Q51. On which exact date did India conduct its first successful nuclear bomb test in Pokhran?
Defence and Space Technology in India: RAS Prelims MCQs
195 RAS Prelims MCQs on defence and space technology in India cover DRDO, the missile programme, nuclear policy and space missions. The founding year of DRDO, its motto, the five missiles of the IGMDP, Agni-V, the Nuclear Doctrine and the major ISRO missions are asked as facts, and each explanation connects the system to its purpose.
Practice questions based on the RPSC RAS Prelims syllabus. They follow the exam pattern but are not past-paper questions.
Showing 51–60 of 195 questions
Q52. The series of five nuclear bomb test explosions conducted by India in May 1998 was collectively codenamed:
Explanation
The series of five nuclear tests conducted in May 1998 was carried out under this specific operational name. These tests included both fission and thermonuclear devices, showcasing a wide range of sophisticated nuclear capabilities. The success of this mission led to the country officially declaring itself a nuclear-weapon state. It was a pivotal moment that redefined the national security doctrine and established a credible strategic deterrent.
Q53. Consider the following statements regarding the 1998 Pokhran tests:
Statement I: The tests included a thermonuclear device (hydrogen bomb).
Statement II: The tests established India as a declared nuclear-weapon state.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
Statement I: The tests included a thermonuclear device (hydrogen bomb).
Statement II: The tests established India as a declared nuclear-weapon state.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
Explanation
The nuclear tests conducted in 1998 were comprehensive, involving the successful detonation of multiple devices, including a powerful thermonuclear bomb. These events were a declaration of the nation’s mature nuclear capabilities and its transition to a declared nuclear-weapon state. This move was intended to ensure national security through a credible deterrent, leading to significant shifts in both domestic policy and international diplomatic relations during that era.
Q54. The application of the term "Peaceful Nuclear Explosion" (PNE) to the 1974 test was meant to convey that:
Explanation
By using this specific terminology, the government aimed to clarify that the 1974 nuclear test was intended for constructive civil applications. This included potential uses in large-scale engineering projects, such as creating harbors or facilitating deep-ground mining. The designation was a diplomatic effort to signal that the country was focused on harnessing atomic energy for national development rather than purely for building an offensive weapons arsenal.
Q55. Which of the following countries did NOT impose immediate economic sanctions on India following the 1998 nuclear tests?
Explanation
While several major nations like the United States and Japan reacted to the 1998 nuclear tests by imposing immediate economic and technological penalties, this European country took a different approach. It chose not to join the initial wave of sanctions, emphasizing instead the importance of strategic dialogue. This stance reflected a more nuanced diplomatic perspective on India’s security concerns and its right to develop indigenous defensive capabilities.
Q56. Identify the correctly matched pair of the scientific leader and their associated nuclear test:
Explanation
This distinguished scientist was the primary leader and architect behind the first nuclear test conducted by India. His expertise was instrumental in the successful design and detonation of the 1974 device. While other prominent figures led the subsequent 1998 tests, his early contributions laid the foundational scientific framework for the national nuclear program. His role remains a central part of the history of India’s strategic scientific achievements.
Q57. What was the most appropriate outcome of the 1998 Pokhran tests on India’s strategic policy?
Explanation
Following the declaration of its nuclear weapon status, the country formulated a clear strategic policy to guide the usage of its arsenal. A key pillar of this doctrine is the commitment not to initiate a nuclear strike against any adversary. This stance is intended to project a responsible image and prevent accidental escalation while maintaining a credible deterrent. It remains a fundamental aspect of the national security framework.
Q58. What was a major long-term diplomatic effect resulting from India’s de facto nuclear weapon status post-1998?
Explanation
Despite the initial period of isolation and sanctions, the long-term diplomatic outcome was a recognition of India as a responsible nuclear power. This led to a historic agreement that allowed for international cooperation in civilian nuclear energy. This deal ended decades of technology denial and integrated the country into the global nuclear commerce framework. It represented a major shift in the strategic relationship between the two democratic nations.
Q59. Consider the following components regarding India’s Nuclear Doctrine:
I. No First Use (NFU) policy.
II. Credible Minimum Deterrence.
III. Massive retaliation against a first strike.
IV. Pre-emptive nuclear strikes on non-nuclear weapon states.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
I. No First Use (NFU) policy.
II. Credible Minimum Deterrence.
III. Massive retaliation against a first strike.
IV. Pre-emptive nuclear strikes on non-nuclear weapon states.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
Explanation
The core principles of the national nuclear strategy include a commitment to not using such weapons first. It also emphasizes maintaining a sufficient yet minimal arsenal to ensure deterrence. In the event of an attack, the doctrine specifies a massive retaliatory strike to cause unacceptable damage. However, the policy explicitly forbids the use of nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states or initiating pre-emptive strikes against them.
Q60. Match the terms in List I related to India’s Nuclear Doctrine with their definitions in List II:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| A. No First Use | i. Maintaining a sufficient but not excessive arsenal to prevent an attack. |
| B. Credible Minimum Deterrence | ii. A strike resulting in unacceptable damage to the aggressor. |
| C. Massive Retaliation | iii. The body authorized to make decisions regarding nuclear weapons usage. |
| D. Nuclear Command Authority | iv. Commitment not to use nuclear weapons as a primary means of warfare. |
Explanation
The commitment not to initiate nuclear warfare is defined by the first use policy. Maintaining a necessary but limited arsenal ensures a credible deterrent. A strike intended to cause immense damage in response to an attack is known as massive retaliation. Finally, the decision-making process for utilizing these weapons is managed by a specific command authority. These terms form the structural basis of the nation’s strategic defense posture.Answer key for these questions
| Q | Correct answer |
|---|---|
| 51 | (b) May 18, 1974 |
| 52 | (b) Operation Shakti |
| 53 | (c) Both statements are correct. |
| 54 | (a) The technology was for non-military uses like mining. |
| 55 | (c) France |
| 56 | (a) Dr. Raja Ramanna - Pokhran-I (1974) |
| 57 | (d) India announced a doctrine of "No First Use." |
| 58 | (b) Signing of the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement. |
| 59 | (b) I, II, and III only |
| 60 | (a) A-iv, B-i, C-ii, D-iii |
Key facts from Defence and Space Technology in India
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation was established in 1958; its motto is Balasya Mulam Vigyanam.
- The five core missiles of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme are Prithvi, Agni, Trishul, Nag and Akash, remembered as PATNA.
- The IGMDP was reinforced by the limits of the Missile Technology Control Regime; Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam is called the Missile Man of India.
- Agni-V is an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile; the Prithvi is a surface-to-surface battlefield missile.
- India formally adopted its Nuclear Doctrine in 2003.
- The Atmanirbhar Bharat reforms opened the space sector to private participation.
Frequently asked questions
How many RAS Prelims practice MCQs are there on Defence and Space Technology in India?
This page has 195 practice MCQs on Defence and Space Technology in India (Science and Technology). Each has the correct answer, and most have an explanation.
When was DRDO established?
In 1958. It is the research and development wing of the Ministry of Defence, and its motto is Balasya Mulam Vigyanam, meaning the source of strength is science.
What does PATNA stand for?
The five core missile systems of the IGMDP: Prithvi, Agni, Trishul, Nag and Akash. The programme was led by Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and launched in 1983.
What is the category of the Agni-V missile?
An Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), with a range of more than 5,000 km. It can carry a payload of around 1,500 kg, and it can carry multiple warheads, which makes it a strategic weapon.