According to the IIP data of MoSPI, which indices experienced significant growth in FY 2023?

Capital goods and infrastructure/construction goods

Consumer goods and infrastructure/construction goods

Consumer goods and capital goods

Manufacturing and consumer goods

After the elections to the 18th Lok Sabha, who was appointed Union Minister of Textiles?

Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh (Munger)

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Jodhpur)

Which of the following represents the suitable condition for the liquefaction of gases?

High temperature, high pressure

What was the theme of International Olympic Day 2024, celebrated on 23 June?

Move, learn, discover – Together for a better world

Which of the following are the constituents of a soda-acid fire extinguisher?

Dil. sulphuric acid and sodium bicarbonate solution

Conc. sulphuric acid and aluminium sulphate

Dil. sulphuric acid and sodium carbonate

Conc. sulphuric acid and sodium carbonate solution

BPSC – Combined Competitive Examination Prelims 2024 Question Paper with Answers

Q1Open question
Dalton's atomic theory successfully explained: i. Law of conservation of mass ii. Law of constant composition iii. Law of radioactivity iv. Law of multiple proportions
1. ii, iii and iv
2. i, ii and iii
3. i, ii and iv
4. i, iii and iv
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) i, ii and iv
Explanation
Dalton's indivisible-atom theory explained the laws of chemical combination, not radioactivity (which shows atoms can break down).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: radioactivity was discovered later and contradicts indivisible atoms.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Dalton's theory could not explain radioactivity.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: the theory explained conservation of mass, constant composition and multiple proportions.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: radioactivity is not explained by it.
Q2Open question
Which of the following is a technopolis?
1. Silicon Valley
2. London
3. Paris
4. Moscow
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Silicon Valley
Explanation
A technopolis is a city or region centred on high-tech industry and research, e.g. Silicon Valley.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Silicon Valley is the classic high-tech research and industry hub.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a global financial capital, not described as a technopolis.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a cultural/political capital.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a political capital.
Q3Open question
Which of the following acids is secreted in the stomach?
1. Sulphuric acid
2. Nitric acid
3. Phosphoric acid
4. Hydrochloric acid
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Hydrochloric acid
Explanation
Gastric juice contains HCl secreted by the parietal (oxyntic) cells.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not produced in the body.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not produced in the stomach.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not secreted by the stomach.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: parietal cells secrete HCl, which activates pepsin and kills germs.
Q4Open question
Which ruler ruled Assam (Kamarupa) in the time of Harsha?
1. Aswad Jahan
2. Bhaskar Varman
3. King Dahir
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Bhaskar Varman
Explanation
Bhaskaravarman of the Varman dynasty ruled Kamarupa and allied with Harsha against Shashanka.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not a Kamarupa ruler.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Bhaskaravarman of Kamarupa was Harsha's ally.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Dahir ruled Sindh (defeated by the Arabs in 712).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only Bhaskar Varman fits.
Q5Open question
When was the undersea cable-based Chennai–Andaman and Nicobar (CANI) Project inaugurated and dedicated to the nation by PM Narendra Modi?
1. 15 August 2022
2. 10 August 2019
3. 26 January 2023
4. 10 August 2020
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 10 August 2020
Explanation
The 2,312 km CANI optical fibre cable brought high-speed internet to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in August 2020.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the project was dedicated in 2020.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: one year too early.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: the project was dedicated in 2020.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: PM Modi inaugurated the CANI submarine cable on 10 August 2020.
Q6Open question
The meter used to measure the distance travelled by a vehicle is known as:
1. Ammeter
2. Speedometer
3. Chronometer
4. Odometer
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Odometer
Explanation
The odometer measures distance; the speedometer measures speed.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: measures electric current.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: measures speed.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: measures time precisely.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: an odometer records distance travelled.
Q7Open question
Which Amendment to the Constitution abolished the two seats reserved for the Anglo-Indian community in the Lok Sabha?
1. 108th
2. 100th
3. 102nd
4. 104th
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 104th
Explanation
The 104th Amendment Act, 2019 discontinued Anglo-Indian nominations to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies from January 2020.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the 108th was a women's reservation bill number, not this.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the 100th dealt with the India–Bangladesh land boundary.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: the 102nd gave constitutional status to the NCBC.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the 104th Amendment (2019) ended Anglo-Indian nomination and extended SC/ST reservation.
Q8Open question
What should come in place of the question mark (?) in the following figures? Figure 1: upper pair 16, 21; lower pair 15, 10; centre 36 Figure 2: upper pair 7, 10; lower pair 13, 10; centre 16 Figure 3: upper pair ?, 15; lower pair 21, 14; centre 64
1. 22
2. 18
3. 36
4. 20
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) 22
Explanation
In each figure the cross sums match (16+15 = 21+10) and the centre is (pair difference + 1)². For figure 3, ? + 14 = 15 + 21 = 36, so ? = 22.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: centre = (difference + 1)²; 64 = 8² gives difference 7, so ? = 15 + 7 = 22 (also ? + 14 = 15 + 21).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: 18 + 14 = 32 ≠ 36.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: does not fit the pattern.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: 20 + 14 = 34 ≠ 36.
Q9Open question
Which of the following ports is an artificial port?
1. Marmugao
2. Mumbai
3. Kochi
4. Chennai
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Chennai
Explanation
Chennai port was built artificially on a straight coast; Mumbai, Kochi and Marmugao are natural harbours.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: a natural harbour in Goa.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a natural deep-water harbour.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a natural harbour (lagoon).
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Chennai is one of India's oldest artificial harbours.
Q10Open question
How many members of the UN Security Council either rejected or abstained from voting on the proposal to admit Palestine as a full UN member in April 2024?
1. 6
2. 2
3. 3
4. 5
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) 3
Explanation
On 18 April 2024 the draft got 12 votes in favour; the US vetoed and the UK and Switzerland abstained.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: 12 members voted in favour, leaving 3.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the US vetoed and two members abstained: 3 in all.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: the US voted against (veto); the UK and Switzerland abstained.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only 3 did not vote yes.
Q11Open question
In the Union Budget speech for 2024-25, which oilseed was NOT among those named under the goal of 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance)?
1. Sesame
2. Coconut
3. Soybean
4. Groundnut
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Coconut
Explanation
Budget 2024-25 set a strategy for self-reliance in mustard, groundnut, sesame, soybean and sunflower.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: sesame was named in the mission.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: the budget named mustard, groundnut, sesame, soybean and sunflower, not coconut.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: soybean was named.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: groundnut was named.
Q12Open question
Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah al-Ahmad al-Sabah was appointed as the new Prime Minister of which country in April 2024?
1. Palestine
2. Yemen
3. Lebanon
4. Kuwait
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Kuwait
Explanation
The al-Sabah family rules Kuwait; Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah was appointed PM by the Emir in April 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: al-Sabah is Kuwait's ruling family.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not Yemen.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not Lebanon.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: he was named Kuwait's Prime Minister in April 2024.
Q13Open question
Match the following in the context of the Ashta Pradhan system of the Maratha rulers: a. Sachiva b. Peshwa c. Sumant d. Amatya 1. Prime Minister 2. In-charge of correspondence 3. Finance Minister 4. Foreign Minister
1. a-2, b-1, c-4, d-3
2. a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4
3. a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) a-2, b-1, c-4, d-3
Explanation
Shivaji's Ashta Pradhan: Peshwa (PM), Amatya (finance), Sachiva (royal correspondence), Sumant (foreign affairs), among others.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Sachiva–correspondence, Peshwa–PM, Sumant–foreign affairs, Amatya–finance.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Peshwa was the Prime Minister, not the Sachiva.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: most pairs are wrong.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only code A is correct.
Q14Open question
According to the IIP data of MoSPI, which indices experienced significant growth in FY 2023?
1. Consumer goods and infrastructure/construction goods
2. Consumer goods and capital goods
3. Manufacturing and consumer goods
4. Capital goods and infrastructure/construction goods
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Capital goods and infrastructure/construction goods
Explanation
Public capex drove strong FY23 growth in capital goods and infrastructure/construction goods.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: consumer goods growth was weak in FY23.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: consumer goods did not grow significantly.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: these were not the standout indices.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: capital goods (~13%) and infrastructure goods (~8%) grew strongly, reflecting investment.
Q15Open question
Heat transfer that does not require a medium is called:
1. Radiation
2. Reflection
3. Conduction
4. Convection
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Radiation
Explanation
Radiation needs no medium, which is how the Sun's heat reaches Earth.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: radiation travels as electromagnetic waves, even through vacuum.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not a mode of heat transfer.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: needs a material medium (mostly solids).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: needs a fluid medium.
Q16Open question
Which type of rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of lava?
1. Igneous
2. Sedimentary
3. Crystal
4. Metamorphic
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Igneous
Explanation
Lava cools to form extrusive igneous rocks such as basalt.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: igneous rocks form from cooled magma/lava (e.g. basalt).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: formed by deposition of sediments.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not a rock type.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: formed by heat/pressure altering existing rocks.
Q17Open question
After the elections to the 18th Lok Sabha, who was appointed Union Minister of Textiles?
1. Giriraj Singh (Begusarai)
2. Bhupender Yadav (Alwar)
3. Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh (Munger)
4. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Jodhpur)
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Giriraj Singh (Begusarai)
Explanation
In Modi 3.0 (June 2024), Giriraj Singh received the Ministry of Textiles.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Giriraj Singh became Textiles Minister in June 2024.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he got Environment.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: he got Panchayati Raj and Fisheries.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: he got Culture and Tourism.
Q18Open question
Which of the following human races inhabits China, Mongolia and Japan?
1. Australoid
2. Negro (Negroid)
3. Mongoloid
4. Nordic
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Mongoloid
Explanation
Older racial classifications grouped East Asian populations as Mongoloid (now considered outdated by anthropologists).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: found in Australia and parts of South Asia.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: associated with Africa.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: the traditional classification places East Asians in the Mongoloid group.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: associated with northern Europe.
Q19Open question
'Chach Nama' was translated into Persian by:
1. Nuruddin Muhammad Aufi
2. Shams-i-Siraj Afif
3. Muhammad Ali bin Abu Bakr Kufi
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Muhammad Ali bin Abu Bakr Kufi
Explanation
Chach Nama, a history of the Arab conquest of Sindh, was rendered into Persian by Muhammad Ali Kufi.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Aufi compiled Jawami-ul-Hikayat.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he wrote Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Kufi translated the Arabic Chach Nama into Persian (c. 1216).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only Kufi is correct.
Q20Open question
Which of the following represents the suitable condition for the liquefaction of gases?
1. Low temperature, high pressure
2. Low temperature, low pressure
3. High temperature, high pressure
4. High temperature, low pressure
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Low temperature, high pressure
Explanation
Gases liquefy when cooled below their critical temperature and compressed.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: cooling slows molecules and pressure pushes them together.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: low pressure keeps molecules apart.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: high temperature resists liquefaction.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the opposite of what is needed.
Q21Open question
From which constituency was Mohan Charan Majhi, the new Chief Minister of Odisha, elected in the 2024 Assembly elections?
1. Laikera
2. Keonjhar
3. Telkoi
4. Hinjili
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Keonjhar
Explanation
Mohan Charan Majhi, elected from Keonjhar, became Odisha's first BJP Chief Minister in June 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his seat.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Majhi won the Keonjhar (ST) seat.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his seat.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: Hinjili was Naveen Patnaik's seat.
Q22Open question
To highlight the hardships faced by peasants, Sahajanand Saraswati published which newspaper?
1. Lok Sangraha
2. The Broken Wing
3. Indian Nation
4. Nirbal Sevak
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Lok Sangraha
Explanation
Swami Sahajanand used Lok Sangraha to publicise illegal cesses, evictions and forced labour faced by tenants.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Sahajanand published the Hindi weekly Lok Sangraha to voice peasant grievances.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a poetry collection by Sarojini Naidu.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: an English daily linked to the Darbhanga Raj.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not associated with Sahajanand.
Q23Open question
How many times do the hands of a clock coincide in a day?
1. 23
2. 12
3. 24
4. 22
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 22
Explanation
The minute hand gains 360° on the hour hand every 12/11 hours, so they meet 11 times per 12 hours.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: they coincide 11 times every 12 hours, so 22 in a day.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is roughly per 12 hours, and even then it is 11.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: the 11–1 o'clock coincidence is shared, so it is 22.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the hands meet 11 times in 12 hours, i.e. 22 times in 24 hours.
Q24Open question
Which of the following is an iron ore?
1. Cinnabar
2. Bauxite
3. Limonite
4. Pyrite
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Limonite
Explanation
Iron ores: haematite, magnetite, limonite, siderite.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: ore of mercury (HgS).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: ore of aluminium.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: limonite is a hydrated iron oxide ore.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: iron sulphide, mainly used for sulphur, not iron extraction.
Q25Open question
Who was the founder of the Faraizi Movement?
1. Haji Shariatullah
2. Sayyid Ahmad
3. Dudhu Mian
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Haji Shariatullah
Explanation
Haji Shariatullah founded the Faraizi movement; his son Dudhu Mian turned it against zamindars and indigo planters.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: he founded the Faraizi movement in eastern Bengal (1818).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Sayyid Ahmad of Rae Bareli led the Wahabi movement.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: his son, who later led and radicalised it.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the founder was Haji Shariatullah alone.
Q26Open question
Where was the top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh assassinated on 31 July 2024, allegedly in an Israeli strike?
1. Lebanon
2. Palestine
3. Iran
4. Jordan
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Iran
Explanation
Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran, Iran on 31 July 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he was not killed in Lebanon.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he was not killed in Gaza/West Bank.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: he was killed in Tehran after attending the Iranian president's inauguration.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not Jordan.
Q27Open question
According to a CRISIL Ratings report, India's corporate bond market is expected to grow to how much by FY 2030?
1. ₹100–120 lakh crore
2. ₹50–70 lakh crore
3. ₹120–150 lakh crore
4. ₹70–90 lakh crore
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) ₹100–120 lakh crore
Explanation
CRISIL estimated the corporate bond market would grow from about ₹43 lakh crore (FY2024) to ₹100–120 lakh crore by FY2030.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: CRISIL projected the market more than doubling to ₹100–120 lakh crore by FY2030.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: this is near the current size, not the FY2030 projection.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: higher than CRISIL's projection.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: lower than CRISIL's projection.
Q28Open question
Arrange the following mountain peaks/ranges of India from east to west: 1. Garo Hills 2. Nanda Devi 3. Kamet 4. K2
1. 3 4 2 1
2. 4 3 1 2
3. 2 1 4 3
4. 1 2 3 4
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 1 2 3 4
Explanation
Garo Hills (Meghalaya), Nanda Devi and Kamet (Uttarakhand, Kamet slightly west), K2 (Karakoram) in the far west.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Garo Hills (Meghalaya) are the easternmost.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: this runs roughly west to east.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Garo Hills lie east of Nanda Devi.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Garo Hills → Nanda Devi → Kamet → K2 runs east to west.
Q29Open question
Match List-I with List-II: a. Vaishali b. Bhagalpur c. Jamui d. Madhepura 1. Silk textile 2. Gold 3. Rail (locomotive) factory 4. Floriculture
1. a-2, b-3, c-4, d-1
2. a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2
3. a-4, b-1, c-2, d-3
4. a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) a-4, b-1, c-2, d-3
Explanation
Bhagalpur is the 'Silk City'; Jamui holds gold reserves; Madhepura has the Alstom electric locomotive factory.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Bhagalpur is known for silk, not rail.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Jamui is known for gold.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Vaishali–floriculture, Bhagalpur–silk, Jamui–gold, Madhepura–electric locomotive factory.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: most pairs are wrong.
Q30Open question
After remaining neutral for about 200 years, which country officially joined NATO in March 2024?
1. Sweden
2. North Macedonia
3. Iceland
4. Finland
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Sweden
Explanation
Sweden ended its long neutrality after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and joined NATO in March 2024.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Sweden became NATO's 32nd member on 7 March 2024.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: joined in 2020.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a founding member (1949).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: joined in April 2023.
Q31Open question
Which component of fertiliser is used for stimulating early growth (root development)?
1. Potassium
2. Nitrogen
3. Oxygen
4. Phosphorus
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Phosphorus
Explanation
In NPK, phosphorus supports early root growth, nitrogen leaf growth, and potassium overall vigour.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: potassium mainly aids disease resistance and quality.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: nitrogen mainly drives leafy (vegetative) growth.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not a fertiliser nutrient.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: phosphorus promotes early root development and establishment.
Q32Open question
Malik Kafur, also known as 'Hazar Dinari', was bought by whom?
1. Alauddin Khilji
2. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
3. Nusrat Khan
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Nusrat Khan
Explanation
Alauddin's general Nusrat Khan purchased Kafur at Cambay for 1,000 dinars, hence 'Hazar Dinari'.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Kafur was presented to Alauddin after being bought by Nusrat Khan.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: much later; unrelated.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Nusrat Khan bought him for 1,000 dinars during the Gujarat campaign (1299).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only Nusrat Khan bought him.
Q33Open question
In which year was the Bihar State Hydroelectric Power Corporation established?
1. 1992
2. 1982
3. 1998
4. 1990
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) 1982
Explanation
Bihar State Hydroelectric Power Corporation was incorporated in 1982 to develop hydro projects in the state.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the founding year.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: BSHPC was set up in 1982.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the founding year.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the founding year.
Q34Open question
Who wrote 'New Lamps for Old'?
1. Surendranath Banerjee
2. Aurobindo Ghosh
3. Motilal Ghosh
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Aurobindo Ghosh
Explanation
'New Lamps for Old' was Aurobindo Ghosh's series attacking the Moderates' mendicant politics.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he was a Moderate leader, not the author.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Aurobindo's 1893–94 articles in Indu Prakash criticised the Moderates.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: editor of Amrita Bazar Patrika, not the author.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only Aurobindo wrote it.
Q35Open question
What was the theme of International Olympic Day 2024, celebrated on 23 June?
1. Together, For a Peaceful World
2. Let's Move
3. Move, learn, discover – Together for a better world
4. Let's Move and Celebrate
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Let's Move and Celebrate
Explanation
Olympic Day 2024 used the theme 'Let's Move and Celebrate' ahead of Paris 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the 2024 theme.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the campaign name, but the 2024 theme was 'Let's Move and Celebrate'.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the 2024 theme.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the IOC's 2024 Olympic Day theme, tied to the Paris Games.
Q36Open question
Who was the President of the Indian National Congress at the Patna (Bankipur) Session in 1912?
1. Saiyid Mohammad Bahadur
2. Sir S.P. Sinha
3. Syed Hasan Imam
4. R.N. Mudholkar
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) R.N. Mudholkar
Explanation
The 27th Congress session (1912) was held at Bankipur, Patna, presided over by Raghunath Narasinha Mudholkar.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he presided in 1913 (Karachi).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he presided in 1915 (Bombay).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: he presided in 1918 (special session, Bombay).
- (D) Correct
  Correct: R.N. Mudholkar presided over the 1912 Bankipur session.
Q37Open question
What is the 14th term of the sequence 14, 10, 6, 2, ...?
1. −42
2. −34
3. −46
4. −38
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) −38
Explanation
AP with a = 14, d = −4: a₁₄ = 14 + 13 × (−4) = −38.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: that would be the 15th term.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the 13th term.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the 16th term.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: a₁₄ = 14 + 13(−4) = −38.
Q38Open question
Shares of Agriculture, Industry and Services in overall GVA at current prices (FY 2024):
1. 17.7%, 27.6%, 54.7%
2. 18.7%, 28.6%, 52.7%
3. 17.7%, 28.6%, 53.7%
4. 16.7%, 26.6%, 56.7%
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) 17.7%, 27.6%, 54.7%
Explanation
FY24 GVA (current prices): agriculture ~17.7%, industry ~27.6%, services ~54.7%.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: these match the Economic Survey 2023-24 provisional figures.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: agriculture and industry are overstated.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: industry and services are off.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: services are overstated.
Q39Open question
In which city of Bihar is the recently inaugurated National Dolphin Research Centre located?
1. Darbhanga
2. Patna
3. Munger
4. Gaya
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Patna
Explanation
Asia's first National Dolphin Research Centre, for the Gangetic dolphin, is in Patna.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: the NDRC was inaugurated in Patna (March 2024) on the Patna University campus by the Ganga.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
Q40Open question
Which of the following are the constituents of a soda-acid fire extinguisher?
1. Conc. sulphuric acid and aluminium sulphate
2. Dil. sulphuric acid and sodium carbonate
3. Dil. sulphuric acid and sodium bicarbonate solution
4. Conc. sulphuric acid and sodium carbonate solution
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Dil. sulphuric acid and sodium bicarbonate solution
Explanation
In a soda-acid extinguisher, H₂SO₄ reacts with NaHCO₃ solution to produce CO₂ under pressure.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: aluminium sulphate is used in foam extinguishers.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: sodium bicarbonate, not carbonate, is used.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: they react to release CO₂ that smothers the fire.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: wrong base and acid strength.
Q41Open question
Which of the following bacterial diseases is called splenic fever?
1. Typhoid
2. Anthrax
3. Cholera
4. None of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Anthrax
Explanation
Anthrax causes an enlarged spleen in animals, hence 'splenic fever'.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: typhoid is enteric fever.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: anthrax (Bacillus anthracis) is also called splenic fever.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: cholera is an intestinal infection.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: anthrax is correct.
Q42Open question
Where was the Japan–India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX-24) held in 2024?
1. Yokosuka, Japan
2. Bay of Bengal
3. Western Pacific Ocean
4. Visakhapatnam, India
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Yokosuka, Japan
Explanation
INS Shivalik took part in JIMEX-24 with the JMSDF at Yokosuka, Japan.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: JIMEX-24 was held at Yokosuka in June 2024.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: earlier editions were held there, not 2024.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the 2024 venue.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: JIMEX-23 was at Visakhapatnam.
Q43Open question
The Ramakrishna Mission was founded by:
1. Vidyasagar in 1899
2. Swami Vivekananda in 1899
3. Swami Vivekananda in 1897
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Swami Vivekananda in 1897
Explanation
Swami Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 at Calcutta.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Vidyasagar was not its founder.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: 1899 is when Belur Math was established; the Mission dates from 1897.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission on 1 May 1897.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only option C is correct.
Q44Open question
In a certain code language, COMPUTER is written as RFUVQNPC. How will MEDICINE be written in that code?
1. MFEDJOFM
2. MFBDPDQF
3. EOJDJEFM
4. EOJDEJEM
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) EOJDJEFM
Explanation
COMPUTER reversed is RETUPMOC; first and last letters stay, the middle six shift +1 → RFUVQNPC. Same for MEDICINE → EOJDJEFM.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the word must be reversed first.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: does not follow the rule.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: reverse to ENICIDEM; keep first and last, shift middle letters +1: E-OJDJEF-M.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: middle letters are not all shifted correctly.
Q45Open question
Which of the following radiations is used to get relief from body aches?
1. Infra-red radiation
2. UV radiation
3. Visible radiation
4. None of these
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Infra-red radiation
Explanation
Infra-red lamps provide heat therapy for muscle and joint pain.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: IR heats tissues, easing muscle pain (heat therapy).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: UV can damage skin; not used for aches.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not used for this therapy.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: infra-red is used.
Q46Open question
Which of the following was the capital of the Chera dynasty?
1. Vanji/Karur (Kuravur)
2. Kanchipuram
3. Madurai
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Vanji/Karur (Kuravur)
Explanation
Sangam-age capitals: Cheras – Vanji (Karur), Cholas – Uraiyur/Puhar, Pandyas – Madurai.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the Cheras ruled from Vanji, identified with Karur.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: capital of the Pallavas.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: capital of the Pandyas.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only option A is correct.
Q47Open question
The book critical of British policies, 'Gharib Hindustan', was banned in Bihar by the British in 1930. It was written by:
1. Ali Mohd. Shad
2. Mohd. Wali Hassan
3. Badrul Hassan
4. Shaikh Mian Jaan
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Mohd. Wali Hassan
Explanation
Gharib Hindustan by Mohd. Wali Hassan was among the nationalist works proscribed in Bihar in 1930.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the author.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Mohd. Wali Hassan wrote Gharib Hindustan.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the author.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the author.
Q48Open question
What is the contribution of agriculture to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Bihar?
1. 19%
2. 17%
3. 33%
4. 26%
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) 19%
Explanation
Recent Bihar Economic Surveys put agriculture and allied sectors at roughly 19% of GSVA. BPSC dropped this question from the final key because it named no year.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: agriculture and allied activities form about 19% of Bihar's GSVA.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: slightly lower than the estimate.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: too high for recent years.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: an older figure; recent estimates are near 19%.
Q49Open question
By how much did the Female Labour Force Participation Rate increase from 2017-18 to 2022-23, according to the NSSO (PLFS)?
1. From 25.3% to 35%
2. From 23.3% to 37%
3. From 23.3% to 33%
4. From 20.3% to 30%
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) From 23.3% to 37%
Explanation
PLFS shows female LFPR (15+ usual status) rising from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 37.0% in 2022-23.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: both figures are off.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: female LFPR rose from 23.3% to 37.0%.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: the end figure was 37%.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: both figures are off.
Q50Open question
Which country took over the chairmanship of BRICS on 1 January 2024?
1. India
2. Russia
3. South Africa
4. Brazil
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Russia
Explanation
Russia held the BRICS chair in 2024; the summit took place in Kazan in October 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: India chaired in 2021.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Russia chaired BRICS in 2024 and hosted the Kazan summit.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: South Africa chaired in 2023.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: Brazil chairs in 2025.
Q51Open question
Melamine, used for making floor tiles, is an example of:
1. Polythene
2. Thermoplastics
3. PVC
4. Thermosetting plastic
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Thermosetting plastic
Explanation
Melamine and Bakelite are thermosetting plastics; they cannot be remoulded once set.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: polythene is a thermoplastic.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: melamine does not soften on reheating.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: PVC is a thermoplastic.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: melamine sets permanently on heating and resists heat and fire.
Q52Open question
How many triangles are there in figure PQRS? (Figure: rectangle PQRS with both diagonals meeting at centre O, plus one horizontal segment from the left side to O and one vertical segment from O down to the bottom side.)
1. 16
2. 10
3. 18
4. 12
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 12
Explanation
Diagonals of a rectangle form 8 triangles; two centre-to-side segments each add 2 more, giving 12.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: overcounts; the extra segments add only 4 triangles.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: undercounts the triangles made by the extra segments.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: overcounts.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: diagonals give 8 triangles (4 small + 4 large); each extra segment splits one small triangle into 2, adding 4: total 12.
Q53Open question
Which of the following is a cause of rural-to-urban migration in India?
1. High labour demand in cities
2. Unbalanced rural-urban development
3. Few jobs in rural areas
4. All of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) All of the above
Explanation
Rural push (few jobs, poor services) and urban pull (labour demand, better facilities) combine to cause migration.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: a pull factor, but not the only cause.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a cause, but not the only one.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a push factor, but not the only one.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: push and pull factors together drive migration.
Q54Open question
According to the RBI, what was the forecast for headline (CPI) inflation in FY 2025?
1. 5.0%
2. 4.1%
3. 5.5%
4. 4.5%
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 4.5%
Explanation
In its 2024 policy reviews the RBI projected FY25 CPI inflation at 4.5%.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: higher than the RBI's projection.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: lower than the RBI's projection.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: higher than the RBI's projection.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the RBI projected CPI inflation at 4.5% for FY 2024-25.
Q55Open question
The book 'Hundred Years of Indian National Congress in Bihar' was edited by:
1. K.K. Datta
2. P.N. Ojha
3. A.R. Desai
4. B.B. Mishra
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) P.N. Ojha
Explanation
P.N. Ojha edited the centenary volume on the Congress in Bihar (1885–1985).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: K.K. Datta wrote on Bihar's freedom struggle but did not edit this.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: P.N. Ojha edited the history of the Congress in Bihar (1885–1985).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Desai wrote 'Social Background of Indian Nationalism'.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the editor.
Q56Open question
In which organisms does spore formation occur as a mode of reproduction?
1. Fungi
2. Algae
3. Yeast
4. Fern
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Fungi
Explanation
NCERT cites Rhizopus (bread mould), a fungus, as the classic example of spore formation.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: fungi such as Rhizopus reproduce by spores (the textbook example).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: algae mainly reproduce by fragmentation; spores are not the standard example.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: yeast mainly reproduces by budding.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: ferns do form spores, but the standard answer is fungi.
Q57Open question
When did the British shift the capital to Delhi?
1. 1912
2. 1913
3. 1911
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) 1912
Explanation
King George V announced the move at the 1911 Delhi Durbar; the government began functioning from Delhi in 1912 (New Delhi was inaugurated in 1931).
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the shift was announced in Dec 1911 and took effect in 1912.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: too late.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: 1911 was the announcement at the Delhi Durbar; the move took effect in 1912.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only one year is asked.
Q58Open question
The Zoji-la Tunnel will connect which of the following places?
1. Manali and Jammu
2. Manali and Lahaul-Spiti
3. Srinagar and Leh
4. Srinagar and Jammu
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Srinagar and Leh
Explanation
Zoji-la tunnel, under the Zoji La pass, links Sonamarg (Kashmir) with Drass (Ladakh) on the Srinagar–Leh highway.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not on this route.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the Atal Tunnel.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Zoji-la tunnel gives all-weather Srinagar–Leh connectivity.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: that route uses the Banihal/Chenani tunnels.
Q59Open question
Who is the author of the autobiography 'I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story'?
1. S. Sreesanth
2. Suresh Raina
3. Rahul Dravid
4. R. Ashwin and Sidharth Monga
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) R. Ashwin and Sidharth Monga
Explanation
R. Ashwin's memoir about his street-cricket roots was co-authored with journalist Sidharth Monga.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his book.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Raina wrote 'Believe'.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his book.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Ashwin's memoir, co-written with Sidharth Monga (2024).
Q60Open question
Where was the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the WTO held in February 2024?
1. Argentina
2. Abu Dhabi
3. Indonesia
4. Switzerland
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Abu Dhabi
Explanation
WTO MC13 took place in Abu Dhabi in February–March 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: MC11 was in Buenos Aires (2017).
- (B) Correct
  Correct: MC13 was held in Abu Dhabi, UAE (26 Feb–2 Mar 2024).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: MC9 was in Bali (2013).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: MC12 was in Geneva (2022).
Q61Open question
Which one of the following rivers is different from the others?
1. Tungabhadra
2. Narmada
3. Penganga
4. Mahanadi
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Narmada
Explanation
The Narmada (with the Tapi) flows westward through a rift valley; the other three belong to east-flowing systems.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: east-flowing (tributary of the Krishna).
- (B) Correct
  Correct: the Narmada flows west into the Arabian Sea; the others drain east.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: east-flowing (Godavari system).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: east-flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
Q62Open question
If ÷ means +, − means ÷, × means − and + means ×, then the value of [(36 × 4) − 8 × 4] / [4 + 8 × 2 + 16 ÷ 1] is:
1. 10
2. 0
3. 12
4. 8
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) 0
Explanation
After substitution the numerator is 4 − 4 = 0 and the denominator 32 − 32 + 1 = 1, giving 0.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the numerator works out to 0.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: numerator: (36 − 4) ÷ 8 − 4 = 0; denominator: 4 × 8 − 2 × 16 + 1 = 1; so 0/1 = 0.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: the numerator is 0.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the numerator is 0.
Q63Open question
Which of the following is the first artificially prepared element?
1. Te (Tellurium)
2. Tc (Technetium)
3. Th (Thorium)
4. Tl (Thallium)
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Tc (Technetium)
Explanation
Technetium (Z = 43) was produced by Perrier and Segrè in 1937; its name means 'artificial'.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: a naturally occurring element.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: technetium (1937) was the first element made artificially.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a natural radioactive element.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a naturally occurring element.
Q64Open question
What is the full form of CGTMSE?
1. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Macro and Small Enterprises
2. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Medium and Small Enterprises
3. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Medium Enterprises
4. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises
Explanation
CGTMSE provides collateral-free credit guarantees to micro and small enterprises.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: it is 'Micro', not 'Macro'.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: it is 'Micro and Small'.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: it is 'Micro and Small'.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: this is the correct expansion (set up by MSME Ministry and SIDBI, 2000).
Q65Open question
Who gave the slogan 'Do or Die', and when?
1. Subhas Chandra Bose during the Quit India Movement
2. Jawaharlal Nehru during the Non-Cooperation Movement
3. Gandhiji during the Quit India Movement
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Gandhiji during the Quit India Movement
Explanation
At the Gowalia Tank session in Bombay (8 August 1942), Gandhi gave the call 'Do or Die'.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Bose gave 'Dilli Chalo', not 'Do or Die'.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not Nehru's slogan.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Gandhi gave 'Do or Die' on 8 August 1942.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only option C is correct.
Q66Open question
Which of the following is the fluid part of the blood?
1. WBC
2. Plasma
3. Blood platelets
4. RBC
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Plasma
Explanation
Blood = plasma (fluid matrix) + formed elements (RBCs, WBCs, platelets).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: WBCs are cells, not the fluid part.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: plasma is the straw-coloured liquid (~55% of blood).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: platelets are cell fragments.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: RBCs are cells.
Q67Open question
Consider the following about the Ajivika sect: a. Makkhali Gosala was its most important leader. b. The central idea of its philosophy was 'Niyati', i.e. fate. c. It practised discrimination on the basis of caste and class. d. The Ajivikas held regular sabhas (assemblies) for meetings.
1. b, c and d are correct
2. a, b and d are correct
3. a and d are correct
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) a, b and d are correct
Explanation
The Ajivikas, led by Makkhali Gosala, held strict fatalism (Niyati) and were egalitarian about caste.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: c is wrong: Ajivikas rejected caste discrimination.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Gosala led the sect, Niyati was central, and they held assemblies.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: b is also correct.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only code B matches.
Q68Open question
Which of the following minerals occurs in the Minas Gerais province of Brazil?
1. Bauxite
2. Iron ore
3. Mica
4. Coal
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Iron ore
Explanation
The Iron Quadrangle of Minas Gerais holds some of the world's richest iron-ore deposits.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not Minas Gerais's signature mineral.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Minas Gerais ('General Mines') is Brazil's chief iron-ore region.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the main mineral.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: Brazil's coal is in the south.
Q69Open question
The first Hindi daily newspaper to be published in Bihar was:
1. Kshatriya Samachar
2. Udyoga
3. Sarva Hitaishi
4. Chaitanya Chandrika
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Sarva Hitaishi
Explanation
Bihar Bandhu (1872) was Bihar's first Hindi newspaper (weekly); Sarva Hitaishi was the first Hindi daily.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the first Hindi daily.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the first Hindi daily.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Sarva Hitaishi is credited as Bihar's first Hindi daily.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the first Hindi daily.
Q70Open question
Which of the following has a highly elongated elliptical orbit?
1. Asteroid
2. Comet
3. Meteorite
4. Meteor
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Comet
Explanation
Comets travel on long, highly elliptical orbits, e.g. Halley's comet (~76 years).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: most asteroids have fairly circular orbits.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: comets have highly eccentric, elongated orbits.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a meteorite is debris that reaches the ground.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a meteor is a streak of light in the atmosphere.
Q71Open question
If 1 February 1996 is a Wednesday, what day is 3 March 1996?
1. Friday
2. Sunday
3. Saturday
4. Monday
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Saturday
Explanation
Feb 1996 has 29 days, so 3 March is 31 days after 1 Feb: 3 odd days → Saturday.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: count 31 days: 31 mod 7 = 3 → Saturday.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: this ignores the leap-year February (29 days).
- (C) Correct
  Correct: 1996 is a leap year; 1 Feb to 3 Mar = 31 days = 4 weeks + 3 days → Wednesday + 3 = Saturday.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: too far ahead.
Q72Open question
Where was Donald Trump speaking at an election rally when an alleged shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, shot and injured him?
1. Pennsylvania
2. Milwaukee
3. Texas
4. Arizona
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Pennsylvania
Explanation
Trump was wounded in the ear at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on 13 July 2024.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the attack happened at Butler, Pennsylvania on 13 July 2024.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Milwaukee hosted the Republican convention days later.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
Q73Open question
What was India's position in the manufacturing of mobile phones in 2023?
1. 10th
2. 2nd
3. 15th
4. 4th
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) 2nd
Explanation
Driven by PLI and Make in India, India became the second-largest mobile phone maker.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: India ranks much higher.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: India is the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer after China.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: India ranks much higher.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: India ranks second.
Q74Open question
Which of the following cities is located on the river Seine?
1. Paris
2. Belgrade
3. Lisbon
4. Budapest
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Paris
Explanation
The Seine flows through Paris to the English Channel.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Paris stands on the Seine.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: on the Danube and Sava.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: on the Tagus.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: on the Danube.
Q75Open question
According to the RBI, what is one of the eligibility criteria for a Small Finance Bank (SFB) to transition into a Universal Bank?
1. Minimum net worth of ₹1,500 crore
2. Minimum net worth of ₹500 crore
3. Minimum net worth of ₹2,000 crore
4. Minimum net worth of ₹1,000 crore
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Minimum net worth of ₹1,000 crore
Explanation
Other conditions include listing, a 5-year track record, net profit in the last two years and GNPA ≤ 3%.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the RBI set ₹1,000 crore.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: too low.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: too high.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the April 2024 RBI criteria require net worth of at least ₹1,000 crore.
Q76Open question
Match List-I (Organisation) with List-II (Headquarters): I. Swadesh Sevak Home II. United India House III. Yugantar Ashram IV. INA (Azad Hind Fauj) a. Vancouver b. Seattle c. San Francisco d. Rangoon
1. I-d, II-c, III-a, IV-b
2. I-d, II-c, III-b, IV-a
3. I-a, II-b, III-c, IV-d
4. I-a, II-d, III-b, IV-c
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) I-a, II-b, III-c, IV-d
Explanation
Swadesh Sevak Home (G.D. Kumar) – Vancouver; United India House (Taraknath Das) – Seattle; Yugantar Ashram (Ghadar Party) – San Francisco; INA HQ shifted to Rangoon in 1944.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Swadesh Sevak Home was in Vancouver.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Yugantar Ashram was in San Francisco.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco (Ghadar HQ) and Rangoon.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: most pairs are wrong.
Q77Open question
When did the Muslim League observe 'Direct Action Day'?
1. 14 August 1946
2. 15 August 1947
3. 16 August 1946
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) 16 August 1946
Explanation
The League called Direct Action Day on 16 August 1946 to press for Pakistan after rejecting the Cabinet Mission plan.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: two days early.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is Independence Day.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Direct Action Day was 16 August 1946, leading to the Calcutta killings.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only one date is correct.
Q78Open question
In June 2024, which city was named India's first 'UNESCO City of Literature'?
1. Delhi
2. Kozhikode
3. Varanasi
4. Hyderabad
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Kozhikode
Explanation
Kozhikode joined UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for literature in 2023 and was formally declared in June 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not designated.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Kozhikode (Kerala) was formally declared India's first UNESCO City of Literature.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Varanasi is a UNESCO City of Music.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: Hyderabad is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
Q79Open question
What is the structural and functional unit of life?
1. Cell
2. Organ
3. Tissue
4. Organism
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Cell
Explanation
Cell theory: all living things are made of cells, the basic unit of life.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: organs are made of tissues.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: tissues are groups of cells.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the whole living being, not the basic unit.
Q80Open question
Gaurav walks 20 m North, turns left and walks 40 m, turns left again and walks 20 m, then turns right and walks 20 m. How far is he from his starting point?
1. 40 m
2. 20 m
3. 60 m
4. 30 m
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) 60 m
Explanation
North 20, West 40, South 20, West 20 → net 60 m West of the start.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the last 20 m West adds to the 40 m.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the westward total is 60 m.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: N 20 and S 20 cancel; West 40 + 20 = 60 m.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: does not match the moves.
Q81Open question
Which one is NOT included in the Budget priorities in pursuit of 'Viksit Bharat' in the Union Budget 2024-25?
1. Energy Security
2. Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture
3. Sustainable Development
4. Employment and Skilling
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Sustainable Development
Explanation
The nine priorities: agriculture, employment & skilling, inclusive HRD, manufacturing & services, urban development, energy security, infrastructure, innovation/R&D, next-gen reforms.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: one of the nine priorities.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the first of the nine priorities.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: not listed among the nine priorities.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: one of the nine priorities.
Q82Open question
Which of the following drainage systems drains the land of Bihar?
1. Ghaghara
2. Mahanadi
3. Yamuna
4. Narmada
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Ghaghara
Explanation
Bihar is drained by the Ganga and its tributaries, including the Ghaghara, Gandak, Kosi and Son.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the Ghaghara (Ganga system) joins the Ganga near Chhapra in Bihar.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: drains Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: joins the Ganga at Prayagraj, before Bihar.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: drains central India westward.
Q83Open question
Consider the types of land according to the Amarakosha: a. Urvara – fertile b. Maru – desert c. Shadvala – grassy d. Devamatrika – watered by rain Which of the following is correct?
1. a and b both
2. c and d both
3. b, c and d
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Amarakosha classifies land as urvara (fertile), maru (desert), shadvala (grassy), devamatrika (rain-fed), etc.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: c and d are also correct.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a and b are also correct.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a is also correct.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: all four pairs are correct, so more than one option holds.
Q84Open question
Under Article 243J, which of the following can make provisions for the maintenance of accounts by Panchayats?
1. Parliament
2. State Legislature
3. District Collector
4. State Finance Commission
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) State Legislature
Explanation
Article 243J lets the state legislature make laws on Panchayat accounts and their audit.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: 243J vests this in the state legislature.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Article 243J: the state legislature may by law provide for accounts and their audit.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: an executive officer, not a law-maker.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the SFC (243-I) reviews finances, not accounts rules.
Q85Open question
Which of the following is a non-contact force?
1. Magnetic force
2. Frictional force
3. Impact force
4. None of these
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Magnetic force
Explanation
Non-contact forces include magnetic, electrostatic and gravitational forces.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: magnets act at a distance without touching.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: friction needs surfaces in contact.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: impact requires contact.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: magnetic force is non-contact.
Q86Open question
Motorcycle is related to Battery in the same way as Life is related to:
1. Moon
2. Earth
3. Star
4. Sun
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Sun
Explanation
The analogy is 'source of energy': battery → motorcycle, Sun → life.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Moon is not life's energy source.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Earth is life's home, not its energy source.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: too general.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: as a battery powers a motorcycle, the Sun is the energy source for life.
Q87Open question
Consider the following about King Pravarasena (I): a. He was the real founder of the Vakataka dynasty. b. His empire extended from Bundelkhand in the north to Hyderabad in the south. c. He succeeded his father, King Vindhyashakti. d. He is mentioned in the Puranas. Which of the statements are correct?
1. a and b both
2. a and c both
3. b, c and d
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Pravarasena I, son of Vindhyashakti, expanded the Vakataka realm, took the title Samrat and appears in the Puranas.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: c and d are also correct.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: b and d are also correct.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a is also correct.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: all four statements are correct.
Q88Open question
Match the newspapers with their editors: I. Free Hindustan II. Indian Opinion III. Voice of India IV. Bengalee a. Mahatma Gandhi b. Dadabhai Naoroji c. Surendranath Banerjee d. Taraknath Das
1. I-c, II-d, III-a, IV-b
2. I-d, II-a, III-b, IV-c
3. I-c, II-a, III-d, IV-b
4. I-d, II-c, III-b, IV-a
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) I-d, II-a, III-b, IV-c
Explanation
Taraknath Das ran Free Hindustan (Vancouver); Gandhi ran Indian Opinion (South Africa); Naoroji, Voice of India; Surendranath Banerjee, The Bengalee.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Indian Opinion was Gandhi's paper.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Free Hindustan–Taraknath Das, Indian Opinion–Gandhi, Voice of India–Naoroji, Bengalee–Surendranath.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Free Hindustan was Taraknath Das's.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: Bengalee was Surendranath's.
Q89Open question
In which freestyle weight category did Aman Sehrawat become the first Indian male wrestler to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics?
1. 86 kg
2. 65 kg
3. 74 kg
4. 57 kg
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 57 kg
Explanation
Aman Sehrawat qualified in men's 57 kg freestyle at Istanbul and won bronze at Paris 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his category.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his category.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his category.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Aman qualified (and later won bronze) in 57 kg.
Q90Open question
Which of the following districts of Bihar has the highest percentage of Scheduled Tribe population as per Census 2011?
1. Katihar
2. Jamui
3. Purnia
4. Banka
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Katihar
Explanation
Census 2011: Katihar has Bihar's highest ST share (~5.9%), followed by Banka, Jamui and Purnia.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Katihar has about 5.9% ST population, the highest in Bihar.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: about 4.5%.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: about 4.4%.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: about 4.7%.
Q91Open question
Which sector received the highest allocation in the Bihar Budget 2024-25?
1. Agriculture
2. Health
3. Infrastructure
4. Education
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Education
Explanation
Education has consistently received the largest allocation in Bihar's budget.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: lower than education.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: lower than education.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: lower than education.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: education got the largest share (about ₹52,600 crore).
Q92Open question
Choose the group of letters which is different from the others.
1. ORUX
2. PSVX
3. CFIL
4. JMPS
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) PSVX
Explanation
All groups follow +3 except PSVX, whose last step is +2.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: +3 each step (O→R→U→X).
- (B) Correct
  Correct: P→S→V is +3, but V→X is +2, breaking the pattern.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: +3 each step.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: +3 each step.
Q93Open question
Corundum and cryolite are important ores of:
1. Aluminium
2. Silver
3. Tin
4. Iron
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Aluminium
Explanation
Both are aluminium minerals; cryolite is used as a flux in aluminium extraction.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: corundum (Al₂O₃) and cryolite (Na₃AlF₆) contain aluminium.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: silver ores include argentite.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: tin ore is cassiterite.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: iron ores are haematite, magnetite etc.
Q94Open question
After the changes made in March 2024, what is the eligibility age for senior citizens to vote by postal ballot?
1. 85 years
2. 80 years
3. 82 years
4. 90 years
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) 85 years
Explanation
The Conduct of Election Rules were amended in March 2024 to allow home/postal voting for those aged 85+.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the age was raised from 80 to 85 years.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: this was the earlier limit.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the limit.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the limit.
Q95Open question
Which of the following states of India has major reserves of coal?
1. Jharkhand
2. Chhattisgarh
3. Odisha
4. All of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) All of the above
Explanation
Jharkhand, Odisha and Chhattisgarh together hold the bulk of India's coal reserves.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: true, but the others also have major reserves.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: true, but the others also have major reserves.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: true, but the others also have major reserves.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Jharkhand, Odisha and Chhattisgarh hold India's largest coal reserves.
Q96Open question
Which two words were inserted into the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment?
1. Democratic and Socialist
2. Republic and Secular
3. Socialist and Sovereign
4. Secular and Socialist
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Secular and Socialist
Explanation
The 42nd Amendment, 1976 added 'Socialist', 'Secular' and 'Integrity' to the Preamble.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: 'Democratic' was in the original Preamble.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: 'Republic' was in the original.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: 'Sovereign' was in the original.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the 42nd Amendment (1976) added 'Socialist', 'Secular' (and 'Integrity').
Q97Open question
In which Lok Sabha seat did the Shompen tribe, one of India's PVTGs, vote for the first time in April 2024?
1. Tripura East
2. Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh
3. Tura
4. Andaman and Nicobar
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Andaman and Nicobar
Explanation
The Shompen, a PVTG of Great Nicobar Island, voted for the first time in the 2024 general election.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Shompen do not live there.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not their home.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: in Meghalaya; not related.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the Shompen of Great Nicobar voted in the Andaman & Nicobar seat.
Q98Open question
What was Bihar's Per Capita Net State Domestic Product at current prices for 2022-23 (base year 2011-12)?
1. ₹54,111
2. ₹42,083
3. ₹61,434
4. ₹47,498
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) ₹54,111
Explanation
Per MoSPI/RBI state data, Bihar's per capita NSDP at current prices in 2022-23 was ₹54,111.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Bihar's per capita NSDP for 2022-23 was ₹54,111, the lowest among states.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: an older-year figure.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: higher than the actual figure.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: an older-year figure.
Q99Open question
Which centre in Bihar is proposed to be developed under the Vishnupad corridor scheme for tourism in the Union Budget 2024?
1. Nalanda
2. Rajgir
3. Vaishali
4. Gaya
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Gaya
Explanation
Budget 2024-25 announced Kashi Vishwanath-style corridors for the Vishnupad temple (Gaya) and Mahabodhi temple (Bodh Gaya).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Nalanda was mentioned separately for tourism.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Rajgir got a separate comprehensive initiative.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not part of this scheme.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the Vishnupad temple corridor is in Gaya.
Q100Open question
Match the political organisation with its founder: I. Khaksars II. Congress Socialist Party III. Independent Labour Party IV. Forward Bloc a. Subhas Chandra Bose b. Inayatullah Mashriqi c. Jayaprakash Narayan d. B.R. Ambedkar
1. I-b, II-d, III-a, IV-c
2. I-b, II-c, III-d, IV-a
3. I-c, II-d, III-a, IV-b
4. I-d, II-c, III-b, IV-a
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) I-b, II-c, III-d, IV-a
Explanation
Khaksar movement (1931, Mashriqi); Congress Socialist Party (1934, JP and others); ILP (1936, Ambedkar); Forward Bloc (1939, Bose).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Forward Bloc was Bose's.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Khaksars–Mashriqi, CSP–JP, ILP–Ambedkar, Forward Bloc–Bose.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Khaksars were founded by Mashriqi.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: ILP was Ambedkar's.
Q101Open question
Before his appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court of India in July 2024, Justice N. Kotiswar Singh was the Chief Justice of which High Court?
1. Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court
2. Madras High Court
3. Bombay High Court
4. Gauhati High Court
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court
Explanation
Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, the first SC judge from Manipur, was Chief Justice of the J&K and Ladakh High Court.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: he was Chief Justice of the J&K and Ladakh HC.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his court.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not his court.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: he served there earlier as a judge, not as Chief Justice.
Q102Open question
The Sikh pilgrimage site 'Takht Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib', considered the second holiest Takht, is located at:
1. Bhagalpur
2. Gaya
3. Patna
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Patna
Explanation
Takht Sri Patna Sahib marks the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh in Patna.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the location.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Patna Sahib, birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, is in Patna.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: it is only in Patna.
Q103Open question
The Bihula festival is celebrated especially in which district of Bihar, usually in August?
1. Bhagalpur
2. Patna
3. Sitamarhi
4. Darbhanga
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Bhagalpur
Explanation
The Bihula–Bishahari (snake goddess) festival and Manjusha art are rooted in the Bhagalpur region.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Bihula–Bishahari is celebrated mainly in Bhagalpur (Champa region).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not its main centre.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not its main centre.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not its main centre.
Q104Open question
Which of the following gives the resistance of a wire?
1. R = IV
2. R = I/2V
3. R = V/I
4. R = I/V
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) R = V/I
Explanation
By Ohm's law V = IR, so R = V/I.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: IV is power, not resistance.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not a valid relation.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Ohm's law: R = V/I.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: I/V is conductance.
Q105Open question
Which Article of the Constitution disqualifies a Member of Parliament for holding an office of profit?
1. Article 102(1)(c)
2. Article 102(1)(b)
3. Article 102(1)(d)
4. Article 102(1)(a)
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Article 102(1)(a)
Explanation
Article 102(1)(a) covers office of profit under the Union or a State government (unless exempted by Parliament).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: this concerns undischarged insolvents.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: this concerns unsound mind.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: this concerns citizenship.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: 102(1)(a) disqualifies anyone holding an office of profit under the government.
Q106Open question
Which great ruler founded the Haryanka dynasty in ancient Bihar?
1. Bimbisara
2. Brihadratha
3. Ajatashatru
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Bimbisara
Explanation
Bimbisara (c. 544 BCE) founded the Haryanka dynasty of Magadha with Rajagriha as capital.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Bimbisara is regarded as the founder of the Haryanka dynasty.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he founded the earlier Brihadratha dynasty.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Bimbisara's son and successor.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only Bimbisara is correct.
Q107Open question
Which statement about Ruchira Kamboj, the first woman to become India's Permanent Representative to the UN (now retired), is true?
1. She was a member of NITI Aayog
2. She was a member of the Indian Council of World Affairs
3. She held the position of Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO, Paris
4. She was the first woman Indian Ambassador to the USA
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) She held the position of Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO, Paris
Explanation
Ruchira Kamboj (IFS 1987) served at UNESCO Paris, as Ambassador to Bhutan and High Commissioner to South Africa before the UN.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: she was not.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her notable post.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: she served as India's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO in Paris.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: that was Meera Shankar (2009).
Q108Open question
Which of the following are exothermic processes? i. Evaporation of water ii. Dilution of an acid (H₂SO₄) iii. Reaction of water with quicklime iv. Sublimation of camphor
1. iii and iv
2. ii and iii
3. i and iv
4. i and ii
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) ii and iii
Explanation
Evaporation and sublimation absorb heat; diluting H₂SO₄ and CaO + H₂O release heat.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: sublimation absorbs heat.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: diluting acid and slaking lime both release heat.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: both are endothermic.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: evaporation is endothermic.
Q109Open question
What is the object of a 'cut motion' in Parliament?
1. To move a proposal to reduce expenditure in the budget proposals
2. To restrict day-to-day financial expenditure of the government
3. To restrict grants from the Consolidated Fund of India
4. To restrict the grants of the Government
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) To move a proposal to reduce expenditure in the budget proposals
Explanation
Cut motions (policy cut, economy cut, token cut) seek to reduce demands for grants in the budget.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: a cut motion seeks to reduce the amount of a demand for grant.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: too general.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: charged expenditure is not voted on.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: vague; the specific aim is reducing a demand.
Q110Open question
Who presented the Bihar Budget 2024-25 in the State Assembly?
1. Vijay Kumar Sinha
2. Nitish Kumar
3. Vijay Kumar Choudhary
4. Samrat Choudhary
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Samrat Choudhary
Explanation
Samrat Choudhary presented a ₹2.79 lakh crore budget for 2024-25 in February 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Deputy CM, but not the Finance Minister.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Chief Minister does not present it.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: he was the earlier Finance Minister.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Deputy CM and Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary presented it.
Q111Open question
When did the new province of Bihar come into force during British rule?
1. April 1912
2. April 1911
3. March 1912
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) April 1912
Explanation
1 April 1912 is celebrated as Bihar Diwas, when the province was carved out of the Bengal Presidency.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Bihar and Orissa province came into being on 1 April 1912.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the separation was announced in December 1911.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: notified in March; effective in April.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only April 1912 is correct.
Q112Open question
Who headed the Royal Commission on Indian Currency appointed in 1913?
1. James Wilson
2. J.M. Keynes
3. Sir Austen Chamberlain
4. Sir W.R. Mansfield
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Sir Austen Chamberlain
Explanation
The Chamberlain Commission (1913–14), with Keynes as member, examined India's currency and finance.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he introduced the income tax (1860).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Keynes was a member, not the chairman.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Austen Chamberlain chaired the 1913 Royal Commission on Indian Finance and Currency.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the chairman.
Q113Open question
Which of the following is the value of the solar constant?
1. 1.6 kW/m²
2. 1.4 kW/m²
3. 1.2 kW/m²
4. 1.8 kW/m²
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) 1.4 kW/m²
Explanation
The solar constant (solar flux at Earth's mean distance) is about 1361 W/m² ≈ 1.4 kW/m².
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: too high.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: the solar constant is about 1.36 kW/m² (~1.4).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: too low.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: too high.
Q114Open question
Which of the following was NOT one of the features of the Government of India Act, 1935?
1. Reconstruction of the Governor-General's Executive Council
2. Provincial Autonomy
3. Appraisal of the Act of 1935
4. Proposal for a Federation of India
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Appraisal of the Act of 1935
Explanation
The 1935 Act's features included provincial autonomy, a proposed federation, dyarchy at the Centre and a Federal Court.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Act restructured the central executive (dyarchy at the Centre).
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a core feature of the Act.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: an appraisal of the Act is not a feature of the Act itself.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Act proposed an All-India Federation.
Q115Open question
What is the present position of representation of the Anglo-Indian community in the Lok Sabha?
1. Their nomination has been done away with by the 104th Constitutional Amendment
2. Two Anglo-Indians are nominated by the President
3. They are nominated as per their population
4. One Anglo-Indian is nominated by the President
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Their nomination has been done away with by the 104th Constitutional Amendment
Explanation
Article 331 nominations lapsed on 25 January 2020 under the 104th Amendment.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the 104th Amendment (2019) ended the provision from January 2020.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: this was the old position (Art. 331).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: never the rule.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: incorrect number and outdated.
Q116Open question
Which community, categorised as Scheduled Caste by a 2015 Bihar government notification, had that notification quashed by the Supreme Court in July 2024 (states cannot alter the Article 341 list)?
1. Lal Begi
2. Tanti-Tantwa
3. Pano
4. Dabgar
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Tanti-Tantwa
Explanation
The Supreme Court held that only Parliament can modify the presidential SC list under Article 341.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the community in the case.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Bihar had merged Tanti-Tantwa (an EBC) with the SC 'Pan/Sawasi' group; the SC quashed it.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Pan is the existing SC entry, not the added community.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the community in the case.
Q117Open question
Who won the men's singles title at the French Open 2024?
1. Novak Djokovic
2. Alexander Zverev
3. Daniil Medvedev
4. Carlos Alcaraz
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Carlos Alcaraz
Explanation
Carlos Alcaraz won his first French Open in 2024, beating Alexander Zverev in five sets.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he withdrew injured in the quarter-final stage.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he lost the final.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the champion.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Alcaraz beat Zverev in the 2024 final.
Q118Open question
Who became the first Indian mountaineer to scale Mount Everest and Mount Lhotse twice in one season?
1. Satyadeep Gupta
2. Sunil Rohilla
3. Premlata Agarwal
4. Kaamya Karthikeyan
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Satyadeep Gupta
Explanation
Satyadeep Gupta summited Everest and Lhotse twice each in the 2024 spring season.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: he achieved the double Everest–Lhotse traverse twice in May 2024.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not this record.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: known for the Seven Summits, not this record.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: youngest Indian girl to climb Everest from Nepal (2024).
Q119Open question
What is the sex ratio of Bihar as per Census 2011?
1. 918
2. 916
3. 933
4. 922
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) 918
Explanation
Census 2011: Bihar 918, India 943.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Bihar's sex ratio was 918 females per 1000 males.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: close but incorrect.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: India's 2001 figure.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not Bihar's figure.
Q120Open question
Chlorophyll in photosynthesis is used for:
1. Reduction of CO₂
2. Breaking down water molecules
3. No function
4. Absorbing light
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Absorbing light
Explanation
Chlorophyll captures light energy that drives the light reactions of photosynthesis.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: done in the Calvin cycle using ATP/NADPH, not by chlorophyll directly.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: water splitting is done by the oxygen-evolving complex.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: chlorophyll is essential.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: chlorophyll absorbs light energy (mainly red and blue).
Q121Open question
The political strategy 'Struggle–Truce–Struggle' (S-T-S) came into prominence with the call for:
1. Swadeshi Movement
2. Quit India
3. Boycott of the Simon Commission
4. Khilafat issue
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Khilafat issue
Explanation
Bipan Chandra's S-T-S describes alternating mass struggle and truce from Non-Cooperation (1920) onward. BPSC dropped this question from the final key; D is the best-supported answer.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Swadeshi Movement (1905) predates the Gandhian strategy.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Quit India was the final phase, not where S-T-S began.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the starting point of the strategy.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the Khilafat call launched Non-Cooperation, the first Gandhian mass struggle in the S-T-S pattern.
Q122Open question
During the Quit India Movement, parallel 'national governments' were set up at many places. Which of the following is NOT correctly matched?
1. Raiyati Sarkar – Kheda (Gujarat)
2. Prati Sarkar – Satara (Maharashtra)
3. Praja Mandal – Talcher (Orissa)
4. Jatiya Sarkar – Tamluk (Bengal)
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Raiyati Sarkar – Kheda (Gujarat)
Explanation
Parallel governments of 1942: Ballia (Chittu Pandey), Tamluk (Jatiya Sarkar), Satara (Prati Sarkar), Talcher; Kheda had none.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: no such parallel government is recorded at Kheda in 1942.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: correctly matched (Nana Patil).
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: correctly matched.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: correctly matched (Tamralipta Jatiya Sarkar).
Q123Open question
Which of the following is equivalent to one tesla?
1. Ampere per newton
2. Newton per coulomb
3. Newton per ampere-second
4. Newton per ampere-metre
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Newton per ampere-metre
Explanation
Using F = BIL, the tesla equals one newton per ampere-metre.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: dimensionally wrong.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the unit of electric field.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: A·s is a coulomb; missing velocity term.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: from F = BIL, B = F/(IL), so T = N/(A·m).
Q124Open question
Which dynasty ruled Magadha after the Shishunaga dynasty?
1. Maurya dynasty
2. Shunga dynasty
3. Nanda dynasty
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Nanda dynasty
Explanation
Magadha's sequence: Haryanka → Shishunaga → Nanda → Maurya → Shunga → Kanva.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Mauryas followed the Nandas.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Shungas followed the Mauryas.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Mahapadma Nanda overthrew the Shishunagas.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only the Nandas directly followed.
Q125Open question
Who among the following was Speaker of the Lok Sabha before being elected President of India?
1. Giani Zail Singh
2. V.V. Giri
3. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy
4. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Neelam Sanjiva Reddy
Explanation
N. Sanjiva Reddy is the only Lok Sabha Speaker to have become President.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he was Home Minister, not Speaker.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: he was Vice-President, not Speaker.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: he was Lok Sabha Speaker (1967–69, 1977) before becoming President in 1977.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a scientist, never Speaker.
Q126Open question
When did Bihar introduce a Green Budget for the first time?
1. FY 2020-21
2. FY 2018-19
3. FY 2021-22
4. FY 2019-20
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) FY 2020-21
Explanation
Bihar's first Green Budget, tagging climate-related spending, came with the 2020-21 budget.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Bihar presented its first Green Budget for 2020-21.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: too early.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: it began a year earlier.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: too early.
Q127Open question
Manvi Madhu Kashyap recently became Bihar's first transgender:
1. Havildar in the Bihar Regiment
2. Bus driver in state transport
3. Traffic Police Inspector
4. Sub-Inspector of Police
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) Sub-Inspector of Police
Explanation
Manvi Madhu Kashyap was among three transgender candidates selected as police sub-inspectors in Bihar in 2024.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her post.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her post.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her post.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: she cleared the BPSSC exam to become Bihar's first transgender SI (2024).
Q128Open question
Which of the following is a zaid crop?
1. Gram
2. Fodder
3. Mustard
4. Cotton
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Fodder
Explanation
Zaid crops (March–June) include watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, vegetables and fodder.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: a rabi crop.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: fodder crops are grown in the short summer (zaid) season.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a rabi crop.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a kharif crop.
Q129Open question
Shreyasi Singh, MLA, who represented India in shooting at the Paris Olympics 2024, was elected from which constituency in Bihar?
1. Sugauli
2. Gidhaur
3. Jamui
4. Kesaria
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Jamui
Explanation
Shreyasi Singh, a Commonwealth Games gold medallist in trap, is the MLA from Jamui.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her seat.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her seat (her family is from the Gidhaur estate).
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Shreyasi Singh won the Jamui seat in 2020.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her seat.
Q130Open question
What was the chief economic foundation of the triangular trade between India, China and England?
1. Silk
2. Opium
3. Black pepper
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Opium
Explanation
British India's opium exports to China financed tea purchases for Britain, creating the triangular trade.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: silk was a Chinese export, not the base.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Indian opium sold in China paid for tea exported to England.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not central to this trade.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: opium was the foundation.
Q131Open question
Which of the following is the full form of PCRA?
1. Partial Counting of Remaining Amendment
2. Public Conservation Research Association
3. Petroleum Conservation Research Association
4. Public Council of Research Association
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Petroleum Conservation Research Association
Explanation
PCRA (now Petroleum Conservation Research Association) runs campaigns like Saksham for fuel efficiency.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: meaningless expansion.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: incorrect expansion.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: PCRA (1978) promotes fuel conservation under MoPNG.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: incorrect expansion.
Q132Open question
In October 1943, Subhas Chandra Bose set up a Provisional Government of Free India, which was recognised by how many countries including Japan?
1. 4
2. 5
3. 10
4. 9
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 9
Explanation
Recognising states included Japan, Germany, Italy, Croatia, Burma, Thailand, the Philippines, Manchukuo and Wang Jingwei's China.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: too few.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: too few.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: too many.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: it was recognised by nine Axis-aligned states, including Japan, Germany and Italy.
Q133Open question
For which film did Payal Kapadia become the first Indian filmmaker to win the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024?
1. All We Imagine as Light
2. The Shameless
3. The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent
4. Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) All We Imagine as Light
Explanation
Payal Kapadia's 'All We Imagine as Light' won the Grand Prix, Cannes' second-highest honour.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: it won the Grand Prix at Cannes 2024.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: Anasuya Sengupta won Best Actress (Un Certain Regard) for it.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a short film (Palme d'Or for shorts), not Kapadia's.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: an FTII student short that won La Cinef.
Q134Open question
Which part of the alimentary canal receives bile from the liver?
1. Stomach
2. Oesophagus
3. Small intestine
4. Large intestine
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Small intestine
Explanation
Bile from the liver/gall bladder reaches the duodenum via the common bile duct to emulsify fats.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: bile does not enter the stomach.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: only a food passage.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: bile enters the duodenum (first part of the small intestine).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: does not receive bile directly.
Q135Open question
On which date was the Indian National Flag adopted by the Constituent Assembly?
1. 26 November 1950
2. 24 January 1950
3. 26 January 1950
4. 22 July 1947
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) 22 July 1947
Explanation
The tricolour with the Ashoka Chakra was adopted on 22 July 1947.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: wrong date.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the national anthem and song were adopted then.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: Republic Day.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the Constituent Assembly adopted the tricolour on 22 July 1947.
Q136Open question
The size of the Council of Ministers was restricted to 15% of the Lok Sabha's strength by which Amendment?
1. 92nd Amendment
2. 95th Amendment
3. 91st Amendment
4. 93rd Amendment
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) 91st Amendment
Explanation
The 91st Amendment Act, 2003 inserted Article 75(1A) limiting the Union Council of Ministers to 15%.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: added four languages to the 8th Schedule.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: extended SC/ST reservation.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: the 91st Amendment (2003) capped ministries at 15% and tightened anti-defection law.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: OBC reservation in educational institutions.
Q137Open question
Who won the Goldman Environmental Prize 2024 from the Asia region?
1. Thai Van Nguyen, Vietnam
2. Alok Shukla, India
3. Chibeze Ezekiel, Ghana
4. Delima Silalahi, Indonesia
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Alok Shukla, India
Explanation
Alok Shukla (Chhattisgarh) won the 2024 Goldman Prize for Asia for protecting the Hasdeo Arand forests.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he won in 2022.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: honoured for saving Hasdeo Arand forests from coal mining.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: an African winner (2020).
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the 2023 Asia winner.
Q138Open question
Under the Royal Titles Act, Queen Victoria was proclaimed Empress of India in:
1. 1875
2. 1874
3. 1877
4. 1876
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) 1877
Explanation
The Royal Titles Act, 1876 gave Victoria the title 'Kaiser-i-Hind', proclaimed at Lord Lytton's Delhi Durbar in 1877.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: too early.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: too early.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: she was proclaimed Empress at the Delhi Durbar on 1 January 1877.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Act was passed in 1876; the proclamation came in 1877.
Q139Open question
Which of the following pairs will give a displacement reaction?
1. AgNO₃ solution and copper metal
2. NaCl solution and copper metal
3. FeSO₄ solution and silver metal
4. MgCl₂ solution and aluminium metal
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) AgNO₃ solution and copper metal
Explanation
Cu + 2AgNO₃ → Cu(NO₃)₂ + 2Ag: a more reactive metal displaces a less reactive one.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: copper is more reactive than silver and displaces it.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: copper cannot displace sodium.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: silver is less reactive than iron.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: aluminium is less reactive than magnesium.
Q140Open question
The Andes extend along which of the following?
1. West coast of India
2. West coast of North America
3. East coast of Australia
4. West coast of South America
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) West coast of South America
Explanation
The Andes, the world's longest continental mountain range, run along western South America.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the Western Ghats.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the Rockies/Coast Ranges.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: that is the Great Dividing Range.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: the Andes run along South America's Pacific coast.
Q141Open question
Within what time must the Governor return an ordinary bill to the State Legislature for reconsideration?
1. Three months
2. One month
3. No time limit
4. Two months
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) No time limit
Explanation
Article 200 sets no fixed time limit (the Supreme Court has since urged timelines, e.g. in the 2025 Tamil Nadu case).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Constitution prescribes no such period.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not prescribed.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: Article 200 only says 'as soon as possible', with no fixed limit.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not prescribed.
Q142Open question
What is the profession of Arti, the young woman from U.P. who received the Amal Clooney Women's Empowerment Award at the King's Trust awards in May 2024?
1. ASHA worker
2. Farm labourer
3. Chikankari artisan
4. E-rickshaw driver
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) E-rickshaw driver
Explanation
Arti from Bahraich, a pink e-rickshaw driver, was honoured by The King's Trust for empowering women.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her profession.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her profession.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not her profession.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Arti, an e-rickshaw driver from Bahraich, won the award.
Q143Open question
The process of breaking down organic matter by microorganisms is called:
1. Respiration
2. Photosynthesis
3. Decomposition
4. Fermentation
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (C) Decomposition
Explanation
Bacteria and fungi decompose dead matter, recycling nutrients.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: respiration releases energy from food in cells.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: builds organic matter, not breaks it.
- (C) Correct
  Correct: decomposers break dead organic matter into simpler substances.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a specific anaerobic process, not general breakdown.
Q144Open question
Which of the following Indian capitalists was NOT an architect of the 'Bombay Plan'?
1. Dhirubhai Ambani
2. J.R.D. Tata
3. Lala Shri Ram
4. G.D. Birla
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Dhirubhai Ambani
Explanation
The 1944 Bombay Plan was drafted by Tata, Birla, Shri Ram, Thakurdas, Kasturbhai Lalbhai, Shroff, Dalal and John Matthai.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the Bombay Plan (1944) predates his business career.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a signatory of the Bombay Plan.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a signatory of the Bombay Plan.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: a signatory of the Bombay Plan.
Q145Open question
Which country became the first to bring back soil from the far side of the Moon in June 2024?
1. USA
2. China
3. France
4. India
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) China
Explanation
China's Chang'e-6 landed in the South Pole–Aitken basin and returned about 1.9 kg of far-side samples.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: Apollo samples came from the near side.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Chang'e-6 returned the first far-side samples in June 2024.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: France had an instrument on board, not the mission.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: Chandrayaan missions did not return samples.
Q146Open question
What is the name of the month-long cattle fair held at the confluence of the Ganga and Gandak rivers?
1. Katihar Mela
2. Sonepur Mela
3. Purnia Mela
4. More than one of the above
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Sonepur Mela
Explanation
Sonepur Mela, starting on Kartik Purnima, is among Asia's largest cattle fairs.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: not at the Ganga–Gandak confluence.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: Sonepur (Harihar Kshetra) Mela is held at the Ganga–Gandak confluence.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: not at this confluence.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: only Sonepur Mela fits.
Q147Open question
Who decides questions of disqualification of members of a State Legislative Assembly on grounds other than those in the Tenth Schedule?
1. Governor
2. Speaker of the Legislative Assembly
3. State Election Commission
4. High Court
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Governor
Explanation
Under Article 192, the Governor's decision (bound by the ECI's opinion) on Article 191 disqualifications is final.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: Article 192: the Governor decides, after the Election Commission's opinion.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: the Speaker decides only Tenth Schedule (defection) cases.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: the ECI (not SEC) gives an opinion; it does not decide.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: not the deciding authority.
Q148Open question
Which of the following is a major cause of air pollution?
1. Disposal of plastics
2. Burning of fossil fuels
3. Deforestation
4. Excessive use of pesticides
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (B) Burning of fossil fuels
Explanation
Combustion of coal, petrol and diesel in vehicles, industry and power plants is the main source of air pollution.
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: mainly a land/water pollution issue.
- (B) Correct
  Correct: releases CO₂, SO₂, NOx and particulates.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: harmful, but not a direct major source of air pollutants.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: mainly soil/water pollution.
Q149Open question
The Munger hilly region is a part of which physiographic region?
1. Southern Hilly Region
2. North Bihar Plain
3. Someshwar Hilly Range
4. South Bihar Plain
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (A) Southern Hilly Region
Explanation
Bihar's southern plateau/hill region includes the Kharagpur–Munger hills, Rajgir hills and the Kaimur plateau.
- (A) Correct
  Correct: the Munger (Kharagpur) hills are an extension of the Chhotanagpur plateau.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: a flat alluvial plain.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: a Shivalik range in West Champaran.
- (D) Incorrect
  Wrong: the hills rise above the plain, belonging to the southern plateau.
Q150Open question
Who was the first to propose a model for the structure of an atom?
1. E. Goldstein
2. Rutherford
3. Niels Bohr
4. J.J. Thomson
Show answer & explanation
Answer: (D) J.J. Thomson
Explanation
Sequence of atomic models: Thomson (1904) → Rutherford (1911) → Bohr (1913).
- (A) Incorrect
  Wrong: he discovered canal rays, not an atomic model.
- (B) Incorrect
  Wrong: his nuclear model (1911) came after Thomson's.
- (C) Incorrect
  Wrong: his model (1913) came later.
- (D) Correct
  Correct: Thomson proposed the first model ('plum pudding', 1904).

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BPSC – Combined Competitive Examination Prelims 2024: questions with answers

Dalton's atomic theory successfully explained: i. Law of conservation of mass ii. Law of constant composition iii. Law of radioactivity iv. Law of multiple proportions

Which of the following is a technopolis?

Which of the following acids is secreted in the stomach?

Which ruler ruled Assam (Kamarupa) in the time of Harsha?

When was the undersea cable-based Chennai–Andaman and Nicobar (CANI) Project inaugurated and dedicated to the nation by PM Narendra Modi?

The meter used to measure the distance travelled by a vehicle is known as:

Which Amendment to the Constitution abolished the two seats reserved for the Anglo-Indian community in the Lok Sabha?

What should come in place of the question mark (?) in the following figures? Figure 1: upper pair 16, 21; lower pair 15, 10; centre 36 Figure 2: upper pair 7, 10; lower pair 13, 10; centre 16 Figure 3: upper pair ?, 15; lower pair 21, 14; centre 64

Which of the following ports is an artificial port?

How many members of the UN Security Council either rejected or abstained from voting on the proposal to admit Palestine as a full UN member in April 2024?

In the Union Budget speech for 2024-25, which oilseed was NOT among those named under the goal of 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance)?

Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah al-Ahmad al-Sabah was appointed as the new Prime Minister of which country in April 2024?

Match the following in the context of the Ashta Pradhan system of the Maratha rulers: a. Sachiva b. Peshwa c. Sumant d. Amatya 1. Prime Minister 2. In-charge of correspondence 3. Finance Minister 4. Foreign Minister

According to the IIP data of MoSPI, which indices experienced significant growth in FY 2023?

Heat transfer that does not require a medium is called:

Which type of rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of lava?

After the elections to the 18th Lok Sabha, who was appointed Union Minister of Textiles?

Which of the following human races inhabits China, Mongolia and Japan?

'Chach Nama' was translated into Persian by:

Which of the following represents the suitable condition for the liquefaction of gases?

From which constituency was Mohan Charan Majhi, the new Chief Minister of Odisha, elected in the 2024 Assembly elections?

To highlight the hardships faced by peasants, Sahajanand Saraswati published which newspaper?

How many times do the hands of a clock coincide in a day?

Which of the following is an iron ore?

Who was the founder of the Faraizi Movement?

Where was the top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh assassinated on 31 July 2024, allegedly in an Israeli strike?

According to a CRISIL Ratings report, India's corporate bond market is expected to grow to how much by FY 2030?

Arrange the following mountain peaks/ranges of India from east to west: 1. Garo Hills 2. Nanda Devi 3. Kamet 4. K2

Match List-I with List-II: a. Vaishali b. Bhagalpur c. Jamui d. Madhepura 1. Silk textile 2. Gold 3. Rail (locomotive) factory 4. Floriculture

After remaining neutral for about 200 years, which country officially joined NATO in March 2024?

Which component of fertiliser is used for stimulating early growth (root development)?

Malik Kafur, also known as 'Hazar Dinari', was bought by whom?

In which year was the Bihar State Hydroelectric Power Corporation established?

Who wrote 'New Lamps for Old'?

What was the theme of International Olympic Day 2024, celebrated on 23 June?

Who was the President of the Indian National Congress at the Patna (Bankipur) Session in 1912?

What is the 14th term of the sequence 14, 10, 6, 2, ...?

Shares of Agriculture, Industry and Services in overall GVA at current prices (FY 2024):

In which city of Bihar is the recently inaugurated National Dolphin Research Centre located?

Which of the following are the constituents of a soda-acid fire extinguisher?

Which of the following bacterial diseases is called splenic fever?

Where was the Japan–India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX-24) held in 2024?

The Ramakrishna Mission was founded by:

In a certain code language, COMPUTER is written as RFUVQNPC. How will MEDICINE be written in that code?

Which of the following radiations is used to get relief from body aches?

Which of the following was the capital of the Chera dynasty?

The book critical of British policies, 'Gharib Hindustan', was banned in Bihar by the British in 1930. It was written by:

What is the contribution of agriculture to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Bihar?

By how much did the Female Labour Force Participation Rate increase from 2017-18 to 2022-23, according to the NSSO (PLFS)?

Which country took over the chairmanship of BRICS on 1 January 2024?

Melamine, used for making floor tiles, is an example of:

How many triangles are there in figure PQRS? (Figure: rectangle PQRS with both diagonals meeting at centre O, plus one horizontal segment from the left side to O and one vertical segment from O down to the bottom side.)

Which of the following is a cause of rural-to-urban migration in India?

According to the RBI, what was the forecast for headline (CPI) inflation in FY 2025?

The book 'Hundred Years of Indian National Congress in Bihar' was edited by:

In which organisms does spore formation occur as a mode of reproduction?

When did the British shift the capital to Delhi?

The Zoji-la Tunnel will connect which of the following places?

Who is the author of the autobiography 'I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story'?

Where was the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the WTO held in February 2024?

Which one of the following rivers is different from the others?

If ÷ means +, − means ÷, × means − and + means ×, then the value of [(36 × 4) − 8 × 4] / [4 + 8 × 2 + 16 ÷ 1] is:

Which of the following is the first artificially prepared element?

What is the full form of CGTMSE?

Who gave the slogan 'Do or Die', and when?

Which of the following is the fluid part of the blood?

Consider the following about the Ajivika sect: a. Makkhali Gosala was its most important leader. b. The central idea of its philosophy was 'Niyati', i.e. fate. c. It practised discrimination on the basis of caste and class. d. The Ajivikas held regular sabhas (assemblies) for meetings.

Which of the following minerals occurs in the Minas Gerais province of Brazil?

The first Hindi daily newspaper to be published in Bihar was:

Which of the following has a highly elongated elliptical orbit?

If 1 February 1996 is a Wednesday, what day is 3 March 1996?

Where was Donald Trump speaking at an election rally when an alleged shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, shot and injured him?

What was India's position in the manufacturing of mobile phones in 2023?

Which of the following cities is located on the river Seine?

According to the RBI, what is one of the eligibility criteria for a Small Finance Bank (SFB) to transition into a Universal Bank?

Match List-I (Organisation) with List-II (Headquarters): I. Swadesh Sevak Home II. United India House III. Yugantar Ashram IV. INA (Azad Hind Fauj) a. Vancouver b. Seattle c. San Francisco d. Rangoon

When did the Muslim League observe 'Direct Action Day'?

In June 2024, which city was named India's first 'UNESCO City of Literature'?

What is the structural and functional unit of life?