🎯 Mock Test Series – I
Practice like a topper! This full-length UPSC Mock Test will test your knowledge, accuracy, and time management skills.
- 📘 Subjects: Polity, Economy, History, Geography, Environment, S&T, Current Affairs
- ⏱️ Time Limit: 2 Hours
- 📝 Total Questions: 100
- ⚡ Difficulty: Moderate to Tough
Results
HD Quiz powered by harmonic design
#1. Which of the following is not a member of the G7?
✅ Correct Answer: 3. Russia
Explanation:
-
1. Canada, 2. Japan, 4. Italy → ✔ All are G7 members
-
3. Russia → ❌ Removed in 2014 after Crimea annexation. Now, G7 = US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Italy.
Which vehicles are considered alternative powertrain types?
I. Battery Electric Vehicles
II. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
III. Fuel Cell-Electric Hybrids
#2. Choose the correct answer:
✅ Correct Answer: 3
🧠 Explanation: All three are part of the alternative powertrain category, used to reduce dependence on internal combustion engines and fossil fuels.
#3. Which of the following Indian regions is most vulnerable to GLOF events?
The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) has many glaciers and glacial lakes, making it the most vulnerable to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) due to melting ice and unstable natural dams.
-
Which of the following pairs is correctly matched?
-
69th Amendment – Creation of National Capital Territory of Delhi
-
73rd Amendment – Panchayati Raj Institutions
-
74th Amendment – Cooperative Societies
#4. Options:
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
74th = Urban Local Bodies, not cooperatives (97th was for cooperatives).
#5. The concept of ‘Green GDP’ includes adjustment for which factor?
➡️ Correct Answer: 2
Explanation:
Green GDP is GDP adjusted for environmental degradation and resource depletion. It gives a more sustainable picture of national progress, highlighting ecological costs of growth.
#6. Who was the founder of the Imperial Chola dynasty in the 9th century CE?
Vijayalaya Chola founded the Imperial Chola dynasty in the 9th century CE by capturing Thanjavur, marking the revival of Chola power in South India.
#7. Which of the following statements best explains the concern regarding the Intellectual Property clauses in the proposed UK-India Free Trade Agreement?
🟩 Answer: C
📝 Explanation: The concern is that stricter IPR clauses may extend patent periods or introduce data exclusivity, delaying the entry of cheaper generic versions in the Indian market.
#8. Parametric Insurance is primarily used in which of the following areas?
#9. Which of the following technologies is most relevant for developing pest-resistant transgenic crops?
Answer: 1) RNA interference (RNAi)
Used in Bt brinjal, GM cotton to silence specific pest genes.
With reference to ‘Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)’, consider the following:
-
It is a 6-member committee
-
The RBI Governor is the ex-officio Chairperson
-
It decides the repo rate by consensus only
#10. Select the correct answer using the code below:
➡️ Correct Answer: 1
Explanation:
MPC has 6 members; RBI Governor is Chair. Decisions are by majority, not consensus.
#11. In which of the following cases did the Supreme Court uphold the power of judicial review over constitutional amendments?
Explanation:
-
Golaknath Case (1967): The SC held that Parliament cannot amend Fundamental Rights. This was later balanced by Kesavananda Bharati (1973), establishing basic structure doctrine.
#12. Which of the following constitutional doctrines has no explicit mention in the Constitution but has evolved through judicial interpretation?
Answer: 4) Basic Structure Doctrine
Propounded in Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973); not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
#13. Which Article provides for the election of the Vice-President of India?
Article 66 in the Constitution lays down the procedure for electing the Vice-President.
River – Origin
-
Godavari – Nasik Hills
-
Krishna – Mahabaleshwar
-
Mahanadi – Amarkantak Plateau
-
Narmada – Satpura Range
#14. Which of the pairs is/are correctly matched?
Answer: D
Explanation: Godavari originates from Trimbak plateau near Nasik (correct), Krishna from Mahabaleshwar (correct), but Mahanadi originates from Sihawa Hills (not Amarkantak), and Narmada originates from Amarkantak Plateau, not Satpura.
#15. Which of the following best explains the “Wagner’s Law” in public finance?
Answer: B
Explanation: Wagner’s Law states that as an economy develops, the role of the public sector grows disproportionately.
#16. Which Five-Year Plan is also known as the ‘Gadgil Yojana’?
Which of the following statements about the new “Agri-Infra 2.0 Scheme” launched in July 2025 is/are correct?
-
It provides interest-free loans to Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) for cold storage.
-
It merges PM-KISAN and Agri-Infrastructure Fund into a unified platform.
-
It allows private investors to claim direct input subsidies via DBT.
#17. Select the correct answer:
Correct Answer: ✅ A. 1 and 2 only
📘 Explanation:
-
✅ Statement 1 is correct: The Agri-Infra 2.0, launched in July 2025, focuses on cold storage, primary processing, and logistics infrastructure, and gives interest-free or subsidized loans to FPOs and cooperatives.
-
✅ Statement 2 is correct: The platform now integrates PM-KISAN with Agri-Infrastructure Fund, offering a unified dashboard for farmers to apply for schemes.
-
❌ Statement 3 is incorrect: Direct input subsidies to private investors via DBT is not allowed under this scheme; it’s still routed through farmer-centric models.
Which of the following is/are NOT correct about the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act (1978)?
-
Restored the term ‘Cabinet’ in Article 352
-
Made it easier to declare Emergency
-
Restored Fundamental Rights curtailed by 42nd Amendment
#18. Select the correct answer:
Answer: A
Explanation: The 44th Amendment made it harder to declare Emergency and restored rights.
#19. How do methods like point counts and acoustic recording complement each other in bird censuses?
#20. Which of the following is the correct sequence of GDP contribution by sector (2024 estimate)?
✅ Answer: 1
Explanation: Services contribute the most (~53%), followed by Industry (~25%) and Agriculture.
#21. The term ‘Western Disturbances’, crucial for Indian winter crops, originates from:
Answer: 2) Mediterranean region
They are extra-tropical storms that bring winter rain to north India.
#22. Which of the following is NOT a function of the RBI?
Ans: C – FDI approvals are handled by govt, not RBI.
Which of the following Constitution Amendments have strengthened the concept of ‘Cooperative Federalism’ in India?
-
42nd Amendment
-
73rd Amendment
-
101st Amendment
-
44th Amendment
#23. Select the correct code:
Answer: 1) 2 and 3 only
73rd – Panchayats; 101st – GST; both promote federal cooperation.
#24. What does ‘Core Inflation’ refer to?
Correct Answer: 1
Explanation:
Core inflation = Headline inflation – volatile components (food & fuel). It shows underlying trends.
#25. Which of the following is not a condition for the issuance of Proclamation of Emergency under Article 352?
📘 Explanation:
Under Article 352 of the Constitution, the President can proclaim National Emergency only on the grounds of:
-
War
-
External aggression
-
Armed rebellion (replaced “internal disturbance” via 44th Amendment)
❌ Financial instability is not a ground for Article 352 — it may invoke Financial Emergency under Article 360 instead.
#26. The term ‘Stagflation’ refers to:
Answer: B. Low growth + high unemployment + inflation
👉 Combination of stagnation + inflation = stagflation.
#27. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was launched by:
Answer: B. NASA + ESA + CSA
Webb telescope launched in 2021, most advanced space observatory.
#28. The ‘Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act’ was originally passed in:
➡️ Answer: 2
🧾 Explanation: The original Act was enacted in 1988. It was amended in 2016 to make it stricter.
#29. The term ‘Ecological Footprint’ measures:
Answer: B. Land & resources needed for lifestyle
👉 Used to assess sustainability.
Separation of Powers – Indian Polity
#30. Which of the following best reflects the principle of separation of powers in India?
Answer: 2. Judiciary interpreting laws independently
📘 Explanation:
Separation of powers in India is maintained by the independent judiciary, which ensures that the executive and legislature stay within their powers.
With reference to the Bharat Forecasting System (BFS), which statements are correct?
I. Launched by Ministry of Earth Sciences
II. Uses 6-km resolution model
III. Developed with UK Met Office
#31. Choose the correct answer:
✅ Correct Answer: 3
🧠 Explanation: BFS was launched in May 2025 by MoES and uses a 6-km grid model. There’s no collaboration with the UK Met Office, so III is incorrect.
#32. The Sakhalin-1 project, in which ONGC Videsh had investment, is located in:
Answer: 2) Russia
It’s an oil and gas project in the Russian Far East.
#33. Which of the following temple towns was not a capital city of the Cholas?
While Thanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Uraiyur were all capital cities of the Cholas at different times, Chidambaram was a major religious and cultural center, not a political capital. It is famous for the Nataraja Temple, but was not used as a Chola capital.
#34. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) was enacted in:
Answer: C. 2016
IBC was introduced in 2016 for faster resolution of stressed assets.
#35. ‘Crowding out effect’ in economics refers to:
Answer: A. Private investment reduced due to higher govt borrowing
👉 Govt borrowing → higher interest rates → less private investment.
#36. In which year was National Handloom Day first observed?
#37. Which body publishes the “Index of Industrial Production (IIP)” in India?
Answer: B. CSO (now NSO)
IIP is compiled monthly by NSO under Ministry of Statistics.
Which of the following statements about the Ramsar Convention is/are correct?
-
It is an international treaty for the conservation of oceans.
-
Montreux Record is a part of this convention.
-
India has more than 75 Ramsar sites as of 2025.
#38. Choose Correct Answer
Correct Answer: 2 and 3 only
-
Statement 1 is wrong – Ramsar Convention is for wetlands, not oceans.
-
Statement 2 is correct – Montreux Record is part of Ramsar.
-
Statement 3 is correct – India has 75+ Ramsar sites as of 2025.
Which of the following are considered greenhouse gases under the Kyoto Protocol?
-
Carbon dioxide
-
Methane
-
Nitrous oxide
-
Sulphur hexafluoride
-
Water vapor
#39. Select the correct answer using the code below:
Answer: 2) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
(Water vapor is not listed under Kyoto Protocol GHGs.)
#40. Which one of the following statements regarding the ‘Basic Structure’ doctrine is correct?
Answer: C
Explanation: The Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) propounded the Basic Structure doctrine, holding that Parliament can amend the Constitution but cannot alter its basic structure.
#41. The phrase ‘No Detention Policy’ is associated with which act?
✅ Answer: 2
Explanation: RTE Act says no failing students up to Class 8 to ensure retention.
#42. Which of the following Articles empower the President to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment?
✅ Explanation:
-
Article 72: President’s power to grant pardons for offences under Union law and death sentences.
-
Article 161: Governor has similar power for offences under State law.
-
Thus, both Articles empower constitutional heads to grant mercy, depending on the nature of the offence.
#43. In the context of philosophy, which of the following schools believed in atomism and denied the existence of soul?
Answer: A
Explanation: Charvaka school is materialistic and denies the existence of soul and afterlife.
#44. Which article of the Constitution deals with the Election Commission of India?
Explanation:
-
1. Article 280 → ❌ Finance Commission
-
2. Article 324 → ✔ Correct – empowers ECI to supervise and conduct elections
-
3. Article 326 → ❌ Refers to adult suffrage
-
4. Article 312 → ❌ All-India Services
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections (2024–25)?
-
It recommended constitutional amendments to align Lok Sabha and Assembly election cycles.
-
It suggested setting up a single electoral roll for all elections.
-
Its recommendations are binding on the Election Commission.
#45. Options:
✅ Correct Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
📘 Explanation:
-
✅ Statement 1: The committee recommended synchronizing LS State elections using constitutional amendments.
-
✅ Statement 2: Proposed unified electoral roll to reduce duplication between EC and State Election Commissions.
-
❌ Statement 3: Recommendations are not binding on the Election Commission of India (ECI).
#46. The term ‘Hawkish stance’ is often seen in monetary policy discussions. It refers to:
Correct Answer: 3
Hawkish stance = Favoring high interest rates to curb inflation.
#47. In Indian polity, the concept of ‘Collective Responsibility’ is associated with:
#48. Which country is India’s largest trading partner as of 2024?
➡️ Correct Answer: 2
Explanation:
According to 2024 data from the Ministry of Commerce, the United States has continued to be India’s largest trading partner, overtaking China in recent years, due to increasing exports and strategic trade ties.
#49. What is the primary cause of a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)?
A Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) happens when a natural dam (made of ice or loose rock) that holds a glacial lake suddenly bursts, releasing a large amount of water and causing floods downstream.
#50. Which of the following provisions reflects the unitary features of the Indian Constitution?
Answer: B. Single Citizenship
Single citizenship (like UK) is a unitary feature, unlike USA’s dual citizenship.
#51. What is the primary objective of celebrating National Handloom Day?
#52. The Tropic of Cancer passes through how many Indian states?
Answer: D
Explanation: It passes through 9 states including Gujarat, Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, WB, Tripura, Mizoram, and Odisha.
#53. Which of the following best defines the term ‘Prompt Corrective Action (PCA)’ in Indian banking regulation?
Answer: 3) RBI’s mechanism to monitor and impose restrictions on weak banks
Triggered when thresholds of CRAR, NPA, and ROA are breached.
#54. What is the full form of GDP?
Answer: C
Explanation: GDP is the total value of goods and services produced within a country.
#55. Ramsar Convention (1971) is related to:
Answer: B. Wetlands conservation
Ramsar Convention = global treaty for wetlands.
#56. Which Southeast Asian empire was targeted by Rajendra Chola I’s naval expeditions?
Rajendra Chola I launched successful naval expeditions against the Srivijaya Empire (located in present-day Indonesia and Malaysia), showcasing the Cholas’ maritime strength and expanding their influence in Southeast Asia.
#57. Who was the first President of independent India?
Answer: C
Explanation: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first President of India.
#58. Which of the following is NOT a part of India’s ‘National Hydrogen Mission’?
Answer: D
Explanation: The mission focuses on green hydrogen, not coal-based.
#59. Which of the following items are included in the Capital Account of BoP?
-
➡️ Correct Answer: 1
Explanation:
FDI and ECBs are part of the Capital Account, while exports and imports belong to the Current Account of Balance of Payments (BoP).
#60. Which of the following is a renewable source of energy?
Answer: C
Explanation: Solar energy is renewable and sustainable.
International Relations – New BRICS Expansion (July 2025 Summit)
Which of the following countries were newly added to BRICS in the 2025 Summit?
-
Indonesia
-
Nigeria
-
Argentina
-
Egypt
#61. Choose the correct answer:
Correct Answer: ✅ D. 1, 3, and 4 only
📘 Explanation:
-
In the 2025 BRICS Summit, Indonesia, Argentina, and Egypt were added as new members.
-
❌ Nigeria is not yet a formal member; discussions are ongoing.
-
The expansion aims to counterbalance G7 influence and give more voice to the Global South.
#62. What is the main feature of the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) launched in July 2025?
✅ Correct Answer: B. Mandatory carbon trading by power sector units
📘 Explanation:
-
The ICM (Phase 1) launched with mandatory emissions trading for power generation companies.
-
It’s a cap-and-trade system — emissions above cap must be compensated via carbon credits.
-
Future phases may include steel, cement, etc.
#63. ‘PM Gati Shakti Yojana’ primarily aims to:
Answer: C. Multi-modal infrastructure
👉 Gati Shakti = Unified master plan for infra connectivity.
#64. Which of the following Acts introduced the system of Dyarchy in provinces?
Introduced by the Government of India Act, 1919 — divided provincial subjects into “reserved” and “transferred” categories.
As per India’s Semiconductor Mission (2023–2025), which of the following is/are objectives?
-
Achieve domestic semiconductor manufacturing
-
Reduce reliance on imports
-
Encourage R&D and innovation
#65. Select the correct answer:
➡️ Answer: 4
🧾 Explanation: India’s semiconductor policy aims to promote manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and promote R&D.
#66. Which Chola king built the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur?
Rajaraja Chola I built the magnificent Brihadeshwara Temple at Thanjavur in the 11th century CE. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture.
#67. In the context of space technology, what is the significance of ‘Trojan Asteroids’?
#68. Parametric insurance is most helpful for:
Parametric insurance provides quick and fixed payouts based on measurable triggers (like drought, flood, or cyclone), making it ideal for climate-related disasters where speed and predictability are crucial.
Which of the following are greenhouse gases as per the Kyoto Protocol?
-
Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
-
Methane (CH₄)
-
Nitrous oxide (N₂O)
-
Water vapour
-
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆)
#69. Choose the correct answer:
Correct Answer: 2
Kyoto Protocol includes CO₂, CH₄, N₂O, SF₆ (not water vapour).
With reference to ancient Indian architecture, consider the following statements:
-
Chaitya halls were used for congregational worship in early Buddhism.
-
Stupas were originally burial mounds and later became symbolic structures.
-
Dravidian temple architecture began in the post-Mauryan period.
#70. Which of the statements is/are correct?
Answer: 1) 1 and 2 only
Dravidian style emerged later under Pallavas (post-Gupta period).
#71. Which of the following is true about 5G technology?
Answer: B. Ultra-low latency, supports IoT
👉 5G designed for IoT, AR/VR, smart tech.
Which of the following statements about the Attorney General of India is/are true?
-
He must be qualified to become a judge of the Supreme Court.
-
He can participate in the proceedings of Parliament without voting rights.
-
He is elected by both Houses of Parliament.
#72. Which of the following statements about the Attorney General of India is/are true?
✅ Explanation:
-
Appointed by the President (not elected) under Article 76.
-
Should have SC-judge qualification.
-
Can speak in Parliament but cannot vote.
#73. What is the traditional occupation of the Hatti tribe?
#74. The term ‘SWIFT’ recently seen in news, is related to:
SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) is a secure messaging network used by banks and financial institutions globally to send and receive payment instructions. It is crucial for international trade and finance.
#75. Which of the following would most likely trigger a payout under a parametric insurance scheme?
Parametric insurance pays out based on a predefined trigger (like rainfall, wind speed, or earthquake magnitude), not actual loss.
In this case, rainfall below 50 mm for 10 days is a measurable trigger, so it qualifies. Other options involve actual loss assessment.
#76. Which of the following is true regarding the Delimitation Commission of India?
✅ Correct Answer: 4. It is constituted under a separate Act of Parliament
Explanation:
-
1. Permanent constitutional body → ❌ Incorrect. It’s temporary and statutory.
-
2. Orders can be challenged → ❌ No. Its orders are final and cannot be challenged in courts.
-
3. Headed by CEC → ❌ Wrong. It is headed by a retired Supreme Court judge.
-
4. Constituted under separate Act → ✔ Correct – via the Delimitation Act.
#77. The Constitution of India was adopted on:
Answer: B
Explanation: Constitution was adopted on 26th Nov 1949 and came into force on 26th Jan 1950.
#78. Which are components of M3 (Broad Money)?
➡️ Correct Answer: 4
Explanation:
M3 includes: Currency with the public + Demand deposits + Time deposits. It is the broadest measure of money supply used by RBI.
#79. What could be a potential impact if India accepts restrictive IPR clauses in the FTA?
🟩 Answer: 2
📝 Explanation: India is known as the “pharmacy of the Global South.” Restrictive IPRs can hinder its ability to supply affordable generics to developing nations.
#80. Which Indian state has launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan’?
Answer: C
Explanation: Bihar launched the scheme to promote entrepreneurship.
Geography
#81. Which of the following rivers form an estuary?
Correct Answer: 4
Narmada forms an estuary, others form deltas.
#82. Which Article of the Indian Constitution deals with Fundamental Rights?
Answer: A
Explanation: Fundamental Rights are covered from Article 12 to 35.
Consider the following statements about the Election Commission of India:
-
It is a constitutional body under Article 324.
-
It has the power to disqualify a candidate.
-
The Chief Election Commissioner is appointed by the President.
#83. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Answer: 2) 1 and 3 only
(Note: Disqualification is decided by the President based on EC’s advice.)
Consider the following with reference to the FRBM Act (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act):
-
It sets a numerical target for fiscal deficit and revenue deficit.
-
It mandates elimination of primary deficit.
-
The Act can be suspended during national security crises.
#84. Which of the above are correct?
Answer: 2) 1 and 3 only
FRBM does not require primary deficit to be zero. Clauses allow suspension in emergencies.
#85. Which Indian Act first introduced the concept of ‘Direct Elections’?
#86. The “Prayag Prashasti” inscription provides details about which ruler?
✅ Correct Answer: c) Samudragupta
💡 Explanation:
The Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription) was written by Harisena, the court poet of Samudragupta, and praises his military conquests. It is an important source of Gupta-era history.
Consider the following species and their IUCN status:
-
Great Indian Bustard – Critically Endangered
-
Gangetic Dolphin – Endangered
-
Snow Leopard – Vulnerable
-
Red Panda – Near Threatened
#87. Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
Answer: 1) 1, 2 and 3 only
Red Panda is also Endangered, not Near Threatened.
#88. The slogan “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it” was given by:
Answer: A. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Tilak popularized this slogan, strengthening the nationalist movement.
#89. The ‘First Round Table Conference’ (1930) was boycotted by:
Answer: B
Explanation: INC boycotted it as the Civil Disobedience Movement was ongoing.
Polity – Delimitation Commission (Recent Debate)
#90. Which of the following is true regarding the Delimitation Commission of India?
✅ Correct Answer: D. It is constituted under a separate Act of Parliament
📘 Explanation:
-
The Delimitation Commission is a temporary, statutory body, not a permanent constitutional body.
-
It is established under the Delimitation Commission Act, not the Constitution.
-
Orders are final and cannot be challenged in court.
-
It is headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, not the CEC.
#91. Which organization releases the ‘World Economic Outlook’ report?
➡️ Correct Answer: 2
Explanation:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) publishes the World Economic Outlook (WEO) report, providing analysis of global economic trends and forecasts. It is a key source for UPSC current affairs.
#92. Which among the following can be removed only through impeachment?
Answer: C
Explanation: Supreme Court Judges are removed by a process of impeachment under Article 124(4).
#93. What distinguishes parametric insurance from traditional insurance?
#94. Which of the following taxes is NOT shared between Centre and States?
Answer: A. Corporation Tax
Corporation Tax is entirely collected and retained by the Centre.
#95. The term ‘Twin Balance Sheet Problem’ refers to:
Answer: A. Bad loans of banks and over-leveraged corporates
Both corporates and banks were financially stressed, creating a “twin” crisis.
#96. Which statements are true about the GDP deflator?
Correct Answer: 3
Explanation:
GDP deflator reflects inflation for the entire economy (both goods and services). It’s broader than CPI. Statement 2 is wrong.
#97. Which of the following best explains ‘Parliamentary Privileges’?
Answer: 3. Special rights and immunities for performing legislative duties
Explanation:
Parliamentary Privileges are special powers and immunities for MPs/MLAs to speak and act freely in the House without fear of legal action.
#98. The term ‘Secular’ was added to the Preamble of India by:
Answer: B. 42nd Amendment
The 42nd Amendment Act (1976) inserted Secular and Socialist into the Preamble.
#99. The term ‘LiDAR’ technology is primarily used for:
Ans: B – Terrain mapping and surveying.
#100. The ‘Permanent Settlement’ system of land revenue was introduced by:
Answer: B. Lord Cornwallis
Permanent Settlement (1793) fixed land revenue permanently in Bengal.
⬅️ DAILY 20 TEST