UPSC Static Quiz – History : 2 October 2025

UPSC Static Quiz – History : 2 October 2025 We will post 5 questions daily on static topics mentioned in the UPSC civil services preliminary examination syllabus. Each week will focus on a specific topic from the syllabus, such as History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, and more. We are excited to bring you our daily UPSC Static Quiz, designed to help you prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Each day, we will post 5 questions on static topics mentioned in the UPSC syllabus. This week, we are focusing on Indian and World Geography.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Consider the following statements regarding Vedic literature: The Brahmanas are prose texts that provide detailed explanations of the Vedic hymns and the rituals associated with them. The Aranyakas, or ‘forest books’, primarily deal with mysticism and symbolism, forming a bridge between the ritualism of the Brahmanas and the philosophy of the Upanishads. The Upanishads, also known as Vedanta, reject the concepts of Karma and Rebirth, focusing solely on the attainment of knowledge through meditation. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. The Brahmanas are prose commentaries attached to each of the four Vedas (Samhitas). Their primary purpose is to explain the complex sacrificial rituals (yajnas) and the symbolic meaning behind the hymns (mantras) used in them. They are elaborate, technical manuals for the priestly class, detailing the procedures for various ceremonies. Statement 2 is correct. The Aranyakas, or ‘forest books’, represent a transitional phase in Vedic thought. They were likely composed by hermits meditating in the forest and move away from the purely external, mechanical aspects of sacrifice. They focus on the mystical and symbolic interpretations of rituals, emphasizing meditation over actual performance. This philosophical shift serves as a direct link between the ritual-centric Brahmanas and the purely philosophical Upanishads. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Upanishads, meaning ‘to sit down near’, form the concluding part of the Vedas and are hence called Vedanta (‘the end of the Veda’). They are highly philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman). However, they do not reject the concepts of Karma and Rebirth. On the contrary, these concepts are central to Upanishadic thought. They posit that one’s actions (karma) lead to a cycle of birth and death (samsara), and liberation (moksha) from this cycle is the ultimate goal, which can be achieved through self-realization and knowledge (jnana). Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. The Brahmanas are prose commentaries attached to each of the four Vedas (Samhitas). Their primary purpose is to explain the complex sacrificial rituals (yajnas) and the symbolic meaning behind the hymns (mantras) used in them. They are elaborate, technical manuals for the priestly class, detailing the procedures for various ceremonies. Statement 2 is correct. The Aranyakas, or ‘forest books’, represent a transitional phase in Vedic thought. They were likely composed by hermits meditating in the forest and move away from the purely external, mechanical aspects of sacrifice. They focus on the mystical and symbolic interpretations of rituals, emphasizing meditation over actual performance. This philosophical shift serves as a direct link between the ritual-centric Brahmanas and the purely philosophical Upanishads. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Upanishads, meaning ‘to sit down near’, form the concluding part of the Vedas and are hence called Vedanta (‘the end of the Veda’). They are highly philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman). However, they do not reject the concepts of Karma and Rebirth. On the contrary, these concepts are central to Upanishadic thought. They posit that one’s actions (karma) lead to a cycle of birth and death (samsara), and liberation (moksha) from this cycle is the ultimate goal, which can be achieved through self-realization and knowledge (jnana).

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Vedic literature:

• The Brahmanas are prose texts that provide detailed explanations of the Vedic hymns and the rituals associated with them.

• The Aranyakas, or ‘forest books’, primarily deal with mysticism and symbolism, forming a bridge between the ritualism of the Brahmanas and the philosophy of the Upanishads.

• The Upanishads, also known as Vedanta, reject the concepts of Karma and Rebirth, focusing solely on the attainment of knowledge through meditation.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct. The Brahmanas are prose commentaries attached to each of the four Vedas (Samhitas). Their primary purpose is to explain the complex sacrificial rituals (yajnas) and the symbolic meaning behind the hymns (mantras) used in them. They are elaborate, technical manuals for the priestly class, detailing the procedures for various ceremonies.

• Statement 2 is correct. The Aranyakas, or ‘forest books’, represent a transitional phase in Vedic thought. They were likely composed by hermits meditating in the forest and move away from the purely external, mechanical aspects of sacrifice. They focus on the mystical and symbolic interpretations of rituals, emphasizing meditation over actual performance. This philosophical shift serves as a direct link between the ritual-centric Brahmanas and the purely philosophical Upanishads.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The Upanishads, meaning ‘to sit down near’, form the concluding part of the Vedas and are hence called Vedanta (‘the end of the Veda’). They are highly philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman). However, they do not reject the concepts of Karma and Rebirth. On the contrary, these concepts are central to Upanishadic thought. They posit that one’s actions (karma) lead to a cycle of birth and death (samsara), and liberation (moksha) from this cycle is the ultimate goal, which can be achieved through self-realization and knowledge (jnana).

Solution: B

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Match the following Vedic terms with their correct descriptions. List I (Term) List II (Description) A. Sita 1. A tribal assembly of elders B. Bali 2. The furrow created by a plough C. Sabha 3. A voluntary tribute or offering to the chief D. Gomat 4. A wealthy person, possessor of many cows Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4 (b) A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3 (c) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3 (d) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2 Correct Solution: A Sita: In Vedic texts, particularly in the Later Vedic period, the term Sita referred to the furrow created by the plough during cultivation. The importance of agriculture is highlighted by the personification of Sita as a goddess associated with agriculture and fertility. Bali: In the Early Vedic period, Bali was a voluntary offering or tribute given by the members of the tribe to their chief (Rajan). It was not a compulsory tax. However, in the Later Vedic period, with the rise of territorial kingdoms, Bali became a regular and compulsory tax collected by appointed officials. Sabha: The Sabha was one of the key tribal assemblies in the Vedic period. It is generally understood to have been a smaller, more exclusive body, likely consisting of elders or important men of the tribe (sabheya). It had judicial and administrative functions and acted as a check on the king’s power. Gomat: In the predominantly pastoral economy of the Early Vedic period, cattle were the primary measure of wealth. A wealthy man was thus known as a Gomat, which literally means ‘one who possesses cows’. This term highlights the central economic and social importance of cattle in Rig Vedic society. Incorrect Solution: A Sita: In Vedic texts, particularly in the Later Vedic period, the term Sita referred to the furrow created by the plough during cultivation. The importance of agriculture is highlighted by the personification of Sita as a goddess associated with agriculture and fertility. Bali: In the Early Vedic period, Bali was a voluntary offering or tribute given by the members of the tribe to their chief (Rajan). It was not a compulsory tax. However, in the Later Vedic period, with the rise of territorial kingdoms, Bali became a regular and compulsory tax collected by appointed officials. Sabha: The Sabha was one of the key tribal assemblies in the Vedic period. It is generally understood to have been a smaller, more exclusive body, likely consisting of elders or important men of the tribe (sabheya). It had judicial and administrative functions and acted as a check on the king’s power. Gomat: In the predominantly pastoral economy of the Early Vedic period, cattle were the primary measure of wealth. A wealthy man was thus known as a Gomat, which literally means ‘one who possesses cows’. This term highlights the central economic and social importance of cattle in Rig Vedic society.

#### 2. Question

Match the following Vedic terms with their correct descriptions.

List I (Term) | List II (Description)

A. Sita | 1. A tribal assembly of elders

B. Bali | 2. The furrow created by a plough

C. Sabha | 3. A voluntary tribute or offering to the chief

D. Gomat | 4. A wealthy person, possessor of many cows

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

• (b) A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3

• (c) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3

• (d) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

Solution: A

• Sita: In Vedic texts, particularly in the Later Vedic period, the term Sita referred to the furrow created by the plough during cultivation. The importance of agriculture is highlighted by the personification of Sita as a goddess associated with agriculture and fertility.

• Bali: In the Early Vedic period, Bali was a voluntary offering or tribute given by the members of the tribe to their chief (Rajan). It was not a compulsory tax. However, in the Later Vedic period, with the rise of territorial kingdoms, Bali became a regular and compulsory tax collected by appointed officials.

• Sabha: The Sabha was one of the key tribal assemblies in the Vedic period. It is generally understood to have been a smaller, more exclusive body, likely consisting of elders or important men of the tribe (sabheya). It had judicial and administrative functions and acted as a check on the king’s power.

• Gomat: In the predominantly pastoral economy of the Early Vedic period, cattle were the primary measure of wealth. A wealthy man was thus known as a Gomat, which literally means ‘one who possesses cows’. This term highlights the central economic and social importance of cattle in Rig Vedic society.

Solution: A

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Mahajanapadas of the 6th century BCE: All the Mahajanapadas were monarchical in their political structure, ruled by hereditary kings. The use of iron-tipped ploughshares and the practice of paddy transplantation in the Gangetic plains were significant factors in generating an agricultural surplus. The rise of new urban centers and the use of punch-marked coins facilitated trade and commerce during this period. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B The 6th century BCE was a period of significant political and economic transformation in ancient India, marked by the rise of large territorial states known as the Mahajanapadas. Statement 1 is incorrect. While most Mahajanapadas, such as Magadha, Kosala, and Avanti, were monarchies, not all of them were. Some Mahajanapadas, like the Vajji (with its capital at Vaishali) and Malla, were republics or oligarchies, known as ganas or sanghas. In these states, power was not vested in a single hereditary king but was shared among a council of chieftains or the heads of prominent Kshatriya families. Both Buddha and Mahavira hailed from such republican clans. Statement 2 is correct. This period is often termed the “Second Urbanisation” and was underpinned by a revolution in agriculture, particularly in the fertile middle Gangetic plains. The widespread use of iron-tipped ploughshares allowed for deeper and more efficient cultivation of the hard alluvial soil. This, combined with the advanced technique of paddy transplantation (growing seedlings in a nursery before planting them in the fields), led to a significant increase in rice production and generated a substantial agricultural surplus. This surplus was crucial for supporting non-agricultural populations like soldiers, administrators, and artisans, enabling the growth of cities and states. Statement 3 is correct. The agricultural surplus supported a growing population and the emergence of numerous urban centers like Rajagriha, Shravasti, Kaushambi, and Vaishali. These cities became hubs for craft production and trade. This economic activity was further facilitated by the introduction of the earliest coinage in India, the punch-marked coins, which were pieces of silver and copper with symbols punched on them. These coins provided a standardized medium of exchange, moving beyond the barter system and boosting trade and commerce. Incorrect Solution: B The 6th century BCE was a period of significant political and economic transformation in ancient India, marked by the rise of large territorial states known as the Mahajanapadas. Statement 1 is incorrect. While most Mahajanapadas, such as Magadha, Kosala, and Avanti, were monarchies, not all of them were. Some Mahajanapadas, like the Vajji (with its capital at Vaishali) and Malla, were republics or oligarchies, known as ganas or sanghas. In these states, power was not vested in a single hereditary king but was shared among a council of chieftains or the heads of prominent Kshatriya families. Both Buddha and Mahavira hailed from such republican clans. Statement 2 is correct. This period is often termed the “Second Urbanisation” and was underpinned by a revolution in agriculture, particularly in the fertile middle Gangetic plains. The widespread use of iron-tipped ploughshares allowed for deeper and more efficient cultivation of the hard alluvial soil. This, combined with the advanced technique of paddy transplantation (growing seedlings in a nursery before planting them in the fields), led to a significant increase in rice production and generated a substantial agricultural surplus. This surplus was crucial for supporting non-agricultural populations like soldiers, administrators, and artisans, enabling the growth of cities and states. Statement 3 is correct. The agricultural surplus supported a growing population and the emergence of numerous urban centers like Rajagriha, Shravasti, Kaushambi, and Vaishali. These cities became hubs for craft production and trade. This economic activity was further facilitated by the introduction of the earliest coinage in India, the punch-marked coins, which were pieces of silver and copper with symbols punched on them. These coins provided a standardized medium of exchange, moving beyond the barter system and boosting trade and commerce.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Mahajanapadas of the 6th century BCE:

• All the Mahajanapadas were monarchical in their political structure, ruled by hereditary kings.

• The use of iron-tipped ploughshares and the practice of paddy transplantation in the Gangetic plains were significant factors in generating an agricultural surplus.

• The rise of new urban centers and the use of punch-marked coins facilitated trade and commerce during this period.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

The 6th century BCE was a period of significant political and economic transformation in ancient India, marked by the rise of large territorial states known as the Mahajanapadas.

• Statement 1 is incorrect. While most Mahajanapadas, such as Magadha, Kosala, and Avanti, were monarchies, not all of them were. Some Mahajanapadas, like the Vajji (with its capital at Vaishali) and Malla, were republics or oligarchies, known as ganas or sanghas. In these states, power was not vested in a single hereditary king but was shared among a council of chieftains or the heads of prominent Kshatriya families. Both Buddha and Mahavira hailed from such republican clans.

• Statement 2 is correct. This period is often termed the “Second Urbanisation” and was underpinned by a revolution in agriculture, particularly in the fertile middle Gangetic plains. The widespread use of iron-tipped ploughshares allowed for deeper and more efficient cultivation of the hard alluvial soil. This, combined with the advanced technique of paddy transplantation (growing seedlings in a nursery before planting them in the fields), led to a significant increase in rice production and generated a substantial agricultural surplus. This surplus was crucial for supporting non-agricultural populations like soldiers, administrators, and artisans, enabling the growth of cities and states.

• Statement 3 is correct. The agricultural surplus supported a growing population and the emergence of numerous urban centers like Rajagriha, Shravasti, Kaushambi, and Vaishali. These cities became hubs for craft production and trade. This economic activity was further facilitated by the introduction of the earliest coinage in India, the punch-marked coins, which were pieces of silver and copper with symbols punched on them. These coins provided a standardized medium of exchange, moving beyond the barter system and boosting trade and commerce.

Solution: B

The 6th century BCE was a period of significant political and economic transformation in ancient India, marked by the rise of large territorial states known as the Mahajanapadas.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements. Statement I: The Nanda dynasty, under rulers like Mahapadma Nanda, is often described as the “first empire builders of India”. Statement II: The Nandas established a highly centralized administrative structure, maintained a vast army, and expanded the Magadhan kingdom to include territories beyond the traditional Gangetic plains, possibly into Kalinga and the Deccan. 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 Statement I is correct. The Nanda dynasty (c. 344-322 BCE) is widely credited by historians as being the first empire builders of India. While their predecessors in the Haryanka and Shishunaga dynasties had expanded the kingdom of Magadha, the Nandas were the first to create a truly vast, centrally administered empire that transcended regional boundaries. Statement II is correct. This statement provides the specific reasons why the Nandas are considered empire builders. They implemented a highly centralized administration, moving beyond the feudal-style polity of earlier times. They are famous for maintaining a massive, professional army, including infantry, cavalry, chariots, and a large corps of war elephants, which was a key instrument of their expansionist policy. Their conquests were extensive; Mahapadma Nanda is described in the Puranas as the “destroyer of all Kshatriyas” (Sarvakshatrantaka) and the sole sovereign (Ekarat). Their empire stretched from the Ganges basin to the Punjab, and evidence like the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela suggests their control extended into Kalinga (Odisha), and possibly even parts of the Deccan. Incorrect Solution: A Statement I is correct. The Nanda dynasty (c. 344-322 BCE) is widely credited by historians as being the first empire builders of India. While their predecessors in the Haryanka and Shishunaga dynasties had expanded the kingdom of Magadha, the Nandas were the first to create a truly vast, centrally administered empire that transcended regional boundaries. Statement II is correct. This statement provides the specific reasons why the Nandas are considered empire builders. They implemented a highly centralized administration, moving beyond the feudal-style polity of earlier times. They are famous for maintaining a massive, professional army, including infantry, cavalry, chariots, and a large corps of war elephants, which was a key instrument of their expansionist policy. Their conquests were extensive; Mahapadma Nanda is described in the Puranas as the “destroyer of all Kshatriyas” (Sarvakshatrantaka) and the sole sovereign (Ekarat). Their empire stretched from the Ganges basin to the Punjab, and evidence like the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela suggests their control extended into Kalinga (Odisha), and possibly even parts of the Deccan.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements.

Statement I: The Nanda dynasty, under rulers like Mahapadma Nanda, is often described as the “first empire builders of India”.

Statement II: The Nandas established a highly centralized administrative structure, maintained a vast army, and expanded the Magadhan kingdom to include territories beyond the traditional Gangetic plains, possibly into Kalinga and the Deccan.

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

• Statement I is correct. The Nanda dynasty (c. 344-322 BCE) is widely credited by historians as being the first empire builders of India. While their predecessors in the Haryanka and Shishunaga dynasties had expanded the kingdom of Magadha, the Nandas were the first to create a truly vast, centrally administered empire that transcended regional boundaries.

• Statement II is correct. This statement provides the specific reasons why the Nandas are considered empire builders. They implemented a highly centralized administration, moving beyond the feudal-style polity of earlier times. They are famous for maintaining a massive, professional army, including infantry, cavalry, chariots, and a large corps of war elephants, which was a key instrument of their expansionist policy. Their conquests were extensive; Mahapadma Nanda is described in the Puranas as the “destroyer of all Kshatriyas” (Sarvakshatrantaka) and the sole sovereign (Ekarat). Their empire stretched from the Ganges basin to the Punjab, and evidence like the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela suggests their control extended into Kalinga (Odisha), and possibly even parts of the Deccan.

Solution: A

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Which of the following statements correctly differentiates Jainism from Buddhism? Jainism believes in the existence of a soul (jiva) in all things, including inanimate objects, whereas early Buddhism denies the existence of a permanent, unchanging soul (atman). Buddhism advocates the ‘Middle Path’ (Madhyama Pratipad), avoiding the extremes of severe asceticism and worldly indulgence, while Jainism prescribes a more extreme form of asceticism and penance. Jainism completely rejected the Varna system from its inception, whereas Buddhism, while critical, did not outrightly condemn it. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. This is a core metaphysical difference. Jainism posits that every entity in the universe, living or non-living (like stones and water), possesses a soul or life-force called jiva. Consequently, its concept of ahimsa is extremely rigorous. In contrast, a central tenet of Buddhism is the doctrine of Anatta (or Anatman), which asserts that there is no permanent, unchanging, independent self or soul. What we perceive as a ‘self’ is merely a temporary combination of five aggregates (skandhas). Statement 2 is correct. The Buddha’s path is explicitly termed the ‘Middle Path’. Having experienced both the luxury of a princely life and the severity of extreme asceticism, he concluded that neither leads to enlightenment. He therefore advocated a balanced path that avoids both sensual indulgence and self-mortification. Jainism, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on severe asceticism and penance as essential for purifying the soul of karmic particles. Practices like fasting unto death (Sallekhana) and nudity (in the Digambara sect) exemplify this extreme approach. Statement 3 is incorrect. While both religions were more egalitarian than Brahmanism, it was Buddhism that strongly and explicitly condemned the Varna system based on birth, opening its doors to people from all castes without discrimination. Jainism, on the other hand, did not outrightly condemn the Varna system. Mahavira argued that a person is born into a higher or lower Varna as a consequence of their karma in a previous life, though he also maintained that liberation was possible for anyone through meritorious living. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. This is a core metaphysical difference. Jainism posits that every entity in the universe, living or non-living (like stones and water), possesses a soul or life-force called jiva. Consequently, its concept of ahimsa is extremely rigorous. In contrast, a central tenet of Buddhism is the doctrine of Anatta (or Anatman), which asserts that there is no permanent, unchanging, independent self or soul. What we perceive as a ‘self’ is merely a temporary combination of five aggregates (skandhas). Statement 2 is correct. The Buddha’s path is explicitly termed the ‘Middle Path’. Having experienced both the luxury of a princely life and the severity of extreme asceticism, he concluded that neither leads to enlightenment. He therefore advocated a balanced path that avoids both sensual indulgence and self-mortification. Jainism, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on severe asceticism and penance as essential for purifying the soul of karmic particles. Practices like fasting unto death (Sallekhana) and nudity (in the Digambara sect) exemplify this extreme approach. Statement 3 is incorrect. While both religions were more egalitarian than Brahmanism, it was Buddhism that strongly and explicitly condemned the Varna system based on birth, opening its doors to people from all castes without discrimination. Jainism, on the other hand, did not outrightly condemn the Varna system. Mahavira argued that a person is born into a higher or lower Varna as a consequence of their karma in a previous life, though he also maintained that liberation was possible for anyone through meritorious living.

#### 5. Question

Which of the following statements correctly differentiates Jainism from Buddhism?

• Jainism believes in the existence of a soul (jiva) in all things, including inanimate objects, whereas early Buddhism denies the existence of a permanent, unchanging soul (atman).

• Buddhism advocates the ‘Middle Path’ (Madhyama Pratipad), avoiding the extremes of severe asceticism and worldly indulgence, while Jainism prescribes a more extreme form of asceticism and penance.

• Jainism completely rejected the Varna system from its inception, whereas Buddhism, while critical, did not outrightly condemn it.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct. This is a core metaphysical difference. Jainism posits that every entity in the universe, living or non-living (like stones and water), possesses a soul or life-force called jiva. Consequently, its concept of ahimsa is extremely rigorous. In contrast, a central tenet of Buddhism is the doctrine of Anatta (or Anatman), which asserts that there is no permanent, unchanging, independent self or soul. What we perceive as a ‘self’ is merely a temporary combination of five aggregates (skandhas).

• Statement 2 is correct. The Buddha’s path is explicitly termed the ‘Middle Path’. Having experienced both the luxury of a princely life and the severity of extreme asceticism, he concluded that neither leads to enlightenment. He therefore advocated a balanced path that avoids both sensual indulgence and self-mortification. Jainism, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on severe asceticism and penance as essential for purifying the soul of karmic particles. Practices like fasting unto death (Sallekhana) and nudity (in the Digambara sect) exemplify this extreme approach.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. While both religions were more egalitarian than Brahmanism, it was Buddhism that strongly and explicitly condemned the Varna system based on birth, opening its doors to people from all castes without discrimination. Jainism, on the other hand, did not outrightly condemn the Varna system. Mahavira argued that a person is born into a higher or lower Varna as a consequence of their karma in a previous life, though he also maintained that liberation was possible for anyone through meritorious living.

Solution: B

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