UPSC 2009 Prelims Questions with Answers

Explanation

Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptional levels of plant and animal endemism that are under significant threat. Options 1 and 2 are correct: Among the given regions, the Eastern Himalayas, encompassing parts of Nepal, Bhutan, In-dia, and China, and the Eastern Mediterranean Region qualify as biodiversity hotspots. These regions harbour a remarkable diversity of life, including numerous species found nowhere else on Earth. However, threats like deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change pose significant risks to this precious ecosystem. The Eastern Himalayas region supports iconic species like the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, red panda, and greater one-horned rhinoceros. The Eastern Himalayas’ rich biodiversity arises from its unique geography at the intersection of three biogeographical realms: Indo-Malayan, Palaearctic, and Sino-Japanese. The Eastern Mediterranean is part of the larger Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot, one of the richest and most threatened regions globally. The region also supports diverse wildlife, including migratory birds, reptiles like geckos and chameleons, amphibians such as cave salamanders, and unique mammals like macaques. Marine biodiversity includes endemic freshwater fish and Mediterranean Sea species. Fig: Map showing Biodiversity Hotspots Option 3 is incorrect: Northwestern Australia, encompassing the Kimberley and Pilbara regions, is known for its rugged landscapes, pristine coastlines, and rich Aboriginal heritage. This remote area features dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and unique wildlife. It also hosts significant mining and resource projects. South-Western Australia is a biodiversity hotspot whereas North-Western Australia is not.

Explanation

Sambhar Lake, situated in Rajasthan, India, holds the distinction of being the nation’s largest inland saline wetland. This expansive lake, located southwest of Jaipur, plays a crucial role in the region’s ecology. Historically renowned for salt production, Sambhar Lake provides a vital habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna, particularly migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans. However, the lake faces environmental challenges including pollution, water scarcity, and human encroachment. Despite these challenges, Sambhar Lake remains an ecologically significant and culturally important landmark in Rajasthan.

Explanation

India’s port system comprises two distinct categories: major ports and non-major (minor) ports. As of 2024, the nation has 13 major ports and 217 non-major ports, forming a crucial network for maritime trade. Major ports, strategically administered by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways under the Government of India, play a pivotal role in the coun-try’s maritime trade. In contrast, non-major ports come under the jurisdiction of the respective State Maritime Boards, with some also operating under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. Among the given options, Dahej is classified as a non-major port in India. In contrast, Kochi (Cochin), Paradip, and New Mangalore are all designated as major ports.

Explanation

The Shompen tribe is an indigenous and particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) found in the Nicobar Islands, specifically in the Great Nicobar Island. They are semi-no-madic hunter-gatherers who live in the dense forests of Great Nicobar. Their population is very small, and they have minimal contact with outsiders. The Government of India recognizes them as a PVTG under the Andaman and Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956.

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

Nilgiri Hills (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka): Home to Toda, Kota, Irula, and Kurumba tribes, but not the Shompen Spiti Valley (Himachal Pradesh): Inhabited by Bhotia and Spitians (Tibetan origin people), not the Shompen Lakshadweep Islands: No indigenous tribal communities; the majority population follows Islam.

Explanation

Located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, the Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Power Plant, a 390 MW project, was constructed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). This power plant utilizes the run-of-the-river principle, harnessing the flow of the Chenab River to generate electricity.

Explanation

According to Article 243E of the Constitution, if a Panchayat is dissolved before its term ends, elections must be held within six months. This ensures that the democratic process is restored promptly. However, if the remainder of the term is less than six months, elections may not be necessary.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Tropical deserts indeed form along the western margins of continents within the trade wind belt due to several factors. Trade winds, blowing from east to west, lose moisture on eastern coasts and arrive dry on the western side. These regions lie under subtropical high-pressure belts (15°-30° latitude), where descending air suppresses cloud formation and rainfall. Additionally, cold ocean currents, such as the Humboldt Current, cool the air, reducing its moisture-holding capacity and creating stable, dry conditions. In some cases, mountains block moist winds, causing a rain shadow effect. Together, these factors create arid environments like the Sahara, Atacama, and Namib deserts.

Statement 2 is incorrect: In India, the Eastern Himalayas experience significantly higher rainfall compared to the Western Himalayas. This precipitation is primarily attributed to the South-west monsoon, rather than the Northeast monsoon. The Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon carries moisture-laden winds that are funneled toward the Eastern Himalayas. When these winds encounter the steep terrain, they rise, cool, and condense, resulting in heavy orographic rainfall. This effect is particularly pronounced in regions like Meghalaya, which receive some of the highest rainfall globally.

Explanation

The first Municipal Corporation in India was established in Madras (now Chennai) in 1688 during British rule. It was created by the British East India Company to address administrative and civic issues in growing urban settlements. This was followed by the establishment of municipal corporations in Bombay (now Mumbai) and Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1726.

Explanation

Option (d) is correct:

The Sutlej River has its origins far beyond the borders of India, tracing its source back to the sacred Mansarovar-Rakas Lakes in western Tibet(now China). The Sutlej River flows 1,450 km through Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Pakistan before joining the Indus. It enters India via the Shipki La Pass. Major dams on the river include Bhakra-Nangal and Nathpa Jhakri supporting irrigation and hydropower. Its tributaries include Spiti and Baspa. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect:

The Ravi River emerges from the Himalayan heights in the Multhan tehsil of Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, India. The Beas River, similarly originating in the Himalayas, finds its source near the Rohtang Pass, a prominent mountain pass at an elevation of 4,062 meters above sea level. This pass marks the southern extremity of the Pir Panjal Range, a significant mountain chain in the region. Interestingly, the source of the Ravi lies in close proximity to the Beas’s origin. The Chenab River, a major tributary of the Indus, is formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, an event that occurs within the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

Explanation

Fruits and palm oil are among the key commodities exported to India by arid and semi-arid countries in the Middle East. Given the region’s hot and dry climate, water scarcity, and limited arable land, agricultural production is constrained. How-ever, several Middle Eastern nations, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman, grow and export specific fruits like dates, citrus fruits, and melons, which are well-suited to arid conditions. Additionally, palm oil is imported from Middle Eastern countries, particularly from re-export hubs like the UAE, where it is processed and shipped to India. Options (a), (c), and (d) are incorrect:

Raw wool and carpets: While some Middle Eastern nations, such as Iran and Afghanistan, produce carpets, they are not major suppliers to India. India has its own carpet industry, particularly in Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh (Bhadohi and Mirzapur). Wool is primarily imported from New Zealand and Australia, not the Middle East. Precious stones and pearls: The Middle East, particularly Dubai (UAE), is a major hub for gold and diamond trading, but India does not rely on the region for raw precious stones. Instead, India imports rough diamonds from African nations (Botswana, South Africa) and Russia, which are then processed in Surat, Gujarat. Perfume and Coffee: While the Middle East is known for luxury perfumes and attars, they are not a major export to India in terms of volume. Similarly, coffee exports from the region to India are minimal, as India itself is a significant coffee producer, particularly in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.