RAS Prelims MCQ Practice

Explanation

Humayun’s Tomb was the first monumental garden-tomb in India, so Statement I is correct. It shows strong Persian influence, so Statement II is incorrect.

Explanation

Under Article 356, the Governor plays a crucial role by reporting to the President if the state government cannot function according to constitutional provisions. This report serves as the basis for the President to assume the functions of the state government. It is a vital mechanism to address the breakdown of constitutional machinery and maintain federal oversight. This power is often invoked during times of extreme political instability or failure of law and order. The Governor’s report must be objective and reflect the true state of affairs. Once President’s Rule is imposed, the Governor acts as the chief executive of the state on behalf of the Union.

Explanation

Ghoomar became a symbol of royal Rajasthani culture because Rajput royalty refined it and performed it in palaces. It began as a tribal dance of the Bhils and was later adopted by royal families.

Explanation

Agra Fort, Lahore Fort and Fatehpur Sikri were built in Akbar’s reign. The Purana Qila was built by Sher Shah and Humayun, so it is the exception.

Explanation

The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor, who follows constitutional conventions. Typically, the leader of the party with a majority is appointed. However, the Governor is not strictly bound to appoint the leader of the largest pre-poll alliance if another leader can demonstrate majority support. This flexibility allows for the formation of a stable and functional government. The primary objective is to form a government that can prove its majority on the floor of the assembly. While pre-poll alliances are important, post-poll dynamics often dictate who can successfully lead the house. The Governor’s judgment in these cases is essential for maintaining the continuity of the state administration.

Explanation

Major mineral deposits in India are distributed across specific regions. Malanjkhand is a key site for copper in Madhya Pradesh, while the Nagpur- Bhandara belt is prominent for manganese. Bailadila is one of the most significant iron ore mines in Chhattisgarh. Panchpatmali in Odisha is known for its massive bauxite deposits, which are essential for the production of aluminium metal.

Explanation

Ghoomar has measured, graceful and synchronised movements. It was adapted to be performed by women within the limits of the purdah system, which explains why it is not aggressive.

Explanation

The Taj Mahal follows the Timurid hasht-bihisht plan, has a double dome, uses pietra dura and has minarets that lean slightly outward. It does contain Indian motifs such as the lotus finial, so II is wrong.

Explanation

The Chief Minister does not have a fixed tenure and holds office during the pleasure of the Governor. This pleasure is not arbitrary; it continues as long as the Chief Minister enjoys the support of the majority in the state legislative assembly. If majority support is lost, the Governor can dismiss the Chief Minister if they refuse to resign. This principle ensures that the executive remains accountable to the legislature. As long as the Chief Minister commands the house’s confidence, the Governor’s pleasure is maintained. The loss of a majority, demonstrated through a floor test, is the only legitimate ground for the withdrawal of this pleasure and subsequent dismissal.

Explanation

The Kudremukh iron ore mines operate as a dedicated export unit located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. The ore is not transported by rail to eastern domestic plants; instead, it is moved as slurry through a specialized pipeline to the port at Mangaluru. This efficient transportation method facilitates direct international shipping from the western coast to global markets for processing.