Previous Year UPSC Questions

Explanation

Buddhism and Jainism, both originating in ancient India around the 6th century BCE, share several common principles. Both religions advocate personal spiritual development through ethical conduct and meditation, offering alternative paths to liberation and enlightenment. Statement (1) is incorrect: Only Buddhism avoids extremes, not Jainism. Buddhism follows the Middle Path (Madhyamaka), avoiding both extreme penance and indulgence. Jainism, especially in Digambara tradition, follows extreme asceticism, advocating severe penance as a path to liberation. Statements (2), (3) and (4) are correct:

Both Buddhism and Jainism rejected the Vedas as the ultimate authority. They criticized the Brahmanical rituals, caste system, and the monopoly of Vedic priests. Both religions focused on direct realization, self-discipline, and ethical conduct over Vedic rituals. Buddha and Mahavira both opposed elaborate rituals and sacrifices performed by Brahmins. Buddhism emphasized meditation, moral conduct, and wisdom over rituals. Ahimsa (non-violence) is a fundamental principle in both Buddhism and Jainism. Jainism follows an extreme form of Ahimsa avoiding even harming microorganisms (e.g., Jain monks wear masks to avoid inhaling insects). Buddhism also preaches Ahimsa, but in a less extreme form compared to Jainism.

Explanation

The Mansabdari system was a significant administrative framework introduced by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. The system was a hierarchical structure that catered to both military and civil administration.

Option (d) is correct: The Mansabdari system provided a centralized structure with clear ranks and responsibilities, ensuring smooth administration. This system ensured the recruitment of competent and loyal soldiers, with each Mansabdar responsible for a specific number of soldiers, fostering discipline and efficiency. Mansabdars managed tax collection and land revenue, contributing to the imperial treasury, reducing corruption, and ensuring fair resource distribution.

Explanation

Therigatha often translated as Verses of the Elder Nuns is a Buddhist text. It is part of the Sutta Pitaka, containing verses attributed to early Buddhist nuns. It documents the spiritual experiences and enlightenment of female disciples of the Buddha.

Option (b), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

Acarangasutra is one of the oldest Jain scriptures belonging to the Shvetambara Jain canon. It discusses the ethical conduct, discipline, and lifestyle of Jain monks, especially emphasizing Ahimsa (non-violence). It is attributed to the direct disciples of Mahavira. Sutrakritanga is a Jain scripture from the Shvetambara canon. It contains theological discussions and criticizes rival religious philosophies, including Vedic traditions and Ajivikas. Brihatkalpasutra is a later Jain text which is part of the Shvetambara tradition. It deals with monastic discipline, rules for Jain monks and spiritual practices.

Explanation

Assertion (A) is true: Mangroves are specialised for-est ecosystems found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world especially along coastlines where saltwater and freshwater meet. They are specially adapted to thrive in saline, waterlogged soils where few other plants can survive. Reason (R) is true: Mangroves play a critical role in stabilizing shorelines by trapping sediments with their dense root systems, reducing erosion, and protecting coastal areas from storm surges and sea-level rise. They act as natural barriers, mitigating the impact of waves and tides, and preventing seawater from en-croaching further inland. Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A): Assertion (A) describes mangroves as specialized ecosystems in tropical and subtropical coastal regions and Reason (R) explains why these ecosystems are specialized i.e. their ability to stabilize shorelines and protect against sea encroachment.

Explanation

A is matched with 2: Vishakhadatta is best known as a playwright and author of the Sanskrit drama Mudrarakshasa (The Signet Ring). The play is a historical drama set in the time of Chandragupta Maurya and his advisor Chanakya (Kautilya). B is matched with 3: Varahamihira was a renowned astronomer and mathematician of ancient India. He is best known for his works Brihat Samhita and Pancha Siddhantika which deal with astronomy, astrology, and mathematics. C is matched with 1: Charaka is considered one of the principal contributors to Ayurveda. He is traditionally regarded as the author of the Charaka Samhita, a foundational text of Ayurveda. D is matched with 4: Brahmagupta was a prominent mathematician and astronomer of ancient India. He is best known for his work Brahmasphutasiddhanta which covers topics in algebra, arithmetic, and astronomy.

Explanation

The Gupta Era (320 AD-550 AD) is considered to be the golden era of India in terms of art, literature, astronomy, medical science, etc. Sushruta is known as an ancient Indian physician and is often regarded as the "father of surgery." He authored the Sushruta Samhita, which provides detailed information on surgical techniques and medicinal practices. Although he lived slightly before the Gupta period, his work was highly influential and widely studied during the Gupta period. Hence the most appropriate answer is Susrutha. Sudraka was an ancient Indian playwright, best known for the Sanskrit drama Mrichchhakatika (The Little Clay Cart).Shaunaka was an ancient sage and scholar, traditionally credited with compiling the Brihaddevata. Saumilla is sometimes referenced in ancient Indian literature, but specific historical details are scarce.

Explanation

Gandhara sculptures are famous for their Greco-Roman influence, often crafted from green or bluish-gray schist, a stone abundant in the Gandhara region (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan). This material was favored for its ease of carving and ability to capture intricate details, making it ideal for depicting Buddha and Bodhisattva figures. Gandhara art stands out for its unique blend of Indian and Hellenistic artistic traditions. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect Maurya Sculptures (3rd century BCE) are primarily associated with the use of polished sandstone, particularly the famous Chunar sandstone. Examples: The Mauryan pillars and capitals, such as the Lion Capital of Sarnath. The Mathura school of art (flourished from 1st century BCE to 3rd century CE) is known for red sandstone sculptures from the Mathura region in Uttar Pradesh. It is famous for early representations of Buddha, Jaina Tirthankaras, and Yaksha-Yakshini figures. Bharhut Sculptures (2nd century BCE) are associated with the use of red sandstone. The Bharhut stupa, now largely preserved in the Indian Museum, Kolkata, is a prime example of early Indian Buddhist art.

Explanation

The Sarabandi Campaign was led by Vallabhbhai Patel in Gujarat. It was a non-violent protest where farmers refused to pay taxes, highlighting the oppressive tax policies of the British. This campaign strengthened Patel’s leadership role in the independence movement. It showcased the growing unity and defiance among Indians against British exploitation, setting the stage for future movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Explanation

The Anarchical and Revolutionary Crime Act of 1919 was a draconian law enacted by the British government to curb revolutionary activities in India. It became infamous for its oppressive measures and the widespread protests it provoked. It was famously called the Rowlatt Act, which was passed in 1919, and it allowed the British government to imprison individuals without trial for up to 2 years and suppress civil liberties under the pretext of curbing revolutionary activities.

Explanation

Option (b) is correct: Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant (VSL) in Bhadravati does not have local coal supply as it is located in Karnataka, far from the coal-rich regions of India. VSL relies on imported or transported coal for its operations. Options (a), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

TISCO, Jamshedpur (Jharkhand) is located near coalfields of Jharia and Bokaro and has access to local coal supplies. HSL, Durgapur (West Bengal) located near Raniganj coalfields, one of the oldest coal mining areas in India. HSL, Bhilai (Chhattisgarh) is located close to Korba and other coal mines in Chhattisgarh.