DO NOT OPEN THIS BOOKLET UNTIL YOU ARE ASKED TO DO SO

PRESTORMINGTM
Test Booklet Series
TEST BOOKLET
T.B.C : P-SIA-A-GS
GENERAL STUDIES - PAPER – I
Serial : P-GSI-242516
INDIAN HISTORY III
TEST – 16
A
Time Allowed : Two Hours Maximum Marks : 200

INSTRUCTIONS
1. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE EXAMINATION, YOU SHOULD CHECK THAT
THIS TEST BOOKLET DOES NOT HAVE ANY UNPRINTED OR TORN OR MISSING PAGES OR ITEMS,
ETC. IF SO, GET IT REPLACED BY A COMPLETE TEST BOOKLET.
2. ENCODE CLEARLY THE TEST BOOK SERIES A, B, C OR D AS THE CASE MAY BE IN THE
APPROPRIATE PLACE IN THE ANSWER SHEET.
3. You have to enter your Roll Number on the Test Booklet in the Box
provided alongside. DO NOT write anything else on the Test Booklet.
4. This Test Booklet contains 100 items (questions). Each item is printed in English. Each item
comprises four responses (answers). You will select the response which you want to mark on the
Answer Sheet. In case you feel that there is more than one correct response, mark the response which
you consider the best. In any case, choose ONLY ONE response for each item.
5. You have to mark all your responses ONLY on the separate Answer Sheet provided. See directions in
the Answer Sheet.

6. All items carry equal marks.

7. Sooner than you proceed to mark in the Answer Sheet the response to various items in the Test
Booklet, you have to fill in some particulars in the Answer Sheet as per instructions sent to you with
your Admission Certificate.
8. After you have completed filling in all your responses on the Answer Sheet and the examination has
concluded, you should hand over to the Invigilator only the Answer Sheet. You are permitted to take
away with you the Test Booklet.
9. Sheets for rough work are appended in the Test Booklet at the end.
10. Penalty for Wrong answers :
THERE WILL BE A PENALTY FOR WRONG ANSWERS MARKED BY A CANDIDATE IN THE
OBJECTIVE TYPE QUESTION PAPERS.
(i) There are four alternatives for the answer to every question. For each question for which a
wrong answer has been given by the candidate, one-third (0.66) of the marks assigned to that
question will be deducted as a penalty.
(ii) If a candidate gives more than one answer, it will be treated as a wrong answer even if one of
the given answers happens to be correct and there will be the same penalty as above to that
question.
(iii) If a question is left blank, i.e., no answer is given by the candidate, there will be no penalty for
that question.
DO NOT OPEN THIS BOOKLET UNTIL YOU ARE ASKED TO DO SO

(1-A)
SIA-A-GS I
 (2-A)
SIA-A-GS I
1. Which of the following Indus Valley Which of the pairs given above are correctly
Civilization sites has recently uncovered matched ?
(a) 1 and 2 only
evidence of sophisticated water management
(b) 1 and 4 only
techniques, including traces of a water body
(c) 2 and 4 only
located between mounds ?
(d) 1 and 3 only
(a) Dholavira
(b) Rakhigarhi 4. Which of the following has high antioxidant
(c) Lothal properties with molecules able to prevent DNA
damage from UV or diseases ?
(d) Mohenjo-Daro
(a) Nutgrass Grass
(b) Elephant Grass
2. With reference to the difference between the
(c) Golden Grass
culture of the Rig Vedic and later Vedic (d) Congress Grass
Aryans, which of the following statements
is/are correct ? 5. With reference to the period of the Mauryan
dynasty in ancient India, the ‘pindakara’,
1. The early Vedic people had no knowledge
‘hiranya’, ‘bhaga’, and ‘bhoga’ are :
of agriculture, whereas, during the later
(a) Taxes paid by the peasants
Vedic phase, agriculture became the
(b) Capital of powerful kingdoms
mainstay of the Vedic people. (c) Important of Buddhist pilgrimage centres
2. The Rig Vedic Aryans knew about copper (d) Ports handling foreign trade
or bronze, whereas the later Vedic Aryans
6. Consider the following statements :
qualified to denote the use of iron.
Statement-I :
3. Only Monogamous marriages were
India was the first country to master zinc
witnessed in both Rig Vedic and later
distillation in the world.
Vedic Aryan cultures. Statement-II :
Select the correct answer using the codes There is archaeological evidence for the
given below : production of zinc in the Zawar mines of
Rajasthan in the 6th or 5th century BCE.
(a) 2 only
Which one of the following is correct in respect
(b) 1 and 2 only
of the above statements ?
(c) 3 only
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
(d) 1, 2 and 3 correct, and Statement II is the correct
explanation of Statement I
3. Consider the following pairs : (b) Both Statement I and Statement II are

Sl.No. Theatre folk States/UTs correct, but Statement II is not the correct
explanation of Statement I
1. Bhand pather - Kashmir
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is
2. Bhavai - Andhra Pradesh
incorrect
3. Nautanki - Maharashtra (d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II
4. Gotipua - Odisha is correct

(3-A)
SIA-A-GS I
7. “Quwwat al-Islam mosque”, one of the earliest 3. Dhamma mahamatras were appointed to
mosques in India was erected by : supervise the peaceful function of the
(a) Shamsuddin Iltutmish principles of Ashoka’s Dhamma.
(b) Alauddin Khalji 4. Ashoka tried to convert people to
(c) Muhammad Tughluq Buddhism and discriminated against other
(d) Qutbuddin Aybak
religions, as he was a strict follower of
Buddhism.
8. With reference to Project Kusha, consider the
How many of the statements given above are
following statements :
correct ?
1. It is a multi-layered air defence system
(a) Only one
designed to safeguard from a range of
aerial threats. (b) Only two

2. It employs multiple interceptor missiles, (c) Only three

which cater for a range and target type to (d) All four
ensure protection against airborne early
warning and control systems (AWACS). 11. Which of the following Harappan sites was a
3. The project is spearheaded by Defense trade outpost established to facilitate trade in
Research and Development Organization. Lapis lazuli from Afghanistan and tin from
How many of the above statements are Central Asia ?
correct? (a) Shortugai
(a) Only one
(b) Nausharo
(b) Only two
(c) Chanhudaro
(c) All three
(d) Balakot
(d) None

12. With respect to the Kadamba inscription,

9. “Thumri”, a popular genre of Hindustani
music characterised by a lyricism that gives consider the following statements :

expression to various shades of romantic love, 1. The inscription is written in both Kannada

is used in which of the following dance forms ? and Sanskrit languages.

(a) Bharatanatyam 2. It is in the literary style of Talangre
(b) Kathak inscription of Jayasimha I.
(c) Mohiniattam 3. It deciphers the historic and socio-cultural
(d) Kathakali importance of Cacora village during the
Kadamba rule.
10. With reference to Ashoka’s rule, consider the Which of the statements given above is/are
following statements :
correct ?
1. Ashoka initiated the policy of war and
(a) 2 only
aggression peace rather than the policy of
(b) 1 and 3 only
peace.
(c) 2 and 3 only
2. Ashoka's major rock and pillar edicts were
(d) 1, 2 and 3
composed mostly in the Prakrit language.

(4-A)
SIA-A-GS I
13. With reference to the Ajivika sect in ancient 15. With reference to the Later Vedic period,
India, consider the following statements : consider the following statements :
1. The followers of this sect developed the 1. People lived in mud brick houses erected
concept of scepticism and believed in the on wooden poles.
pursuit of knowledge through experience. 2. Women were permitted to attend the
2. Bhagavatisutra, a Jain text, extolls the Sabha meetings.
virtues of Makkahali Gosala, a leader of 3. The Collection of taxes and tributes was
this sect. common during the later Vedic period.
3. This sect was patronized by Bindusara, a
Which of the statements given above is/are
ruler of the Mauryan dynasty.
not correct ?
Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) 1 only
correct ?
(b) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 only
(c) 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
16. The ‘zosurabalpin’, ‘Zaynich’, ‘Nafithromycin’,

are recently seen in news, which are,

14. With reference to gender relations in early
(a) Antibiotics
medieval India, consider the following
(b) Antiseptics
statements :
(c) Disinfectants
1. Women have the right to inherit property
(d) Pesticides
in the absence of a male heir.
2. Divorce was very common in this period
among the lower sections of society. 17. Consider the following statements with

3. The practice of Sati became a pronounced reference to Kumbh Mela :

practice in this period. 1. Kumbh Mela derives its origin from the

4. Some royal women became rulers and Mahamoksha Parishad.

administrators despite the patriarchal 2. The first written evidence of the Kumbha

nature of society. Mela can be found in the accounts of

Which of the statements given above are Chinese monk Xuanzang.

correct ? Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 2 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

(5-A)
SIA-A-GS I
18. Consider the following pairs : 21. Consider the following statements :
Sl. Buddhist Founder 1. Lepakshi paintings developed during the
No. Universities Vijayanagar period have a complete
1. Nalanda - Kumaragupta absence of blue color.
2. Vikaramashila - Gopala 2. Shah Jahan was the biggest patron of
3. Odantpuri - Ramapala
Mughal paintings and focused on
4. Vallabhi - Bhattarka
naturalistic paintings.
5. Jagadal - Dharmapala
3. Mysore Paintings also known as Palagai
How many of the pairs given above are
Padam are created on glass and wooden
correctly matched ?
planks.
(a) Only two
Which of the above statements are not
(b) Only three
correct?
(c) Only four
(a) 1 and 2 only
(d) All five
(b) 1 and 3 only

19. With reference to India, the terms ‘bandesh’, (c) 2 and 3 only

‘cheibi gad-ga’, ‘sqay’ related to : (d) 1, 2 and 3

(a) Martial arts

(b) Ancient theatres 22. Consider the following statements with
(c) Traditional farming practices reference to the Traditions of Bhakti in North
(d) Tribal festivals India :
1. Saguna bhakti was the worship of an
20. Consider the following statements : abstract form of god whereas Nirguna
1. Geo-tagging is the process of allotting
bhakti focused on the worship of specific
geographic coordinates to media based on
deities such as Shiva, Vishnu and his
the location of a mobile device.
avatars.
2. Unlike photos & videos, Geotags cannot be
2. The Nirguna Bhaktas rejected the varna
applied to text messages and QR codes.
ashrama and all conventions based on
3. Geo-tagging properties will be
caste distinction whereas Saguna Bhaktas
instrumental in boosting tax collection
upheld the caste system and the
potential.
supremacy of the Brahmins.
Which of the statements given above are
correct ? Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

(a) 1 and 2 only (a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only (b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only (c) Both 1 and 2

(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

(6-A)
SIA-A-GS I
23. Which of the following dynasties were 25. With reference to Ancient Indian History,
prominent in India in the eighth century AD ? consider the following statements :
1. Gurjara Pratihara by Nagabhatta I.
1. In the Mitakshara system, only male
2. Pala dynasty by Gopala
members of the family can become the
3. Chauhans of Ajmer
owner of the property whereas in the
4. Yadavas of Devagiri
5. Rashtrakuta dynasty by Dantidurga Dayabhaga system, both male and female

Select the correct answer using the codes members are the joint owners.
given below : 2. In the mitakshara system, sons would
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
succeed in the property as they are close
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
to their deceased parent whereas in the
(c) 1, 2 and 5 only
Dayabhaga system, the property is
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
returned to heirs upon the death of an

24. Consider the following statements : owner.

Statement I : Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
The Laughing gull species is placed under
(a) 1 only
the endangered category on the IUCN list.
(b) 2 only
Statement II :
(c) Both 1 and 2
The Laughing gull is a migratory bird from
North America that eats a variety of prey (d) Neither 1 nor 2

and will both hunt and scavenge for

suitable food. 26. Consider the following information :
Which one of the following is correct in respect
1. Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana in the
of the above statements ?
city of Kapilavastu.
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
2. Saririka Stupas are the earliest surviving
correct, and Statement II is the correct
explanation of Statement I Buddhist shrines.

(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are Which of the statements given above is/are

correct, but Statement II is not the correct correct ?

explanation of Statement I
(a) 1 only
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is
(b) 2 only
incorrect
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II
is correct (d) Neither 1 nor 2

(7-A)
SIA-A-GS I
27. Consider the following pairs : Which of the statements given above is/are
(Associated correct ?
(Chalcolithic
Sl.No. River/River (a) 1 only
sites)
Valley)
(b) 2 only
1. Gilund - Banas
(c) Both 1 and 2
2. Navdatoli - Narmada
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
3. Prakash - Tapi
4. Hallur - Tungabhadra
5. Daimabad - Bhima 30. Consider the following statements :
How many pairs given above are correctly 1. In India, the architectural style of
matched ? sculpting living beings such as lions and
(a) Only two
elephants in the brackets was started
(b) Only three
during the period of the Mughals.
(c) Only four
2. The Jama Masjid at Gulbarga is the only
(d) All five
mosque in India which has a covered
28. Which of the following are reasons why hybrid countryard.
vehicles could be a cleaner solution for India Which of the statements given above is/are
than Electric and Conventional Vehicles ? correct ?
1. Hybrid vehicles are less polluting than
(a) 1 only
electric vehicles.
(b) 2 only
2. Hybrids provide better fuel efficiency than
(c) Both 1 and 2
conventional vehicles.
3. A hybrid vehicle charges the battery (d) Neither 1 nor 2

automatically while electric vehicles have

to be plugged into any external charger. 31. With reference to the economy of the Gupta
Select the correct answer using the codes empire, consider the following statements :
given below : 1. Lead coins are used for purposes of
(a) 1 and 2 only
commercial exchange.
(b) 2 and 3 only
2. The crops like maize or vegetables like
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 potatoes were cultivated during this
period.
29. With reference to Agrarian relations in the 3. Nagarasresthi and the Sarthavaha were
Deccan region during the Mughal period, representatives of merchants.
consider the following statements : Which of the statements given above is/are
1. The Mirasdars were hereditary peasant
correct ?
proprietors who were the original settlers
(a) 1 and 2 only
of the village.
(b) 2 and 3 only
2. The Balutedars were village servants who
received a specified quantity of grains at (c) 1 and 3 only
harvest time in lieu of their services. (d) 1, 2 and 3

(8-A)
SIA-A-GS I
32. Consider the following statements : 34. Consider the following statements :
Statement I : 1. Jainism believes salvation is achievable by
Default bail is the statutory right of the
anyone through personal training.
accused person.
Statement II : 2. Tirthankaras attained salvation at the time

The accused can be released on default of their death.

bail only if the charge sheet is not filed
3. Lord Mahavira formulated all five vows of
within the prescribed time period or an
Jainism.
investigation is pending against the
accused. How many of the above statements is/are
Which one of the following is correct in respect correct ?
of the above statements ?
(a) Only one
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
(b) Only two
correct, and Statement II is the correct
explanation of Statement I (c) All three
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are (d) None
correct, but Statement II is not the correct
explanation of Statement I
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is 35. With reference to Chalcolithic cultures,

incorrect consider the following statements :

(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II
1. They were well connected with regional
is correct
and trans-regional cultures through trade

33. Consider the following : and exchange networks.

Sl. 2. They had clearly defined burial practices
Instrument Type
No.
indicating social stratification.
1. Tat Vadya - Solid Instrument
3. Like the mature Harappan civilization,
2. Sushira - Wind instrument
Vadya they were based on surplus production,
3. Avanaddha - Percussion fortified towns, writing and an elaborate
Vadya instrument
drainage system.
4. Ghana Vadya - Stringed
Instrument Which of the statements given above is/are

In which of the above rows is the given not correct ?

information correctly matched ?
(a) 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only (c) 3 only

(d) 1 and 4 only (d) 2 and 3 only

(9-A)
SIA-A-GS I
36. Consider the following statements regarding 39. Consider the following literary works :
UAE- India CEPA Council (UICC) : 1. Arthasastra of Kautilya
1. The Council is a joint initiative that
2. Indica of Megasthenes
leverages the benefits of the UAE-India
Comprehensive Economic Partnership. 3. Mudrarakshas by Visakhadatta
2. It encourages inclusive and diverse 4. Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa texts
partnerships by emphasizing critical areas
How many of the above are the literary
like women entrepreneurship and micro,
sources during the Mauryan empire ?
small, and medium-sized entrepreneurs
(MSMEs). (a) Only one
Which of the statements given above is/are (b) Only two
correct ?
(c) Only three
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (d) All four
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
40. Recently Government of Odisha unveiled a

project to develop a heritage corridor around

37. In the context of the Vedic period, the terms
‘Vrihi’, ‘Tandula’ and ‘Sali’ denotes : Jagannath Temple at Puri. Which of the
(a) Rice following statements are correct regarding
(b) Iron
Jagannath Temple ?
(c) Cow
(d) Horse 1. Jagannath temple is one of the Jyotirlinga

shrines.
38. Consider the following statements :
2. A description of the Jagannath temple was
1. All the mahajanapada states were
given in the Kendupatna copper-plate
monarchical in nature.
2. The political fight among the inscription.
mahajanapada states ultimately led to the 3. The main shrine in the temple was built by
rise of Magadha as the most powerful state
Anantavarman of the Chodaganga
and the center of a vast empire.
3. Bimbisara, ruler of Magadha, took control dynasty.

over the Kasi under the policy of Select the correct answer using the codes
matrimonial alliance.
given below :
Which of the statements given above are
(a) 1 and 2 only
correct ?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(10-A)
SIA-A-GS I
41. With respect to the Administration during the 44. The Reykjanes Peninsula, sometimes seen in
Mauryan period, consider the following the news, is located in which of the following ?
(a) Iceland
statements :
(b) Indonesia
1. The Mauryan Empire was divided into four
(c) Italy
provinces under the control of royal (d) Japan
princes for effective administration.
2. The King appointed the superintendents 45. “Kandakarnan Thira”, a ritual dance which
performance represents the survival of the
who were responsible for running various
human race from contagious diseases, is
economic departments. performed in the state of :
3. The Mauryas maintained a huge standing (a) Karnataka
army and employed a large number of (b) Andhra Pradesh
(c) Kerala
state officials.
(d) Odisha
Which of the statements given above are
correct ? 46. Which of the following characteristics
(a) 1 and 2 only mentioned below are common for Carnatic
(b) 2 and 3 only and Hindustani Music ?
1. Influence of Islamic Music
(c) 1 and 3 only
2. The Gharana system of musical lineage
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. Mainly based on ragas
Select the correct answer using the codes
42. Minhaj al-Siraj, a Persian writer who used the given below :

term “Hindustan” for the areas of Punjab, (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only
Haryana, and the lands between the Ganga
(c) 3 only
and Yamuna, was the chief chronicler of : (d) None
(a) The Mamluks
(b) The Khaljis 47. Consider the following statements with respect

(c) The Tughlaqs to Alwars and Nayanars :

1. They totally rejected the caste system.
(d) The Sayyids
2. They had women in their group.
3. They primarily focused on an individual’s
43. Which of the following events occurred at the
relationship with God.
earliest ?
Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) Establishment of Diwan-i-Amirkohi correct ?
(b) Introduction of Masahat Land Revenue (a) 1 only
System (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) Making the Iqta system as hereditary (c) 3 only

(d) The invasion of Taimur (d) 1, 2 and 3

(11-A)
SIA-A-GS I
48. With respect to the Hague Apostille 50. Consider the following pairs :
Convention 1961, consider the following Inscriptions
Sl.
statements : during post Description
No.
Mauryan era
1. Apostille is done only for educational
1. Besnagar - It mentions that
documents like degrees and secondary-
inscriptions heliodorus was a
level certificates.
devotee of Lord
2. An apostilled document is treated as a
Krishna.
legalised document under the Hague 2. Junagarh - The first royal
Apostille Convention. inscriptions inscription of early
3. India is not a member of the Hague India was composed

Apostille Convention, 1961. in chaste Sanskrit.

3. Hathigumpha - Achievements of
Which of the statements given above is/are
inscription Kharavela, chedi
correct ?
dynasty.
(a) 1 only
Which of the pairs given above are correct ?
(b) 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
49. With reference to the Virashaiva Tradition in

Karnataka, consider the following statements : 51. Consider the following statements :
1. The Charvaka school developed the Atomic
1. Lingayats are the followers of Basavanna
Theory that described matter as a
who was a minister in the court of a
combination of atoms and molecules.
Kalachuri ruler.
2. The Mimamsa School emphasized the
2. Lingayats practice funerary rites such as
superiority of the Vedas and opposed the
cremation, prescribed in the dominance of priests and social
Dharmashastras. discrimination among castes.
3. Lingayats accepted the idea of caste and 3. The Samkhya school advocated logical

the theory of rebirth. thinking and reasoning as pathways to

achieve salvation.
Which of the statements given above is/are
How many of the above statements is/are
correct ?
correct ?
(a) 1 only
(a) Only one
(b) 2 only
(b) Only two
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) All three
(d) 2 and 3 only (d) None
(12-A)
SIA-A-GS I
52. Consider the following statements : 55. With reference to the Economy of the Rig
1. Mount Merapi is an active volcano located Vedic period, consider the following
in the Padang Highlands of western statements :
Sumatra.
1. The economy of the Rig Vedic period was
2. The volcanic eruption in Mount Marapi is
primarily based on pastorlism.
caused by deep movement of magma.
2. Gift exchange and redistribution had an
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
important economic role in society.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 3. There was no concept of private property

(c) Both 1 and 2 based on land ownership.

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
53. Consider the following statements : (a) 1 and 2 only
1. Ashokan pillars are examples of stone
(b) 1 and 3 only
sculptures with no base.
(c) 2 and 3 only
2. The pillars are circular and monolithic.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3. The pillars are made of sandstones.
4. The Lion capital is joined to the tapering
end of the shaft with a cylindrical bolt. 56. With respect to the Climate Vulnerable Forum,

Which of the statements given above are which of the following statements is/are
correct ? correct ?
(a) 1 and 2 only 1. It serves as a South-South cooperation
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only platform for participating governments to
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
act together to deal with the climate
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
emergency.
2. It promotes climate prosperity with
54. Consider the following pairs :
economic and financial resilience
Sl. Historical
Well-known for strategies that advance 30×30 Global
No. places
1. Lakhudiyar - Rock shelters Biodiversity, and the 1.5°C safety
2. Gufkral - Pit dwellings threshold of the Paris Agreement.
3. Bithur - Copper artefacts 3. India is a member of the climate
4. Mahagara - Evidence of vulnerable forum.
domesticated wheat Select the correct answer using the codes
How many of the pairs given above is correctly
given below :
matched ?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(a) Only one
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) Only two
(c) Only three (c) 1 and 3 only

(d) All four (d) 1, 2 and 3

(13-A)
SIA-A-GS I
57. Which of the following kinds of pottery is the Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
most important archaeological evidence (a) 1 only
associated with urbanization during the (b) 2 only
Mahajanapada age ? (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) Black-and-Red Ware (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) Painted Grey Ware
(c) Ochre colored pottery 61. With reference to Buddhist Councils, consider

(d) Northern Black Polished Ware the following statements :

1. The Second Buddhist Council met at
Pataliputra after a century of Buddha’s
58. With reference to the economic history of
death under the patronage of Emperor
India, the terms ‘urvara’, ‘ushara’ and
Ashoka.
‘nadimatrika’ denote :
2. In the Third Buddhist Council, the
(a) Coins of different monetary value
Buddhist order split into Sthaviravadins
(b) Classification of urban land
and the Mahasanghikas.
(c) Different types of soil
3. In the Fourth Buddhist Council, Vajrayana
(d) Classification of weights and measures
Buddhism emerged and became popular in
Kashmir.
59. With reference to Tantrism, consider the How many of the statements given above are
following statements : correct ?
1. It introduced folk elements of religion into (a) Only one
the mainstream. (b) Only two
2. Women could become spiritual leaders in (c) All three
Tantric cults. (d) None
3. It did not receive royal and political
patronage as it rejected the authority of 62. Consider the following statements :
the Vedas. Statement-I :
Which of the statements given above are During the reign of Jahangir there was no
correct ? addition to the Mughal territory in Deccan.
(a) 1 and 2 only Statement-II :
(b) 1 and 3 only Jahangir decided not to follow Akbar’s
expansionist policy in the Deccan.
(c) 2 and 3 only
Which one of the following is correct in respect
(d) 1, 2 and 3
of the above statements ?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
60. With reference to the Free Movement Regime
correct and Statement-II explains
(FMR), consider the following statements :
Statement-I
1. It is a mutually agreed arrangement
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
between the two countries under India’s
correct, but Statement-II does not explain
Act East Policy.
Statement-I
2. Under the FMR, tribes living along the (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is
border are allowed to travel only up to 16 incorrect
km on either side of the other country (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II
without a visa. is correct

(14-A)
SIA-A-GS I
63. Consider the following statements with respect Which one of the following is correct in respect
to Kuchipudi dance : of the above statements ?
1. It is a dance-drama of Nritta, Nritya and (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
Natya. correct, and Statement II is the correct
2. It is accompanied by Hindustani Music. explanation of Statement I
3. It is always performed in a group (b) Both Statement I and Statement II are
presentation.
correct, but Statement II is not the correct
Which of the statements given above is/are
explanation of Statement I
correct ?
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is
(a) 1 only
incorrect
(b) 2 and 3 only
(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II
(c) 3 only
is correct
(d) 1, 2 and 3

66. Consider the following pairs :

64. Consider the following statements :
1. Teesta River rises in the Himalayas near Sl.
Bhakti saints Sect
Chunthang in Sikkim. No.

2. The River Teesta joins the right bank of 1. Saint - Pushtimarg

Brahmaputra from where the river is Vallabhacharya

known as the river Jamuna. 2. Saint Chaitanya - Dvaitadvaita

3. The river finally merges with the river 3. Saint Nimbarka - Achintya Bheda
Padma, after which it falls into the Bay of Abheda
Bengal. Which of the pairs given above are not
How many of the statements given above are correctly matched ?
correct ? (a) 1 only
(a) Only one (b) 1 and 3 only
(b) Only two
(c) 2 and 3 only
(c) All three
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None

67. The coins issued by which of the following

65. Consider the following statements :
kingdoms or dynasties featured the fabulous
Statement I :
‘gandaberunda’ (a double eagle, sometimes
Samudragupta followed the policy of
holding an elephant in each beak and claw) ?
political conciliation for South India.
(a) Imperial Guptas
Statement II :
(b) Imperial Cholas
Samudragupta felt difficult to control and
subservient the South India once he (c) Rashtrakutas

returned to his capital in the North. (d) Vijayanagar

(15-A)
SIA-A-GS I
68. Which of the following statements best 71. With reference to the Medieval history of India,
describes Ergosphere, sometimes seen in the the Qalandars, Madaris, Malangs and Haidaris
news ?
were :
(a) It is a layer of molecular gases
(a) Forms of Persian literature patronised by
surrounding the planets of the solar
system. the Mughals

(b) It is the frozen water part of the Earth (b) Titles granted by Delhi Sultans to their
system where the temperature is below nobles
0°C. (c) Types of land grants given to religious
(c) It is the zone of Earth that contains all
functionaries
living species and the remains of
(d) Mystics with a radical interpretation of
organisms that have not yet decomposed.
(d) It is the region outside the event horizon of Sufi ideals
the rotating black hole.
72. Which of the following statements is/are
69. With reference to Social life in the Deccan
correct regarding exchange-traded funds ?
during the age of the Satavahanas, consider
1. It is a fund comprising a group of stocks
the following statements :
listed on an exchange which are traded
1. The Satavahanas extended patronage to
Brahmanism and Jainism. like other listed securities.
2. During their period, the idea of a four-fold 2. Unlike mutual funds, ETF share prices are
division of society was absent. determined throughout the day.
3. In this period, the grants of land to
3. ETFs can be structured to track anything
religious beneficiaries such as Buddhist
from the price of a commodity to a large
monks became a common practice.
Which of the statements given above is/are and diverse collection of securities.

correct ? Select the correct answer using the codes

(a) 1 only given below :
(b) 1 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(d) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only

70. Which of the following religious sects in (d) 1, 2 and 3

ancient India is one of the four branches of
religious literature devoted to the elucidation 73. In the context of the cultural history of India,
of mathematical principles, science of
the term “Parchin Kari” is associated with :
calculation and astronomy ?
(a) Mughal architecture
(a) Buddhism
(b) Jainism (b) Mughal painting

(c) Shaivism (c) Textile manufacturing

(d) Vaishnavism (d) Hindustani classical music

(16-A)
SIA-A-GS I
74. What was the primary reason for the Mughal Which of the following is correct in respect of
Emperor Akbar to abandon his capital at the above statements ?
Fatehpur Sikri ? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
(a) A devastating earthquake damaged most of
correct and Statement-II is the correct
the structures
explanation for Statement-I.
(b) Severe water scarcity
(c) Military threat from Rajputs (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are

(d) Death of Emperor Akbar's favorite son correct and Statement-II is not the correct
explanation for Statement-I.
75. Which of the following centres of ancient (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is
painting and sculpture was associated
incorrect.
exclusively with Buddhism ?
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is
(a) Elephanta caves
correct.
(b) Ajanta caves
(c) Ellora caves
(d) Sittanavasal caves 78. With reference to Ancient India, which one of
the following is the correct sequence in
76. Consider the following statements with respect ascending order in terms of size ?
to India-CARICOM Summit :
(a) Bhukti – Vishaya – Vithi
1. The first-ever India-CARICOM Summit
(b) Vithi – Bhukti – Vishaya
held in Guyana in 2024.
(c) Vishaya – Bhukti - Vithi
2. All countries of the South American
continent are part of the summit. (d) Vithi – Vishaya – Bhukti

3. The Summit aims to promote cooperation

in climate change, cricket, and healthcare. 79. Consider the following statements :
How many of the above statements is/are 1. The Rashtrakutas and Pallavas were
correct ?
contemporaries of the Vardhana dynasty.
(a) Only one
2. Pulakesin II defeated Harshavardhana and
(b) Only two
assumed the title Sakalauttarapathanatha.
(c) All three
(d) None 3. The Pallava Dynasty was established by
Mahendravarman in the Tondainadu
77. Consider the following statements : region.
Statement-I : How many of the above statements is/are
The Guptas maintained a smaller
correct ?
bureaucracy compared to the Mauryas.
(a) Only one
Statement-II :
(b) Only two
The Gupta administration included
Kumaramatyas, as well as merchants, (c) All three

artisans, and feudatories. (d) None

(17-A)
SIA-A-GS I
80. Which one of the following is the Rome 83. “Ain-i-Dahsala”, a new land revenue system
Declaration of 2024 related to ? was introduced by :

(a) Use of emerging technologies in terrorism (a) Babur

(b) Adoption of Artificial intelligence (b) Akbar

(c) Sustainable use of space technology (c) Jehangir

(d) Shahjahan
(d) Water Scarcity in Agriculture

84. Dhudmaras, which is among the best tourism

81. With reference to Indian Architecture,
villages declared by the United Nations World
consider the following statements :
Tourism Organization (UNWTO), belongs to
1. Dravida temple architecture used the
which of the following states ?
rekha-prasada style in vimana
(a) Chhattisgarh
construction.
(b) West Bengal
2. The Thuglaq Dynasty used a batter style of (c) Madhya Pradesh
construction to increase the strength of (d) Maharashtra
structures.
3. The Malwa school used intricate patterns 85. Consider the following pairs :
on the ceilings called baulis. (Foreign (Countries of

Which of the above statements is/are correct ? travellers) Origin)

(a) 1 only 1. Abdur Razzaq - Egypt

(b) 1 and 3 only 2. Barbosa - Portugal

3. Afanasii Nikitin - Dutch
(c) 2 only
4. Nicolo de Conti - Italy
(d) 2 and 3
Which of the pairs given above are correctly
matched ?
82. Consider the following statements :
(a) 1 and 3 only
1. Babur established control over Punjab
(b) 2 and 4 only
even before the Battle of Panipat.
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
2. Delhi, captured by Sher Shah Sur during
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
the Battle of Chausa, was recovered by
Humayun in the Battle of Kannauj. 86. During the time of which Mughal Emperor did
Which of the statements given above is/are the French East India Company establish its
correct ? first factory in India ?
(a) 1 only (a) Akbar
(b) 2 only (b) Jahangir

(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) Shah Jahan

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) Aurangzeb

(18-A)
SIA-A-GS I
87. During the period of Imperial Cholas the terms 90. Consider the following statements with respect
“Devadana”, “Palliccanda” and “Kavimurruttu” to Sher Shah Suri :
refers to: 1. He invented the Zabti system in which the

(a) Trade centers lands are classified based on fertility.

2. He introduced the Gold Coin called
(b) Tax-free villages
“Rupaya”.
(c) Military forts
3. He rebuilt the famous Grand Trunk Road.
(d) Agricultural lands
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
88. Consider the following statements with respect (a) 1 and 2 only
to the PM YASASVI scheme : (b) 1 and 3 only
1. It recognizes and promotes quality (c) 2 and 3 only
education by providing financial support to (d) 1, 2 and 3
the students.
91. Consider the following statements :
2. The Scheme will cover OBC students for
1. The Invasion of Nadir Shah happened
pursuing studies beyond Class XII.
during the reign of Mughal emperor
3. The Scheme will not be provided to more
Ahmed Shah.
than 2 siblings in a family.
2. Ahmed Shah Abdali invaded India for the
4. The Scheme will operate only in the first time during the reign of the Mughal
institutions notified by the Ministry of emperor Shah Alam II.
Social Justice and Empowerment. Which of the statements given above is/are
How many of the statements given above are not correct ?
correct ? (a) 1 only
(a) Only one (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(b) Only two
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Only three
(d) All four
92. Consider the following statements :
1. A diode is an electronic component that
89. Consider the following : allows the current to flow in only one
1. Nagananda direction.
2. Ratnavali 2. An LED is a diode that works on the
3. Vikramorvarsiyam phenomenon called electroluminescence.
4. Priyadasika 3. LED lights can be embedded in the skin to

5. Harshacharitha create electronic displays.

4. LEDs can produce a variety of colors and
How many of the above plays were written by
emit energy only at lower frequencies.
Harsha ?
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
(a) Only two
(a) 1 only
(b) Only three (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) Only four (c) 1, 2 and 3 only
(d) All five (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(19-A)
SIA-A-GS I
93. With reference to the Land revenue system Which of the statements given above is/are
during the medieval period, consider the correct?
following statements: (a) 1 and 2 only
1) Amaram is the revenue rights over land (b) 3 only
possessed by nayakas in the Vijayanagara (c) 1 and 3 only
Empire. (d) 1, 2 and 3
2) Iqta was a system of granting land to the
Mughal officials instead of their salary. 96. With reference to Interpol organization,
3) Jagirdars were the holders of Jagir consider the following statements :
revenue assignments in lieu of their 1. Interpol is the only organization with the
services to the Mughal state. mandate and technical infrastructure to
share police information globally.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. The Central Bureau of Investigation is the
(a) 1 only
designated National Central Bureau (NCB)
(b) 2 and 3 only
for Interpol in India.
(c) 1 and 3 only 3. INTERPOL Notices are international
(d) 1, 2 and 3 requests for cooperation or alerts allowing
police in member countries to share
94. Consider the following statements : critical crime-related information.
1. In the Gupta period, the issue of a series of Which of the above statements are correct ?
gold coins depicts the matrimonial alliance (a) 1 and 2 only
of Chandragupta I.
(b) 2 and 3 only
2. The achievements of the Samudragupta
(c) 1 and 3 only
were engraved on the Allahabad Pillar
(d) 1, 2 and 3
inscription.
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
97. Consider the following information :
(a) 1 only
Sl. Mahajana Capitals Famous
(b) 2 only
No -padas ruler
(c) Both 1 and 2
1. Magadha Girivraja Bimbisara
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
2. Kosala Shravasti Prasenajit
and
95. With reference to the Freestyle Chess Grand
Kushavati
Slam Tour 2025, consider the following
statements: 3. Vatsa Kaushambi Udayana

1. It consists of five events held in cities such 4. Avanti Ujjain and Pradyota
as Weissenhaus, Paris, New York, New Shuktimati
Delhi and Cape Town. In how many of the above rows is the given
2. It is started by The International Chess information matched correctly ?
Federation (FIDE). (a) Only one
3. The time control used in these events will (b) Only two
be the same as in classical chess. (c) Only three
(d) All four
(20-A)
SIA-A-GS I
 98. Consider the following information : 100. Consider the following information :

Tinai Subsistence Divine GI tag

Sl.No. Description State
(eco-zone) pattern form products
1. Kurinji Shifting Murugan 1. Koraput Type of rice Odisha
cultivation kalajeera variety
2. Neytal Pastoralism Mayon 2. Khajuri Date palm Jharkhand
3. Marutham Agrarian Varunan Guda jaggery
activities 3. Dongaria Tipoporaditional Odisha
In how many of the above rows is the given Kondh knitted shawls
information matched correctly ?
4. Lanjia Wall mural art Odisha
(a) Only one
Saura paintings
(b) Only two
paintings
(c) All three
Which of the above pairs are correctly
(d) None
matched ?

(a) 1 and 2 only

99. Consider the following information :
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
Pre-
(c) 1 and 4 only
historic State Era
(d) 1, 2 and 4 only
sites

1. Bhimbetka Madhya Mesolithic

Pradesh

2. Ahar Rajasthan Chalcolithic

3. Kayatha Uttar Pradesh Paleolithic

In how many of the above rows is the given

information matched correctly ?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

(21-A)
SIA-A-GS I