UPSC 2012 International Relations and Current Affairs Questions with Answers
2 previous year UPSC Prelims questions on International Relations and Current Affairs in the UPSC 2012 Prelims. Choose an option to see the answer and explanation.
Explanations state facts as of the year each question was asked; words like “recently” refer to that year.
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UPSC 2012International Relations and Current Affairs · International Relations
Q1. Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called ‘rare earth metals’. Why? 1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export. 2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country. 3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: China has historically been the dominant global producer of rare earth elements, accounting for a significant share of the world’s supply. Concerns about supply disruptions have arisen due to China’s implementation of export restrictions, quotas, and other regulatory measures. These actions have included limiting export volumes, imposing ex-port tariffs, and consolidating its rare earth mining industry. These policies, while potentially aimed at domestic industrial development and resource conservation, have had significant impacts on global markets, creating price volatility and raising concerns about access to these crucial materials for other countries.
Statement 2 is incorrect: China, Australia, Canada, and Chile dominate the rare earth element market, but reserves are also found in Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. Other countries like the USA, India, Russia, Brazil, Vietnam, and Myanmar also have significant rare earth deposits. While China remains the largest producer, global exploration and development efforts are underway to diversify supply due to challenges in mining operations elsewhere.
Statement 3 is correct: Rare earth metals are crucial for electronics, used in magnets, batteries, displays, and more. As global demand for electronic products and renewable energy grows, the need for these elements has risen, heightening concerns about supply security and their strategic economic importance.
UPSC 2012International Relations and Current Affairs · Miscellaneous
Q2. Consider the following specific stages of demographic transition associated with economic devel-opment: 1. Low birthrate with low death rate 2. High birthrate with high death rate 3. High birthrate with low death rate Select the correct order of the above using the codes given below:
Explanation
The Demographic Transition Model (DTM) describes the shift in population growth patterns as an economy develops. India is currently in Stage 3, moving towards a stabilized population with lower fertility rates. Stage 1 (High Birth Rate & High Death Rate): This occurs in pre-industrial societies, where disease, famine, and poor healthcare keep both birth and death rates high. Stage 2 (High Birth Rate & Low Death Rate): With better healthcare and sanitation, mortality declines while fertility remains high, leading to rapid population growth. Stage 3 (Low Birth Rate & Low Death Rate): As urbanization, education, and family planning improve, birth rates decline, stabilizing population growth.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2012
(c) 1 and 3 only
2
2012
(c) 2, 3, 1
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on International Relations and Current Affairs?
This page covers 2 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on International Relations and Current Affairs in the UPSC 2012 Prelims, asked from 2011 to 2025. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
How should I use previous year UPSC questions for Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation for every option. Repeat by chapter, and track which statements UPSC reuses across years. Previous year questions show the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Which years are covered for International Relations and Current Affairs?
Questions on International Relations and Current Affairs in the UPSC 2012 Prelims are available for 14 years, from 2011 to 2025. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
