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I started my company AllinCall almost 3 years ago. We got formally incorporated on 21st April 2017. My friend Soham and I were the initial co-founders.It was the month of August 2016. My 3rd-year summer internship had just ended. I had a great time in the Bay Area, working at this amazing startup called Rubrik. I enjoyed the work and the people at Rubrik. There was 1 little problem - I realized that I could not work for someone else. Coming from a Marwadi family, I have hardly seen people who are employed somewhere.When I came back to India after my internship, I decided to pursue something of my own. The college courses were almost completed. I had to take a few electives. I was talking to a friend of mine about my entrepreneurship desire. That’s when he told me about DSCE - Desai Sethi Center for Entrepreneurship, a teaching body that had been a part of IIT Bombay for almost 3 years. I was completely unaware of such a thing - IIT Bombay is huge and there are so many things always going on. It is impossible to know everything!I decided to enroll in a few courses at DSCE - Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Technology Venture Creation, Marketing for Entrepreneurs, and Intellectual Property for Entrepreneurs. While typical IIT courses may be focused on assignments, quizzes, and exams, the Entrepreneurship courses at DSCE were different. The Professors were mostly Industry veterans themselves and so, they didn’t care about pen-paper exams and assignments. They were keener on practical work - find a problem statement, build an MVP, get feedback from customers, etc.As a part of the course, we were supposed to partner with someone and build a team. I partnered with Soham, my friend from IIT Bombay. Soham and I iterated on a bunch of ideas - building a Quora-like platform for JEE aspirants, a web development agency, a mentorship platform where IITians could mentor JEE aspirants, etc. Most problems revolved around the difficulties we ourselves faced.Later, we were instructed to boil down on 1 single idea. So, we decided to develop something interesting - a voice-enabled platform wherein, people like our parents who are not too tech-savvy can just call and talk to a virtual assistant to book a cab, order items from Amazon, etc. The idea was that parents are usually not able to use mobile apps even though they have a smartphone and internet connection. So, why not give them a number wherein they can just call and get things done? “All-in-Call”.As the course demanded, we went to talk to various potential customers. Here is me, talking to my dad’s office employees on how they avail such services, trying to get their feedback.We roamed around across malls and other public areas of Mumbai to get feedback from people.We presented some of the ideas to our Professors. Here is a slide from one of the presentations we created.One of the Professors suggested that rather than exploring the B2C concept, we should try and see if we can sell such a solution to large enterprises. The idea was that Banks and other large enterprises would already have multiple such customers and so, we can ride on the Banks for customer acquisition rather than doing it ourselves.We pivoted to the B2B idea - sell solutions to enterprises that will help their customers get banking services at their fingertips. Now, we had a new customer persona - a Bank’s head of Customer Support. So, with the help of an advisor’s network, we met some of the Bank officials - HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, YES Bank.We met the Bank’s Digital Team at the HDFC Bank office at Peninsula Business Park, Lower Parel, Mumbai. The idea was to not sell anything and just get their feedback and explore the gaps.We also went to their Kamla Mills Branch in Lower Parel to see one of their latest Technology Initiative - the IRA Robot which helps customers navigate within the Branch.Based on our discussion with the HDFC Bank officials, we realized that they are quite keen to develop solutions on voice-based technologies like Voice recognition, Voice biometrics, etc.Later, we met a couple of other Banks - YES Bank and Axis Bank to get their feedback. We were fortunate to get support from our advisor who helped us get those meetings. Nobody knew us, but people knew him. He was an ex-Vice President of South Asia at one of the largest logistics company and so, he stayed in a society where many such senior corporate executives lived. That’s how he knew them.He advised us to sell before we build. Basically, he told us to find a way to first get a pilot/POC (proof-of-concept) from a large enterprise and then build the actual product. We started working on the same. Here is one of the old videos I found.The video has been recorded in my hostel room (Hostel 3, Room 347) at IIT Bombay. Remember, this is during the 4th year of college. I had not graduated by that time.I was quite excited about the meetings with senior Bank officials and told my parents about them. Obviously they were not happy because I had a couple of high-paying job offers in my hand. While my dad is a small business owner himself, my annual salary was more than what we could earn in 10 years.This is another of my offer letters at a large Indian company.We were extremely naive at that time. Both of us were Software Engineers, with bare minimum knowledge of Business. Soham was a Gujarati and I was a Marwadi, but deep within, we were hardcore programmers and so, these meetings, presentations, discussions, were all quite a new thing for us. Here is an excerpt from the PPT that we showed to Axis Bank.We were so naive back then that we put “Finish Graduation” as a part of the PPT. No wonder we never got a contract from Axis Bank!Here is a part of the video we showed to Axis Bank. Obviously, the product is hard-coded. The entire video is hard-coded. The goal was to sell before building and that’s what we were trying. We had learned so many things by this time - making presentations, recording videos, editing videos, etc.Later, we started working on a basic Product. We showed it to our Professors who were mentoring us and they helped us get incubated at SINE, the IIT Bombay startup incubator. SINE had a huge network of large enterprises, investors, mentors, etc. With the help of SINE, we approached the giant - State Bank of India.SBI had recently started a Startup Engagement Program wherein, they would buy certain technology-based solutions without the tendering process. We met their DGM of Startup Engagement in March 2017. We had all the learnings of HDFC Bank, YES Bank, and Axis Bank and we made a great presentation to SBI. The DGM was quite impressed with our background and capabilities and told us to incorporate a company.My cousin was a CA in Delhi and we approached him for help for the company incorporation. We had suggested the name “CX Research and Solutions Pvt Ltd” (CX = Customer Experience). He asked us for an alternate name in case that name is unavailable. We suggested “AllinCall Research and Solutions Pvt Ltd”. We were quite sure we will get the name CX Research and Solutions. However, the CA without informing us registered the company with AllinCall, because the name CX required some Rs. 5,000 extra.Anyway, we were happy that the company was incorporated. So, we went back to SBI. In the meanwhile, we had significant progress on the product side. On 15th May, SBI told us to initiate a POC (proof-of-concept) for a simple FAQ ChatBot. The DGM lead the POC. We were given 2 weeks of time. We developed it in 1 week and showed it to him. He was impressed by our speed and the final output. He told us that on 1st July 2017, its the Bank’s foundation day and he would like to deploy our solution in the Bank.Therefore, he told us to proceed forward with further development of SIA ChatBot (SBI Intelligent Assistant) which could answer the most common customer queries. Obviously, there were multiple internal approvals required - Commercial approval, Legal approval, IT approval and most importantly, Information Security approval.We barely knew about all of these things. Thanks to the DGM, he helped us understand the process. We shared an ad-hoc Commercial Proposal document which was obviously rejected by their committee. It took us almost 8 - 10 days to get SBI to agree on our proposal document. For Legal approval, the DGM helped us with the NDA (Non-disclosure Agreement), SLA (Service Level Agreement), etc. IT Approval was something we could ourselves manage given that we came from a tech background. There were many new things to learn - Web Server, App Server, Database Server, etc., but we managed to pick those things quickly.The last one, Information Security Approval was a big challenge for us. We had almost ZERO knowledge about Enterprise-grade Information Security. SBI gave us a long list of vulnerabilities in the Application/Software we developed. Thankfully, we could take help from Google Search and close most of the points. For some left-out points, they took internal exceptional approval.We went live with SBI SIA ChatBot on 1st July 2017. On 2nd July, their CIO and CTO felicitated us in the Bank’s Foundation day ceremony in front of their 1,200 employees (I am 3rd from the right).Here is the photograph of us receiving our purchase order from SBI.Right to left: Me, Our Advisor, Soham, DGM Sir (I would not want to mention his name), DGM Sir’s wife. SBI gave us a memento which is still kept in my office.In August 2017, I had my graduation ceremony at IIT Bombay. Yes, we had our first customer as the giant SBI, before we even graduated!SBI was so impressed with us, they asked us to take a workshop in Programming, Machine Learning and ChatBot development for some of their employees.SBI was a huge launchpad for us and I would like to sincerely thank them for their support in helping us start AllinCall. Without them, it would have been a far more difficult journey. Special thanks to DGM Sir for helping us navigate within the giant SBI and get relevant approvals without any enterprise knowledge.SBI referred us to their sister companies and SBI Life Insurance also purchased our solution in no time (Nov 2017). They remain our client even today. Things were going well so far. However, Soham somehow felt that the ChatBot solution was too shallow and we had to do something bigger.I was of the view that we should focus on selling what’s working and as we build relations with enterprises, we will learn more about the other problems that they may be facing. However, we could not come to a mutual agreement on the same.By March 2018, we had barely onboarded any new customer. We just had 2 clients - SBI and SBI Life Insurance. Soham and I, therefore, started to think of some other ideas. I was of the view that we should stay persistent and focus on what was working. However, I also had to support my co-founder and so, I also spent time with him, searching for new ideas.This is where things started going South. As complete freshers, we barely had any knowledge of Enterprise problems and so, we could not think of any ideas whatsoever. Soham felt that the enterprise sales process is tough and we should find out startup ideas where we can avoid such long sales cycles.One such idea that he was exploring was around Algorithmic trading - building algorithms that can automatically buy/sell assets and make money. Crypto was at its peak at that time and he suggested that we should try algorithmic trading of cryptocurrencies. I was not really convinced about it, but then I agreed to what he suggested.Fast forward August 2018, he suddenly decided to leave the company and pursue algorithmic trading full-time himself.I was stuck in a terrible situation. By that time, we had also started working with ICICI Bank and SBI Mutual Fund and now, suddenly, my co-founder who was managing SBI and SBI Life Insurance decided to leave. I was left alone with a full-time Software Engineer and a newly hired Software intern. I was in deep shit at that time. I did not know how to manage the situation. My parents were extremely worried about what happened.A bunch of problems arose:Soham was managing SBI and SBI Life Insurance. Now, the load was on me, without much context. Payment for these projects was planned to come in a month or so but it got delayed because the projects slowed down.I was managing ICICI Bank and SBI Mutual Fund. The load of handling these clients also fell on me.He had gone to his home town. So, a lot of places where his signature was required got stuck. For instance, SBI used to pay in our SBI Current Account. Since we did not have an Online Banking facility for that account, we used to depend on the branch. The branch guys refused to help me without Soham’s signature.So, I was in trouble from all sides - new money from projects got delayed and existing money got frozen in the bank accounts. I had to pay September/October salaries to the 2 team members as well and the company had no money since I had paid some amount to Soham on his exit. In this desperate situation, I had to put in some of my own money in the company to pay salaries. Remember, I was just 22 years old at that time and I myself did not have a lot of money.It was at this time, I partnered with a friend, Harshita and explained to her the entire situation at my end. I told her how screwed up I was and how desperately I needed someone to help me. She kindly agreed to leave her job and help me with my business. I assured her of decent equity and also a decent pay when things were under control. She was kind enough to not take a penny of salary till December 2018, when things started to improve.We divided our roles very clearly - I would work on sales and customer management and she will work on projects and technology. That worked really well for us. I told her about each and every mistake that Soham and I made and we sat down to find a solution for each of them.At this time, I should mention that ICICI Bank’s Startup Engagement team helped us a lot. They knew that Soham had abruptly left the company. They knew that we were in deep shit. Being such a large institution, they could have kicked us out and taken away our projects. However, their Head of Startup Engagement and their CTO called us and offered any help we needed to keep the company afloat. We borrowed just 2 weeks of time from them which they kindly agreed.We went back to them after hiring a couple of more Software Engineering Interns and guess what they did? They gave us a couple of more contracts. We were extremely happy with the bank’s gesture. They helped us get business when we were in the worst of our situation. ICICI Bank has a completely different culture as compared to any organization we have ever seen. We will forever remain indebted to them for the help they did to us at that time.In November 2018, things started looking better and we moved to a small 8 seater office in Powai (Mumbai). The rent was a smallish Rs. 25k per month, but it was not a small amount for us at that time. Nevertheless, contracts from our customers helped us maintain cashflows.Gradually, from there, things started improving. We had divided our work and so, we gradually started to specialize in our respective domains. On 20th April 2019, we celebrated the 2nd birthday of AllinCall (21st April was a Sunday).We had a small 8 member team at that time, comprising of 2 co-founders, 2 full-time Software Engineers, 3 SDE Interns, and 1 Sales guy. During all of our thick-and-thins, another of our advisors really helped us. He was from the private equity industry and he had a lot of contacts. He used all his network to help us get more business. We are really grateful to him for the help he did during our bad times.With the help of his network, we gradually started onboarding more and more clients. We continued working hard on our ChatBot product and also launched a couple of new Enterprise solutions around Customer Experience and Customer Engagement.On 15th May 2019, we shifted to a bigger office.We worked really hard during the last financial year (April 2019 to March 2020) and onboarded multiple large clients, getting repeated contracts and revenues from them. We also stayed Bootstrapped, not raising money from any investors. Today, we boast of several large companies as our clients.We did 4x growth in Financial Year 2019–20 as compared to Financial Year 2018–19. Today, I am glad to mention that multiple investors have reached out to us for equity investment in AllinCall.We also recently won the prestigious Technoviti 2020 Award by Mr. Satej Patil, Minister of Information Technology, Government of Maharashtra.ICICI Bank also honored us for the work we did for them.I love Business and I enjoy working with large Enterprises. We have a team of 20+ smart people working with us across Technology, Operations and Sales functions. We have happy customers who have extended multiple contracts to us, helping us build recurring revenues.We have followed just 1 simple principle - focus on the customer and rest everything else will fall in place. We never chased any investor. We just remained focus on doing the best for our customers and everything else automatically improved.Today, the business has stabilized quite well and we are growing rapidly. The names of existing customers are enough to onboard new customers.To end this answer, I would like to mention 2 things:I would like to sincerely thank our customers, our advisors and all the team members of AllinCall, especially Harshita who trusted me and helped me during the entire roller coaster ride. I will always remain indebted to all of the people who helped me during the worst of my times.Do not give up, come what may. There is always a solution. You just need to be persistent enough to find it.

You can use the following answer key which has been diligently prepared by a team of diverse faculties from leading institutes, where each solution for a particular question has also been backed with a credible source as well.Special thanks to Mr. Pranav Chauhan, Mr. Mansimar Singh and Shri User-13211618028665871653 (IAS) for their valuable inputs in this key.Analysis :The paper was moderately difficult like that in 2017 but there were also relatively easier knock-offs when compared to 2018.Breakdown of various subjects asked this year :1. Environment : 18 questions2. Science & Tech : 14 questions3. Economics : 17 questions4. History : 15 questions5. Geography : 10 questions6. Polity and Governance : 17 questions7. Miscellaneous : 9 questionsEstimated Cutoffs based on paper difficulty and students’ response :General : 105–108.OBC : 100–105SC : 91–95ST : 84–88KEY FOR SET-D UPSC Prelims 2019 :1. With reference to Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), consider the following statements1. AIIB has more than 80 member nations.2. India is the largest shareholder in AIIB.3. AIIB does not have any members from outside Asia.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c). 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource: About AIIB Overview - AIIB2. What was the purpose of Inter-Creditor Agreement signed by Indian banks and financial institutions recently?(a) To lessen the Government of India's perennial burden of fiscal deficit nd current account deficit(b) To support the infrastructure projects of Central and State Governments(c) To act as independent regulator in case of applications for loans of Rs. 50 crore or more(d) To aim at faster resolution of stressed assets of Rs. 50 crore or more which are-under consortium lendingAnswer: DSource: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/announcements/others/indian-bank-inter-creditor-agreement-for-resolution-of-stressed-assets/article24809734.ece3. The Chairmen of public sector banks are selected by the(a) Banks Board Bureau(b) Reserve Bank of India(c) Union Ministry of Finance(d) Management of concerned bankAnswer: ASource: How public sector bank CEOs are selected4. Consider the following statements:1. Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is the first regulatory body set up by the Government of India.2. One of the tasks of PNGRB is to, ensure competitive markets for gas.3. Appeals against the decisions of PNGRB go before the Appellate Tribunals for Electricity.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: BSource: Welcome to Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board, India5. With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference / differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?1. LTE 'is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.Select the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: DSource: Difference Between LTE and VoLTE6. Which of the following statements is / are correct regarding the Maternity Benefit ' (Amendment) Act, 2017?1. Pregnant women are entitled for three months pre-delivery and three months post-delivery paid leave.2. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother minimum six creche visits daily.3. Women with two children get reduced entitlements.Select the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: CStatement 2 is wrong:Refer: Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act 2017: Significant Provisions and Issuessignificant-provisions-and-issues/Correct Statement: The women employees should be permitted to visit the facility 4 timesduring the day.https://labour.gov.in/sites/default/files/Maternity%20Benefit%20Amendment%20Act%2C2017%20.pdf7. Which one of the following is not a sub-index of the World Bank's 'Ease of Doing Business Index'?(a) Maintenance of law and order(b) Paying taxes(c) Registering property(d) Dealing with construction permitsAnswer: ASource: Methodology for Doing Business8. In India,'extended producer responsibility' was introduced as an important feature in which of the following?(a) The Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998(b) The Recycled plastic (Manufacturing and Usage) Rules, 1999(c) The e-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011(d) The Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011Answer: CSource: Environment Ministry Notifies E-Waste Management Rules, 20169. The economic cost of food grains to the Food Corporation of India is Minimum Support Price and bonus (if any) paid to the farmers plus(a) transportation cost only(b) interest cost only(c) procurement incidentals and distribution cost(d) procurement incidentals and charges for godownsAnswer: CSource: Procurement- Food Corporation of India10. In the context of any country, which one of the following would be considered as part of its social capital?(a) The proportion of literates in the population(b) The stock of its buildings, other infrastructure and machines(c) The size of population in the working age group(d) The level of mutual trust and harmony in the societyAnswer: DSource: Social capital - Wikipedia11. The Service Area Approach was implemented under the purview of(a) Integrated Rural Programme(b) Lead Bank Scheme(c) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme(d) National Skill Development MissionAnswer: BSource : What is Service Area Approach?12. With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:1. Sand is a 'minor mineral' according to the prevailing law in the country.2. State Governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource: Minor Minerals - Arthapedia13. Consider the following statements:1. Most of India's external debt is owed by governmental entities.2. All of India's external debt is denominated in US dollars.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: DSource : Why is external debt a cause for worry?14. Which of the following is not included in the assets of a commercial bank in India?(a) Advances(b) Deposits(e) Investments(d). Money at call and short noticeAnswer: BSource : Liabilities and Assets of Scheduled Commercial Banks (Main Items)15. In the context of India, which of the following factors is/are contributor/ contributors to reducing the risk of a currency crisis?1. The foreign currency earnings of India's IT sector2. Increasing the government expenditure3. Remittances from Indians abroadSelect the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 3 only(c) 2 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: : BSource : Basic Economic Concepts [NCERT Class 11 and 12]16. Which one of the following suggested that the Governor should be an eminent person from outside the State and should be a detached figure without intense political links or should not have taken part in politics in the recent past?(a) First Administrative Reforms Commission (1966)(b) Rajamannar Committee (1969)(c) Sarkaria Commission (1983)(d) National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000)Answer: CSource : Governor’s Role in the Context of Centre State Relations17. Which of the following is issued by registered foreign portfolio investors to overseas investors who want to be part of the Indian stock market without registering themselves directly?(a) Certificate of Deposit(b) Commercial Paper(c) Promissory Note(d) Participatory NoteAnswer: DSource : Participatory Notes Allow Foreign Investors to Buy Indian Securities18. Consider the following statements1. As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.2. People's participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programmes carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: ASource : CAMPA bill - Wikipedia19. In India, which of the following review the independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.?1. Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament2. Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees3. Finance Commission4. Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission5. NITI AayogSelect the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 and 2(b) 1, 3 and 4(c) 3, 4 and 5(d) 2 and 5Answer: ASource : Laxmikanth20. With reference to India's Five-Year Plans, which of the following statements is/are correct?1. From the Second Five-Year Plan, there was a determined thrust towards substitution of basic and capital good industries.2. The Fourth Five-Year Plan adopted the objective of correcting the earlier trend of increased concentration of wealth and economic power.3. In the Fifth Five-Year Plan, for the first time, the financial sector was included as an integral part of the Plan.Select the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource : NCERT Class 11 Economicshttps://www.nipfp.org.in/media/pdf/books/BK_33/Chapters/1.%20Import%20Substitution%20Strategy%20Of%20Economic%20Development.pdfFive-Year Plans of India - Wikipedia21. With reference to the Constitution of India, consider the following statements:1. No High Court shall have the jurisdiction to declare any central law to be constitutionally invalid.2. An amendment to the Constitution of India cannot be called into question by the Supreme Court of India.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: DSource : Laxmikanth22. Consider the following statements1. Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) exchange rates are calculated by comparing the prices of the same basket of goods and services in different countries.2. In terms of PPP dollars, India is the sixth largest economy in the world.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: ASource : Measuring India’s economy using PPPs shows it surpassed France 25 years ago23. With reference to the cultivation of Kharif crops in India in the last five years, consider the following statements:1. Area under rice cultivation is the highest.2. Area under the cultivation of jowar is more than that of oilseeds.3. Area of cotton cultivation is more than that of sugarcane.4. Area under sugarcane cultivation has steadily decreased.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2, 3 and 4 only(c) 2 and 4 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4Answer: AStatement 2 is incorrect.Source- https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/rabi-sowing-down-by-5/article26029944.ece24. Among the agricultural commodities imported by India, which one of the following accounts for the highest imports in terms of value in the last five years?(a) Spices(b) Fresh fruits(c) Pulses(d) Vegetable oilsAnswer: DSource – Let’s cut edible oil importsWhy doubling agri exports may remain elusive25. In the context of polity, which one of the following would you accept as the most appropriate definition of liberty?(a) Protection against the tyranny of political rulers(b) Absence of restraint(c) Opportunity to do whatever one likes(d) Opportunity to develop oneself fully.Answer: DSource - Indian Preamble26. Which one of the following is not the most likely measure the Government/RBI takes to stop the slide of Indian rupee?(a) Curbing imports of non-essential goods-and promoting exports(b) Encouraging Indian borrowers to issue rupee denominated Masala Bonds(c) Easing conditions relating to external commercial borrowing(d) Following an expansionary monetary policyAnswer: DSource – NCERT class 11 and 12 Economics27. Consider the following statements:The Reserve Bank of India's recent directives relating to 'Storage of Payment System Data', popularly known as data diktat, command the payment system providers that1. they shall ensure that entire data relating to payment systems operated by them are stored in a system only in India2. they shall ensure that the systems are owned and operated by public sector enterprises3. they shall submit the consolidated system audit report to the Comptroller and Auditor General of India by the end of the calendar yearWhich of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource - Reserve Bank of IndiaIn Defence of Data Localisation — Will The Move Bolster Data Sovereignty In India28. Which of the following adopted a law on data protection and privacy for its citizens known as 'General Data Protection Regulation' in April 2016 and started implementation of it from 25th May, 2018?(a) Australia(b) Canada(c) The European Union(d) The United States of AmericaAnswer: CSource - General Data Protection Regulation - Wikipedia29. Recently, India signed a deal known as 'Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field' with which of the following countries?(a) Japan(b) Russia(c) The United Kingdom(d) The United States of AmericaAnswer: b30. The money multiplier in an economy increases with which one of the following?(a) Increase in the cash reserve ratio(b) Increase in the banking habit of the population(c) Increase in the statutory liquidity ratio(d) Increase in the population of the countryAnswer: bSource- Multiplier Effect Definition31. Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1, 2 and 3(b) 2, 3 and 4(c) 1, 2 and 4(d) 1, 3 and 4Answer: CStatement 3 is incorrect.Source - Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups32. With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following?(a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.(b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.(c) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.(d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature.Answer: BSource - Article 142 in The Constitution Of India 194933. With reference to the Legislative Assembly of a State in India, consider the following statements:1. The Governor makes a customary address to Members of the House at the commencement of the first session of the year.2. When a State Legislature does' not have a rule on a particular matter, it follows the Lok Sabha rule on that matter.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: C34. Consider the following statements:1. The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a 'Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air'.2. The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument.3. A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly.4. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2, 3 and 4 only(c) 2 and 4 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4Answer: CStatement 3 is incorrect.Source - https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/treaties/CAC/35. Consider the following statements:1. As per recent amendment to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, forest dwellers have the right to fell the bamboos grown on forest areas.2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, bamboo is a minor forest produce.3. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 allows ownership of minor forest produce to forest dwellers.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: BSource - Bamboo not a tree: Parliament passes Bill amending Forest Acthttps://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/bamboo-now-a-minor-forest-produce-3323936. Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one's right to marry the person of one's choice?(a) Article 19(b) Article 21(c) Article 25(d) Article 29Answer: BWider Interpretation of Article 21Source - http://www.legalserviceindia.com/articles/art222.htm37. Consider the following statements:1. According to the Indian Patents Act, a biological process to create a seed can be patented in India.2. In India, there is no Intellectual Property Appellate Board.3. Plant varieties are not eligible to be patented in India.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: CSource –https://www.ifoam.bio/en/news/2018/05/08/indian-supreme-court-says-seeds-plants-and-animals-are-not-patentable http://www.mondaq.com/india/x/611548/Trademark/The+Intellectual+Property+Appellate+Board+Power+Constitution38. Consider the following statements:The Environment Protection Act, 1986 empowers the Government of India to1. State the requirement of public participation in the process of environmental protection, and the procedure and manner in which it is sought2. Lay down the standards for emission or discharge of environmental pollutants from various sourcesWhich of the statements given above is/ are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: BSource – http://bch.cbd.int/database/attachment/?id=1905239. As per the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the following statements is correct?(a) Waste generator has to segregate waste into five categories.(b) The Rules are applicable to riotified urban local bodies, notified towns and all industrial townships only.(c) The Rules provide for exact and elaborate criteria for the identification of sites for landfills and waste processing facilities.(d) It is mandatory on the part of waste generator that the waste generated in one district cannot be moved to another district.Answer: CSource - http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=138591http://cpcb.nic.in/municipal-solid-waste-rules/40. Consider the following statements:As per the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Central (Amendment) Rules, 20181. if rules for fixed-term employment are implemented, it becomes easier for the firms/companies to layoff workers.2. no notice of termination of employment shall be necessary in the case of temporary workman.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: CSource – http://www.iasparliament.com/current-affairs/daily-news/industrial-employment-standing-orders-central-amendment-rules-2018-fixed-term-employment41. In the context of digital technologies for entertainment, consider the following statements:1. In Augmented Reality (AR) , a simulated environment is created and the physical world is completely shut out.2. In Virtual Reality (VR), images generated from a computer are projected onto real-life objects or surroundings.3. AR allows individuals to be present in the world and improves the experience using the camera of smart-phone or PC.4. VR closes the world, and transposes an individual, providing complete immersion experience.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 3 and 4(c) 1, 2 and 3(d) 4 onlyAnswer: BStatement 1 is wrong because AR doesn’t shut off Physical realitySource : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augmented_reality42. The word 'Denisovan' is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to(a) fossils of a kind of dinosaurs(b) an early human species(c) a cave system found in North-East India.(d) a geological period in the history of Indian subcontinentAnswer: BSource: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denisovan43. With reference to the recent developments in science, which one of the following statements is not correct?(a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.(b) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in Iaboratories.(c) A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.(d) Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory petri dishes.Answer: ASource: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petri_dishhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cell_culture and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNA_replication44. Consider the following statements:A digital signature is1. an electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it2. used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information or server on Internet.3. an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchangedWhich of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource: https://www.docusign.com/how-it-works/electronic-signature/digital-signature/digital-signature-faqhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_signatureSource : http://www.mca.gov.in/MinistryV2/digitalsignaturecertificate.html45. In the context of wearable technology, which of the following tasks is/are accomplished by wearable devices?1. Location identification of a person2. Sleep monitoring of a person3. Assisting the hearing impaired personSelect the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6111409/46. 'RNA interference (RNAi)' technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?1. It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.2. It can be used in developing therapies for-the treatment of cancer.3. It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.4. It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.Select the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1, 2 and 4(b) 2 and 3(c) 1 and 3(d) 1 and 4 onlyAnswer: ASource : https://www.livemint.com/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RNA_interferencehttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1697196747. Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant 'blackholes' billions of light-years away from the Earth. What is the significance of this observation?(a) 'Higgs boson particles' were detected.(b) 'Gravitational waves' were detected.(e) Possibility of inter-galactic space travel through 'wormhole' was confirmed.(d) It enabled the scientists to understand 'singularity'.Answer: BSource:https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/watch-binary-black-holes-merger/article18700610.ece48. Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?1. Genetic predisposition of some people2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming4. Multiple chronic diseases in some peopleSelect the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 and 2(b) 2 and 3 only(e) 1, 3 and 4(d) 2, 3 and 4Answer: BSource: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/the-cost-of-resistance/article27005283.ece49. What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news?(a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing(b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients(c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant(d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified cropsAnswer: : Ahttps://phys.org/news/2019-02-scientists-sharpen-molecular-scissors-gene.htmlhttps://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/what-is-genome-editing/article19481402.ece50. Which one of the following statements is not correct?(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.(b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.(c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis Band C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.Answer: BSource : https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/vaccination/51. With reference to Mughal India, what is/are the difference/differences between Jagirdar and Zamindar?1. Jagirdars were holders of land assignments in lieu of judicial and police duties, whereas Zamindars were holders of revenue rights without obligation to perform any duty other than revenue collection.2. Land assignments to Jagirdars were hereditary and revenue rights of Zamindars were not hereditary.Select the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(e) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: D52. With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?(a) The ceiling "laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.(b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.(c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.(d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.Answer: BSource : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_reform_in_India53. The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the(a) International Monetary Fund(b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development(c) World Economic Forum(d) World BankAnswer: CSource: http://reports.weforum.org/54. Consider the following statements about 'the Charter Act of 1813':1. It ended the trade monopoly of the East India Company in India except for trade in tea and trade with China.2. It asserted the sovereignty of the British Crown over the Indian territories held by the Company.3. The revenues of India were now controlled by the British Parliament.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource : Spectrum Book page-566-56755. With reference to Swadeshi Movement, consider the following statements:1. It contributed to the revival of the indigenous artisan crafts and industries.2. The National Council of Education was established as a part of Swadeshi Movement.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: CSource: Spectrum, Bipin Chandra’s India’s Struggle for independence Page-13056. Consider the following pairs:Movement/Organization Leader1. All India Anti-Untouchability League Mahatma Gandhi2. All India Kisan Sabha Swami Sahajanand Saraswati3. Self-Respect Movement E. V. Ramaswami NaickerWhich of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource: Spectrum , Wikipedia57. Which one of the following is not a Harappan site?(a) Chanhudaro(b) Kot Diji(c) Sohgaura(d) DesalpurAnswer: cSource : Sohgaura is near Gorakhpur, which falls outside the Harappan Area Map.58. In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is 'Ranyo Ashoka' (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?(a) Kanganahalli(b) Sanchi I(c) Shahbazgarhi(d) SohgauraAnswer: ASource: Wikipedia and http://bharatkalyan97.blogspot.com/2011/07/asoka-on-ancient-indian-sculptures.html59. Consider the following:1. Deification of the Buddha2. Treading the path of Bodhisattvas3. Image worship and ritualsWhich of the above is/are the feature/ features of Mahayana Buddhism?(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource: RS Sharma, https://www.gktoday.in/gk/hinayana-mahayana/60. With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct?(a) It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people.(b) It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of the Gupta Empire.(c) The forced labourer was entitled to weekly wages.(d) The eldest son of the labourer was sent as the forced labourer.Answer: ASource: Upendra Singh (Page:508)Source: https://books.google.co.in/books?id=H3lUIIYxWkEC&pg=PA508&lpg=PA508&dq=vishti+forced+labour+in+kathiawar&source=bl&ots=xf9E4T6ZkD&sig=ACfU3U2yg3DCAuGhsU3x22JsPuSxzK6wzw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjKgP-zzcriAhUFsY8KHRQ1DoAQ6AEwCXoECAgQAQ#v=onepage&q=vishti%20forced%20labour%20in%20kathiawar&f=false61. Which one of the following groups of plants was domesticated in the 'New World' and introduced into the 'Old World'?(a) Tobacco, cocoa and rubber(b)Tobacco, cotton and rubber.(c) Cotton, coffee and sugarcane(d) Rubber, coffee and wheatAnswer: ASource:- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbian_exchange#Organism_examples62. Consider the following statements:1. Asiatic lion is naturally found III India only.2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASources:https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/a/asiatic-lion/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asiatic_lionhttps://www.thehindubusinessline.com/specials/india-interior/two-humps-one-job-in-nubra-valley/article7900544.ecehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_rhinoceros#Distribution_and_habitat63. Consider the following pairsFamous place RiverPandharpur ChandrabhagaTiruchirappalli CauveryHampi MalaprabhaWhich of the pairs given above are correctly matched?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource:- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hampi#Location64. In a given year in India, official poverty lines are higher in some States than in others because(a) poverty rates vary from State to State(b) price levels vary from State to State(c) Gross State Product varies from State to State(d) quality of public distribution varies from State to StateAnswer: Either A or BSource:- https://www.prsindia.org/theprsblog/how-poverty-line-measured65. In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere?(a) Creating the artificial rains in some regions(b) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones(c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth(d) Reducing the global warmingAnswer: Dhttps://journals.ametsoc.org/doi/full/10.1175/JCLI-D-17-0620.166. In the context of which one of the following are the terms 'pyrolysis and plasma gasification' mentioned?(a) Extraction of rare earth elements(b) Natural gas extraction technologies(c) Hydrogen fuel-based automobiles(d) Waste-to-energy technologiesAnswer: DSource:- https://friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/downloads/gasification_pyrolysis.pdf67. Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve?(a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve(b) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Silent Valley National Park(c) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahme-swaram and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Mukurthi National Park(d) Kawal and Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger ReserveAnswer: ASOURCE:- https://currentaffairs.gktoday.in/tags/agasthyamala-biosphere-reserve68. Consider the following statements:1. Some species of turtles are herbivores.2. Some species of fish are herbivores.3. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores.4. Some species of snakes are viviparous.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2, 3 and 4 only(e) 2 and 4 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4Answer: DSource : https://www.seeturtles.org/sea-turtle-diethttp://www.healthyreefs.org/cms/healthy-reef-indicators/herbivorous-fish-abundance/https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/marine-life-education-resources/marine-mammalshttp://www.reptileknowledge.com/articles/article28.php69. Consider the following pairs:Wildlife Naturally found in1. Blue-finned Mahseer Cauvery River2. Irrawaddy Dolphin Chambal River3. Rusty-spotted Cat Eastern GhatsWhich of the pairs given above are correctly matched?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: CSource :https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/iconic-indian-fish-on-the-verge-of-extinction-says-study-49802https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irrawaddy_dolphinhttp://www.conservationindia.org/articles/the-forgotten-wild-cats-of-the-eastern-ghats70. Why is there a great concern about the 'microbeads' that are released into environment?(a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.(b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.(c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.(d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.Answer: : ASource : https://www.environment.gov.au/protection/waste-resource-recovery/plastics-and-packaging/plastic-microbeads71. Building 'Kalyaana Mandapas' was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of(a) Chalukya(b) Chandela(c) Rashtrakuta(d) VijayanagaraAnswer: DSOURCE : https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/cultural-history-vijaynagar-empire-architecture-literature-and-art-1492780525-172. Consider the following statements:1. In the revenue administration of Delhi Sultanate, the in-charge of revenue collection was known as 'Amil'.2. The Iqta system of Sultans of Delhi was an ancient indigenous institution.3. The office of 'Mir Bakshi' came into existence during the reign of Khalji Sultans of Delhi.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource : Statement 2- IQTA System introduced in medieval (not ancient) period.Statement 3-Office of Mir Bakshi introduced during Mughal period.73. Consider the following statements:1. Saint Nimbarka was a contem-porary of Akbar.2. Saint Kabir was greatly influenced by Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: DSource :https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Nimbarkahttp://www.southasiaanalysis.org/paper924https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Jahangir_and_the_Muslim_fundamentalist_movement74. With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements:1. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of 'indentured labour'.2. In Lord Chelmsford's 'War Conference', Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.3. Consequent upon the breaking of Salt Law by Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.Which of the statements given above are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 1 and 3 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: BSource :https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Mahatma_Gandhi,_his_life,_writings_and_speeches/Indentured_Labourhttps://scroll.in/article/680616/even-gandhi-apostle-of-peace-wanted-indians-to-fight-in-world-war-iStatement 3- Page 421, Spectrum(A brief history of modern India)75. With reference to Indian National Movement, consider the following pairs:Person Position held1. Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru President, All India Liberal Federation2. K. C. Neogy Member, The Constituent Assembly3. P. C. Joshi General Secretary, Communist Party of IndiaWhich of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource :https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshitish_Chandra_Neogyhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puran_Chand_Joshi76. With reference to Mian Tansen, which one of the following statements is not correct?(a) Tansen was the title given to him by Emperor Akbar.(b) Tansen composed Dhrupads on Hindu gods and goddesses.(c) Tansen composed songs on his patrons.(d) Tansen invented many Ragas.Answer: ASource:- https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/music/the-legend-of-mian-tansen/article22893454.ece77. Who among the following Mughal Emperors shifted emphasis from illustrated manuscripts to album and individual portrait?(a) Humayun(b) Akbar(c) Jahangir(d) Shah JahanAnswer: CSource : https://www.academia.edu/33006704/Mughal_Paintings78. Which one of the following National Parks lies completely in the temperate alpine zone?(a) Manas National Park(b) Namdapha National Park(c) Neora Valley National Park(d) Valley of Flowers National ParkAnswer: DSource : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valley_of_Flowers_National_Park#Vegetation79. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the(a) Department of Science and Technology(b) Ministry of Employment(c) NITI Aayog(d) Ministry of Skill Development and EntrepreneurshipAnswer: CSource : http://vikaspedia.in/education/policies-and-schemes/atal-innovation-mission80. On 21st June, the Sun(a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle(b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle(c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator(d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of CapricornAnswer: ASource : GC LEONG, PAGE NO-681. Consider the following statements:1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into environment.2. Cattle release ammonia into environment.3. Poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into environment.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 2 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource - http://www.ghgonline.org/nitrousagri.htmhttps://www.government.nl/topics/livestock-farming/ammonia-emissions-from-farmshttps://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/nitrogen-emissions-going-up-study/article24090131.ece82. What is common to the places known as Aliyar, Isapur and Kangsabati?(a) Recently discovered uranium deposits(b) Tropical rain forests(c) Underground cave systems(d) Water reservoirsAnswer: DSource - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aliyar_Reservoirhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isapur_Damhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kangsabati_Project83. In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements:1. The main adyantage of the use of H-CNG is the elimination of carbon monoxide emissions.2. H-CNG as fuel reduces carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions.3. Hydrogen up to one-fifth by volume can be blended with CNG as fuel for buses.4. H-CNG makes the fuel less expensive than CNG.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 4 only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4Answer: BSource - https://www.insightsonindia.com/2018/09/11/rajya-sabha-tv-in-depth-hcng-fuel-of-the-future/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/cng-to-hydrogen-cng-why-switch-and-how-5278356/84. Why are dewdrops not formed on a cloudy night?(a) Clouds absorb the radiation released from the Earth's surface.(b) Clouds reflect back the Earth's radiation.(c) The Earth's surface would have low temperature on cloudy nights.(d) Clouds deflect the blowing wind to ground level.Answer: BSource - https://www.pitara.com/science-for-kids/5ws-and-h/how-does-dew-form/85. Consider the following statements:1. The 44th Amendment to the Constitution of India introduced an Article placing the election of the Prime Minister beyond judicial review.2. The Supreme Court of India struck down the 99th Amendment to the Constitution of India as being violative of the independence of judiciary.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2Answer: BSource – http://www.ias4sure.com/wikiias/gs2/44th-amendment/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Judicial_Appointments_Commission86. Consider the following statements:1. The- motion to impeach a Judge of the Supreme Court of India cannot be rejected by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha as per the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.2. The Constitution of India defines and gives details of what Constitutes 'incapacity and proved misbehaviour' of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India.3. The details of the process of impeachment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India are given in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.4. If the motion for the impeachment of a Judge is taken up for voting, the law requires the motion to be backed by each House of the Parliament and supported by a majority of total membership of that House and by not less than two-thirds of total members of that House present and voting.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 and 2(b) 3 only(c) 3 and 4 only(d) 1, 3 and 4Answer: CSource – Laxmikanth Page 25.2 and 25.387. The Ninth Schedule was introduced in the Constitution of India during the prime ministership of(a) Jawaharlal Nehru(b) Lal Bahadur Shastri(c) Indira Gandhi(d) Morarji DesaiAnswer: ASource - http://www.yourarticlelibrary.com/essay/judicial-review-and-the-ninth-schedule-of-the-indian-constitution/2498288. Consider the following statements:1. Coal sector was nationalized by the Government of India under Indira Gandhi.2. Now, coal blocks are allocated on lottery basis.3. Till recently, India imported coal to meet the shortages of domestic supply, but now India is self-sufficient in coal production.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: ASource - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coal_mining_in_Indiahttp://pib.nic.in/newsite/printrelease.aspx?relid=160021https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/metals-mining/indias-coal-import-rises-13-to-21-mt-in-april/articleshow/69503158.cms89. Consider the following statements:1. The Parliament (Prevention of Disqualification) Act, 1959 exempts several posts from disqualification on the grounds of 'Office of Profit'.2. The above-mentioned Act was amended five times.3. The term 'Office of Profit' is well-defined in the Constitution of India.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 3 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: AArticle 102 only mentions the term “Office of Profit” without defining it.Source - https://indiankanoon.org/doc/390434/90. Under which Schedule of the Constitution of India can the transfer of tribal land to private parties for mining be declared null and void?(a) Third Schedule(b) Fifth Schedule(c) Ninth Schedule(d) Twelfth ScheduleAnswer: BSource – https://tribal.nic.in/FRA/data/LandandGovernanceunderFifthSchedule.pdfhttps://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/forests/-progressive-maharashtra-governor-must-step-in-to-save-tribal-land-rights-6421791. Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of(a) anti-malarial drug(b) blodiesel(c) pulp for paper industry(d) textile fibreAnswer: DSource : https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/environment/khar-s-experimentation-with-himalayan-nettle-brings-recognition-5788092. For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used?1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location3. Land surface temperatures of a specific locationSelect the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: D93. Consider the following States:1. Chhattisgarh2. Madhya Pradesh3. Maharashtra4. OdishaWith reference to the States mentioned above, in terms of percentage of forest cover to the total area of State, which one of the following is the correct ascending order?(a) 2-3-1-4(b) 2-3-4-1(c) 3-2-4-1(d) 3-2-1-4Answer: CSource: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_cover_by_state_in_India94. Which of the following statements are correct about the deposits of 'methane hydrate?1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.2. Large deposits of 'methane hydrate' are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.Select the correct answer using the code given below.(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer: DSource : https://ghginstitute.org/2010/07/13/what-is-different-about-methane-ch4-emissions-the-forgotten-co2-in-ghg-emissions-accounting/95. Consider the following:1. Carbon monoxide2. Methane3. Ozone4. Sulphur dioxideWhich of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2, 3 and 4 only(c) 1 and 4 'only(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4Answer: DSource : https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/environment/pollution/biomass-burning-a-major-source-of-pollution-in-india/articleshow/45093405.cms?from=mdr96. Consider the following pairs:Sea Bordering country1. Adriatic Sea Albania2. Black Sea Croatia3. Caspian Sea Kazakhstan4. Mediterranean Sea Morocco5. Red Sea SyriaWhich of the pair given above are correctly matched?(a) 1, 2 and 4 only(b) 1, 3 and 4 only(c) 2 and 5 only(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5Answer: BSource : Atlas97. Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last five years?(a) China(b) India(c) Myanmar(d) VietnamAnswer: bSource : http://www.worldstopexports.com/rice-exports-country/98. Consider the following pairs:Glacier River1. Bandarpunch Yamuna2. Bara Shigri Chenab3. Milam Mandakini4. Siachen Nubra5. Zemu ManasWhich of the pairs given above are correctly matched?(a) 1, 2 and 4(b) 1, 3 and 4(c) 2 and 5(d) 3 and 5Answer: aSource : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_glaciers_of_India99. In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as(a) pesticides in agriculture(b) preservatives in processed foods(c) fruit-ripening agents(d) moisturising agents in cosmeticsAnswer: ASource : https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/agriculture/pesticide-ban-lands-kerala-in-court-33657100. Consider the following statements:1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of Ramsar Convention.3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.Which of the statements given above is / are correct?(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3Answer : CSource : https://www.ramsar.org/about/the-ramsar-convention-and-its-mission

This turned into "TL;DR" bait - or perhaps a geek equivalent of "sharing too much".C and (now) C++ are specified by International Standards Committees (although who can participate in those standards bodies is a bit nebulous to me.) Some other languages are also similarly specified - JavaScript has an international standards body for ECMAscript. There are standards bodies for HTML - and CSS as well as volunteer groups seeking to produce the next standards.Bash programming is based on the GNU/Bash shell - which implements the POSIX shell - with a boatload of extensions. (POSIX was an attempt to define a common set of standards for Unix and Unix-like systems .) Bash is the "Bourne Again SHell" ("Bourne" is pronounced like "born") the most famous re-implementation of the original Unix "Bourne Shell" - but not the only one. The POSIX standards for the shell and related components are so minimal it's nearly useless - but getting some kind of agreement over the multitude of Unix and Unix like vendors/manufacturers at the time was quite an accomplishment. Until the horde of penguins beat them into the dust. All that's left today of the multitude of commercial *nix vendors are IBM's AIX and Sun's Solaris (now owned by Oracle .) (Digitial Equipment Corp - DEC - had Ultrix as a *nix, and their own operating system, VMS, which I believe GNU Bash supports. DEC was bought by Compaq which was bought by HP - which has HPUX too. All herring mash under the waddle of the pengin.)FORTRAN has a standards bodies involved with it too - because FORTRAN was an early language portable across multiple operating systems, back when the Computing Industry was characterized as IBM and the 7 Dwarves (DEC, Univac, Burroughs, and I forget the rest.) FORTRAN still has it's niche, but the language is much changed from when I first learned it. (You'd almost think the 80-column punched card had never been invented!)Python doesn't have a standard like that but rather an group of collaborators working together on the TWO reference implementations as an open source project. (Unfortunately, the change from Python 2 to Python 3 introduced a number of incompatible changes, leaving us with two major Python branches.) There are related projects for a variety of Python compilers - one is (I think) CPython, and another that compiles to the JVM (Java Virtual Machine - designed as part of Sun/Oracle's original Java language.)Java is owned by Oracle (after it bought Sun, the creator of Java and many other neat things.) As such, there isn't an international standard for it.Perl is like Python - and even suffers even more from a languishing up-version (Perl 6) which is so different from the current Perl 5 as to nearly be another language entirely. Earlier versions of Perl grew up in an almost ad-hoc fashion. Perl 5 introduced Object Oriented support and a module system (rather than simpler file inclusion of Perl 4.) Perl 5.8 introduced a number of things that broke earlier perl scripts too - years ago.PHP is an open source project now tied to a company. It grew up in an even more ad-hoc fashion than Perl did - over a shorter period of time. It's a pretty anarchaic language and forms the basis of Wordpress, Drupal, and many, many web sites. (Perl also can be operated as an embedded web programming language - but without the safety features that were bolted onto PHP. PHP was initially much simpler than Perl which made it easier for dynamic web pages - and the Suhosin patches to PHP to lock down it's horrendously unsafe features were far more necessary. Adding similar safety features to Perl would have broken Perl - and Perl has a fairly safe niche as a sysadmin too, as well as certain kinds of programming where Perl, Python, R, and D are used for DNA Sequencing pipelines.)PHP also suffers from version change problems. There are web applications that can't run under currently supported versions of PHP and a little cottage industry of creating patches to older versions of PHP has evolved. There are some content management systems that won't run under the latest version of PHP.I thought that Microsoft had offered "C#" up to a standards body - as long as it could (somehow) keep control of it. That's clearly self-contradictory, and I don't think any standards bodies ever took Microsoft seriously about "C#" becoming "blessed" by a standards body - but at the time, "C", "C++", and "JavaScript" were all being standardized and Microsoft's Active Server Pages (ASP . NET) was clearly proprietary to Microsoft (and in particular tied vigorously to Internet Explorer under Windows. IE on the Mac back in the early days of OS/X never dealt with ASP.)"Swift" and "Go" are clearly Apple's and Google's. Objective-C was originally NeXT's (Steve Jobs) and became Apple's - but was integrated into the GNU CC some time ago. It was attempting to introduce OOP to C before C++ existed. I don't know if clang/LLVM supports Objective-C - or what'll happen to it if the GNU CC ever drops support for it.Languages not controlled by a standards body have more freedom to change - with some risk (Perl, PHP, Python.) Languages firmly tied down by a standards body can have multiple implementations (C and C++ are similar enough that they come in pairs. The GNU Compiler Collection - gcc - is the most famous of the free compilers, but "clang/llvm" an excellent alternative and is free to - with a different but still open source license. Oracle/Sun has (had) set of compilers for Solaris - although when I used Solaris, we preferred to use GNU gcc for the open source software we had. IBM's AIX has a C compiler. Intel offers a C (and I presume C++) compiler for their CPUs - and as the reference C compiler for the Intel architectures it'll often see support for newer features than GCC or clang/LLVM - and that's important for certain High Performance Computing environments where every bit of machine speed is necessary on programs that run for months. FreeBSD used to have their own compiler - then they switch to GNU CC, and now they're with clang/LLVM.BTW - The GNU Compiler Collection also supports FORTRAN and a compiled version of a Java-like language. Or at least, I've built the GNU CC that way from time to time even if I've never used those particular compilers. It seems that GNU CC also supports Ada and Google's "Go" - although I'm not sure if Google continues to develop the language.One benefit I've discovered with multiple implementations of a C compiler is that it helped me find bugs in my code faster as each compiler will warn or get picky about different parts of the standards involved and may even demonstrate where the standards are ambiguous - but this was a decade ago. (IBM's AIX compiler was a particular annoyance to me - and helped me find bugs in server-daemon code than needed to be able to run for months without a memory leak or crashing.)Of course, all those different compilers and systems are an annoyance too - if you're immediate concern is getting ANYTHING out the door rather than minimizing the service calls you get for what you sent out the door.A major drawback to non-standardized languages is that you're often tied to the particular version that ships with your OS - because there's components of your OS that would fail with the newer one, and some of these languages don't play well together when there's multiple versions - and of course, the add-on libraries/modules/packages all need to have separate copies for the different versions, and on and on and on. Perl has been at this game long enough that it plays well with itself with multiple versions. (That sounds rather risque, doesn't it...) I was able to bolt something like that together for PHP on a special version of LFS (Linux From Scratch) - although I NEVER want to do that again. Ubuntu 14.04 supports Python 2.7 and 3.<something>. RedHat 6 supports Python 2.5 and Python 2.6. Those version skews are driving me to write things in "bash" (when I don't need performance) or in C (which I prefer over C++) when I need performance and compiling it for the different platforms I support . That's easier for me so far than finding some compromise solution for Python.My experiences coding in Perl have caused me to avoid Perl modules when possible as I couldn't trust they'd be available where I needed them on the different versions I needed to support. My (limited) experience with Python is similar as regards modules changing between versions making portability difficult - but it's nearly impossible to avoid modules in Python whereas it's easy (for me) to avoid modules in Perl (although I'm willing to write modules myself to take advantage of OOP programming in Perl.)C is EXTREMELY stable and there's a number of (arcane, true) utilities (autoconf, automake, etc.) to help write portable code.The C++ standard continues to be in flux (as I understand it, "boost" is merging with the STL or replacing it or some-such.)The joke about Java - which once was advertised as the write-once-run-everywhere (compared to C/autoconf) was "Write once, debug everywhere" - although that joke ignores the safety belt of the JVM in protecting the rest of the system from runaway Java applications - although that hardly matters anymore as OS-level VMs are being dedicated to running single apps (sometimes in a JVM, *sigh*) and all that's left of Java on the Desktop is Minecraft. (Chrome will no longer allow Java to be run from the browser.)Of other languages, there's "D" (which some DNA Sequencing tools seem to be written in - even though the language is undergoing changes) - I abandoned building the development tool-chain on RedHat 6 as I nearly had to build an entirely parallel tool-chain and resolving problems with that was taking too long) and "Rust" (and all I know of that is the name which is entertaining at least.) And there's endless obscure languages, although you may have heard of LISP, which is more a family of languages all unifed by the a common concept that everything can be expressed as an n-tuple list (expressed as a parenthesized, comma-separated set of values) - and so (nearly) everything is a function which returns a result (and, (you, must, (love, parenthesis),(and,(reverse,polish,notation)),(otherwise,called,(prefix,notation)))) [I give up.]