Q2511. Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding the borrowing powers of States in India?
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Q2512. After 30 cycles of a standard PCR, approximately how many copies of the target DNA are produced from a single double-stranded DNA molecule?
Explanation
PCR is an exponential amplification process. In each cycle, the number of target DNA molecules doubles. The formula for calculating the number of copies is 2 to the power of n, where n is the number of cycles. After thirty cycles, a single starting molecule of DNA is amplified 2 to the power of thirty times, which results in over one billion identical copies.
Q2513. The Phad painting tradition of Rajasthan belongs primarily to which school of painting?
Explanation
Phad painting is a unique scroll painting tradition from Rajasthan, traditionally used to narrate the stories of folk deities like Pabuji and Devnarayan. This art form belongs to the Shahpura sub-school of the broader Mewar School of painting. It is characterized by vibrant colors and a crowded composition, where the entire life story of the deity is depicted on a long piece of cloth.
Q2514. According to the Constitution, a person who is not a member of either House of Parliament can be appointed as a Minister for a maximum period of:
Explanation
A person who is not a member of either House can be appointed a Minister, but must become a member within six months or cease to be a Minister.
Q2515. Consider Statement I and Statement II regarding the tax devolution formula.
Statement I: The "Forest and Ecology" criterion was included in the devolution formula to compensate states for the opportunity cost of maintaining forest cover.
Statement II: States with high forest cover lose out on potential agricultural or industrial revenue.
Statement I: The "Forest and Ecology" criterion was included in the devolution formula to compensate states for the opportunity cost of maintaining forest cover.
Statement II: States with high forest cover lose out on potential agricultural or industrial revenue.
Explanation
The "Forest and Ecology" criterion recognizes that states with large forest covers provide ecological benefits to the whole country but lose out on economic development. By maintaining forests instead of developing land for industry or agriculture, these states face an opportunity cost. The Finance Commission compensates them through tax devolution, incentivizing conservation while helping these states manage their specific developmental needs.
Q2516. Which of the following is not a standard application of PCR?
Explanation
PCR is exclusively a technique for amplifying DNA sequences; it does not involve the cellular machinery necessary for protein synthesis. While PCR can be used to prepare DNA for later protein production in a host cell, the PCR reaction itself does not produce proteins. Standard applications include forensic DNA profiling, medical diagnosis of pathogens, and the study of ancient or degraded DNA from fossils.
Q2517. The architectural style of the Harshat Mata temple at Abhaneri reflects the influence of which dynasty?
Explanation
The Harshat Mata temple at Abhaneri, located in the Dausa district, is a significant example of early medieval architecture. Built in the eighth or ninth century, it reflects the stylistic influences of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. Although much of the original structure was destroyed, the remaining carvings and plinth exhibit the intricate Maha-Maru style, characterized by detailed sculptural work and grand proportions.
Q2518. Consider the following statements regarding the difference between the Council of Ministers and the Cabinet in India:
I. The Council of Ministers is a wider body comprising 60 to 70 ministers, whereas the Cabinet is a smaller body of 15 to 20 ministers.
II. The Cabinet is the core policy-making body, while the Council of Ministers implements these policies.
III. The Constitution details the powers and functions of the Council of Ministers, but not the specific functions of the Cabinet.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
I. The Council of Ministers is a wider body comprising 60 to 70 ministers, whereas the Cabinet is a smaller body of 15 to 20 ministers.
II. The Cabinet is the core policy-making body, while the Council of Ministers implements these policies.
III. The Constitution details the powers and functions of the Council of Ministers, but not the specific functions of the Cabinet.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Explanation
The Council of Ministers is a larger body that includes all categories of ministers. In contrast, the Cabinet is a smaller, core group that formulates major policies and directs the administration. While the Council of Ministers is mentioned throughout the Constitution, the Cabinet’s specific functions were not detailed originally. Today, the Cabinet functions as the supreme decision-making authority within the broader Council.
Q2519. "Sub-national bankruptcy" is generally avoided in the Indian fiscal federal system through:
Explanation
To maintain financial stability, the Indian system places strict limits on state borrowing. The Constitution and the FRBM Act ensure that states do not accumulate unsustainable debt. The Reserve Bank of India acts as the debt manager for states, coordinating their market borrowings. These mechanisms prevent "sub-national bankruptcy" by ensuring that states operate within their means and maintain overall macroeconomic balance.
Q2520. Identify the incorrect statement regarding the annealing step in PCR.
Explanation
The annealing step of PCR does not require DNA ligase. Instead, it relies on the lowering of temperature to allow primers to form hydrogen bonds with their complementary sequences on the single-stranded template. DNA polymerase, not ligase, then extends these primers. Ligase is used in different biotechnological processes to join DNA fragments but is not a component of the standard PCR reaction mixture.Answer key for these questions
| Q | Correct answer |
|---|---|
| 2511 | (d) States can borrow from foreign countries and international institutions directly without Centre’s approval. |
| 2512 | (d) Over 1 billion copies |
| 2513 | (a) Mewar School |
| 2514 | (a) 6 months |
| 2515 | (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct |
| 2516 | (a) Large-scale protein synthesis within the amplification |
| 2517 | (c) Gurjara-Pratiharas |
| 2518 | (d) I, II and III |
| 2519 | (c) Constitutional borrowing constraints and the RBI’s role as a debt manager |
| 2520 | (c) It requires the presence of DNA ligase. |
Frequently asked questions
How many RAS Prelims practice MCQs are there on RAS Prelims?
This page has 9654 practice MCQs on the RAS Prelims syllabus. Each has the correct answer, and most have an explanation.
How should I practise MCQs for RAS Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation. Practise one chapter at a time, note the facts you got wrong and revise them. Repeat the chapter after a few days.
Are these actual RAS Prelims past-paper questions?
No. These are practice questions written for the RAS Prelims syllabus. They follow the pattern the exam uses: factual questions, statement-based questions, match-the-list and assertion-reason.