UPSC 2009 Prelims Questions with Answers

Explanation

Statement 1 and 3 are correct:

Hurricane Ike (2008) caused major damage in the U.S. and the Caribbean. Hurricane Gustav (2008) led to widespread destruction, especially in Louisiana and the Caribbean.

Statement 2 is incorrect:

No significant Hurricane Kate occurred near 2009. While Hurricane Kate (2003) existed, it wasn’t major or recent.

Explanation

The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the UNFCCC allows developing countries to receive funds from developed countries for adopting technologies that reduce green-house gas emissions, promoting sustainable development. The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) allows developed countries to invest in emission-reduction projects in developing countries and earn carbon credits in return. Options (a), (b) and (d) are incorrect:

Carbon footprint refers to the total carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions linked to the activities of an individual or entity (e.g., building, company, country). Emission Reduction Norms refer to regulations or standards set to limit the amount of greenhouse gases that can be emitted by industries, sectors, or countries. Carbon Credit Rating is a measure of how reliable and effective a carbon credit is in reducing emissions and helping the environment.

Explanation

Georgia announced its intention to withdraw from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in August 2008 and finalized its withdrawal in August 2009. This was due to an escalation in hostilities between Russia and Georgia over the separatist region of South Ossetia.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Advocate General of a State in India is appointed not by the President but directly by the Governor of the concerned State. This appointment is made under Article 165 of the Indian Constitution. He holds office during the pleasure of the Governor.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The jurisdiction of High Courts is defined by the Constitution of India, not the Civil Procedure Code (CPC). High Courts possess original, appellate, and sometimes advisory jurisdiction, but this is based on constitutional provisions and specific statutes, not the CPC.

Explanation

Luisa Dias Diogo (Mozambique): Former Prime Minister of Mozambique (2004-2010), the first woman in that role, known for her economic reforms. Mwai Kibaki (Kenya): President of Kenya (2002-2013), recognized for economic reforms and handling the 2007 post-election crisis. Rupiah Banda (Zambia): President of Zambia (2008-2011), focused on economic growth, particularly in mining and agriculture.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), a quasi judicial body, was established in

1985 under Article 323 -A of the Constitution through the Administrative Tribunal Act 1985 during Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, not during Lal Bahadur Shastri’s term (1964-1966).

Statement 2 is correct: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) members come from both judicial and administrative backgrounds. They include judges qualified for High Courts and officers from Central or State Governments, appointed by the President of India. This mix ensures swift and effective justice in administrative matters related to grievances of central and state government employees.

Explanation

The World Economic Forum (WEF) presents the Crystal Award to outstanding artists and cultural leaders who have used their talents to improve the state of the world. This award is given annually at the WEF’s meeting in Davos, Switzerland. The World Economic Forum (WEF) is a Swiss non-profit organization that brings together global leaders to address economic, social, and environmental issues. Founded in 1971, WEF hosts an annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, and publishes reports on global competitiveness and risks.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The number of ministries on 15th August 1947 was 18. At the time of independence, the government had basic departments like Home Affairs, Defence, Finance, External Affairs, etc, to handle the essential governance functions. The number of ministries was quite small as the nation was just beginning to organize itself administratively after the end of British rule.

Statement 2 is incorrect: In 2009, the number of ministries of the Indian government was much higher than 36. At present in November 2024 there are 53 ministries in the central government of India covering a wide range of administrative, governance, and policy functions.

Explanation

The Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India Limited is a recognized stock exchange by SEBI. Formerly known as MCX Stock Exchange Limited, MSE offers trading in various segments including capital market, futures and options, currency derivatives, and debt market. It also has a flagship index called SX40.

Explanation

Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008. In its declaration of independence, Kosovo committed to fulfilling its obligations under the Ahtisaari Plan, to embrace multi-ethnicity as a fundamental principle of good governance, and to welcome a period of international supervision.