Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the impact of Currency Depreciation:
- It improves the competitiveness of domestic exports in the international market.
- It reduces the real value of the country’s foreign exchange reserves when measured in terms of domestic currency.
- It may lead to capital flight if investors expect further weakening of the currency.
Options:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
Correct Answer: B) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Depreciation makes exports cheaper for foreign buyers, enhancing global competitiveness.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: Forex reserves are held in foreign currencies; depreciation increases their value in rupee terms.
- Statement 3 is correct: Expectations of further depreciation trigger FPI outflows, leading to capital flight.
Q2. Consider the following pairs of Ramsar Sites and their associated features:
- Shekha Jheel – Artificial freshwater wetland connected to Upper Ganga Canal
- Keoladeo National Park – Listed under Montreux Record
- Renuka Lake – Largest wetland in India by surface area
- Chhari-Dhand – Seasonal wetland in semi-arid Gujarat
Options:
A) Only one pair
B) Only two pairs
C) Only three pairs
D) All four pairs
Correct Answer: C) Only three pairs
Explanation:
- Pair 1 is correct: Shekha Jheel is canal-fed, making it a semi-artificial wetland system.
- Pair 2 is correct: Keoladeo National Park remains in the Montreux Record due to ecological stress.
- Pair 3 is incorrect: Renuka Lake is India’s smallest Ramsar site; Vembanad Kol is the largest.
- Pair 4 is correct: Chhari-Dhand is a seasonal wetland in Gujarat’s Banni grasslands.
Q3. With reference to the PM-AASHA scheme, consider the following statements:
- The Price Support Scheme (PSS) allows physical procurement of pulses, oilseeds, and copra by Central agencies.
- Under the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS), no physical procurement takes place.
- The Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme (PPSS) is applicable only to oilseeds on a pilot basis.
Options:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
Correct Answer: D) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: PSS ensures MSP through direct procurement by agencies like NAFED.
- Statement 2 is correct: PDPS compensates farmers for price difference without procurement.
- Statement 3 is correct: PPSS is implemented on a pilot basis for oilseeds involving private players.
Q4. Which of the following states is the second-largest producer of Bauxite in India, with deposits in Jamnagar and Kachchh regions?
Options:
A) Chhattisgarh
B) Jharkhand
C) Gujarat
D) Maharashtra
Correct Answer: C) Gujarat
Explanation:
- Odisha is the largest producer, while Gujarat ranks second, with major deposits in Jamnagar and Kachchh coastal regions.
- Bauxite is typically associated with lateritic formations in peninsular and coastal India.
Q5. A recent study on climate extremes indicates heatwaves will be the most dominant event by 2050. Approximately what percentage of land animal habitats will be exposed to heatwaves?
Options:
A) 36%
B) 50%
C) 74%
D) 92%
Correct Answer: C) 74%
Explanation:
- The study highlights that heatwaves will affect ~74% of terrestrial habitats by 2050, making them the most widespread extreme event.
- Other exposures include wildfires (16%), droughts (8%), and floods (3%), indicating comparatively lower spatial impact.
