Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is It was an agreement between India and Pakistan.

Key Points

• The Tashkent Agreement was signed on 10^th January 1966 between India and Pakistan to resolve the conflict that arose due to the Indo-Pak War of 1965.
• It was brokered by the then Soviet Union and held in Tashkent, which is now the capital of Uzbekistan.
• The agreement aimed to restore peace and normalize relations between the two countries by withdrawing forces to pre-August 1965 positions.
• Both nations agreed to refrain from interfering in each other’s internal affairs and committed to improving diplomatic relations.
• Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Pakistani President Ayub Khan were the signatories of the agreement.
• Unfortunately, PM Lal Bahadur Shastri passed away in Tashkent the day after signing the agreement.

Additional Information

• Option 1: It was an agreement between India and the Soviet Union
• This is incorrect. The Soviet Union played the role of mediator in the Tashkent Agreement but was not a party to it.
• India and the Soviet Union have signed other agreements, notably in defense and cooperation, but not this one.
• Option 3: It was an agreement that led to the formation of Bangladesh
• This is incorrect. The formation of Bangladesh resulted from the Indo-Pak War of 1971 and subsequent events, culminating in the Simla Agreement (1972).
• The Tashkent Agreement predates the Bangladesh Liberation War and is unrelated to it.
• Option 4: It was an agreement between India and Mongolia
• This is incorrect. There is no historical agreement of such nature between India and Mongolia related to the context of the Tashkent Agreement.
• India and Mongolia have had good diplomatic ties and have signed agreements on cultural and trade cooperation, but they are unrelated to this topic.
• Main Theme: Tashkent Agreement
• The Tashkent Agreement is a significant event in the history of India-Pakistan relations as it marked the end of the 1965 war and focused on peace-building efforts.
• It demonstrated the role of international mediation in resolving conflicts in South Asia.
• However, the agreement's long-term impact on bilateral relations was limited, as hostilities between India and Pakistan continued in later years.

The correct answer is Gondi.

Key Points

• Gondi is not included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which currently lists 22 languages.
• Gondi is a Dravidian language spoken primarily by the tribal Gondi people in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Odisha.
• Despite having over 2 million speakers, Gondi has not been recognized as an official language under the Eighth Schedule.
• The inclusion of languages in the Eighth Schedule is determined by cultural, historical, and political considerations, and Gondi has been a subject of debate for possible inclusion.
• The Eighth Schedule primarily focuses on promoting linguistic diversity and preserving the heritage of languages spoken across India.

Additional Information

• Manipuri:
• Manipuri, also known as Meitei, is recognized under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
• It is the official language of Manipur and belongs to the Sino-Tibetan language family.
• Manipuri was added to the Eighth Schedule in 1992 through the 71^st Constitutional Amendment.
• Nepali:
• Nepali is listed in the Eighth Schedule and is primarily spoken in the Indian state of Sikkim and parts of West Bengal, especially Darjeeling.
• It belongs to the Indo-Aryan language family and shares linguistic ties with Hindi and Sanskrit.
• Nepali was also included in the Eighth Schedule through the 71^st Constitutional Amendment Act in 1992.
• Dogri:
• Dogri is an Indo-Aryan language spoken primarily in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir.
• It was added to the Eighth Schedule in 2003 through the 92^nd Constitutional Amendment Act.
• Dogri is known for its rich literary traditions and cultural significance in northern India.
• The Eighth Schedule:
• The Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India originally included 14 languages, and the number has increased to 22 over time through various constitutional amendments.
• The languages listed in the schedule are entitled to representation in the Official Language Commission and benefit from measures to promote their development.
• The schedule aims to preserve and protect the linguistic diversity of India, which is home to thousands of languages and dialects.

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3 only.

Key Points

• Smriti literature in ancient India refers to texts that are remembered and passed down, unlike Shruti texts (like the Vedas) which are considered directly revealed.
• The Puranas are part of Smriti literature, containing mythological accounts, cosmology, genealogies, and traditions.
• The Ramayana, authored by Valmiki, is considered part of Smriti literature and narrates the epic story of Lord Rama.
• The Kalpa-Sutra is a Jain text that outlines rituals and practices, considered part of Smriti literature in the Jain tradition.
• Vedas, however, are classified as Shruti literature, as they are considered divine revelations and not part of Smriti.

Additional Information

• Puranas:
• There are 18 major Puranas, including the Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana, and Shiva Purana.
• They contain stories of creation, destruction, genealogies, and cultural traditions.
• The Puranas also emphasize devotion (Bhakti) and moral values.
• Ramayana:
• An epic poem that describes the journey of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his battle against Ravana.
• It serves as a moral and spiritual guide, emphasizing Dharma (righteousness).
• The Ramayana has influenced Indian culture, art, and literature across centuries.
• Kalpa-Sutra:
• A Jain text composed by Bhadrabahu, detailing Jain rituals, festivals, and the lives of Tirthankaras.
• It plays a significant role in Jain tradition and is recited during Paryushana, a Jain festival.
• Vedas:
• Vedas are considered Shruti literature, directly revealed and not authored by humans.
• There are four Vedas: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda, forming the foundation of Hindu philosophy.
• They contain hymns, rituals, philosophical discussions, and guidance for spiritual practices.

The correct answer is Sucheta Kripalani.

Key Points

• Sucheta Kripalani was India’s first woman Chief Minister, serving as the CM of Uttar Pradesh from 1963 to 1967.
• She played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle and worked closely with Mahatma Gandhi, particularly during the Quit India Movement of 1942.
• Sucheta Kripalani was a member of the Constituent Assembly and contributed to the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
• Before becoming the Chief Minister, she was elected to the Lok Sabha from New Delhi and served as a Member of Parliament.
• Her tenure as Chief Minister was marked by her strong administrative skills and her efforts to resolve labor strikes and communal tensions in Uttar Pradesh.

Additional Information

• Sarojini Naidu
• She was the first woman to become the President of the Indian National Congress in 1925.
• Sarojini Naidu was also the first woman to serve as a Governor in independent India, appointed as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh in 1947.
• Known as the “Nightingale of India,” she was a prominent poet and an advocate of women’s rights and civil liberties.
• Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
• She was the first woman to hold a cabinet position in pre-independence India and later served as the first woman President of the United Nations General Assembly in 1953.
• Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit was a diplomat and represented India in various international forums, contributing to India’s foreign relations.
• She was also the sister of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister.
• Hansa Mehta
• Hansa Mehta was a noted social reformer, freedom fighter, and educationist.
• She played a key role in the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) as a member of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights.
• She was also the Vice-Chancellor of SNDT Women’s University and a staunch advocate for women’s education and equality.
• Women in Leadership in India
• India has seen significant contributions from women leaders in politics, education, and diplomacy.
• Women like Sucheta Kripalani, Sarojini Naidu, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, and Hansa Mehta have paved the way for future generations by breaking gender barriers and excelling in their respective fields.

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2.

Key Points

• C. Rajagopalachari was the first recipient of the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1954. He was a prominent freedom fighter, the last Governor-General of India, and an accomplished statesman.
• The Bharat Ratna was instituted in 1954 to honor exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor.
• Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, a prominent political thinker and philosopher, initiated the concept of ‘Integral Humanism’, which emphasizes the holistic development of individuals and society.
• The philosophy of Integral Humanism promotes a balanced approach to material and spiritual development, aligning with India’s cultural ethos.
• This concept was first presented by Deen Dayal Upadhyaya in 1965 as a guiding philosophy for the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Additional Information

• Bharat Ratna:
• It is the highest civilian award of India and is conferred for exceptional service in any field of human endeavor.
• Other notable recipients include Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Dr. C.V. Raman, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
• The award does not carry any monetary grant but holds immense prestige and recognition.
• Integral Humanism:
• It is a socio-political philosophy emphasizing the integration of material, spiritual, and social development.
• The philosophy advocates for decentralization, self-reliance, and a society based on cultural and traditional values.
• It opposes both extreme capitalism and communism, offering a third path rooted in Indian culture and values.
• C. Rajagopalachari:
• He was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and actively participated in the Indian independence movement.
• Rajagopalachari was the founder of the Swatantra Party, which advocated for free markets and limited government intervention.
• He is also known for his literary contributions, including translations of the Mahabharata and Ramayana into Tamil.

The correct answer is 1 and 2.

Key Points

• The Indian Institute of Advanced Study is located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. It is a renowned institution for advanced research in humanities and social sciences.
• Established in 1965, this institute is housed in the historic Rashtrapati Nivas and is a hub for scholars conducting interdisciplinary and advanced studies.
• The second option, Indian Institute of Public Administration, is correctly mentioned; it actually promotes studies and training in public administration and is located in New Delhi.
• The third option, Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service, is inaccurately mentioned as being in "Nainital." This institute is situated in New Delhi and provides training for Indian Foreign Service officers.

Additional Information

• Indian Institute of Public Administration:
• It is a premier institute in India for training and research in public administration.
• Although it is headquartered in New Delhi, the question refers to its location inaccurately.
• The institution plays a crucial role in policy formulation, governance studies, and administrative reforms.
• Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service:
• Located in New Delhi, it is a specialized training institute for Indian Foreign Service officers.
• It offers training for diplomatic officers and focuses on foreign policy, international relations, and protocol.
• This institute was renamed in honor of Sushma Swaraj, a former External Affairs Minister of India.
• Indian Institute of Advanced Study:
• The institute is housed in the historic Rashtrapati Nivas, formerly known as the Viceregal Lodge in Shimla.
• Its primary aim is to promote advanced research in humanities, social sciences, and other interdisciplinary subjects.
• It hosts scholars from across India and abroad for collaborative research.

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2.

Key Points

• Erok Sim is a significant festival of the Santhal community, one of the largest tribal groups in India. It is primarily celebrated to mark the onset of agricultural activities and express gratitude to nature.
• The Santhal people celebrate Erok Sim with traditional rituals, offerings, dances, and songs, reflecting their deep connection with the environment and agricultural practices.
• Sangken is a Buddhist festival celebrated primarily by the Khampti tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. It marks the traditional New Year and the purification of Buddha statues.
• During Sangken, water is sprinkled as a symbol of purification and goodwill, and the festival involves community prayers and rituals at Buddhist temples.
• Both statements are correct as Erok Sim is associated with the Santhal community, and Sangken is celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh by Buddhist communities.

Additional Information

• Santhal Community:
• The Santhal tribe is one of the prominent tribal groups in India, primarily residing in Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal.
• Their festivals and celebrations, like Erok Sim, showcase their agrarian lifestyle, cultural heritage, and spiritual connection with nature.
• Santhals are known for their vibrant dances, music, and unique traditions that contribute to India's rich tribal culture.
• Buddhist Festivals in Arunachal Pradesh:
• Sangken is one of the most important Buddhist festivals celebrated by the Khampti tribe and other Theravada Buddhist groups in the region.
• It is observed in April and symbolizes purification, renewal, and the beginning of a new year.
• Other Buddhist festivals in Arunachal Pradesh include Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Choekhor, which highlight the religious and cultural practices of the Buddhist communities.
• Festivals in Tribal Communities:
• India is home to diverse tribal communities, each with unique festivals reflecting their connection with nature, agriculture, and spirituality.
• Examples include Hornbill Festival (Nagaland), Mopin Festival (Arunachal Pradesh), and Bhagoria Festival (Madhya Pradesh).
• These festivals not only preserve the cultural heritage of the tribes but also promote tourism and awareness of tribal traditions.

The correct answer is Thailand.

Key Points

• The joint military exercise 'Maitree' is conducted annually between the armies of India and Thailand.
• This exercise focuses on counter-terrorism operations in urban and jungle environments.
• It aims to enhance inter-operability between the two nations and strengthen bilateral military relations.
• 'Maitree' is part of India's 'Act East Policy', which seeks closer ties with Southeast Asian nations.
• The exercise involves training, sharing of best practices, and live demonstration of drills and operations.

Additional Information

• Bangladesh:
• India and Bangladesh conduct a joint military exercise named 'Sampriti'.
• 'Sampriti' focuses on counter-terrorism operations and disaster management.
• The exercise emphasizes regional cooperation and bilateral defense ties between the two nations.
• Malaysia:
• India and Malaysia collaborate in defense through naval exercises such as 'Samudra Laksamana'.
• These exercises aim at strengthening maritime security and promoting military interoperability.
• India and Malaysia also engage in defense dialogues and exchanges to enhance bilateral relations.
• Sri Lanka:
• India and Sri Lanka conduct joint military exercises such as 'Mitra Shakti'.
• 'Mitra Shakti' focuses on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
• It aims to enhance defense cooperation and inter-operability between the two nations.
• India's Joint Military Exercises:
• India conducts several joint military exercises with other nations, including 'Yudh Abhyas' with the US, 'Shakti' with France, and 'Nomadic Elephant' with Mongolia.
• These exercises aim to strengthen bilateral relations, enhance defense capabilities, and promote regional and global security.

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 4 only.

Key Points

• Hilly and difficult terrain: States with challenging geographical conditions, including mountainous regions, are considered for Special Category Status due to the higher cost of infrastructure development and limited accessibility.
• Economic backwardness and lack of infrastructure: States with poor economic development and inadequate infrastructure are prioritized under this status to facilitate their growth and integration.
• Sizeable share of tribal population: States with a significant tribal population are eligible for Special Category Status to address socio-economic disparities and preserve tribal rights and culture.
• Special Category Status was originally granted to states based on specific criteria such as low resource base, remoteness, and socio-economic indicators.
• The classification helps states access additional funds and concessions from the central government for developmental purposes.

Additional Information

• Strategic coastal zone: Coastal zones are generally not considered under Special Category Status unless there are specific challenges such as vulnerability to natural disasters. This criterion is not included in the parameters for granting the status.
• Special Category Status (SCS):
• SCS was introduced in 1969 by the National Development Council to assist states with unique socio-economic and geographical challenges.
• States under SCS receive preferential treatment in federal resource allocation, tax benefits, and centrally sponsored schemes.
• The 14^th Finance Commission removed the distinction between Special and General Category states, replacing it with the concept of "Revenue Deficit Grants."
• States granted SCS: States such as Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir (before bifurcation), Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur, Sikkim, Tripura, and Uttarakhand have been granted this status historically.
• Other considerations: Factors like remoteness, climatic conditions, sparse population, and socio-economic backwardness are also taken into account while granting this status.

The correct answer is Acharya Narendra Dev.

Key Points

• Acharya Narendra Dev was one of the founding members of the Congress Socialist Party (CSP), established in 1934.
• The Congress Socialist Party was formed as a socialist wing within the Indian National Congress to promote socialist ideology and address concerns related to workers and peasants.
• Acharya Narendra Dev, along with other prominent leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan and Ram Manohar Lohia, played a key role in shaping the ideology and activities of the CSP.
• He was a strong proponent of socialism and believed in combining Marxist principles with Gandhian philosophy to achieve social and economic justice in India.
• Acharya Narendra Dev made significant contributions to the Indian freedom struggle by advocating for the rights of the working class and peasants, while also opposing British imperialism.

Additional Information

• Jawaharlal Nehru
• Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of independent India and a key leader of the Indian National Congress.
• Though sympathetic to socialist ideas, he was not directly involved in the formation of the Congress Socialist Party.
• He was instrumental in shaping India’s socio-economic policies post-independence, emphasizing industrialization, secularism, and democracy.
• Motilal Nehru
• Motilal Nehru was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress and the father of Jawaharlal Nehru.
• He played a key role in the Swaraj Party, which was formed to oppose British colonial policies after the non-cooperation movement.
• Motilal Nehru was not associated with socialist movements like the Congress Socialist Party.
• Asoka Mehta
• Asoka Mehta was an Indian politician and a socialist leader who was associated with the Praja Socialist Party, which was formed after the dissolution of the Congress Socialist Party.
• He made significant contributions to Indian politics but was not a founder of the Congress Socialist Party.
• Congress Socialist Party (CSP)
• The CSP was established in 1934 in Patna to serve as the socialist wing of the Indian National Congress.
• It aimed to address the concerns of peasants, workers, and the underprivileged, advocating for socialism as a solution to India’s socio-economic problems.
• The CSP played a major role in strengthening the socialist movement in India and contributed to the independence struggle.