This page lists 50 previous year UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination (General Studies Paper-I) questions on the UPSC 2012 Prelims. Choose an option to see the correct answer and the full explanation on the same page.
Showing 1–10 of 50 questions
UPSC 2012Polity · Historical Background
Q1. The distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution is based on the scheme provided in the:
Explanation
The distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution is primarily based on the Government of India Act, 1935. This Act introduced a three-list system (Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent Lists), which was later adopted in the Indian Constitution with some modifications as the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List under the Seventh Schedule(under Article 246).
Additional insight:
Other Major Points of the Government of India Act, 1935 Federal Structure: Introduced a three-list system (Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent Lists) for power distribution. However, the federation never materialized. Provincial Autonomy: Dyarchy was abolished in provinces, giving more power to elected ministers, but Governors retained overriding authority. Dyarchy at the Centre: Introduced Reserved and Transferred subjects, but ultimate control remained with the British. Federal Court: Established to resolve Centre-State disputes (precursor to the Supreme Court). Bicameral Legislature: Expanded legislature with more Indian participation, but British control remained. Governor-General’s Powers: Could override elected governments, especially in emergencies. Separate Electorates: Continued communal representation, deepening divisions. Princely States: Given the option to join the federation, but most refused.
UPSC 2012Ancient History · Construction of Ancient History
Q2. With reference to the scientific progress of Ancient India, which of the statements given below are correct? 1. Different kinds of specialized surgical instruments were in common use by the 1st century AD. 2. Transplant of internal organs in the human body began in the 3rd century AD 3. The concept of sine of an angle was known in the 5th century AD. 4. The concept of cyclic quadrilateral was known in the 7th century AD. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation
Ancient India made significant contributions to science, particularly in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Achievements include the concept of zero and the decimal system, advancements in surgery and the accurate calculations of the Earth’s circumference.
Statement 1 is correct: Ancient Indian texts like the Sushruta Samhita (6th century BC) describe specialized surgical instruments for procedures such as surgery, eye treatments, and plastic surgery, indicating well-developed surgical knowledge by the 1st century AD.
Statement 2 is incorrect: There has been no documented proof of organ transplants in the 3rd century AD. The concept of organ transplantation is much more modern, developing in the 20th century.
Statement 3 is correct: Aryabhata, in the 5th century AD, improvised the concept of sine (jya in Sanskrit) in his book and used it in astronomical calculations. Aryabhata’s work in trigonometry laid the foundation for later developments in mathematics.
Statement 4 is correct: The concept of cyclic quadrilaterals, where a quadrilateral can be inscribed in a circle, was known to Brahmagupta in the 7th century AD, who also provided a formula for their area.
Additional insight:
Aryabhata (approximately 476 CE) was an Indian mathematician-astronomer who wrote Aryabhatiya and the lost Aryabhatasiddhanta. He helped develop the decimal system, approximated, solved quadratic equations, and explained planetary motion. He proposed Earth’s rotation and the Moon’s reflected light. Brahmagupta (approximately 598-665 CE) was a pioneering Indian mathematician-astronomer. In Brahma-sphuta-siddhanta (628), he introduced rules for zero, negative numbers, and quadratic equations. He formulated a cyclic quadrilateral area formula and contributed to trigonometry. His work influenced Islamic mathematics after its Arabic translation. He later wrote Khandakhadyaka (665), refining astronomical calculations.
UPSC 2012Ancient History · Construction of Ancient History
Q3. With reference to the Guilds (Shrenis) of ancient India that played a very important role in the country’s economy, which of the following statements is/are true? 1. Every Guild was registered with the central authority of the state and the King was the chief administrative authority on them 2. The wages, rules of work, standards and prices were fixed by the Guild 3. The guild had judicial powers over its own members. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation
As mentioned in Arthshastra, Guilds, also known as Shrenis or Trade Guilds, played a significant role in ancient Indian society. These organizations brought together artisans, merchants, and traders to promote their collective interests, provide protection, and facilitate trade.
Statement 1 is incorrect: The king or local rulers protected guilds and ensured compliance with state regulations, but guilds operated autonomously and were not always formally registered with the central authority.
Statement 2 is correct: Guilds had significant control over the economic activities of their members. They were responsible for regulating various aspects of production, trade, and commerce, which included setting wages, standards of workmanship, prices for goods, and rules of operation.
Statement 3 is correct: Guild members were entitled to impeach and punish a chief found guilty of misconduct. The Arthashastra describes the role of guilds in resolving disputes through a Shreni court, where matters related to trade, contracts, and disagreements were handled by the guild’s officials.
Exam tip:
For S1, Absolute words like "Every" - they’re usually a red flag. Also, If guilds were known to be autonomous (As S2 mentions), would it make sense for the king to directly administer them? No!, Hence S1 likely false, eliminate options A and D as S1 and S2 contradicts each other.
UPSC 2012Art and Culture · Temple Architecture
Q4. The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:
Explanation
Temple architecture in India follows three main styles:
Nagara (Northern), Dravida (Southern), and Vesara (Mixed). Nagara Style (North Indian Temple Architecture) is found in Northern, Central, and Western India. Its key features are:
Shikhara (Tower) which is curvilinear in shape, rising progressively higher. Multiple Shikharas each smaller than the main one. Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) which houses the deity. Mandapa (Pillared Hall) usually present in front of the sanctum. Amalaka (Ribbed Disc), a large stone disc placed on top of the shikhara. Notable examples are: Kandariya Mahadeva Temple (Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh), Sun Temple (Konark, Odisha), Lingaraj Temple (Bhubaneswar, Odisha), etc. Dravida Style (South Indian Temple Architecture) is seen across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana. Its key features:
Vimana (Tower) are pyramid-like structure over the sanctum. Gopurams (Gateway Towers) are large, ornate entrance towers. Sculptures & Mandapas are extensive carvings and pillared halls. Temple Tanks are found in major temples for ritualistic purposes. Notable examples are: Brihadeshwara Temple (Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu), Meenakshi Temple (Madurai, Tamil Nadu), Virupaksha Temple (Hampi, Karnataka), etc. Vesara Style (Hybrid or Mixed Style) is found in Deccan region (Maharashtra, Karnataka). It is a fusion of Nagara and Dravida styles like Shikhara of Nagara influence and temple layout of Dravida. Notable examples include: Hoysaleswara Temple (Halebidu, Karnataka), Virupaksha Temple (Pattadakal, Karnataka) and Chennakesava Temple (Belur, Karnataka), etc.
UPSC 2012Ancient History · History of the Vedic Period
Q5. The Religion of early Vedic Aryans was primarily of:
Explanation
Vedic Aryans used to worship manifestations of forces of nature as Gods in the form of Indra, Agni, Soma, Varuna. Mother Earth and Rivers, especially Saraswati, were worshiped as the goddess. The hymns in the Rigveda reflect reverence for natural forces like fire, wind, and the sun, with a strong emphasis on rituals and offerings. Yajna was a method of worship that involved offering sacrifices. It included Vedic chants singing and a sacrificial mantra. The Vedic mantra was chanted while sacrificing havan samagri in the fire during a yajna. Bhakti (devotion) and image worship became more prominent in later religious developments.
UPSC 2012Art and Culture · Indian Music
Q6. With reference to Dhrupad, one of the major traditions of India that has been kept alive for centuries, Which of the following statements are correct? 1. Dhrupad originated and developed in the Rajput kingdoms during the Mughal period 2. Dhrupad is primarily a devotional and spiritual music 3. Dhrupad alap uses Sanskrit syllables from Mantras. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation
Dhrupad is derived from ‘Dhruva’ (fixed star) and ‘Pada’ (song), is an ancient form of classical music that emerged from early vocal traditions. It is performed with tanpura and pakhawaj, its lyrics in Braj Bhasha often reflect devotion and heroism, expressing emotions like veera and sringar. Key gharanas include Dagarvani, Bishnupur, Darbhanga, and Mallik.
Statement 1 is incorrect: Dhrupad traces its roots back to the ancient text Sama Veda. Its modern form evolved during the 15th and 16th centuries particularly in the courts of the Rajput kingdoms and the Mughal emperors. The Rajput kings such as Raja Man Singh Tomar of Gwalior were great patrons of Dhrupad. Dhrupad flourished under the patronage of emperors like Akbar, who admired musicians like Tansen.
Statement 2 is correct: Dhrupad is deeply rooted in spirituality and devotion. It often incorporates themes from Hindu scriptures, such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Puranas, and is traditionally performed in temples and royal courts. The lyrics of Dhrupad compositions (called prabandhas) are usually in praise of deities like Vishnu, Shiva, and Durga.
Statement 3 is correct: The Dhrupad alap, which is the slow, improvisational opening section of a performance, often uses Sanskrit syllables from mantras and is rooted in spiritual tradition. These syllables, known as "Bol Alap", are often derived from ancient Vedic chants and mantras.
UPSC 2012Art and Culture · Indian Dance Forms
Q7. How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances? 1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatnatyam 2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatnatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements. Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Kuchipudi dance form originates from Andhra Pradesh and is known for its dramatic elements. Dancers often incorporate spoken dialogues (Vachika Abhinaya) as part of the performance, especially in dance-dramas like Bhama Kalapam. The traditional Sutradhara (narrator) or lead performer in Kuchipudi often delivers dialogues. Bharatanatyam originates from Tamil Nadu and is primarily a silent dance form where expressions are conveyed through gestures (Mudras), facial expressions (Abhinaya), and body movements. Spoken dialogues are not part of traditional Bharatanatyam performances.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Dancing on a brass plate (Tarangam) is a signature feature of Kuchipudi, not Bharatanatyam. In Kuchipudi the dancer balances on the edges of a brass plate while moving gracefully and often with a pot of water on the head (symbolizing control and balance). Bharatanatyam focuses more on structured footwork, linear movements and geometric postures.
UPSC 2012Modern History · Socio-Religious Movements
Q8. During the Indian freedom struggle, the National Social Conference was formed. What was the reason for its formation?
Explanation
Indian Social Conference (1887) was formed by M. G.
Ranade and Raghunath Rao in Madras. It was a separate social reform organ of the Indian National Congress as they did not want to include social reforms in their deliberations. It advocated inter-caste marriage, opposed polygamy and kulinism and launched "Pledge Movement to pledge against Child Marriage"
UPSC 2012Geography · Climatology
Q9. Normally, the temperature decreases with the increase in height from the Earth’s surface, because: 1.The atmosphere can be heated upwards only from the Earth’s surface 2. There is more moisture in the upper atmosphere. 3. The air is less dense in the upper atmosphere. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation
In the troposphere (near earth surface), temperature usually decreases as altitude rises. This is called the lapse rate. On average, the temperature drops by 1°C for every 165 meters of height. This equals about 6.5°C for every kilometer.
Statement 1 is correct: The Earth’s surface absorbs solar radiation and then re-radiates it as heat. The air in contact with the surface warms up and transfers heat to the layers above through conduction, convection, and radiation. Since the primary heat source is the Earth’s surface, higher altitudes receive less heat, leading to a drop in temperature.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Moisture content (water vapor) which accounts for around 1% of air varies greatly in the troposphere, decreases significantly with altitude, as most water vapor is found near the Earth’s surface. The upper atmosphere is drier, not more moist.
Statement 3 is correct: As altitude increases, air pressure and density decrease. Less dense air holds less heat, contributing to a decrease in temperature with height.
UPSC 2012Modern History · Socio-Religious Movements
Q10. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Brahmo Samaj? 1. It opposed idolatry. 2. It denied the need for a priestly class for interpreting the religious texts. 3. It popularized the doctrine that the Vedas are infallible. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation
The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 1828, was a reformist movement aimed at promoting monotheism, social equality, and the abolition of social evils like Sati and child marriage. It sought to reform Hinduism by advocating for reason, rationality, and rejection of idol worship and caste discrimination.
Statement 1 is correct: Brahmo Samaj vehemently opposed idolatry or idol worship.
Statement 2 is correct: The chief aim of Brahmo Samaj was the worship of the eternal God. It was against priesthood, rituals and sacrifices.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Brahmo Samaj spread the religious treasure and teachings of Vedas but never claimed that Vedas are infallible.
Exam tip:
S1 and S2 both show rationalist, reformist, anti-ritualistic tendencies(Group 1). S3 implies scriptural orthodoxy(Group 2). Therefore, Group 2 logically contradicts Group 1, This eliminates option A and D. Since Brahmo Samaj is historically known (even without exact recall) as a liberal, reformist movement, S3 cannot logically align with its ideology.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2012
(c) Government of India Act, 1935
2
2012
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
3
2012
(c) 2 and 3 only
4
2012
(c) Three main styles of Indian Temple Architecture.
5
2012
(c) Worship of nature and yajnas
6
2012
(b) 2 and 3 only
7
2012
(a) 1 only
8
2012
(b) and
9
2012
(c) 1 and 3 only
10
2012
(b) 1 and 2 only
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on all subjects?
This page covers 50 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on the UPSC 2012 Prelims, asked between 1995 to 2024. 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 all subjects?
Questions on the UPSC 2012 Prelims are available for 30 years, from 1995 to 2024. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
