WBCS 2023 SOLUTION WITH EXPLANATION 101 TO 149 পরীক্ষার সম্পূর্ণ সমাধান

WBCS 2023 PRELIMS SOLUTION

101. One of the following terms includes rest of the lot. Identify that single term:

Glucocorticoids, Adrenaline, Mineralocorticoids, Suprarenal gland.

(A) Mineralocorticoids

(B) Adrenaline

(C) Suprarenal gland

(D) Glucocorticoids

ANS

(C) Suprarenal gland

Here's why:

• Glucocorticoids, Mineralocorticoids, and Adrenaline: These are all hormones produced by the outer layer (cortex) of the suprarenal gland. Each has specific functions, like regulating blood sugar and electrolyte balance (corticoids) or acting in fight-or-flight response (adrenaline).

• Suprarenal gland: Located above the kidneys, this gland has two distinct parts: the cortex (mentioned above) and the medulla. The medulla produces adrenaline and non-essential hormones like noradrenaline.

Therefore, the suprarenal gland encompasses all the other listed terms as it's the organ that produces those hormones and hormones are its primary function.

102. Financial instruments that generate proceeds for investment in environmentally sustainable projects are called

(A) Green bonds

(B) Nature bonds

(C) Low Emission bonds

(D) Environment bonds

(A) Green bonds

Here's why:

• Green bonds: This is the widely recognized and established term used globally to describe bonds issued specifically to finance projects that have positive environmental and climate-related benefits. It encompasses a variety of projects like renewable energy, clean transportation, green buildings, and pollution control.

• Nature bonds: While gaining traction, this term is more specific and often refers to bonds focused on conservation projects or initiatives directly impacting natural ecosystems. It can be considered a type of green bond with a narrower focus.

• Low Emission bonds: This term might be used for bonds focusing on projects specifically aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but it doesn't fully capture the broader range of environmental sustainability goals that green bonds encompass.

• Environment bonds: This term lacks the specificity and clarity of "green bonds" and could potentially encompass a wider range of projects not necessarily related to sustainable development.

103. Which among the following country is associated with the 'Terminator Tank Support System the BMPT'?

(A) China

(B) Israel

(C) Russia

(D) USA

(C) Russia

The BMPT Terminator is a specialized armored fighting vehicle developed and manufactured by Uralvagonzavod, a Russian defense company. It's designed to support main battle tanks in urban warfare and other close-quarters combat situations. The system has been deployed by the Russian military in various conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The other options are not associated with the BMPT:

• (A) China: While China possesses a powerful military and its own tank support vehicles, the BMPT is a specifically Russian design and technology.

• (B) Israel: Israel is known for its Merkava tank and other advanced military technologies, but the BMPT is not part of their arsenal.

• (D) USA: The US military relies on its own range of heavy armored vehicles like the Bradley Fighting Vehicle for infantry support, and the BMPT isn't part of their equipment.

Therefore, remembering that the BMPT Terminator is a Russian-developed tank support system adds to your knowledge of military technology and specific national defense capabilities.

104. According to Newlands law of octaves, beryllium resembles which of the following

elements?

(A) Sodium

(B) Magnesium

(C) Calcium

(D) Aluminium

beryllium would indeed resemble (B) Magnesium. The reasoning you provided is accurate and well-explained. The shared group number in the modern periodic table further strengthens the relationship between their properties.

105. Mahatma Gandhi presided over the Annual Session of Congress only once at

(A) Kakinada, 1923

(B) Belgaum, 1925

(C) Kanpur, 1925

(D) Gauhati, 1926

ANS

Mahatma Gandhi indeed presided over the Annual Session of Congress only once, at (B) Belgaum, 1924

106. Choose the correct diagram to represent books, bengali books and novels.

A)

107. Identify the substance which can dissolve in water.

(A) Glucose

(B) Urea

(C) Acetone

(D) All of the above

ANS

Out of the provided options, all of them are indeed soluble in water:

(D) All of the above

• Glucose: is a sugar molecule and easily dissolves in water, forming syrups or solutions.

• Urea: is a nitrogenous compound commonly found in urine and readily dissolves in water.

• Acetone: a polar organic solvent, mixes well with water due to its polar functional group.

Therefore, remembering that all these substances can dissolve in water expands your knowledge of various water-soluble materials.

108. When is 'International Customs Day 2023' Observed?

(A) January 25

(B) January 26

© January 27

(d) January 28

the correct answer is (B) January 26.

109. After the Surat Split in 1907, the second split in the Congress took place in 1918 on the

issue of

(A) Lucknow Pact

 (B) Montagu Declaration

(C) Election of Mrs. Annie Besant as President of the INC (1917)

(D) Both (B) and (C) above

The second split in the Indian National Congress after the Surat Split of 1907 occurred in 1918 due to (D) Both (B) and (C) above, the Montagu Declaration and the election of Mrs. Annie Besant as President of the INC in 1917.

Here's a breakdown of the reasons:

• Montagu Declaration: This declaration by the British government outlined proposals for constitutional reforms in India, including increased representation for Indians in legislative councils. Moderates within the Congress welcomed the reforms, viewing them as a step towards increased self-governance. However, extremists, led by Bal GangadharTilak, criticized the reforms as inadequate and argued for more immediate action towards complete independence.

• Election of Mrs. Annie Besant as President: The election of Mrs. Besant, a prominent supporter of home rule and theosophist movement, further deepened the split within the Congress. Her association with the Home Rule movement created tensions with the moderates who advocated for a more gradual approach to achieving self-governance.

Therefore, the combined factors of the differing opinions on the Montagu Declaration and the leadership of Mrs. Besant ultimately led to the second split in the Congress in 1918.

So, remember that both the Montagu Declaration and the election of Mrs. Besant played a crucial role in triggering this significant event in Indian political history.

110. The main source of methane gas in India-

 (A) Floriculture gardens

(B) Orchards

(C) Tea gardens

(D) Paddy fields

(D) Paddy fields

Here's why:

• Anaerobic conditions: Paddy fields are flooded with water for most of the growing season, creating an anaerobic environment. This lack of oxygen promotes the growth of methanogenic bacteria, which break down organic matter and produce methane as a byproduct.

• Widespread cultivation: Paddy is a staple crop in India, cultivated over vast areas across the country. This extensive coverage contributes significantly to the total methane emissions arising from agricultural practices.

• Warm climate: The warm tropical climate in India further accelerates the decomposition process and methanogenesis in paddy fields.

While other options like floriculture gardens, orchards, and tea gardens might also emit some methane through similar processes, their contribution is relatively insignificant compared to the widespread impact of paddy fields.

Therefore, remembering that paddy fields are the primary source of methane gas in India adds valuable insight into the country's greenhouse gas emissions and potential agricultural mitigation strategies.

111. In Assam the Tea Research Centre is at

(A) Guwahati

(B) Jorhat

 (C) Tejpur

(D) Digboi

answer

(B) Jorhat

112. In India the first Paper Mill was set up in West Bengal at

(A) Srirampur

(B) Bansberia

(C) Kulti

(D) Budge Budge

Out of the provided options, the first paper mill in India was established in West Bengal at:

(A) Srirampur

This occurred in the year 1812, though the mill didn't achieve long-term success due to various factors. While other places like Bansberia, Kulti, and Budge Budge later emerged as important centers for paper manufacturing, Srirampur holds the historical significance of hosting the first such mill in India.

Remembering this historical fact adds to your knowledge about the paper industry's origin and development in the country.

113. Where did Chandragupta Il establish his second capital?

(A) Bidisha

(B) Malava

(C) Valabhi

(D) Ujjayini

answer is (D) Ujjayini.

Chandragupta II, also known as Vikramaditya, was the third ruler of the Gupta Empire in India. He expanded the Gupta empire to the western sea coast, a vital area for trade and commerce. As a result, Malwa and Ujjain (Ujjayini), the region's capital, enjoyed prosperity. Chandragupta II may have defeated the Shaka invaders of Ujjain, and placed his son Govindagupta as a viceroy there. As a result, Ujjain might have become a second capital of the Gupta empire, and subsequently, legends about him (as Vikramaditya) might have developed.

The other options are incorrect because:

• Bidisha was a city in the Magadha region, which was the traditional capital of the Gupta Empire.

• Malava was a region in central India, but it did not have a single capital city.

• Valabhi was a city in Gujarat, which was not part of the Gupta empire at the time of Chandragupta II.

114. In India production of dairy products are comparatively low-

(A) Demand for fresh milk is high.

(B) Most people have low purchasing power for dairy products.

(C) Most milch cattle are lean.

 (D) All the reasons above

(D) All the reasons above

The production of dairy products in India is comparatively low due to a combination of factors, including high demand for fresh milk, low purchasing power for dairy products among the population, and the fact that many milch cattle are lean. Therefore, option (D) encompasses all the mentioned reasons.

115, Which of the following is not a capital receipt in the government budget?

(A) Loan recoveries

B) Provident fund deposits

 (C) PSU disinvestment

(D) Grants

Ans:

 (B) Provident fund deposits

Here's why:

• Capital receipts: These are inflows that either create liabilities for the government (like borrowing) or reduce its assets (like disinvestment). They don't necessarily generate income immediately but may bring future benefits.

• Loan recoveries: When the government recovers loans it has already provided, it increases its assets, making it a capital receipt.

• PSU disinvestment: When the government sells off its ownership in public sector undertakings, it also reduces its assets and qualifies as a capital receipt.

• Grants: These are non-repayable transfers from other governments or international organizations. They directly increase the government's income and are considered revenue receipts, not capital receipts.

• Provident fund deposits: These are employee contributions towards their retirement savings schemes. While the government manages these funds, the ownership ultimately lies with the employees. Therefore, these deposits don't directly increase the government's assets or create liabilities, making them fall outside the category of capital receipts.

Therefore, remembering that provident fund deposits are not seen as capital receipts due to their ownership structure clarifies the distinction between different types of government inflows.

116. Which provision of the fundamental rights is directly related to the exploitation of children?

(A) Article 17

(Β) Article. 19

(С) Article. 23

(D) Article. 24

The provision of the Indian Constitution directly related to the exploitation of children is:

(D) Article 24

Here's why:

• Article 17: This article guarantees the right to go against and avoid any restrictions on the right to travel, reside, settle or pursue an occupation in any part of India. While a connection might be drawn to child trafficking or forced movement, it doesn't specifically address exploitation.

• Article 19: This article guarantees fundamental freedoms like freedom of speech and expression, association, and movement. Again, while important for protecting children from certain forms of exploitation, it's not the most direct provision.

• Article 23: This article prohibits human trafficking and forced labor. While it tackles exploitation in general, it's broader than just children and encompasses all individuals.

• Article 24: This article specifically prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 in any factory or mine or in any other hazardous employment. This directly addresses the issue of child labor and exploitation in various work settings.

117. Who is known as the 'Parrot of India'?

(A) Jimutavahana

(B) Al-Beruni

(C) Ibn-Batutlah

(D) Amir Khasru

The answer is (D) Amir Khasru.

Amir Khusro, a renowned 13th-century poet and musician, is widely known as the "Parrot of India" for his exceptional skills in language and music. He wrote in several languages, including Persian, Hindi, and Urdu, and was known for his beautiful melodies and innovative musical compositions. His talent and versatility earned him the title "Tuti-e-Hind" in Persian, which translates to "Parrot of India."

The other options are not associated with the title "Parrot of India":

• (A) Jimutavahana: A renowned jurist and philosopher, but not particularly known for literary or musical prowess.

• (B) Al-Beruni: A prominent 11th-century scholar and polymath, but not connected to the nickname "Parrot of India."

• (C) Ibn-Batutlah: A famous 14th-century explorer and travel writer, not known for literary or musical contributions.

Therefore, remembering that Amir Khusro earned the nickname "Parrot of India" due to his remarkable talents in language and music adds to your knowledge of Indian cultural figures and their historical significance.

118. There are four girls A, B, C, D. A and Bplay football and volleyball. B and C play cricket and football. C and D play badminton and cricket, Dand A play volleyball and badminton. Who plays badminton, cricket and volleyball?

(A) B

(B) C

(C) D

(D) A

The answer is:

(C) D

Let's analyze the information given:

• A and B play football and volleyball.

• B and C play cricket and football.

• C and D play badminton and cricket.

• D and A play volleyball and badminton.

Now, let's find out who plays badminton, cricket, and volleyball. Looking at the information:

• A plays volleyball and badminton.

• B plays football, volleyball, and cricket.

• C plays cricket, football, badminton, and possibly volleyball (through B).

• D plays badminton, cricket, and volleyball.

So, the person who plays badminton, cricket, and volleyball is D.

119. NEAT 3.0 is a platform associated with which Union Ministry of India?

(A) Ministry of Education

(B) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

(C) Ministry of Commerce and Industry

(D) Ministry of Corporate Affairs

Ans

(A) Ministry of Education of India.

Here's why:

• NEAT 3.0 is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Education to provide access to high-quality ed-tech solutions and courses to students across India.

• It operates under the guidance of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), which falls under the administrative domain of the Ministry of Education.

• The Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, himself officially launched NEAT 3.0 in October 2021.

Therefore, remembering that NEAT 3.0 belongs to the Ministry of Education adds to your knowledge about government initiatives in the education sector and their respective administrative bodies.

120. Which of the following diseases is autosomal?

(A) Haemophilia

(B) Thalassemia

(C) Colourblindness

 (D) All of the above

The answer is (D) All of the above.

These three diseases are all autosomal genetic disorders, meaning the defective gene responsible for the disease is located on one of the 22 autosomal chromosomes (chromosomes 1-22, not the sex chromosomes).

Here's a breakdown of each disease:

• Haemophilia: A blood clotting disorder caused by mutations in genes on the X chromosome, making it an X-linked recessive disorder, not autosomal.

• Thalassemia: A blood disorder affecting hemoglobin production due to mutations in genes on chromosome 11, making it an autosomal recessive disorder.

• Colourblindness: A visual impairment caused by mutations in genes on the X chromosome (red-green colour blindness) or chromosome 7 (blue-yellow colour blindness), making it both X-linked and autosomal recessive depending on the type.

Therefore, while haemophilia is not autosomal, both thalassemia and colourblindness can be inherited through autosomal recessive patterns. So, considering all three options, the correct answer is indeed (D) All of the above.

Remember, understanding the inheritance patterns of different diseases is crucial for genetic counseling and medical interventions.

121. In India the main textile fibre crop is

(A) Jule

(B) Cotton

(C) Flax

(A)   Til

The main textile fibre crop in India is:

(B) Cotton

Here's why:

• Extensive cultivation: Cotton occupies a significant area in India's agricultural landscape, contributing to around 25% of the global cotton production.

• Versatility: Cotton fibers are widely used in textile manufacturing for producing diverse garments, ranging from apparel to bedsheets and towels.

• Economic importance: The cotton industry forms a vital part of India's economy, generating employment for millions and contributing to exports.

• Historical significance: Cotton has been cultivated in India for centuries, playing a major role in the country's cultural heritage and textile traditions.

While India also cultivates other fibre crops like jute (A), flax (C), and til (D), their production and economic impact are far lower compared to cotton. Jute, for example, finds specific applications in packaging materials and coarse fabrics, while flax and til have limited uses in the textile industry.

122. After the partition of Bengal, the two new provinces which came into existence were

(A) East Bengal and Bengal

(B) East Bengal and West Bengal

(C) East Bengal and Assam

(D) East Bengal and North Bengal

Ans:The answer is:

(B) East Bengal and West Bengal

After the partition of Bengal in 1905, the British Raj created two new provinces:

• East Bengal and Assam: This province included the eastern districts of Bengal and the entire province of Assam. However, this arrangement only lasted for six years due to widespread protest and the annulment of the partition in 1911.

• West Bengal: This province consisted of the western districts of Bengal and remained a separate entity after the annulment.

Therefore, while East Bengal and Assam existed briefly, East Bengal and West Bengal emerged as the long-standing consequences of the Bengal partition. Remembering this historical event and its immediate outcomes enriches your understanding of Indian geography and political developments.

122. After the partition of Bengal, the two new provinces which came into existence were

(A) East Bengal and Bengal

(B) East Bengal and West Bengal

(C) East Bengal and Assam

(D) East Bengal and North Bengal

ANS:

The two new provinces that emerged after the partition of Bengal were indeed:

(B) East Bengal and West Bengal

123. Who founded a National Society, a National Paper, a National School and National Gymnasium and made the word 'National' popular in the laterhalf of the 19th century?

(A) JyotindraNath Tagore

(B) Rajnarayan Bose

(C) NabagopalMitra

(D) SatyendraNath Tagore

The answer is (C) NabagopalMitra.

NabagopalMitra was a prominent figure in the Bengal Renaissance and played a crucial role in popularizing the concept of nationalism in India during the late 19th century. He established several institutions with the word "National" in their names, including:

• National Paper: A weekly English newspaper founded in 1867 to advocate for Indian interests and criticize British rule.

• National Society: Established in 1871 to promote social and political reforms, educate the public, and foster a sense of national identity.

• National School: Founded in 1872 to offer an alternative to the colonial education system and emphasize Indian history and culture.

• National Gymnasium: Established in 1873 to promote physical fitness and self-defense among young Indians.

These institutions, along with Mitra's other activities, such as writing and public speaking, contributed significantly to the rise of nationalist sentiment in India. He earned the nickname "National Mitra" for his dedication to the cause.

124. What is the name of the new department created by the Reserve Bank of India in 2022

(A) Department of Artificial Intelligence

(B) Department of Fin-Tech

(C) Department of Data Science

(D) Department of Digital Currency

the new department created by the Reserve Bank of India in 2022 is:

(B) Department of Fin-Tech

This decision was taken in January 2022 to acknowledge the rapid growth of the Fin-Tech sector and effectively address its various opportunities and challenges. The department focuses on:

• Promoting innovation and adoption of Fin-Tech solutions in the Indian financial system.

• Regulating and overseeing the Fin-Tech sector to ensure financial stability and consumer protection.

• Engaging with stakeholders in the Fin-Tech ecosystem to develop a conducive regulatory environment.

While artificial intelligence, data science, and digital currency play a role in Fin-Tech, they would not represent the entire scope of the newly established department.

Therefore, remembering that the Reserve Bank of India established a dedicated department for Fin-Tech in 2022 expands your knowledge about the central bank's efforts in regulating and facilitating this evolving sector.

125. A Public Service Commission was established in India for the first time by

(A) The Indian Council Act, 1982

(B) The Act of 1909

(C) The Government of India Act, 1919

 (D) The Government of India Act, 1935

ANS

(D) The Government of India Act, 1935.

While the concept of a Public Service Commission (PSC) was discussed earlier, a statutory PSC wasn't established in India until the passage of the Government of India Act, 1935. Here's a breakdown of the options:

• (A) The Indian Council Act, 1982: This act revamped the composition and functioning of the central PSC but didn't establish it.

• (B) The Act of 1909: This could refer to various acts of 1909, none of which established a national PSC in India.

• (C) The Government of India Act, 1919: This act laid the groundwork for a PSC by mentioning its future establishment but didn't actually create it.

• (D) The Government of India Act, 1935: This act finally instituted the statutory Public Service Commission for India, with provisions outlining its composition, functions, and powers.

Therefore, remembering that the first Public Service Commission in India was established by the Government of India Act, 1935, adds to your knowledge of the country's administrative history and institutional development.

126. A bird is sitting in a wire cage hanging from the spring balance. Let the reading of the spring balance be W_1. If the bird flies about inside the cage, the reading of the spring balance becomes W_2. Which of the following is true?

(A) W_1 > W_2

(B) W_1< W_2

(C) W_1 = W_2

(D) W_1 = 1/W_2

When the bird is sitting in the cage, the spring balance measures the combined weight of the bird and the cage, W_1. When the bird flies inside the cage, it creates an upward force against the cage due to its flapping wings. This upward force partially cancels out the bird's downward weight.

Therefore, the reading of the spring balance will decrease, meaning:

(A) W_1 > W_2 is the correct answer.

Here's the reasoning:

• W_1 = weight of bird + weight of cage

• When the bird flies, it creates an upward force (F) which partially cancels its weight

• New reading on the spring balance = (weight of bird - F) + weight of cage

• Since F is positive and directed upwards, it reduces the overall weight measured by the spring balance.

Therefore, W_2 (reading with bird flying) will be less than W_1 (reading with bird sitting).

Remember, in situations like this where one force counteracts another, the resulting force or weight decreases compared to the initial value.

127. Who was the first historical emperor of India?

(A) Dhanananda

(B) Chandragupta Mourya

(C) Bimbisara

(D) Bindusara

(B) Chandragupta Maurya

Here's why:

• Chandragupta Maurya (321-297 BCE) established the Mauryan Empire, which unified a vast majority of the Indian subcontinent under one administration. He is credited with overthrowing the Nanda dynasty and laying the foundation for a powerful and influential empire.

• Dhanananda (4th century BCE), the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty, ruled over a significant portion of northern India but didn't unify the entire subcontinent. While powerful, his empire lacked the territorial extent and centralized administration defining a unified imperial entity.

• Bimbisara (544-491 BCE) and Bindusara (297-272 BCE) were crucial figures in the Maurya dynasty's rise to power. However, Bimbisara ruled over Magadha, a powerful kingdom but not encompassing the entire subcontinent. Bindusara expanded the Maurya Empire but inherited its foundation from Chandragupta Maurya and is not generally considered the "first emperor" due to the established legacy of his father.

128. Name the Chalukya king who defeatedHarshavardana.

(C) Mangalesh

(D) Kirtivarmana

(A) Pulakeshin I

(B) Pulakeshin II

(B) Pulakeshin II: He defeated Harshavardhana in a battle around 618 CE on the banks of the Narmada River. This clash helped establish the Chalukya dynasty as a major power in South India.

So the correct answer is (B).

129. Where is the Headquarter of the Asian Pacific Postal Union?

(A) Manila

(B) Bangkok

(C) Colombo

(d) Mumbai

The headquarters of the Asian Pacific Postal Union (APPU) is currently located in (B) Bangkok, Thailand. It has been headquartered there since 2002.

130. Which country has built an 'Artificial Moon'project?

(A) USA

(B) China

(C) Russia

(D) Israel

China has been working on a project related to an "Artificial Moon." The project involves launching artificial satellites or spacecraft that could reflect sunlight back to Earth at night, providing additional illumination. Therefore, the correct answer is: (B)

131. In the world, by cattle rearing. India ranks

(A) first

(B) fifth

(C) fourth

(D) seventh

India actually ranks (A) first in the world by cattle rearing!

Here are some facts to support this:

• India has the largest dairy herd in the world, with over 304 million cattle as of 2020.

• It contributes significantly to global milk production, standing at over 112.5 million tonnes in 2009-2010.

• India is also the largest exporter of buffalo meat globally and a major exporter of other livestock products.

Therefore, while other countries like China, Brazil, and the United States also have sizeable cattle populations, India significantly outpaces them in terms of overall numbers and dairy production.

Remember, India's agricultural landscape and its emphasis on dairy products play a crucial role in its ranking as the leader in cattle rearing on a global scale.

132. In the following "date" series, what will come in the next?

18-07-2002.25-07-2002, 02-08-2002, 11-08-2002

(A) 20-08-2002

(B) 21-08-2002

(C) 19-08-2002

(D) 22-08-2002

ANS:

(A)   20-08-2002

133. Let. *P, л (л - 1) (л - 2)..... (п-г +1),where n. are integers such that 1 <= r <= n. If

*P_n=5040, find n.

(A) 10

 (B) 12

(C) 20

(D) 16

5040 can be factored as 2^4 3^2 5 * 7.

Now, we can analyze the options:

• (A) 10: P_10 = 10 9 8 ...  2 = 10! (factorial of 10), which contains higher powers of 2 and 5 than 5040. So, it's not a match.

• (B) 12: P_12 = 12 11 10 ...  2 = 12!, which also contains higher powers of 2 and 5 than 5040. Not a match.

• (C) 20: P_20 = 20 19 18 ...  2 = 20!, even more excessive powers of 2 and 5. Not a match.

• (D) 16: P_16 = 16 15 14 ...  2 = 16!, which has a higher power of 2 than 5040. Not a match.

None of the given options directly result in 5040. However, we can notice that P_7 = 7 6 5 4 3 * 2 = 5040.

Therefore, even though it's not listed as an option, the correct value of n is n = 7.

134. Which sportsperson has been named as the BBC Sports Personality World Sportstar of the Year for 2022?

(A) Rojer Federer

(B) Neeraj Chopra

(C) Lionel Messi

(D) Serena Williams

(C) Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi was named the BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year for 2022. He led Argentina to victory at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, scoring seven goals and winning the Golden Ball award for the best player of the tournament.

While the other options have achieved incredible feats in their respective sports, they did not have the same level of global impact and achievement as Messi's World Cup triumph.

Therefore, remember that Lionel Messi holds the title of BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year for 2022, solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

135. Which Union Ministry is associated with the pilot phase of The Open Network for Digital Commerce?

(A) Ministry of Commerce and Industry

(B) Ministry of Home Affairs

(C) Ministry of Electronics and IT

(D) None of the above

The answer is:

(A) Ministry of Commerce and Industry

The pilot phase of The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is indeed associated with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. They launched the initiative in April 2022 with the aim of promoting an open and transparent e-commerce ecosystem in India.

While the other ministries listed might play supportive roles in various aspects of the project, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry holds the primary responsibility for driving the vision and implementation of ONDC.

Therefore, remembering the association between the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and ONDC strengthens your understanding of the government's efforts in developing a more inclusive and competitive e-commerce landscape in India.

136. Which of the following reproductions is found in plants alone?

(A) Vegetative reproduction

 (B) Asexual reproduction

(C) Sexual reproduction

(D) Parthenogenesis

(D) Parthenogenesis

While all the options involve reproduction in plants, the specific answer depends on the exact meaning you're looking for:

• Vegetative reproduction: This occurs in both plants and some animals (like starfish) through fragmentation, budding, or other means not involving gametes. So, it's not unique to plants.

• Asexual reproduction: This is a broader term encompassing both vegetative and parthenogenesis. So, it wouldn't be the precise answer.

• Sexual reproduction: This involves the fusion of gametes from two different individuals, generally absent in vegetative reproduction and parthenogenesis. However, some plants utilize cross-pollination, while others can self-pollinate, meaning both options exist in the plant kingdom.

• Parthenogenesis: This specific type of reproduction involves the development of an embryo from an unfertilized egg cell. While some animals like certain invertebrates use this method, it's found in many plant species like dandelions, lilies, and orchids.

137. Who built the Adina Mosque of Pandua?

(A) Firuz-Tughúng

(B) Husain Shah

(C) Sikandar Shah

(D) Jain-ul-Abedin

The Adina Mosque of Pandua was built by:

C) Sikandar Shah

He was the second Sultan of the IlyasShahi dynasty of Bengal and reigned from 1358 to 1390. The Adina Mosque, constructed in 1369, stands as a remarkable example of Muslim architecture from that period and was commissioned by Sikandar Shah to display the kingdom's imperial ambitions.

138. Who is the head of the commission for the sub-categorization of OBC's?

(A) Justice G. Rohini

(B) Justice UdayUmeshLalit

(C) Justice D Y Chandrachud

(D) Justice Sanjay Porel

(A) Justice G. Rohini

While the other justices listed are prominent figures in the Indian judiciary, they weren't involved in the OBC sub-categorization commission.

Remember, even though the commission itself isn't active anymore, understanding its composition and leadership adds to your knowledge of recent social and political developments in India.

139. For a floating body to be in stable. equilibrium, where should its centre of buoyancy be located?

(A) At the centre of gravity

 (B) Above the centre of gravity

(C) Below the centre of gravity

(D) It may anywhere

For a floating body to be in stable equilibrium, the center of buoyancy must be located below the center of gravity. Therefore, the correct option is:

(C) Below the centre of gravity

140.Two drops of liquid merge to form a single drop. In this process energy is

(A) absorbed.

(B) released.

(C) may be absorbed or releaseddepending upon the specific heat of the liquid

(D) neither absorbed nor released.

(B) released.

When two drops of liquid merge to form a single drop, the process typically releases energy. This is due to the reduction in the surface area of the liquid, which leads to a decrease in the surface energy. The released energy contributes to the formation of the new, larger drop.

141. Which neighboring state of India has marked its 75th independence anniversary on 4 February 2023?

(A) Bhutan

(B) Nepal

(C) Srilanka

(D) Bangladesh

ANS

(D) Bangladesh

Bangladesh attained independence from Pakistan on 26 March 1971, but celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021. The country commemorates "Victory Day" on 16 December, marking the end of the Liberation War. Therefore, the 75th anniversary wouldn't fall on 4th February.

142. Where is the Appellate Body of the World Trade Organization (WTOAB) located?

(A) New York

(B) Geneva

(C) Paris

(D) Hague

The Appellate Body of the World Trade Organization (WTOAB) is located in (B) Geneva, Switzerland. It has been seated there since its establishment in 1995.

The other options listed represent the headquarters of other international organizations:

• (A) New York: Houses the headquarters of the United Nations.

• (C) Paris: Hosts the headquarters of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

• (D) Hague: Is the seat of the International Court of Justice and several other international legal institutions.

143. Which Mughal emperor granted 'Farman' in 1717 to the British East India Company?

(A) Bahadur Shah II

(B) Shah Alam II

(C) Farrukhshiyar

(D) Muhammad Shah

ANS

(C) Farrukhsiyar

He ascended the throne in 1713 and ruled until 1719. During his reign, he indeed issued a firman (royal decree) in 1717 granting the East India Company various privileges, including:

• Duty-free trade in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa

• Permission to mint coins in Calcutta

• Exemption from inland tolls and taxes

• Right to acquire zamindari (landholding) rights

This firman significantly expanded the East India Company's presence and influence in India and paved the way for its eventual dominance in the subcontinent.

144. Who was Mihirkula/Mihirgula?

(A) Saka king

(B) Kushana king

(C) Huna king

(D) Pahlava king

(C) Huna king

Mihirkula, sometimes referred to as Mihiragula or Mahiragula, was the second and last Alchon Hun king who ruled the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent between 502 and 530 CE. He was the son and successor of Toramana, another Huna king who established the Alchon Hun empire in India.

145. Name the Chola king who adopted the title of ' Gangoikonda'.

(A) RajendraChola 1

(B) Rajraj 1

(C) RajadhirajChola

(D) RajendraChola II

The Chola king who adopted the title of 'Gangoikonda' was RajendraChola I. Therefore, the correct answer is:

(A) RajendraChola I

146. Which of the following consitutes a capital account in the Balance of Payments in India?

1. Foreign loans

2. Foreign Direct Investments

3. Remittances from abroad

4. Portfolio investment

(A) 1. 2 and 3

(B) 1.2 and 4

(C) 2.3 and 4

(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

The capital account in the Balance of Payments in India includes items like foreign loans, foreign direct investments, and portfolio investments. Therefore, the correct option is:

(B) 1, 2, and 4

147. Find the least number added to 8798 x 8792 to make it a perfect square.

(A) 7

(B) 3

(C) 6

(D) 9

ANS

To find the least number added to make 8798×87928798×8792 a perfect square, we need to consider the prime factorization of both numbers.

8798=2×43998798=2×4399 8792=23×10998792=23×1099

For it to be a perfect square, the exponents of all prime factors should be even.

8798×8792=24×4399×10998798×8792=24×4399×1099

Now, we can see that we need to multiply by 2222 to make the exponent of 2 even.

Therefore, the least number to be added is 22=422=4.

So, the correct answer is:

(D) 9

148. Which of the following accounts for the highest amount spent on Indian imports?

(A) Capital Goods

(B) Gold and Silver

(C) Electronle Goods

(D) Petroleum, oil and lubricants

ANS

(D) Petroleum, oil, and lubricants

149. The Revolution related to increased production of eggs in India is-

(A) Silver

(B) Golden

(C) White

(D) Liquid

ANS

The revolution related to increased production of eggs in India is commonly referred to as the "White Revolution." Therefore, the correct answer is:

(C) White