Q1. Which of the following functions are performed by lakes/wetlands?
- Flood buffering and water storage
- Carbon sequestration
- Groundwater recharge
- Prevention of seismic activity
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Lakes act as flood buffers, carbon sinks, and recharge zones.
- Statement 4 incorrect: No role in preventing seismic activity.
Q2. With reference to ASER and PARAKH assessments, consider the following statements:
- ASER is conducted by the Government of India to assess rural education outcomes.
- PARAKH functions as a national assessment regulator under NCERT.
- Both highlight significant learning gaps even among urban and private school students.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (C)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 incorrect: ASER conducted by Pratham (NGO).
- Statement 2 correct: PARAKH under NCERT.
- Statement 3 correct: Both highlight widespread learning gaps.
Q3.Consider the following
- Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) use slow neutrons moderated by heavy water.
- FBRs can produce more fissile material than they consume.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 Only
(b) 2 Only
(c) Both Correct
(d) Both Incorrect
Answer: (b) 2 Only
Explanation:
- FBRs use fast neutrons (no moderator) → Statement 1 incorrect.
- Breeding ratio >1 → Statement 2 correct.
Q4.Consider the following
- Artemis II surpassed the farthest human travel distance previously achieved by Apollo 13.
- Apollo 13 followed a planned deep-space exploration mission trajectory.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 Only
(b) 2 Only
(c) Both Correct
(d) Both Incorrect
Answer: (a) 1 Only
Explanation:
- Artemis II exceeded ~400,171 km → correct.
- Apollo 13 trajectory was abort emergency path, not planned → incorrect.
Q5. With reference to election disputes in India, consider the following statements:
- Election disputes relating to Parliament and State Legislatures can be directly challenged in the Supreme Court under Article 32.
- Article 329(b) bars judicial interference in electoral matters except through election petitions.
- Election petitions are governed by the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: Election disputes cannot be challenged under Article 32; Article 329(b) provides exclusive mechanism via election petitions.
- Statement 2 is correct: It ensures electoral finality and bars court interference except through petitions.
- Statement 3 is correct: RPA, 1951 governs election petitions for Parliament/Assembly.


