UPSC 1996 Prelims Questions with Answers

Explanation

Population density is measured as the number of people per square kilometer, is a key demographic indicator. It reflects the distribution of population across regions and is influenced by geographical, economic, and social factors.

Option (a) is correct: The following table presents the approximate population densities (in persons per square kilometer) for the four states across three Census years:

State Census 1991 Census 2001 Census 2011 Sikkim 57 76 86 Nagaland 73 119 120 Meghalaya 79 115 132 Manipur 82 98 122 In 1991, Sikkim had a population density of 57 persons/km², which was lower than Nagaland (73), Meghalaya (79), and Manipur (82). Its mountainous terrain and limited habitable land contribute to sparse population distribution. In contrast, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Manipur had higher densities due to more favorable living conditions and agricultural practices.

Explanation

India has diverse agro-climatic zones, enabling different regions to specialize in certain crops based on soil type, rainfall, and climate.

Pair 1 is incorrectly matched: Tapioca (cassava) is widely grown in Kerala, particularly in hilly and rainfed areas, but it is not considered a major or economically significant crop of the state compared to others.

Pair 2 is correctly matched: Maharashtra is a leading producer of cotton in India, particularly in Vidarbha and Marathwada regions, owing to its black soil. Maharashtra is followed by Gujarat and Telangana in cotton production.

Pair 3 is correctly matched: West Bengal is the largest producer of jute in India, contributing around 75% of the nation’s total yield. The benefits from the alluvial soils of the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta and experienced agricultural workforce. Known for its durability and versatility, jute plays a crucial role in various industries, including textiles and packaging.

Pair 4 is correctly matched: Gujarat leads in groundnut production, especially in Saurashtra and Kutch regions, due to suitable sandy loam soils and semi-arid conditions. Alongwith suitable soil type and favourable climatic conditions, application of advance farming techniques helps Gujarat produce the largest share of country’s groundnut yield.

Explanation

The 1996 Cricket World Cup was co-hosted by India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The tournament featured 12 teams, including three non-Test playing nations, which were:

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

2. Kenya

3. Netherlands (Holland)

Explanation

Wheat is mainly grown during Rabi season and has wide adaptability. It can be grown not only in the tropical and sub-tropical zones, but also in the temperate zone and the cold tracts of the far north, beyond even to the 60 degrees North altitude.

Option (a) is correct: Wheat grows best in a moderate temperature range of 10°C-25°C. For a good crop of wheat, the following conditions are ideal:

Temperature: Wheat grows best in a moderate temperature range of 10°C-25°C. Temperatures above 25 C during this period tend to depress grain weight. Moderate rainfall of 50-75 cm is sufficient, as excessive rainfall can damage the crop. Cloudy weather, with high humidity and low temperatures is conducive for rust attack Wheat requires a cool climate during the growing period and a warm, dry climate during harvesting to ensure proper grain development.

Explanation

The Barak Valley is located in the southern part of Assam, India, comprising the districts of Cachar, Karimganj, and Hailakandi. This region is characterized by a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C and annual rainfall between 100 to 200 cm. These conditions are ideal for the cultivation of jute, making it a significant crop in the Barak Valley.

Option (a) is correct: Jute is grown here as a cash crop and contributes significantly to the region’s agricultural economy. Jute flourishes in regions with high humidity, temperatures exceeding 25°C, and well-drained loamy soil. The Barak Valley is enriched by the Barak River which provides these ideal conditions making it highly suitable for jute cultivation. Options (b), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

While tea is a significant crop in Assam, tea cultivation is more prominent in the Brahmaputra Valley rather than the Barak Valley. Sugarcane is cultivated in various parts of India, including Assam but it is not a major crop of the Barak Valley. The major sugarcane producing states in India are Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, and Odisha with Uttar Pradesh being the largest producer of sugarcane in the country. Cotton is not a significant crop in the Barak Valley due to the region’s unsuitable climatic and soil conditions. States of India known for cotton production include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation

Sri Lanka has historically evolved into a two-party system, dominated by the United National Party (UNP) and Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). Although smaller parties exist, these two have been the main contenders for power, forming governments alternately.

Explanation

Assertion A is true: Economic liberalization in India, initiated in 1991, focused on reducing import duties on capital goods as a key policy instrument to make the economy globally competitive. Reason R is true: This reduction in import duties facilitated access to advanced technology, machinery, and equipment at lower costs, enabling Indian entrepreneurs to modernize industries and compete in global markets. The Reason (R)explains the Assertion (A) correctly, as lower import duties encouraged the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and fostered export competitiveness in sectors like manufacturing and IT.

Explanation

Redistribution of income is best achieved through progressive taxation, where higher-income groups are taxed at a higher rate, and progressive expenditure, where government spending is directed toward social welfare programs, such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. This ensures equitable resource distribution and addresses income inequality. Examples include India’s National Food Security Act and subsidies for essential services like health and education funded by a progressive tax structure. This combination promotes social equity and economic stability. Options (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect:

Regressive expenditure would widen income inequality by favoring higher-income groups. Regressive systems, in both taxation and expenditure, would exacerbate inequality. Regressive taxation would disproportionately burden the poor, even if expenditures are progressive.

Explanation

The Drain Theory was propounded by Dadabhai Naoroji arguing that the British colonial rule in India resulted in the economic drain of wealth from India to Britain. Naoroji contested that a significant portion of India’s resources, including revenue and raw materials, were being transferred to Britain without equivalent returns. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan had a moderate approach and believed that British Rule could benefit India particularly in terms of education and infrastructure. He advocated for cooperation with the British and emphasized the need for Indian Muslims to adopt Western education and progress within the colonial framework. Supporters of the Drain Theory were Dadabhai Naoroji, R.C. Dutt, M.G. Ranade etc.

Explanation

Option (c) is correct: Article 131 of the Constitution of India confers original and exclusive jurisdiction on the Supreme court of India which covers adjudication of the disputes between - (a) the Centre and one or more states; or (b) the Centre and any state or states on one side and one or more states on the other; or (c) Between two or more states. Options (a), (b) and (d) are incorrect:

The Supreme Court hears appeals against decisions of High Courts and other lower courts under the Appellate Jurisdiction (Article 132 to Article 136). The President of India can seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on constitutional or legal matters under the Advisory Jurisdiction (Article 143). Constitutional Jurisdiction refers to the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in cases related to the interpretation and enforcement of the Constitution, especially in matters involving constitutional validity.