SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) · Topic Collection

General Awareness PYQs

Current affairs and static general knowledge — history, geography, polity, economy, science, sports, awards, books, and important days as asked in the general awareness section.

7100 Total Questions284 Official PapersYears: 2017–2025Search in General Awareness
Showing questions 1901–1920 of 7100Page 96 of 100
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1901

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Jaipal Singh Munda is associated with which of the following sports?

  1. AOption (a)

    Badminton

  2. BOption (b)

    Cricket

  3. COption (c)

    Kabaddi

  4. DOption (d)

    Hockey

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Hockey

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Hockey.

Key Points

  • Jaipal Singh Munda was an Indian politician, writer, and a member of the Constituent Assembly of India.
  • He was also an accomplished field hockey player and captained the Indian hockey team in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, where the team won the gold medal.
  • His leadership and skills were instrumental in establishing India's dominance in the sport of field hockey during that era.
  • Besides his sports career, he was an influential tribal leader and played a significant role in advocating for the rights of indigenous people in India.

Additional Information

  • Field Hockey:
  • Field hockey is a team sport played on grass or artificial turf, with teams aiming to score goals by hitting a ball into the opposing team's net using hockey sticks.
  • It is a popular sport worldwide, particularly in countries like India, Australia, Germany, and the Netherlands.
  • Field hockey is governed by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), which organizes various international competitions, including the Hockey World Cup and the Hockey Champions Trophy.
  • India has a rich history in field hockey, with the national team having won multiple Olympic gold medals, especially during the mid-20th century.
  • Olympic Games:
  • The Olympics are a leading international sporting event featuring summer and winter sports competitions in which thousands of athletes from around the world participate in various competitions.
  • The Games are held every four years, with the Summer and Winter Games alternating by occurring every two years.
  • The modern Olympic Games were first held in 1896 in Athens, Greece, and have since grown to become the world's foremost sports competition.
  • The Olympics aim to promote peace and unity among nations through sports and celebrate athletic excellence.
  • Jaipal Singh Munda's Legacy:
  • Jaipal Singh Munda is remembered not only for his sporting achievements but also for his significant contributions to Indian politics and society.
  • He was a prominent tribal leader and a key figure in advocating for the rights and welfare of indigenous communities in India.
  • As a member of the Constituent Assembly, he played an important role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution, particularly in the context of protecting the rights of tribal people.
  • His legacy continues to inspire many in the fields of sports, politics, and social justice.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1902

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Who has written the book Sangeet Bal Prakash?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pandit Narayan Rao

  2. BOption (b)

    Vishnu Digambar Paluskar

  3. COption (c)

    Vishnu Narayan Bhathkhande

  4. DOption (d)

    Bhimsen Joshi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Vishnu Digambar Paluskar

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Vishnu Digambar Paluskar.

Key Points

  • Vishnu Digambar Paluskar was a renowned Hindustani classical musician.
  • He founded the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in 1901, which was one of the first music schools in India.
  • He is credited with popularizing Hindustani classical music and making it accessible to the common people.
  • His book Sangeet Bal Prakash is an important contribution to the field of Indian classical music education.

Additional Information

  • Hindustani Classical Music:
  • Hindustani classical music is one of the two major traditions of Indian classical music, the other being Carnatic music.
  • It originated in North India and has a rich history dating back thousands of years.
  • It is characterized by its extensive use of improvisation and the raga system, which is a framework for composition and performance.
  • Some of the well-known forms of Hindustani classical music include Dhrupad, Khayal, Thumri, and Tappa.
  • Gandharva Mahavidyalaya:
  • Founded by Vishnu Digambar Paluskar in 1901 in Lahore.
  • It was one of the first institutions to offer formal training in Hindustani classical music.
  • The institution played a pivotal role in popularizing classical music among the masses and providing a structured curriculum.
  • The Gandharva Mahavidyalaya continues to be a prominent institution for music education in India.
  • Contribution of Vishnu Digambar Paluskar:
  • He is known for his efforts to revive and popularize Hindustani classical music in the early 20th century.
  • He introduced the concept of public concerts, which helped in making classical music accessible to a wider audience.
  • His efforts in music education laid the foundation for many future musicians and music educators in India.
  • Paluskar's work and legacy continue to influence the field of Indian classical music today.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1903

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Which of the following rivers originates from the Himalayas?

  1. AOption (a)

    Godavari

  2. BOption (b)

    Tapi

  3. COption (c)

    Narmada

  4. DOption (d)

    Ganga

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Ganga

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Ganga'

Key Points

  • Ganga River:
  • The Ganga originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas at Gaumukh, in Uttarakhand.
  • It is one of the major Himalayan rivers, perennial in nature due to snowmelt and rainfall.
  • The river flows through northern India and Bangladesh, supporting agriculture, culture, and livelihoods across the Indo-Gangetic plain.

Additional Information

  • Godavari River:
  • Originates from Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra (Western Ghats).
  • It is the longest river of Peninsular India but does not originate in the Himalayas.
  • Tapi River:
  • Originates from the Satpura Hills in Madhya Pradesh.
  • Flows westward into the Arabian Sea, not Himalayan in origin.
  • Narmada River:
  • Originates from the Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh.
  • It is a major west-flowing peninsular river but not from the Himalayas.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1904

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Who is the author of the book 'From Plassey to Partition and After: A History of Modern India'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Romila Thapar

  2. BOption (b)

    David Hardiman

  3. COption (c)

    Sekhar Bandyopadhyay

  4. DOption (d)

    Sumit Sarkar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Sekhar Bandyopadhyay

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Sekhar Bandyopadhyay.

Key Points

  • Sekhar Bandyopadhyay is a prominent historian and academician known for his extensive work on modern Indian history.
  • He is a Professor of Asian History at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand.
  • The book 'From Plassey to Partition and After: A History of Modern India' offers a comprehensive analysis of the history of modern India, starting from the Battle of Plassey in 1757 to the post-Independence era.
  • This book is widely used in academic circles and is considered an essential resource for understanding the complexities of Indian history during the colonial and post-colonial periods.

Additional Information

  • Romila Thapar
  • Romila Thapar is a renowned Indian historian whose principal area of study is ancient India.
  • She is an Emerita Professor of History at the Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi.
  • Her notable works include "A History of India," "Early India: From the Origins to AD 1300," and "The Past Before Us."
  • David Hardiman
  • David Hardiman is a British historian and a founding member of the Subaltern Studies group.
  • His works focus on the history of Indian nationalism and the role of the peasantry in the Indian independence movement.
  • Some of his significant works include "Peasant Resistance in India 1858-1914" and "Gandhi in His Time and Ours."
  • Sumit Sarkar
  • Sumit Sarkar is an Indian historian who has contributed extensively to the field of modern Indian history.
  • He is known for his work on the Swadeshi movement and the history of the Indian left.
  • His notable books include "Modern India: 1885-1947" and "Writing Social History."
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1905

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

If a 12-year-old is found to be working in a factory manufacturing carpets, which of the following Articles of the Constitution of India will be violated?

  1. AOption (a)

    Article 24

  2. BOption (b)

    Article 25

  3. COption (c)

    Article 23

  4. DOption (d)

    Article 26

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Article 24

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Article 24.

Key Points

  • Article 24 of the Constitution of India prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in any factory, mine, or other hazardous employment.
  • This Article is part of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in Part III of the Constitution, which aims to protect children from exploitation.
  • It was introduced to safeguard children from engaging in work that can be detrimental to their health, safety, and development.
  • Violation of this Article can lead to legal consequences and penalties as per the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986.

Additional Information

  • Article 23:
  • Prohibits human trafficking and forced labor.
  • It states that traffic in human beings, begar (forced labor), and other similar forms of forced labor are prohibited and any contravention of this provision shall be an offense punishable in accordance with the law.
  • Article 25:
  • Guarantees freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion.
  • It provides all individuals the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate their religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
  • Article 26:
  • Provides freedom to manage religious affairs.
  • It gives every religious denomination or any section thereof the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes, manage its own affairs in matters of religion, own and acquire movable and immovable property, and administer such property in accordance with the law.
  • Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986:
  • This Act prohibits the engagement of children in certain employments and regulates the conditions of work of children in other employments.
  • The Act defines a child as a person who has not completed 14 years of age.
  • It lays down a detailed framework for the prohibition and regulation of child labor in India.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1906

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Bihu festival is the main festival of which state?

  1. AOption (a)

    Kerala

  2. BOption (b)

    Punjab

  3. COption (c)

    Rajasthan

  4. DOption (d)

    Assam

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Assam

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Assam.

Key Points

  • Bihu is the main festival of Assam, celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.
  • There are three major Bihu festivals in Assam: Bohag Bihu (or Rongali Bihu), Kati Bihu (or Kongali Bihu), and Magh Bihu (or Bhogali Bihu).
  • Bihu marks the harvest season and is closely related to the agricultural calendar of Assam.
  • It is a non-religious festival and is celebrated by all communities irrespective of their religion, caste, or creed.

Additional Information

  • Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu)
  • It is celebrated in mid-April and marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year.
  • Bohag Bihu is the most popular Bihu, characterized by feasts, music, and dancing.
  • People wear traditional attire and perform the Bihu dance, showcasing their cultural heritage.
  • Kati Bihu (Kongali Bihu)
  • It is celebrated in mid-October and is a more subdued festival compared to Bohag Bihu.
  • Kati Bihu is associated with the sowing of crops and is marked by lighting earthen lamps in paddy fields and praying for a good harvest.
  • It is a time of introspection and prayer for the welfare of the crops.
  • Magh Bihu (Bhogali Bihu)
  • It is celebrated in mid-January and marks the end of the harvest season.
  • Magh Bihu is characterized by feasts and bonfires, where people gather to celebrate the bounty of the harvest.
  • Traditional games such as buffalo fighting and pot-breaking are also part of the celebrations.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1907

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Which of the following playback singers is the recipient of the Karnataka Ratna Award 2005?

  1. AOption (a)

    Sistla Janaki

  2. BOption (b)

    Ravindra Jain

  3. COption (c)

    Pandit Jasraj

  4. DOption (d)

    Bhimsen Joshi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Bhimsen Joshi

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Bhimsen Joshi.

Key Points

  • Bhimsen Joshi was a renowned Indian vocalist in the Hindustani classical tradition.
  • He was awarded the Karnataka Ratna in 2005, which is the highest civilian honor of the state of Karnataka.
  • Bhimsen Joshi was also the recipient of other prestigious awards such as the Bharat Ratna in 2008 and Padma Vibhushan in 1999.
  • His contribution to Hindustani classical music and his exceptional vocal renditions have made him a celebrated figure in Indian music history.

Additional Information

  • Karnataka Ratna Award
  • The Karnataka Ratna is the highest civilian award in the state of Karnataka, India.
  • It was instituted in the year 1992 by the Government of Karnataka.
  • The award is presented in recognition of extraordinary contributions to the state in various fields such as literature, culture, education, politics, science, and public service.
  • Some other notable recipients of the Karnataka Ratna include Kuvempu, Dr. Rajkumar, and Sri Sri Shivakumara Swamiji.
  • Bhimsen Joshi
  • Bhimsen Joshi was born on February 4, 1922, in Gadag, Karnataka.
  • He was a prominent exponent of the Khayal form of singing and belonged to the Kirana Gharana.
  • His music career spanned over seven decades, and he was known for his powerful voice and unique style.
  • In addition to classical music, Bhimsen Joshi also performed devotional music and popularized classical music among the masses.
  • Hindustani Classical Music
  • It is one of the two main forms of Indian classical music, the other being Carnatic music.
  • Hindustani classical music has a rich history and has been passed down through generations by oral tradition.
  • The main forms of Hindustani music include Dhrupad, Khayal, Thumri, and Tappa.
  • It emphasizes improvisation and exploration of all aspects of a raga.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1908

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

As per article 158, the Governor shall NOT be a member of either House of Parliament or of a House of the Legislature of any State specified in _______ Schedule.

  1. AOption (a)

    Seventh

  2. BOption (b)

    Fifth

  3. COption (c)

    First

  4. DOption (d)

    Third

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

First

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is First.

Key Points

  • According to Article 158 of the Indian Constitution, the Governor of a State shall not be a member of either House of Parliament or of a House of the Legislature of any State specified in the First Schedule.
  • The First Schedule of the Indian Constitution lists the states and union territories of India.
  • This provision ensures the independence of the Governor's office from legislative influence.
  • The Governor must resign from any legislative positions before assuming office to maintain this separation of powers.

Additional Information

  • Article 158
  • Article 158 of the Constitution of India pertains to the conditions of the Governor's office.
  • Clause (1) of Article 158 states that the Governor shall not be a member of either House of Parliament or of a House of the Legislature of any State specified in the First Schedule.
  • This clause ensures that the Governor remains unbiased and can execute his/her duties without any legislative pressures.
  • First Schedule
  • The First Schedule of the Indian Constitution details the list of States and Union Territories along with their respective territories.
  • It provides the official names of the States and Union Territories and their territorial boundaries.
  • Role of the Governor
  • The Governor is the Constitutional head of a state in India.
  • He/she is appointed by the President of India and holds office at the President's pleasure.
  • The Governor's role includes giving assent to bills passed by the state legislature, appointing the Chief Minister, and ensuring the state administration is carried out according to the Constitution.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1909

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

What is the name of the inflammatory condition that causes cracks, crusting and scaling at the corners of the mouth due to vitamin B2 deficiency?

  1. AOption (a)

    Cheilosis

  2. BOption (b)

    Psoriasis

  3. COption (c)

    Urticaria

  4. DOption (d)

    Atopic dermatitis

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Cheilosis

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Cheilosis.

Key Points

  • Cheilosis, also known as angular cheilitis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the corners of the mouth.
  • It is characterized by the formation of cracks, crusting, and scaling at the mouth corners.
  • Cheilosis is commonly caused by a deficiency in Vitamin B2 (riboflavin).
  • Other contributing factors can include fungal infections and poor oral hygiene.

Additional Information

  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
  • Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for energy production and cellular function.
  • It helps in the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids and is crucial for the conversion of carbohydrates into ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
  • Deficiency in riboflavin can lead to symptoms such as sore throat, redness and swelling of the lining of the mouth and throat, and cheilosis.
  • Psoriasis
  • Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells.
  • This buildup of cells causes scaling on the skin’s surface.
  • Inflammation and redness around the scales are fairly common.
  • Urticaria (Hives)
  • Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin reaction that causes itchy welts.
  • It is usually caused by an allergic reaction to food, medicine, or other irritants.
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a condition that makes the skin red and itchy.
  • It is common in children but can occur at any age.
  • Atopic dermatitis is long-lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1910

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

According to the Tea Board of India's report (2021-22), which group of states in India is the largest tea producer?

  1. AOption (a)

    Andhra Pradesh and Kerala

  2. BOption (b)

    Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand

  3. COption (c)

    West Bengal and Assam

  4. DOption (d)

    Tamil Nadu and Kerala

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

West Bengal and Assam

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is West Bengal and Assam.

Key Points

  • West Bengal and Assam are the leading tea producers in India, contributing the highest percentage of total tea production in the country.
  • Assam is known for its black teas and Assam tea is a well-recognized variety globally, celebrated for its robust flavor and bright color.
  • West Bengal, particularly the Darjeeling region, is famous for its high-quality Darjeeling tea, often referred to as the "Champagne of Teas".
  • These states have favorable climatic conditions and terrain suitable for tea plantations, making them ideal for large-scale tea cultivation.

Additional Information

  • Tea Production in India
  • India is one of the largest tea producers in the world, with tea being a significant part of its agricultural economy.
  • The tea industry in India is primarily concentrated in the northeastern states and southern regions due to suitable climatic conditions.
  • There are several types of tea grown in India, including Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri, and Kangra tea.
  • Tea plantations require specific conditions such as high humidity, heavy rainfall, and well-drained fertile soil.
  • Assam Tea
  • Assam tea is known for its brisk, malty flavor and is predominantly used in making strong black teas.
  • The region of Assam lies in the northeastern part of India, where the Brahmaputra River flows, providing ideal conditions for tea cultivation.
  • Assam tea is usually harvested twice a year – the first flush in March and the second flush in May-June.
  • It is often used in breakfast tea blends and is a significant export product for India.
  • Darjeeling Tea
  • Darjeeling tea is grown in the foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal, India.
  • It is known for its unique flavor, often described as "muscatel" and light color, making it highly sought after globally.
  • Darjeeling tea is typically harvested in three main flushes – first flush (spring), second flush (summer), and autumnal flush.
  • The tea from each flush has distinctive characteristics, with the first flush being the most prized for its delicate flavor.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1911

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Which of the following Delhi sultans introduced two coins, namely silver tanka and copper jital?

  1. AOption (a)

    Qutbuddin Aibak

  2. BOption (b)

    Bahlul Lodi

  3. COption (c)

    Ghiyasuddin Balban

  4. DOption (d)

    Iltutmish

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Iltutmish

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Iltutmish.

Key Points

  • Iltutmish was the third ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and the founder of the Shamsi dynasty.
  • He introduced the silver tanka and the copper jital coins, which became the standard currency of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • The silver tanka weighed 175 grains and was the first regular currency introduced in India by the Delhi Sultanate.
  • His coinage system helped to stabilize the economy and provided a reliable medium of exchange for trade and commerce.

Additional Information

  • Delhi Sultanate:
  • The Delhi Sultanate was a Muslim kingdom based in Delhi that ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent for 320 years (1206–1526).
  • The Sultanate is noted for its integration of the Indian subcontinent into the Muslim world and its role in the spread of Islam in South Asia.
  • Silver Tanka:
  • The silver tanka was a high-value coin made of silver and used for large transactions.
  • It had a standard weight of 175 grains (approximately 11.3 grams).
  • The introduction of the silver tanka standardized the monetary system and facilitated trade.
  • Copper Jital:
  • The copper jital was a lower value coin made of copper and used for smaller transactions.
  • It complemented the silver tanka and provided a comprehensive monetary system covering both high and low-value transactions.
  • The copper jital played a significant role in the everyday economy of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • Economic Impact:
  • The introduction of these coins by Iltutmish helped to stabilize the economy of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • It provided a reliable and standardized medium of exchange, which was crucial for trade and commerce.
  • This monetary reform was an important step in the consolidation of the Delhi Sultanate's power and its administration.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1912

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Who founded the Theosophical Society in New York in 1875?

  1. AOption (a)

    Naoroji Furdunji and Satyendra Nath Bose

  2. BOption (b)

    Baba Dayal Das and Madan Lal

  3. COption (c)

    Ramabai Ranade and GK Devadhar

  4. DOption (d)

    Madame HP Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Madame HP Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Madame HP Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott.

Key Points

  • The Theosophical Society was founded by Madame Helena Petrovna Blavatsky and Colonel Henry Steel Olcott in New York City in 1875.
  • The society was created to advance the spiritual principles and search for the divine wisdom underlying all religions.
  • Madame Blavatsky, a Russian philosopher and author, is one of the principal founders and was instrumental in the development of the Theosophical movement.
  • Colonel Olcott, an American military officer, journalist, lawyer, and author, served as the first president of the Theosophical Society.

Additional Information

  • Theosophical Society
  • The Theosophical Society is an organization formed in the late 19th century to promote the study of Theosophy, which emphasizes the mystical and occult aspects of life.
  • The society's objectives include the formation of a nucleus of the universal brotherhood of humanity, the encouragement of the comparative study of religion, philosophy, and science, and the investigation of the unexplained laws of nature and the powers latent in humans.
  • The society has played a significant role in introducing Eastern religious concepts to the Western world, including beliefs in karma, reincarnation, and spiritual evolution.
  • It has influenced various spiritual movements and has had notable members, including Annie Besant, who became a prominent leader in the Theosophical Society and a social reformer.
  • Madame Helena Petrovna Blavatsky
  • Born in 1831, Madame Blavatsky was a Russian occultist, philosopher, and author who co-founded the Theosophical Society.
  • She is best known for her books Isis Unveiled and The Secret Doctrine, which outline the principles of Theosophy.
  • Blavatsky claimed to have traveled extensively, studying esoteric knowledge in various parts of the world, particularly in Tibet and India.
  • She is considered a pivotal figure in the modern occult revival and has had a lasting influence on spiritual and metaphysical thought.
  • Colonel Henry Steel Olcott
  • Born in 1832, Colonel Olcott was an American military officer, journalist, and lawyer who co-founded the Theosophical Society.
  • He was deeply interested in spiritualism, which led him to collaborate with Madame Blavatsky in founding the society.
  • Olcott played a crucial role in the spread of Theosophy in Asia, particularly in India and Sri Lanka, where he promoted Buddhist revival and education.
  • He is remembered for his dedication to the Theosophical movement and his efforts to bridge Eastern and Western spiritual traditions.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1913

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

During the period of 1947 to 1990, how many five-year plans were completed?

  1. AOption (a)

    6

  2. BOption (b)

    7

  3. COption (c)

    9

  4. DOption (d)

    8

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

7

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 7.

Key Points

  • India's first Five-Year Plan was launched in 1951, focusing on the agricultural sector.
  • From 1947 to 1990, a total of 7 Five-Year Plans were successfully completed in India.
  • The Five-Year Plans aimed at economic development through various sectors like agriculture, industry, and services.
  • The seventh Five-Year Plan ended in 1990, marking the completion of 7 such plans within the specified period.

Additional Information

  • Five-Year Plans in India
  • The Five-Year Plans were centralized and integrated national economic programs.
  • They were modeled after the Soviet Union's centralized economic planning, aiming to promote rapid industrialization and economic development.
  • Each plan was formulated, executed, and monitored by the Planning Commission of India, which was established in 1950.
  • The First Five-Year Plan (1951-1956) focused on the agricultural sector, aiming to overcome food shortages and improve living standards.
  • Planning Commission
  • The Planning Commission was an institution in the Government of India which formulated India's Five-Year Plans, among other functions.
  • It was established in 1950 by a Cabinet resolution under the advice of the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
  • The Commission was tasked with assessing the country's resources and formulating plans for the most effective and balanced utilization of resources.
  • In 2014, the Planning Commission was replaced by the NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) by the Narendra Modi government.
  • Objectives of the Five-Year Plans
  • The primary objectives were to increase national income, achieve full employment, reduce inequalities of income and wealth, and establish a socialist pattern of society.
  • Other specific objectives included reducing poverty, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for Indian citizens.
  • Significance of the Five-Year Plans
  • The Five-Year Plans were instrumental in transforming India's economy from an agrarian base to a more diversified one with a substantial industrial sector.
  • They laid the foundation for modern economic development and contributed to significant improvements in various economic indicators, such as GDP growth and poverty reduction.
  • The plans also played a critical role in establishing and expanding public sector enterprises and infrastructure development across the country.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1914

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Name the straight chain alkane having chemical formula C9H20, which is used as a research chemical and in making biodegradable detergents.

  1. AOption (a)

    Nonane

  2. BOption (b)

    Dodecane

  3. COption (c)

    Nonadecane

  4. DOption (d)

    Icosane

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Nonane

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Nonane.

Key Points

  • Nonane is an alkane with the chemical formula C9H20.
  • It is a straight-chain hydrocarbon.
  • Nonane is commonly used as a research chemical.
  • It plays a role in making biodegradable detergents.

Additional Information

  • Alkanes
  • Alkanes, also known as paraffins, are hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH2n+2.
  • They are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they contain only single bonds between carbon atoms.
  • Alkanes are relatively non-reactive and are primarily used as fuels and solvents.
  • The simplest alkane is methane (CH4), and the series continues with ethane (C2H6), propane (C3H8), etc.
  • Biodegradable Detergents
  • Biodegradable detergents are formulated to break down and decompose naturally, reducing environmental impact.
  • They are designed to be more eco-friendly and less harmful to aquatic life.
  • These detergents often use surfactants derived from natural sources rather than synthetic chemicals.
  • Nonane can be used in the production of such surfactants due to its properties.
  • Research Chemicals
  • Research chemicals are compounds used by scientists for medical and scientific research purposes.
  • They are not intended for human or veterinary use.
  • These chemicals help in the study of chemical reactions, biological processes, and the development of new materials.
  • Proper handling and ethical considerations are crucial when working with research chemicals.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1915

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

When you take Lead nitrate powder in a boiling tube and heat it, you will observe the emission of brown fumes that are of _________________.

  1. AOption (a)

    Nitrous oxide

  2. BOption (b)

    Nitric oxide

  3. COption (c)

    Nitrogen dioxide

  4. DOption (d)

    Dinitrogen trioxide

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Nitrogen dioxide

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Nitrogen dioxide.

Key Points

  • Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a brown gas that is emitted when lead nitrate is heated.
  • Lead nitrate decomposes to form lead oxide (PbO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and oxygen (O2).
  • The chemical reaction for this process is:

2Pb(NO3)2 → 2PbO + 4NO2 + O2.

  • The brown fumes observed during the heating of lead nitrate are characteristic of nitrogen dioxide.

Additional Information

  • Lead Nitrate (Pb(NO3)2):
  • It is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Pb(NO3)2.
  • It is soluble in water and is commonly used in laboratories and industries.
  • When heated, lead nitrate decomposes into lead oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and oxygen.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2):
  • It is a reddish-brown gas with a characteristic sharp, biting odor.
  • It is one of several nitrogen oxides and is a significant air pollutant.
  • NO2 is a major component of smog and can have harmful effects on the respiratory system.
  • Chemical Reactions:
  • In chemistry, a chemical reaction is a process that leads to the transformation of one set of chemical substances to another.
  • Reactions involve the breaking of bonds in reactants and the formation of new bonds in products.
  • Decomposition reactions, like the heating of lead nitrate, involve the breakdown of a single compound into two or more simpler substances.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1916

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Who among the following sent Megasthenes to the court of Chandragupta Maurya?

  1. AOption (a)

    Antiochus I Soter

  2. BOption (b)

    Alexander III

  3. COption (c)

    Seleucus I Nicator

  4. DOption (d)

    Antiochus III

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Seleucus I Nicator

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Seleucus I Nicator.

Key Points

  • Seleucus I Nicator was one of the generals of Alexander the Great and a founding ruler of the Seleucid Empire.
  • He sent the Greek ambassador Megasthenes to the court of Chandragupta Maurya.
  • Megasthenes authored the work Indika, which provides valuable insights into the Mauryan Empire and Indian society.
  • The diplomatic mission symbolized the friendly relations and the exchange of cultural and political ideas between the Seleucid Empire and the Mauryan Empire.

Additional Information

  • Seleucus I Nicator
  • He was born in 358 BCE and died in 281 BCE.
  • He played a crucial role in the Wars of the Diadochi that followed Alexander's death.
  • He established the Seleucid Empire, which at its height included regions of the eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.
  • Seleucus was known for founding several cities, including Antioch and Seleucia.
  • Megasthenes
  • He was a Greek historian and diplomat.
  • His work "Indika" is one of the earliest Western accounts of India.
  • Megasthenes' observations covered various aspects of Indian society, including its geography, social structure, economy, and administration.
  • Despite some inaccuracies, his accounts remain a significant historical source.
  • Chandragupta Maurya
  • He was the founder of the Maurya Empire in ancient India.
  • Chandragupta ruled from 321 BCE to 297 BCE.
  • He is known for unifying the Indian subcontinent and establishing a centralized government.
  • Under his reign, the Mauryan Empire became one of the largest empires in the ancient world.
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Question 1917

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Which of the following states is one of those states that have no Panchayati Raj Institution at all?

  1. AOption (a)

    Assam

  2. BOption (b)

    Gujarat

  3. COption (c)

    Nagaland

  4. DOption (d)

    Punjab

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Nagaland

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Nagaland.

Key Points

  • Nagaland does not have Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) due to its unique traditional and customary laws.
  • The Nagaland Village and Area Councils Act, 1978 governs local governance in the state instead of the Panchayati Raj system.
  • The Constitution (Seventy-Third Amendment) Act, 1992, which introduced the Panchayati Raj system in India, does not apply to Nagaland.
  • Nagaland's traditional village councils and customary practices are protected under Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution.

Additional Information

  • Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)
  • Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are a system of rural local self-government in India.
  • The system was institutionalized through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992.
  • This act provides a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj for all states having a population of over 2 million, consisting of:
  • Gram Panchayat at the village level
  • Panchayat Samiti at the intermediate level
  • Zila Parishad at the district level
  • The objective of PRIs is to ensure democracy at the grassroots level and empower rural India.
  • Article 371(A)
  • Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution provides special provisions with respect to the state of Nagaland.
  • It ensures that no act of Parliament in respect of religious or social practices, Naga customary law and procedure, administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary law, ownership and transfer of land and its resources shall apply to Nagaland unless the Legislative Assembly of Nagaland by a resolution so decides.
  • This article preserves the unique social and cultural practices of Nagaland.
  • Nagaland Village and Area Councils Act, 1978
  • This act provides for the establishment of village councils in Nagaland.
  • Village councils are responsible for administration, development, and maintaining law and order in villages.
  • The members of the village councils are selected according to the traditional customs and practices of the Naga tribes.
  • This act ensures that local governance in Nagaland respects and incorporates the traditional and customary laws of the Naga people.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1918

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

In Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awaas Yojana, the cost of unit assistance is shared between Central and State Governments in the ratio ________ for the North-Eastern and the Himalayan states.

  1. AOption (a)

    90 : 10

  2. BOption (b)

    60 : 40

  3. COption (c)

    45 : 55

  4. DOption (d)

    50 : 50

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

90 : 10

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 90 : 10.

Key Points

  • The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awaas Yojana (PMGAY) is a social welfare flagship program created by the Indian Government to provide housing for the rural poor.
  • For the North-Eastern and the Himalayan states, the cost sharing ratio between the Central and State Governments is 90:10.
  • This scheme aims to provide financial assistance to the homeless and those living in kutcha houses to construct pucca houses.
  • It ensures that people living in difficult areas such as hilly terrains and remote regions also have access to housing support.

Additional Information

  • Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awaas Yojana (PMGAY)
  • Formerly known as Indira Awaas Yojana, it was revamped in 2016 as Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G).
  • It aims to provide financial assistance for constructing pucca houses with basic amenities to homeless families and those living in dilapidated houses.
  • The cost of unit assistance is shared between the Central and State Governments for various states in different ratios.
  • In plain areas, the cost sharing ratio is 60:40 between Central and State Governments.
  • For the North-Eastern and the Himalayan states, the cost sharing ratio is 90:10 between the Central and State Governments.
  • For Union Territories, the entire cost is borne by the Central Government.
  • Other Similar Schemes:
  • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)
  • This scheme is aimed at addressing the urban housing shortage among the Economically Weaker Section (EWS)/Low Income Group (LIG) and Middle Income Group (MIG) categories including the slum dwellers by ensuring a pucca house to all eligible urban households by the year 2022.
  • The scheme is implemented through four verticals: In-situ Slum Redevelopment, Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme, Affordable Housing in Partnership, and Subsidy for beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancement.
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
  • This is a financial inclusion program aimed at ensuring affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance, and pensions.
  • Launched on 28 August 2014, it aims to provide universal access to banking facilities with at least one basic banking account for every household.
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Question 1919

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

Which of the following is an example of capital receipts?

  1. AOption (a)

    Revenue from the sale of government assets

  2. BOption (b)

    Taxes on income

  3. COption (c)

    Interest on government bonds

  4. DOption (d)

    Grants-in-aid from other governments

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Revenue from the sale of government assets

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Revenue from the sale of government assets.

Key Points

  • Capital receipts are funds received by the government that create a liability or reduce financial assets.
  • Revenue from the sale of government assets is considered a capital receipt because it involves the sale of existing government assets, which reduces the financial assets of the government.
  • Examples of capital receipts include loans raised by the government, disinvestment proceeds, and borrowings from international organizations.
  • Capital receipts do not occur regularly and are usually non-recurring in nature.

Additional Information

  • Revenue Receipts:
  • These are funds received by the government which do not create any liability or reduce any financial asset.
  • Examples include taxes, interest receipts, and dividends and profits from public sector enterprises.
  • Revenue receipts are regular and recurring in nature.
  • Taxes on Income:
  • Taxes collected from individuals and corporations based on their income.
  • These fall under the category of revenue receipts.
  • Interest on Government Bonds:
  • This is the interest income earned by the government from the bonds it has issued.
  • It is also considered a revenue receipt.
  • Grants-in-aid:
  • These are funds provided by one government to another, typically for a specific purpose.
  • Grants-in-aid are considered revenue receipts.
SSC CGL 2024 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Sept, 2024 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General Awareness
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Question 1920

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2024• General Awareness• General Awareness

‘Drain of Wealth’, a critique of the colonial exploitation, was given by which of the following nationalist leaders?

  1. AOption (a)

    Dadabhai Naoroji

  2. BOption (b)

    Rajendra Prasad

  3. COption (c)

    Chakravarti Rajagopalachari

  4. DOption (d)

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Dadabhai Naoroji

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Dadabhai Naoroji.

Key Points

  • Dadabhai Naoroji, also known as the "Grand Old Man of India", was an early Indian political leader, merchant, scholar, and writer.
  • He is best known for his work in the Indian National Congress and his influential economic writings on the drain theory, which criticized British economic policies in India.
  • In his book "Poverty and Un-British Rule in India", he detailed how the British were draining India of its wealth.
  • Naoroji's economic analysis and advocacy laid the groundwork for Indian economic nationalism and inspired future leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.

Additional Information

  • Drain of Wealth Theory
  • The "Drain of Wealth" theory proposed by Dadabhai Naoroji argued that Britain was systematically transferring Indian wealth to Britain.
  • Naoroji highlighted that a significant portion of India's wealth and resources were being drained to Britain without any adequate economic or material returns to India.
  • This theory was primarily articulated through his writings and speeches, particularly in his seminal work "Poverty and Un-British Rule in India".
  • Indian National Congress (INC)
  • Founded in 1885, the Indian National Congress was one of the first political movements to demand greater autonomy and self-governance for India.
  • Dadabhai Naoroji was one of the founding members and served as the President of the INC three times.
  • The INC played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, advocating for civil rights, representation, and eventually complete independence from British rule.
  • Economic Nationalism
  • Economic nationalism is a body of policies that emphasize domestic control of the economy, labor, and capital formation, often advocating protectionism and import substitution.
  • Dadabhai Naoroji's critique of British economic policies laid the foundation for economic nationalism in India, influencing the Swadeshi movement and later economic policies post-independence.

How should I prepare for General Awareness in SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL)?

Solving previous year questions by topic helps identify recurring concepts, question patterns, and frequently asked sub-topics. Attempt each question, review the step-by-step explanation, and note down key formulas or facts for quick revision before the exam.