Prelims 2021 GS Solution

Consider the following statements: 1.‘Right to the City’ is an agreed human right and the UN-Habitat monitors the commitments made by each country in this regard.

Q. Consider the following statements:
1.‘Right to the City’ is an agreed human right and the UN-Habitat monitors the commitments made by each country in this regard.
2.‘Right to the City’ gives every occupant of the city the right to reclaim public spaces and public participation in the city.
3.Right to the City’ means that the State cannot deny any public service or facility to the unauthorized colonies in the city.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 3 only
c) 1 and 2
d) 2 and 3
Correct Answer: d) 2 and 3

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Not Available

Consider the following statements: 1.‘Right to the City’ is an agreed human right and the UN-Habitat monitors the commitments made by each country in this regard. Read More »

Q. Constitutional government means

Q. Constitutional government means

a) a representative government of a nation with federal structure
b) a government whose Head enjoys nominal powers
c) a government whose Head enjoys real powers
d) a government limited by the terms of the Constitution

Correct Answer: a) government limited by the terms of the Constitution

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Constitutional Government

A constitutional government is one that operates under the guiding principles and framework set forth in a constitution. This constitution outlines the structure, roles, and powers of the government, as well as the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. It is considered the highest law in the land, ensuring that all laws and governmental actions are consistent with its provisions.

Rule of Law and Separation of Powers

Such a government is marked by the rule of law and typically features a system of checks and balances among the various branches of government, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This system is designed to prevent any single branch from gaining excessive power.

Protection of Rights and Freedoms

Many constitutions incorporate a bill of rights or a similar declaration that lists the essential rights and freedoms that are safeguarded against government interference. The primary aim of a constitutional government is to restrict the power of government officials and bodies, ensuring they cannot act in an arbitrary or tyrannical manner, and to defend the liberties of individuals.

Contrast with Authoritarian Regimes

A constitutional government is distinct from authoritarian or totalitarian systems, where governmental power is either not legally restricted or is only superficially limited by a constitution that is not effectively enforced.

Q. Constitutional government means Read More »

Q. What is the position of the Right to Property in India?

Q. What is the position of the Right to Property in India?

a) Legal right available to citizens only
b) Legal right available to any person
c) Fundamental Right available to citizens only
d) Neither Fundamental Right nor legal right

Correct Answer: b) Legal right available to any person

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Right to Property in India

The Right to Property in India has undergone significant changes since the original Constitution came into effect in 1950. Initially, the Right to Property was a Fundamental Right guaranteed under Article 31 of the Indian Constitution. However, this position changed with the 44th Amendment to the Constitution in 1978.

As of the 44th Amendment, the Right to Property ceased to be a Fundamental Right and was instead transformed into a legal right. This change was reflected in Article 300A of the Indian Constitution, which states:

“No person shall be deprived of his property save by authority of law.”

This means that the Right to Property is now recognized as a constitutional right, but it is not part of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in Part III of the Constitution. Instead, it is a legal right available to any person, not just citizens of India, and it provides that no person can be deprived of their property except by the authority of a law that is just, fair, and reasonable.

The significance of this change is that while the Right to Property is still protected, the remedy for its violation is different. Under the Fundamental Rights, a person could directly approach the Supreme Court of India for the enforcement of their rights. However, as a legal right, a person must now seek remedy through the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution or through lower courts, and the process is governed by the respective laws and procedures applicable to property disputes.

Therefore, the correct position of the Right to Property in India is that it is a legal right available to any person, whether a citizen or not, and is protected by the Constitution under Article 300A.

Q. What is the position of the Right to Property in India? Read More »

Q. Under the Indian Constitution, concentration of wealth violates

Q. Under the Indian Constitution, concentration of wealth violates

a) the Right to Equality
b) the Directive Principles of State Policy
c) the Right to Freedom
d) the Concept of Welfare

Correct Answer: b) the Directive Principles of State Policy

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Article 39(b) and (c) of the Indian Constitution

Article 39(b) and (c) are clauses within the Constitution of India, which is the supreme law of India. These clauses are part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, which are guidelines or principles set out in Part IV of the Constitution. The Directive Principles are not justiciable, meaning they are not enforceable by any court, but they are considered fundamental in the governance of the country, and it is the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws.

Article 39(b) and (c) Provisions

Specifically, Article 39(b) and (c) state the following:
Article 39: The State shall, in particular, direct its policy towards securing
– (b) that the ownership and control of the material resources of the community are so distributed as best to subserve the common good;
– (c) that the operation of the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth and means of production to the common detriment.

Significance of Article 39(b) and (c)

These provisions aim to ensure that economic equality and equitable distribution of resources are maintained as part of the country’s social and economic policies. They reflect the commitment of the Indian State to build a society where the distribution of wealth does not lead to disparities and where the economy operates in a manner that benefits all sections of the population.

Impact on Legislation and Policy

The principles laid out in Article 39(b) and (c) have been used as a basis for various land reform laws and policies aimed at redistributing resources for the common good. They also serve as guiding factors for the state when enacting legislation related to economic activities and regulation of industries to prevent the concentration of wealth in a few hands.

Q. Under the Indian Constitution, concentration of wealth violates Read More »

Q. Among the following, which one is the least water-efficient crop? a) Sugarcane

Q. Among the following, which one is the least water-efficient crop?

a) Sugarcane
b) Sunflower
c) Pearl millet
d) Red gram

Correct Answer: b) Sugarcane

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Water Requirements of Various Crops

Sugarcane is considered to be the least water-efficient crop among the options provided: sugarcane, sunflower, pearl millet, and red gram. This is due to the fact that sugarcane is a high water-demanding crop. It requires a significant amount of water for its growth and development compared to the other crops listed.

Sugarcane

Sugarcane is a tropical and subtropical crop that thrives in regions with plenty of sunshine and water. It has a long growing season and needs a substantial amount of water throughout its growth cycle, which can last from 12 to 18 months. Sugarcane is often grown in irrigated settings, and it can consume between 1500 and 2500 millimeters of water during its growing period, depending on the climate and soil conditions.

Sunflower

Sunflower is a crop that is relatively more drought-tolerant than sugarcane. It has a deep root system that allows it to access water from deeper soil layers. While sunflowers do require a fair amount of water, especially during the flowering and seed filling stages, they are generally more water-efficient than sugarcane.

Pearl Millet

Pearl millet is known for its drought tolerance and ability to grow in arid and semi-arid regions with low rainfall. It has a short growing season and can produce grain with much less water than sugarcane. This makes pearl millet a highly water-efficient crop.

Red Gram

Red gram (also known as pigeon pea) is another drought-resistant legume that can be grown in regions with less water availability. It has a deep root system that helps it extract moisture from deep soil layers. Red gram can be cultivated with limited water resources and still produce reasonable yields.

Q. Among the following, which one is the least water-efficient crop? a) Sugarcane Read More »

Q. Consider the following statements: 1.St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order.

Q. Consider the following statements:
1.St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order.
2.St. Francis Xavier died in Goa and a church is dedicated to him there.
3.The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Goa each year.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

St. Francis Xavier

St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order. This statement is correct. St. Francis Xavier was indeed one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, along with Ignatius of Loyola and others. The order was founded in 1540.

The Death and Memorial of St. Francis Xavier

While it is true that a church is dedicated to him in Goa, St. Francis Xavier did not die there. He died on Shangchuan Island, which is near the coast of China, on December 3, 1552. His body was later taken to Goa, where it is enshrined in the Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Goa

The feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated with great fervor in Goa each year, usually on December 3rd, which is the anniversary of his death. It is a significant event for the local Catholic community and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

Q. Consider the following statements: 1.St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order. Read More »

Q. With reference to Madanapalle of Andhra Pradesh, which one of the following statements is correct?

Q. With reference to Madanapalle of Andhra Pradesh, which one of the following statements is correct?

a) Pingali Venkayya designed the tricolour Indian National Flag here.
b) Pattabhi Sitaramaiah led the Quit India Movement of Andhra region from here.
c) Rabindranath Tagore translated the National Anthem from Bengali to English here.
d) Madame Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott set up headquarters of Theosophical Society first here.

Correct Answer: c) Rabindranath Tagore translated the National Anthem from Bengali to English here.

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Mughal Empire’s Administrative Hierarchy

In medieval India, particularly during the Mughal Empire, administrative divisions were organized in a hierarchical structure. The correct sequence in ascending order in terms of size is:
1. Paragana
2. Sarkar
3. Suba

Paragana

This was one of the smaller administrative units, typically consisting of a cluster of villages. It was overseen by an official known as an ‘Amil’ or ‘Shiqdar’. Revenue collection and local law and order were managed at this level.

Sarkar

A Sarkar was a larger unit that comprised several Paraganas. It was a sort of district within the Mughal administration, and it was managed by officials appointed by the central government. The Sarkar was responsible for revenue collection, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the implementation of imperial policies within its boundaries.

Suba

This was one of the largest administrative divisions, equivalent to a province. A Suba was governed by a Subedar or a governor who was directly appointed by the emperor. The Subedar had considerable autonomy and was responsible for the administration, finance, and military control of the province. The Suba was further divided into several Sarkars, which were then divided into Paraganas.

So, the correct sequence from smallest to largest is ParaganaSarkarSuba, as you have indicated.

Q. With reference to Madanapalle of Andhra Pradesh, which one of the following statements is correct? Read More »

Q. Who among the following is associated with ‘Songs from Prison’, a translation of ancient Indian religious lyrics in English?

Q. Who among the following is associated with ‘Songs from Prison’, a translation of ancient Indian religious lyrics in English?

a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
d) Sarojini Naidu

Correct Answer: c) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Songs from Prison

is a collection of translations made by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, more commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi. During his imprisonment in 1930, Gandhi translated various religious lyrics from different languages into English. These lyrics were primarily devotional songs from a wide range of spiritual traditions within India.

Q. Who among the following is associated with ‘Songs from Prison’, a translation of ancient Indian religious lyrics in English? Read More »

Q. Which one of the following is likely to be the most inflationary in its effect?

Q. Which one of the following is likely to be the most inflationary in its effect?

a) Repayment of public debt
b) Borrowing from the public to finance a budget deficit
c) Borrowing from the banks to finance a budget deficit
d) Creation of new money to finance a budget deficit

Correct Answer: d) Creation of new money to finance a budget deficit

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Inflationary Impact of Budget Deficit Financing

Among the options provided, the creation of new money to finance a budget deficit is likely to be the most inflationary in its effect. Here’s why:

Repayment of Public Debt

When a government repays its debt, it is essentially transferring money from itself to the creditors (which could be the public, banks, or foreign entities). This does not increase the total amount of money in circulation and therefore does not have an inherently inflationary effect.

Borrowing from the Public to Finance a Budget Deficit

When the government borrows from the public, it issues bonds or other securities. The public purchases these securities with existing money, so the total money supply does not increase. This action is not directly inflationary, although it could lead to higher interest rates if it crowds out private borrowing.

Borrowing from the Banks to Finance a Budget Deficit

If the government borrows from banks, the banks may lend from their reserves, which can lead to a slight increase in the money supply through the money multiplier effect in the banking system. However, this is still not as directly inflationary as creating new money, because the banks are limited by their reserve requirements and the existing money supply.

Creation of New Money to Finance a Budget Deficit

This option is directly inflationary because it increases the total money supply in the economy without a corresponding increase in goods and services. When more money chases the same amount of goods and services, prices tend to rise, which is the definition of inflation. Central banks can create new money through various means, such as open market operations or quantitative easing. This new money can then be used by the government to finance its spending, leading to an immediate increase in the money supply and potential inflationary pressures.

Q. Which one of the following is likely to be the most inflationary in its effect? Read More »

Q. With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following?

Q. With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following?

1.Expansionary policies
2.Fiscal stimulus
3.Inflation-indexing of wages
4.Higher purchasing power
5.Rising interest rates

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1, 2 and 4 only
b) 3, 4 and 5 only
c) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Correct Answer: a) 1, 2 and 4 only

Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Demand-Pull Inflation and Its Causes

Demand-pull inflation occurs when the demand for goods and services exceeds the supply, leading to an increase in prices. This type of inflation can be influenced by various factors. Let’s examine the options provided:

Expansionary Policies

Expansionary policies, including both monetary and fiscal policies, can lead to demand-pull inflation. When a central bank lowers interest rates or increases the money supply, or when the government increases spending or cuts taxes, it can boost overall demand in the economy, potentially leading to higher prices if supply does not keep up.

Fiscal Stimulus

Fiscal stimulus involves increased government spending or tax cuts designed to stimulate economic growth. This can increase the aggregate demand in the economy, potentially leading to demand-pull inflation if the output does not rise correspondingly.

Inflation-Indexing of Wages

Inflation-indexing of wages means that wages are adjusted based on the rate of inflation. This can contribute to a wage-price spiral, where higher wages lead to higher spending power, which can increase demand and push prices up further. However, it is not a direct cause of demand-pull inflation but rather a response to inflation that can perpetuate the cycle.

Higher Purchasing Power

When consumers have more disposable income or higher purchasing power, they can spend more on goods and services. This increased demand can lead to demand-pull inflation if the supply side of the economy does not expand at the same rate.

Rising Interest Rates

Contrary to expansionary policies, rising interest rates typically reduce borrowing and spending, which can cool down demand. Therefore, rising interest rates are generally used as a tool to combat inflation, not cause it.

Based on the above explanations, the correct answer is “1, 2, and 4 only,” as expansionary policies, fiscal stimulus, and higher purchasing power can all lead to increased demand, which can cause or exacerbate demand-pull inflation. Rising interest rates would not cause demand-pull inflation, and inflation-indexing of wages is more of a response mechanism to inflation rather than a direct cause.

Q. With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following? Read More »