NPR and central scheme records.

How many of the above given statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The Registrar General of India (RGI) functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), not the Ministry of Law and Justice. The RGI is also responsible for conducting the Census of India and overseeing the Civil Registration System (CRS).

• Statement 2 is incorrect: Private hospitals are legally required to report births and deaths to the designated local registrars. While they don’t act as registrars themselves (unlike government hospitals), they are mandated data providers under the law.

• Statement 3 is correct: A significant reform under the 2023 amendment is the automatic synchronization of CRS records with key population and service databases—such as the National Population Register (NPR), ration card databases, and central scheme registries, enabling interoperability in governance.

Hence, only Statement 3 is correct, and the correct answer is (a) Only one.

Solution: A

Explanation:

Hence, only Statement 3 is correct, and the correct answer is (a) Only one.

• Question 22 of 30 22. Question 1 points The term “Particularly Sensitive Sea Area” (PSSA), recently recommended for the Coral Triangle, refers to: (a) A maritime area designated by the UNFCCC for high carbon absorption by phytoplankton. (b) A shipping-free zone mandated by the UNCLOS to prevent piracy. (c) An area identified by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) for ecosystem restoration funding. (d) A marine area recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for special protection due to ecological, socio-economic, or scientific importance. Correct Solution: D Explanation: Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs) are areas of the marine environment recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that require special protection due to: Ecological vulnerability Scientific value Socio-economic importance PSSAs help regulate maritime activities like shipping, oil drilling, or dumping, using area-based management tools. Incorrect Solution: D Explanation: Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs) are areas of the marine environment recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that require special protection due to: Ecological vulnerability Scientific value Socio-economic importance PSSAs help regulate maritime activities like shipping, oil drilling, or dumping, using area-based management tools.

#### 22. Question

The term “Particularly Sensitive Sea Area” (PSSA), recently recommended for the Coral Triangle, refers to:

• (a) A maritime area designated by the UNFCCC for high carbon absorption by phytoplankton.

• (b) A shipping-free zone mandated by the UNCLOS to prevent piracy.

• (c) An area identified by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) for ecosystem restoration funding.

• (d) A marine area recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for special protection due to ecological, socio-economic, or scientific importance.

Solution: D

Explanation: Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs) are areas of the marine environment recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that require special protection due to:

• Ecological vulnerability

• Scientific value

• Socio-economic importance PSSAs help regulate maritime activities like shipping, oil drilling, or dumping, using area-based management tools.

Solution: D

• Ecological vulnerability

• Scientific value

• Socio-economic importance PSSAs help regulate maritime activities like shipping, oil drilling, or dumping, using area-based management tools.

• Question 23 of 30 23. Question 1 points Consider the following statements about Mahatma Jyotiba Phule: He co-founded the Bombay Millhands Association to campaign for Dalit temple entry reforms. He advocated the Filtration Theory in colonial education policy, emphasizing elite education first. He appeared before the Hunter Commission to argue for universal and practical education. Which of the above give statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 3 only Correct Solution: D Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: Mahatma Phule co-founded the Bombay Millhands Association with Narayan Meghaji Lokhande, not to campaign for temple entry but to organize urban labour and advocate workers’ rights—an early form of labour union activism. Statement 2 is incorrect: Phule was a fierce critic of the Filtration Theory, which argued for education of elites first, expecting benefits to “trickle down”. Phule opposed this idea, instead promoting mass, universal, and practical education, especially for women and oppressed castes. Statement 3 is correct: In 1882, Phule made significant recommendations to the Hunter Commission, demanding free, compulsory education, agricultural instruction, and education that promoted social mobility for the depressed classes. Therefore, only Statement 3 is correct, making (d) the right answer. Incorrect Solution: D Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: Mahatma Phule co-founded the Bombay Millhands Association with Narayan Meghaji Lokhande, not to campaign for temple entry but to organize urban labour and advocate workers’ rights—an early form of labour union activism. Statement 2 is incorrect: Phule was a fierce critic of the Filtration Theory, which argued for education of elites first, expecting benefits to “trickle down”. Phule opposed this idea, instead promoting mass, universal, and practical education, especially for women and oppressed castes. Statement 3 is correct: In 1882, Phule made significant recommendations to the Hunter Commission, demanding free, compulsory education, agricultural instruction, and education that promoted social mobility for the depressed classes. Therefore, only Statement 3 is correct, making (d) the right answer.

#### 23. Question

Consider the following statements about Mahatma Jyotiba Phule:

• He co-founded the Bombay Millhands Association to campaign for Dalit temple entry reforms.

• He advocated the Filtration Theory in colonial education policy, emphasizing elite education first.

• He appeared before the Hunter Commission to argue for universal and practical education.

Which of the above give statements is/are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) 2 and 3 only

• (d) 3 only

Solution: D

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Mahatma Phule co-founded the Bombay Millhands Association with Narayan Meghaji Lokhande, not to campaign for temple entry but to organize urban labour and advocate workers’ rights—an early form of labour union activism.

• Statement 2 is incorrect: Phule was a fierce critic of the Filtration Theory, which argued for education of elites first, expecting benefits to “trickle down”. Phule opposed this idea, instead promoting mass, universal, and practical education, especially for women and oppressed castes.

• Statement 3 is correct: In 1882, Phule made significant recommendations to the Hunter Commission, demanding free, compulsory education, agricultural instruction, and education that promoted social mobility for the depressed classes.

Therefore, only Statement 3 is correct, making (d) the right answer.

Solution: D

Explanation:

Therefore, only Statement 3 is correct, making (d) the right answer.

• Question 24 of 30 24. Question 1 points Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Under the BNSS, first-time offenders can be released on bail after serving one-third of their maximum sentence, excluding life and death penalty cases. Statement-II: This provision was introduced to address the issue of overcrowded prisons and delayed trials affecting undertrial prisoners. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct Correct Solution: A Explanation: Both statements are correct. The BNSS, 2023 allows first-time offenders to be considered for bail after serving one-third of the maximum sentence, provided the case does not involve life imprisonment or the death penalty. This reform is aimed at reducing India’s high undertrial population, which as per NCRB 2022, forms over 75% of total prison inmates. Delays in investigation and trial lead to prolonged incarceration without conviction, violating Article 21 (right to life and liberty). Thus, the bail reform addresses prison overcrowding and promotes justice and rehabilitation, making Statement-II the correct explanation for Statement-I. So, the right answer is (a). Incorrect Solution: A Explanation: Both statements are correct. The BNSS, 2023 allows first-time offenders to be considered for bail after serving one-third of the maximum sentence, provided the case does not involve life imprisonment or the death penalty. This reform is aimed at reducing India’s high undertrial population, which as per NCRB 2022, forms over 75% of total prison inmates. Delays in investigation and trial lead to prolonged incarceration without conviction, violating Article 21 (right to life and liberty). Thus, the bail reform addresses prison overcrowding and promotes justice and rehabilitation, making Statement-II the correct explanation for Statement-I. So, the right answer is (a).

#### 24. Question

Consider the following statements:

Statement-I: Under the BNSS, first-time offenders can be released on bail after serving one-third of their maximum sentence, excluding life and death penalty cases. Statement-II: This provision was introduced to address the issue of overcrowded prisons and delayed trials affecting undertrial prisoners.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

• a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

• b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

• c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

• d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Solution: A

Explanation: Both statements are correct. The BNSS, 2023 allows first-time offenders to be considered for bail after serving one-third of the maximum sentence, provided the case does not involve life imprisonment or the death penalty.

This reform is aimed at reducing India’s high undertrial population, which as per NCRB 2022, forms over 75% of total prison inmates. Delays in investigation and trial lead to prolonged incarceration without conviction, violating Article 21 (right to life and liberty). Thus, the bail reform addresses prison overcrowding and promotes justice and rehabilitation, making Statement-II the correct explanation for Statement-I. So, the right answer is (a).

Solution: A

• Question 25 of 30 25. Question 1 points Which of the following is the species population that navigates mudflats using strong pectoral fins, lives in intertidal zones, and is often considered a transitional organism between fish and amphibians? (a) Axolotl (b) Mudskipper (c) Sea Lamprey (d) Moray Eel Correct Solution: B Explanation: Mudflats Navigation: Mudskippers are unique fish that use their strong, muscular pectoral fins to “walk” across mudflats during low tide. Intertidal Zone Habitat: They thrive in intertidal zones (areas between high and low tide marks), where they can survive both in water and on land for extended periods. Transitional Organism: Mudskippers exhibit several amphibian-like adaptations: Ability to breathe through skin and mouth lining (cutaneous respiration) Modified gill chambers that retain water Eyes adapted for aerial vision These features make them important evolutionary models showing how fish might have transitioned to land vertebrates. Incorrect Solution: B Explanation: Mudflats Navigation: Mudskippers are unique fish that use their strong, muscular pectoral fins to “walk” across mudflats during low tide. Intertidal Zone Habitat: They thrive in intertidal zones (areas between high and low tide marks), where they can survive both in water and on land for extended periods. Transitional Organism: Mudskippers exhibit several amphibian-like adaptations: Ability to breathe through skin and mouth lining (cutaneous respiration) Modified gill chambers that retain water Eyes adapted for aerial vision These features make them important evolutionary models showing how fish might have transitioned to land vertebrates.

#### 25. Question

Which of the following is the species population that navigates mudflats using strong pectoral fins, lives in intertidal zones, and is often considered a transitional organism between fish and amphibians?

• (a) Axolotl

• (b) Mudskipper

• (c) Sea Lamprey

• (d) Moray Eel

Solution: B

Explanation:

• Mudflats Navigation: Mudskippers are unique fish that use their strong, muscular pectoral fins to “walk” across mudflats during low tide.

• Intertidal Zone Habitat: They thrive in intertidal zones (areas between high and low tide marks), where they can survive both in water and on land for extended periods.

• Transitional Organism: Mudskippers exhibit several amphibian-like adaptations: Ability to breathe through skin and mouth lining (cutaneous respiration) Modified gill chambers that retain water Eyes adapted for aerial vision These features make them important evolutionary models showing how fish might have transitioned to land vertebrates.

• Ability to breathe through skin and mouth lining (cutaneous respiration)

• Modified gill chambers that retain water

• Eyes adapted for aerial vision

• These features make them important evolutionary models showing how fish might have transitioned to land vertebrates.

Solution: B

Explanation:

• Mudflats Navigation: Mudskippers are unique fish that use their strong, muscular pectoral fins to “walk” across mudflats during low tide.

• Intertidal Zone Habitat: They thrive in intertidal zones (areas between high and low tide marks), where they can survive both in water and on land for extended periods.

• Ability to breathe through skin and mouth lining (cutaneous respiration)

• Modified gill chambers that retain water

• Eyes adapted for aerial vision

• These features make them important evolutionary models showing how fish might have transitioned to land vertebrates.

• Question 26 of 30 26. Question 1 points A micropropagation protocol was recently developed for Eucalyptus grown in short-rotation coppice cultivation and harvested for its foliar oil. Micropropagation induces soma-clonal variation that manifests in more mature leaf morphologies such as increased foliar oil concentrations and lower specific leaf area (SLA). Lower SLA, rather than differences in root allocation, is likely to be a key contributor to the lower relative growth rates observed in early sapling growth of micro-propagated clones. The coppice growth was so vigorous in the 12 months after de-topping that total above-ground biomass equalled that of the 27-month-old saplings, irrespective of propagation source. The morphological distinction between leaves of micro-propagated and seed-derived plants was no longer evident in the coppice regrowth. With reference to the above passage, which one of the following statements best explains its central idea? a) The genetic changes caused by micropropagation offsets the morphological hindrances for oil density in leaves b) Cloning of Eucalyptus is preferred only if the necessity of de-topping during cultivation is overcome c) Micropropagation is unlikely to have major influence on yield of Eucalyptus in comparison with conventional cultivation d) Seed derived plants have better foliage than micro-propagated varieties because cloning cannot imitate some advantages provided by natural processes Correct Solution: C Justification: The final line is the most helpful one in the whole complex passage. After providing so many details the author says that there is no difference between MP plants and seed-based plants, thus the influence of MP on yield level is nothing much. So, C should be the answer. Incorrect Solution: C Justification: The final line is the most helpful one in the whole complex passage. After providing so many details the author says that there is no difference between MP plants and seed-based plants, thus the influence of MP on yield level is nothing much. So, C should be the answer.

#### 26. Question

A micropropagation protocol was recently developed for Eucalyptus grown in short-rotation coppice cultivation and harvested for its foliar oil. Micropropagation induces soma-clonal variation that manifests in more mature leaf morphologies such as increased foliar oil concentrations and lower specific leaf area (SLA). Lower SLA, rather than differences in root allocation, is likely to be a key contributor to the lower relative growth rates observed in early sapling growth of micro-propagated clones. The coppice growth was so vigorous in the 12 months after de-topping that total above-ground biomass equalled that of the 27-month-old saplings, irrespective of propagation source. The morphological distinction between leaves of micro-propagated and seed-derived plants was no longer evident in the coppice regrowth.

With reference to the above passage, which one of the following statements best explains its central idea?

• a) The genetic changes caused by micropropagation offsets the morphological hindrances for oil density in leaves

• b) Cloning of Eucalyptus is preferred only if the necessity of de-topping during cultivation is overcome

• c) Micropropagation is unlikely to have major influence on yield of Eucalyptus in comparison with conventional cultivation

• d) Seed derived plants have better foliage than micro-propagated varieties because cloning cannot imitate some advantages provided by natural processes

Solution: C

Justification:

The final line is the most helpful one in the whole complex passage. After providing so many details the author says that there is no difference between MP plants and seed-based plants, thus the influence of MP on yield level is nothing much. So, C should be the answer.

Solution: C

Justification:

• Question 27 of 30 27. Question 1 points Lokesh invests a sum of money in a bank which gives a simple interest of 5% p.a. He invests twice the amount of money in another bank which gives an interest of 3% pa compounded annually. At the end of 3 years the interest earned from which bank would be higher and by what percent(approx.)? a) 1st, 25% b) 2nd, 10% c) 2nd, 24% d) 1st. 15% Correct Solution: C Justification: Answer (C) 2nd, 24% Let the amount invested in first bank be x So, interest earned in 3 years = x53/100 = 0.15x Now amount invested in second scheme is 2x So, the amount after 3 years would be (1.03)3 2x= 2.185x So, the interest earned = 0.185x Thus, the interest earned in second case is 24% more than the interest earned in first case. Incorrect Solution: C Justification: Answer (C) 2nd, 24% Let the amount invested in first bank be x So, interest earned in 3 years = x53/100 = 0.15x Now amount invested in second scheme is 2x So, the amount after 3 years would be (1.03)3 2x= 2.185x So, the interest earned = 0.185x Thus, the interest earned in second case is 24% more than the interest earned in first case.

#### 27. Question

Lokesh invests a sum of money in a bank which gives a simple interest of 5% p.a. He invests twice the amount of money in another bank which gives an interest of 3% pa compounded annually. At the end of 3 years the interest earned from which bank would be higher and by what percent(approx.)?

• a) 1st, 25%

• b) 2nd, 10%

• c) 2nd, 24%

• d) 1st. 15%

Solution: C

Justification:

Answer (C) 2nd, 24%

Let the amount invested in first bank be x

So, interest earned in 3 years = x53/100 = 0.15x

Now amount invested in second scheme is 2x

So, the amount after 3 years would be

(1.03)3* 2x= 2.185x

So, the interest earned = 0.185x

Thus, the interest earned in second case is 24% more than the interest earned in first case.

Solution: C

Justification:

Answer (C) 2nd, 24%

Let the amount invested in first bank be x

So, interest earned in 3 years = x53/100 = 0.15x

Now amount invested in second scheme is 2x

So, the amount after 3 years would be

(1.03)3* 2x= 2.185x

So, the interest earned = 0.185x

Thus, the interest earned in second case is 24% more than the interest earned in first case.

• Question 28 of 30 28. Question 1 points Rajat lends Rs. 20,000 to two of his friends. He gives Rs.10,000 to the first at 15% p.a. simple interest. Rajat wants to make a profit of 20% on the whole. The simple interest rate at which he should lend the remaining sum of money to the second friend is a) 12% b) 16% c) 20% d) 25% Correct Solution: D Justification: Answer D) 25% Let Rajat lend the sum at x% rate to the second friend. According to the question, 15% × 10000 + x% of 10000 = 20% of 20000 ⇒ 15 × 100 + 100x = 20 × 200 ⇒ 100x = 4000 – 1500 ⇒ 100x = 2500 ⇒ x = 25 Hence, the required rate of interest is 25% p.a. Therefore, Option D is correct. Incorrect Solution: D Justification: Answer D) 25% Let Rajat lend the sum at x% rate to the second friend. According to the question, 15% × 10000 + x% of 10000 = 20% of 20000 ⇒ 15 × 100 + 100x = 20 × 200 ⇒ 100x = 4000 – 1500 ⇒ 100x = 2500 ⇒ x = 25 Hence, the required rate of interest is 25% p.a. Therefore, Option D is correct.

#### 28. Question

Rajat lends Rs. 20,000 to two of his friends. He gives Rs.10,000 to the first at 15% p.a. simple interest. Rajat wants to make a profit of 20% on the whole. The simple interest rate at which he should lend the remaining sum of money to the second friend is

Solution: D

Justification:

Answer D) 25%

Let Rajat lend the sum at x% rate to the second friend.

According to the question, 15% × 10000 + x% of 10000 = 20% of 20000

⇒ 15 × 100 + 100x = 20 × 200

⇒ 100x = 4000 – 1500

⇒ 100x = 2500

Hence, the required rate of interest is 25% p.a.

Therefore, Option D is correct.

Solution: D

Justification:

Answer D) 25%

Let Rajat lend the sum at x% rate to the second friend.

According to the question, 15% × 10000 + x% of 10000 = 20% of 20000

⇒ 15 × 100 + 100x = 20 × 200

⇒ 100x = 4000 – 1500

⇒ 100x = 2500

Hence, the required rate of interest is 25% p.a.

Therefore, Option D is correct.

• Question 29 of 30 29. Question 1 points An amount was lent at a certain rate of interest compounded annually. Had the amount been lent at simple interest, the amount of interest would have been Rs 5400 less for initial two years and 17820 for initial three years, then the amount lent is equal to a) 72000 Rs b) 40000 Rs c) 80000 Rs d) 60000 Rs Correct Solution: D Justification: Assuming the amount =P the rate of interest = R% and R/100 = a For two years difference between compound and simple interest = P(1+a)2 -P-2Pa = Pa2 =5400…..(1) Now for three years, the difference = P(1+a)3 -P-3Pa = Pa3 +3Pa2 =17820…..(2) Putting the value of Pa2 in (2), we get 5400a+35400=17820 => a=3/10 Now, on putting a=3/10 in (1), we get P9/100 = 5400 => P =60000 Rs Incorrect Solution: D Justification: Assuming the amount =P the rate of interest = R% and R/100 = a For two years difference between compound and simple interest = P(1+a)2 -P-2Pa = Pa2 =5400…..(1) Now for three years, the difference = P(1+a)3 -P-3Pa = Pa3 +3Pa2 =17820…..(2) Putting the value of Pa2 in (2), we get 5400a+35400=17820 => a=3/10 Now, on putting a=3/10 in (1), we get P9/100 = 5400 => P =60000 Rs

#### 29. Question

An amount was lent at a certain rate of interest compounded annually. Had the amount been lent at simple interest, the amount of interest would have been Rs 5400 less for initial two years and 17820 for initial three years, then the amount lent is equal to

• a) 72000 Rs

• b) 40000 Rs

• c) 80000 Rs

• d) 60000 Rs

Solution: D

Justification:

Assuming the amount =P the rate of interest = R% and R/100 = a

For two years difference between compound and simple interest

= P(1+a)2 -P-2Pa = Pa2 =5400…..(1)

Now for three years, the difference = P(1+a)3 -P-3Pa = Pa3 +3Pa2 =17820…..(2)

Putting the value of Pa2 in (2),

we get 5400a+3*5400=17820

Now, on putting a=3/10 in (1),

we get P*9/100 = 5400

=> P =60000 Rs

Solution: D

Justification:

Assuming the amount =P the rate of interest = R% and R/100 = a

For two years difference between compound and simple interest

= P(1+a)2 -P-2Pa = Pa2 =5400…..(1)

Now for three years, the difference = P(1+a)3 -P-3Pa = Pa3 +3Pa2 =17820…..(2)

Putting the value of Pa2 in (2),

we get 5400a+3*5400=17820

Now, on putting a=3/10 in (1),

we get P*9/100 = 5400

=> P =60000 Rs

• Question 30 of 30 30. Question 1 points Bank A offers 6% interest rate per annum compounded half-yearly. Bank B and Bank Coffer simple interest but the annual interest rate offered by Bank C is twice that of Bank B. Bharat invests a certain amount in Bank B for a certain period and Sandhya invests 7 10,000 in Bank C for twice that period. The interest that would accrue to Bharat during that period is equal to the interest that would have accrued had he invested the same amount in Bank A for one year. The interest accrued in INR. to Sandhya is a) Rs.3436 b) Rs.2436 c) Rs.2346 d) Rs.1436 Correct Solution: B Justification: Answer: Option (B) Rs.2436 Explanation: Bank A: 6% p.a. half yearly (CI) Bank B: x% p.a (at Simple Interest) Bank C: 2x% p.a (at Simple Interest) Let Bharat invest Rs P in bank B for t years. Hence, Sandhya invests Rs 10,000 in bank C for 2t years. Now. P (x/100) t = P (1 + 3/100)2 – P (x/100) t = 1.0609 – 1 (x/100) t = 0.0609 We need to calculate SI = 10000 x 2t x (2x/100) = 40000 (x/100) t = 40000 x 0.0609 = Rs.2436 Incorrect Solution: B Justification: Answer: Option (B) Rs.2436 Explanation: Bank A: 6% p.a. half yearly (CI) Bank B: x% p.a (at Simple Interest) Bank C: 2x% p.a (at Simple Interest) Let Bharat invest Rs P in bank B for t years. Hence, Sandhya invests Rs 10,000 in bank C for 2t years. Now. P (x/100) t = P (1 + 3/100)2 – P (x/100) t = 1.0609 – 1 (x/100) t = 0.0609 We need to calculate SI = 10000 x 2t x (2x/100) = 40000 (x/100) t = 40000 x 0.0609 = Rs.2436

#### 30. Question

Bank A offers 6% interest rate per annum compounded half-yearly. Bank B and Bank Coffer simple interest but the annual interest rate offered by Bank C is twice that of Bank B. Bharat invests a certain amount in Bank B for a certain period and Sandhya invests 7 10,000 in Bank C for twice that period. The interest that would accrue to Bharat during that period is equal to the interest that would have accrued had he invested the same amount in Bank A for one year. The interest accrued in INR. to Sandhya is

• a) Rs.3436

• b) Rs.2436

• c) Rs.2346

• d) Rs.1436

Solution: B

Justification:

Answer: Option (B) Rs.2436

Explanation:

Bank A: 6% p.a. half yearly (CI)

Bank B: x% p.a (at Simple Interest)

Bank C: 2x% p.a (at Simple Interest)

Let Bharat invest Rs P in bank B for t years. Hence, Sandhya invests Rs 10,000 in bank C for 2t years.

P (x/100) t = P (1 + 3/100)2 – P

(x/100) t = 1.0609 – 1

(x/100) t = 0.0609

We need to calculate

SI = 10000 x 2t x (2x/100) = 40000 (x/100) t

= 40000 x 0.0609 = Rs.2436

Solution: B

Justification:

Answer: Option (B) Rs.2436

Explanation:

Bank A: 6% p.a. half yearly (CI)

Bank B: x% p.a (at Simple Interest)

Bank C: 2x% p.a (at Simple Interest)

Let Bharat invest Rs P in bank B for t years. Hence, Sandhya invests Rs 10,000 in bank C for 2t years.

P (x/100) t = P (1 + 3/100)2 – P

(x/100) t = 1.0609 – 1

(x/100) t = 0.0609

We need to calculate

SI = 10000 x 2t x (2x/100) = 40000 (x/100) t

= 40000 x 0.0609 = Rs.2436

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