History + Culture - Prelims Previous Year Questions[Set-A]
Ancient & Medieval
2024
54. With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the following epithets?
1) Nayaputta
2) Shakyamuni
3) Tathagata
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of the above are epithets of Gautama Buddha
55. Consider the following information:
Archaeological Site- State- Description
1. Chandraketugarh -Odisha -Trading Port town
2. Inamgaon- Maharashtra -Chalcolithic Site
3. Mangadu- Kerala -Megalithic site
4. Salihundam- Andhra Pradesh- Rock-cut cave shrines
In which of the above rows is the given information correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4
56. Who of the following rulers of medieval India gave permission to the Portuguese to build a fort at Bhatkal?
(a) Krishnadevaraya
(b) Narasimha Saluva
(c) Muhammad Shah III
(d) Yusuf Adil Shah
58. Consider the following statements:
1) There are no parables in Upanishads.
2) Upanishads were composed earlier than the Puranas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
63. Which one of the following is a work attributed to playwright Bhasa?
(a) Kavyalankara
(b) Natyashastra
(c) Madhyama-vyayoga
(d) Mahabhashya
64. Sanghabhuti, an Indian Buddhist monk, who travelled to China at the end of the fourth century AD, was the author of a commentary on:
(a) Prajnaparamita Sutra
(b) Visuddhimagga
(c) Sarvastivada Vinaya
(d) Lalitavistara
2023
41.In which one of the following regions was Dhanyakataka, which flourished as a prominent Buddhist center under the Mahasanghikas, located?
a)Andhra
b)Gandhara
c)Kalinga
d)Magadha
42.With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements:
1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin.
2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics.
3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
43.With reference to ancient South India, Korkai, Poompuhar and Muchiri were well known as
a)capital cities
b)ports
c)centers of iron-and-steel making
d)shrines of Jain Tirthankaras
44.Which one of the following explains the practice of ‘Vattakirutal’ as mentioned in Sangam poems?
(a) Kings employing women bodyguards
(b) Learned persons assembling in royal courts to discuss religious and philosophical matters
(c) Young girls keeping watch over agricultural fields and driving away birds and animals
(d) A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death
45.Consider the following dynasties:
1. Hoysala
2. Gahadavala
3. Kakatiya
4. Yadava
How many of the above dynasties established their kingdoms in the early eighth century AD?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) Only three
d) None
46.With reference to ancient Indian History, consider the following pairs :
Literary work: Author
1. Devi Chandragupta :Bilhana
2. Hammira-Mahakavya :Nayachandra Suri
3. Milinda-panha :Nagarjuna
4. Nitivakyamrita :Somadeva Suri
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
47. “Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and· many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects.”
The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India?
(a) Buddhism
(b) Jainism
(c) Shaivism
(d) Vaishnavism
48.Who among the following rulers of Vijayanagara Empire constructed a large dam across Tungabhadra River and a canal-cum-aqueduct several kilometers long from the river to the capital city?
(a) Devaraya I
(b) Mallikarjuna
(c) Vira Vijaya
(d) Virupaksha
49.Who among the following rulers of medieval Gujarat surrendered Diu to the Portuguese?
(a) Ahmad Shah
(b) Mahmud Begarha
(c) Bahadur Shah
(d) Muhammad Shah
2022
52. In medieval India, the term “Fanam” referred to:
(a) Clothing
(b) Coins
(c) Ornaments
(d) Weapons
55. With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts:
1. Nettipakarana
2. Parishishtaparvan
3. Avadanashataka
4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana
Which of the above are Jaina texts?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
56. With reference to Indian history, consider the following pairs:
Historical person: Known as
1. Aryadeva — Jaina scholar
2. Dignaga — Buddhist scholar
3. Nathamuni — Vaishnava scholar
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) None of the pairs
(b) Only one pair
(c) Only two pairs
(d) All three pairs
59. With reference to indian history, consider the following statements:
1. The Dutch established their factories/warehouses in the east coast and lands granted to them by gajapati rulers.
2. Alfonso de Albuquerque captured Gao from the Bijapur sultanate.
3. The english east india company established a factory at madras on a plot of land leased from a representative of the vijayanagara empire.
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
57. With reference to Indian history, consider the following statements:
1. The first Mongol invasion of India happened during the reign of Jalal-ud-din Khalji.
2. During the reign of Ala-ud-din Khalji, one Mongol assault marched up to Delhi and besieged the city.
3. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq temporarily lost portions of the north-west of his kingdom to Mongolia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
58. With reference to Indian history, which of the following were known as “Kulah-Daran”?
(a) Arab merchants
(b) Qalandars
(c) Persian calligraphists
(d) Sayyids
60. According to Kautilya’s Arthashastra, which of the following are correct?
1. A person could be a slave as a result of a judicial punishment.
2. If a female slave bore her master a son, she was legally free.
3. If a son born to a female slave was fathered by her master, the son was entitled to the legal status of the master’s son.
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
91. Consider the following pairs:
Site of Ashoka’s major rock edicts: Location in the State of
1. Dhauli— Odisha
2. Erragudi— Andhra Pradesh
3. Jaugada— Madhya Pradesh
4. Kalsi— Karnataka
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs
(d) All four pairs
92. Consider the following pairs:
King: Dynasty
1. Nannuka — Chandela
2. Jayashakti — Paramara
3. Nagabhata II — Gurjara-Pratihara
4. Bhoja — Rashtrakuta
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs
(d) All four pairs
93. Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct?
(a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
(b) The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets.
(c) Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethics.
(d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
94. “Yogavasistha” was translated into Persian by Nizamuddin Panipati during the reign of:
(a) Akbar
(b) Humayun
(c) Shahjahan
(d) Aurangzeb
95. The world’s second tallest statue in sitting pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja?
(a) The best means of salvation was devotion.
(b) Vedas are eternal, self-existent and wholly authoritative.
(c) Logical arguments were essential means for the highest bliss
(d) Salvation was to be obtained through meditation.
96. The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2021
31. With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements:
(1) It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchh Apnakhata Dynasty.
(2) It is the only circular temple built in India.
(3) It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.
(4) Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
a)1 and 2
b)2 and 3 only
c)1 and 4
d)2, 3 and 4
32. Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?
(a) Dholavira
(b) Kalibangan
(c) Rakhigarhi
(d) Ropar
33. In the first quarter of seventeenth century, in which of the following was/were the factory/factories of the English East India Company located?
1. Broach
2. Chicacole
3. Trichinopoly
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1 only
1 and 2
3 only
2 and 3
34. From the decline of Guptas until the rise of Harshavardhana in the early seventh century, which of the following kingdoms were holding power in Northern India?
1. The Guptas of Magadha
2. The Paramaras of Malwa
3. The Pushyabhutis of Thanesar
4. The Maukharis of Kanauj
5. The Yadavas of Devagiri
6. The Maitrakas of Valabhi
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 6 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 5 and 6 only
35. According to the Portuguese writer Nuniz, the women in Vijayanagara Empire were expert in which of the following areas?
1. Wrestling
2. Astrology
3. Accounting
4. Soothsaying
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
37. Consider the following pairs:
Historical place: Well-known for
1. Burzahom: Rock-cut shrines
2. Chandraketugarh: Terracotta art
3. Ganeshwar: Copper artifacts
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
38. Consider the following statements:
1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.
2. It was during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.
3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
39. 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
40. With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Mitakshara was the civil law for upper castes and Dayabhaga was the civil law for lower castes.
2. In the Mitakshara system, the sons can claim right to the property during the lifetime of the father, whereas in the Dayabhaga system, it is only after the death of the father that the sons can claim right to the property.
3. The Mitakshara system deals with the matters related to the property held by male members only of a family, whereas the Dayabhaga system deals with the matters related to the property held by both male and female members of a family.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
41. With reference to the history of ancient India, Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla and Kshemeshvara were famous
(a) Jain monks
(b) Playwrights
(c) Temple architects
(d) Philosophers
45. With reference to medieval India, which one of the following is the correct sequence in ascending order in terms of size?
(a) Paragana-Sarkar-Suba
(b) Sarkar-Paragana-Suba
(c) Suba-Sarkar-Paragana
(d) Paragana-Suba-Sarkar
48. With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?
(1) The Nizamat of Arcot emerged from Hyderabad state.
(2) The Mysore Kingdom emerged from the Vijayanagara empire.
(3) Rohilkhand kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only
2020
24. Consider the following events in the history of India:
1. Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja
2. Establishment of Pallava power under Mahendravarman-I
3. Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka-I
4. Pala dynasty founded by Gopala
What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time?
(a) 2 – 1 – 4 – 3
(b) 3 – 1 – 4 – 2
(c) 2 – 4 – 1 – 3
(d) 3 – 4 – 1 – 2
25. Which of the following phrases defines the nature of the ‘Hundi’ generally referred to in the sources of the post-Harsha period?
(a) An advisory issued by the king to his subordinates
(b) A diary to be maintained for daily accounts
(c) A bill of exchange
(d) An order from the feudal lord to his subordinates
29. With reference to the history of India, the terms ‘kulyavapa’ and ‘dronavapa’ denote
(a) measurement of land
(b) coins of different monetary value
(c) classification of urban land
(d) religious rituals
30. Who among the following rulers advised his subjects through this inscription?
“Whosoever praises his religious sect or blames other sects out of excessive devotion to his own sect, with the view of glorifying his own sect, he rather injures his own sect very severely.”
(a) Ashoka
(b) Samudragupta
(c) Harshavardhana
(d) Krishanadeva Raya
36. With reference to the scholars/litterateurs of ancient India, consider the following statements:
1. Panini is associated with Pushyamitra
2. Amarasimha is associated with Harshavardhana
3. Kalidasa is associated with Chandra Gupta-II
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
82. With reference to the period of Gupta dynasty in ancient India, the towns Ghantasala, Kadura and Chaul were known as
(a) ports handling foreign trade
(b) capitals of powerful kingdoms
(c) places of exquisite stone art and architecture
(d) important of Buddhist pilgrimage centers
2019
1. With reference to Mughal India, what is/are the difference/differences between Jagirdar and Zamindar?
1. Jagirdars were holders of land assignments in lieu of judicial and police duties, whereas Zamindars were holders of revenue rights without obligation to perform any duty other than revenue collection.
2. Land assignments to Jagirdars were hereditary and revenue rights of Zamindars were not hereditary.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
7. Which one of the following is not a Harappan site?
(a) Chanhudaro
(b) Kot Diji
(c) Sohgaura
(d) Desalpur
8. In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is ‘Ranyo Ashoka’ (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?
(a) Kanganahalli
(b) Sanchi
(c) Shahbazgarhi
(d) Sohgaura
9. Consider the following:
1. Deification of the Buddha
2. Treading the path of Bodhisattvas
3. Image worship and rituals
Which of the above is/are the features/ features of Mahayana Buddhism?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
10. With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people.
(b) It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of the Gupta Empire.
(c) The forced labourer was entitled to weekly wages.
(d) The eldest son of the laborer was sent as the forced labourer.
11. Building ‘Kalyana Mandapam’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of
(a) Chalukya
(b) Chandela
(c) Rashtrakuta
(d) Vijayanagara
12. Consider the following statements:
1. In the revenue administration of Delhi Sultanate, the in-charge of revenue collection was known as ‘Amil’.
2. The iqta system of Sultans of Delhi was an ancient indigenous institution.
3. The office of ‘Mir Bakshi’ came into existence during the reign of Khalji Sultans of Delhi.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
13. Consider the following statements:
1. Saint Nimbarka was a contemporary of Akbar.
2. Saint Kabir was greatly influenced by Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
16. With reference to Mian Tansen, which one of the following statements is not correct?
(a) Tansen was the title given to him by Emperor Akbar.
(b) Tansen composed Dhrupads on Hindu gods and goddesses.
(c) Tansen composed songs for his patrons.
(d) Tansen invented many Ragas.
17. Who among the following Mughal Emperors shifted emphasis from illustrated manuscripts to album and individual portrait?
(a) Humayun
(b) Akbar
(c) Jahangir
(d) Shah Jahan
2018
71. With reference to the religious practices in India, the “Sthanakvasi” sect belongs to
(a) Buddhism
(b) Jainism
(c) Vaishnavism
(d) Shaivism
72. With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following statements:
White marble was used in making Buland Darwaza and Khankah at Fatehpur Sikri.
Red Sandstone and marble were used in making Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza in Lucknow.
Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
73. Which one of the following foreign travelers elaborately discussed diamonds and diamond mines of India?
(a) Francois Bernier
(b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier
(c) Jean de Thevenot
(d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre
74. With reference to Indian History, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?
(a) Avalokiteshvara
(b) Lokesvara
(c) Maitreya
(d) Padmapani
2017
2. With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them.
2. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron.
3. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
51. Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom?
(a) Kakinada
(b) Motupalli
(c) Machilipatnam (Masulipatnam)
(d) Nellore
53. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the sects of Jainism.
Sarvastivadin held that the constituents of phenomena were not wholly momentary, but existed forever in a latent form.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
2016
9. Regarding the taxation system of Krishna Deva, the ruler of Vijaynagar, consider the following statements:
1. The tax rate on land was fixed depending on the quality of the land.
2. Provate owners of workshops paid an industries tax.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
10. Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of Sunga dynasty?
(a) Swapanavasavadatta
(b) Malavikagnimitra
(c) Meghadoota
(d) Ratnavali
17. With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements:
1. Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
2. Lingayats of the Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
38. Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally
(a) agriculturists
(b) warriors
(c) weavers
(d) traders
39. Who of the following had first deciphered the edicts of Emperor Ashoka?
(a) Georg Buhler
(b) James Prinsep
(c) Max Muller
(d) William Jones
50. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
The concept of Bodhisattva is central to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.
Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
80. In the context of the history of India, consider the following pairs:
Term: Description
1. Eripatti: Land, revenue from which was set apart for the maintenance of the village tank
2. Taniyurs: Villages donated to a single Brahmin or a group of Brahmins
3. Ghatikas: Colleges generally attached to the temples
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) Only 3
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3
88. With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta’ refers to
(a) bonded labour
(b) land grants made to military officers
(c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of land
(d) wasteland converted to cultivated l
2015
10. Which one of the following books of ancient India has the love story of the son of the founder of Sunga dynasty?
(a) Swapnavasavadatta
(b) Malavikagnimitra
(c) Meghadoota
(d) Ratnavali
35. Consider the following pairs:
Medieval Indian State: Present Region
1. Champaka : Central India
2. Durgara : Jammu
3. Kuluta : Malabar
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
39. Which of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?
1. Avanti
2. Gandhara
3. Kosala
4. Magadha
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4
41. Consider the following: The arrival of Babur into India led to the
1. introduction of gunpowder in the subcontinent
2. introduction of the arch and dome in the region’s architecture
3. establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1 2 and 3
47. Who of the following founded a new city on the south bank of a tributary to river Krishna and undertook to rule his new kingdom as the agent of a deity to whom all the land south of the river Krishna was supposed to belong?
(a) Amoghavarsha I
(b) Ballala II
(c) Harihara I
(d) Prataparudra II
55. With reference to Indian history, which of the following is/are the essential element/elements of the feudal system?
1. A very strong centralized political authority and a very weak provincial or local political authority.
2. Emergence of administrative structure based on control and possession of land
3. Creation of lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 only
(d) 1,2,3
2014
21. In medieval India, the designations ‘Mahattara’ and ‘Pattakila’ were used for
(a) military officers
(b) village headmen
(c) specialists in Vedic rituals
(d) chiefs of craft guilds
25.Which of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?
Avanti
Gandhara
Kosala
Magadha
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a. 1, 2 and 3
b. 2 and 4
c. 3 and 4 only
d. 1, 3 and 4
47. Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?
(a) Mimamsa and Vedanta
(b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika
(c) Lokayata and Kapalika
(d) Sankhya and Yoga
93. Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was
(a) the mosque for the use of Royal Family
(b) Akbar’s private chamber prayer
(c) the hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions.
(d) the room in which the nobles belonging to different religions gathered to discuss religious affairs
Ancient-Medieval Answer Key
2024 [Unofficial]
54- A
55- B
56- A
58- B
63- C
64- C
2023
41-A
42-B
43-B
44-D
45-D
46-B
47-B
48-A
49-C
2022
52-B
55-B
56-C
57-B
58-D
59-B
60-D
91-B
92-B
93-B
94-A
95-A
96-A
2021
31-C
32-A
33-A
34-B
35-D
37-D
38-A
39-C
40-B
41-B
45-A
48-B
2020
24-C
25-C
29-A
30-A
36-C
82-A
2019
1-D
7-C
8-A
9-D
10-D
11-D
12-A
13-D
16-A
17-C
2018
71-B
72-D
73-B
74-C
2017
21-C
51-B
53-B
2016
9-C
10-B
17-C
38-D
39-B
50-B
80-D
88-C
2015
35-B
39-D
41-B
47-C
55-B
2014
21-B
25-C
47-C
93-C
Modern History
2024
57. With reference to revenue collection by Cornwallis, consider the following statements:
1) Under the Ryotwari Settlement of revenue collection, the peasants were exempted from revenue payment in case of bad harvests or natural calamities.
2) Under the Permanent Settlement in Bengal, if the Zamindar failed to pay his revenues to the state, on or before the fixed date, he would be removed from his Zamindari.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
61. Who was the Provisional President of the Constituent Assembly before Dr. Rajendra Prasad took over?
(a) C.C. Rajagopalachari
(b) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(c) T.T. Krishnamachari
(d) Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha
62. With reference to the Government of India Act, 1935, consider the following statements:
1. It provided for the establishment of an All India Federation based on the union of the British Indian Provinces and Princely States.
2. Defence and Foreign Affairs were kept under the control of the federal legislature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
2023
50. By which one of the following Acts was the Governor General of Bengal designated as the Governor General of India?
(a) The Regulating Act
(b) The Pitt’s India Act
(c) The Charter Act of 1793
(d) The Charter Act of 1833
81.With reference to Indian History, Alexander Rea, A. H. Longhurst, Robert Sewell, James Burgess and Walter Elliot were associated with
(a) archaeological excavations
(b) establishment of English Press in Colonial India
(c) establishment of Churches in Princely States
(d) construction of railways in Colonial India
83.Consider the following statements :
Statement-I: 7th August is declared as the National Handloom Day.
Statement-II : It was in 1905 that the Swadeshi Movement was launched on the same day.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
2022
51. In the Government of India Act 1919, the functions of Provincial Government were divided into “Reserved” and “Transferred” subjects. Which of the following were treated as “Reserved” subjects?
1. Administration of Justice
2. Local Self-Government
3. Land Revenue
4. Police
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 1, 2 and 4
53. Consider the following freedom fighters:
1. Barindra Kumar Ghosh
2. Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee
3. Rash Behari Bose
Who of the above was/were actively associated with the Ghadar Party?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
54. With reference to the proposals of Cripps Mission, consider the following statements:
1. The Constituent Assembly would have members nominated by the Provincial Assemblies as well as the Princely States.
2. Any Province, which is not prepared to accept the new Constitution would have the right to sign a separate agreement with Britain regarding its future status.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
55. With reference to Indian history, consider the following statements:
1. The Dutch established their factories/warehouses on the east coast on lands granted to them by Gajapati rulers.
2. Alfonso de Albuquerque captured Goa from the Bijapur Sultanate.
3. The English East India Company established a factory at Madras on a plot of land leased from a representative of the Vijayanagara empire.
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
2021
33. In the first quarter of seventeenth century, in which of the following was/were the factory/factories of the English East India Company located?
1. Broach
2. Chicacole
3. Trichinopoly
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
36. With reference to Madanapalle of Andhra Pradesh, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) Pingali Venkayya designed the tricolor 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.
39. Consider the following statements:
1. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order.
2. 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
42. Consider the following statements:
1. The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting rights to all the women above the age of 21.
2. The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in the legislature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
43. With reference to 8th August, 1942 in Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) The Quit India Resolution was adopted by the AICC.
(b) The Viceroy’s Executive Council was expanded to include more Indians.
(c) The Congress ministries resigned in seven provinces.
(d) Cripps proposed an Indian Union with full Dominion Status once the Second World War was over.
44. Who among the following is associated with ‘Songs from Prison’, a translation of ancient India religious lyrics in English?
(a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru
(c) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
(d) Sarojini Naidu
46. Who among the following was associated as Secretary with Hindu Female School which later came to be known as Bethune Female School?
(a) Annie Besant
(b) Debendranath Tagore
(c) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
(d) Sarojini Naidu
47. In the context of Colonial India, Shah Nawaz Khan, Prem Kumar Sehgal and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon are remembered as
(a) Leaders of Swadeshi and Boycott Movement
(b) Members of the Interim Government in 1946
(c) Members of the Drafting Committee in the Constituent Assembly
(d) Officers of the Indian National Army
48. With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged from Hyderabad State.
2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged from the Vijayanagara Empire.
3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 3 only
2020
23. Which of the following statements correctly explains the impact of the Industrial Revolution on India during the first half of the nineteenth century?
(a) Indian handicrafts were ruined.
(b) Machines were introduced in the Indian textile industry in large numbers.
(c) Railways lines were laid in many parts of the country.
(d) Heavy duties were imposed on the imports of British manufactures.
26. With reference to the book ‘Desher Katha’ written by Sakharam Ganesh Deuskar during the freedom struggle, consider the following statements:
1. It warned against the Colonial State’s hypnotic conquest of the mind.
2. It inspired the performance of swadeshi street plays and folk songs.
3. The use of ‘desh’ by Deuskar was in the specific context of the region of Bengal.
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
27. The Gandhi-Irwin Pact included which of the following?
1. Invitation to Congress to participate in the Round Table Conference
2. Withdrawal of Ordinances promulgated in connection with the Civil Disobedience Movement
3. Acceptance of Gandhi’s suggestion for enquiry into police excesses
4. Release of only those prisoners who were not charged with violence
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only
28. The Vital-Vidhwansak, the first monthly journal to have the untouchable people as its target audience was published by
(a) Gopal Baba Walangkar
(b) Jyotiba Phule
(c) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
(d) Bhimrao Ranji Ambedkar
32. In the context of Indian history, the Rakhmabai case of 1884 revolved around
1. women’s right to gain education
2. age of consent
3. restitution of conjugal rights
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
33. Indigo cultivation in India declined by the beginning of the 20th century because of
(a) peasant resistance to the oppressive conduct of planters
(b) its unprofitability in the world market because of new inventions
(c) national leaders’ opposition to the cultivation if indigo
(d) Government control over the planters
34. Wellesley established the Fort William College Calcutta because
(a) he was asked by the Board of Directors at London to do so
(b) he wanted to revive interest in oriental learning in India
(c) he wanted to provide William Carey and his associates with employment
(d) he wanted to train British civilians for administrative purpose in India
35. With reference to the history of India, “Ulgulan ” or the Great Trumult is the description of which of the following events?
(a) The Revolt of 1857
(b) The Mappila Rebellion of 1921
(c) The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60
(d) Birsa Munda’s Revolt of 1899-1900
2019
2. With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.
(b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.
(c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.
(d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.
4. Consider the following statements about ‘the Charter Act of 1813’:
1. It ended the trade monopoly of the East India Company in India except for trade in tea and trade with China.
2. It asserted the sovereignty of the British Crown over the Indian territories held by the Company.
3. The revenues of India were now controlled by the British Parliament.
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
5. With reference to Swadeshi Movement, consider the following statements:
1. It contributed to the revival of the indigenous artisan crafts and industries.
2. The National Council of Education was established as a part of the Swadeshi Movement.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
6. Consider the following pairs:
Movement/Organization – Leader
1. All India Anti-Untouchability League: Mahatma Gandhi
2. All India Kisan Sabha: Swami Sahajanand Saraswati
3. Self Respect Movement: E.V. Ramaswami Naicker
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
14. With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements:
1. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
2. In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
3. Consequent upon the breaking of Salt Law by Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
15. With reference to Indian National Movement, consider the following pairs:
Person – Position held
1. Sir Tej Bahadur: President, All India Liberal Federation
2. K.C. Neogy: Member, The Constituent Assembly
3. P.C. Joshi: General Secretary, Communist Party Of India
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
21. Which one of the following groups of plants was domesticated in the ‘New World’ and introduced into the ‘Old World’?
(a) Tobacco, Cocoa and rubber
(b) Tobacco, Cotton and rubber
(c) Cotton, coffee and sugarcane
(d) Rubber, coffee and Wheat
2018
11.He wrote biographies of Mazzini, Garibaldi, Shivaji and Shrikrishna; stayed in America for some time; and was also elected to the Central Assembly. He was
(a) Aurobindo Ghosh
(b) Bipin Chandra Pal
(c) Lala Lajpat Rai
(d) Motilal Nehru
19.Regarding wood’s Dispatch, which of the following statements are true?
1. Grants-in-Aid system was introduced.
2. Establishment of universities was recommended.
3. English as a medium of instruction at all levels of education was recommended.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a)1 and 2 only
(b)2 and 3 only
(c)1 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3
38.In the Federation established by The Government of India Act of 1935, residuary powers were given to the
(a)Federal legislature
(b)Governor General
(c)Provincial Legislature
(d)Provincial Governors
51.After the Santhal Uprising subsided, what were the measures / measures taken by the colonial government?
1. The territories called ‘Santhal Parganas’ were created.
2. It became illegal for a Santhal to transfer land to a non-Santhal.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a)1only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 or 2
52.Economically, one of the results of the British rule in India in the 19th century was the
(a)Increase in the export of Indian handicrafts
(b)Growth in the number of Indian owned factories
(c)Commercialization of Indian agriculture
(d)Rapid increase in the urban population
68.The staple commodities of export by the English East India Company from Bengal in the middle of the 18th century were
(a)Raw cotton, oil-seeds and opium
(b)Sugar, salt, zinc and lead
(c)Copper, silver, gold, spices and tea
(d)Cotton, silk, saltpeter and opium
69.Which one of the following is a very significant aspect of the Champaran Satyagraha?
(a)Active all-India participation of lawyers, students and women in the National Movement
(b)Active involvement of Dalit and Tribal communities of India in the National Movement
(c)Joining of peasant unrest to India’s National Movement
(d)Drastic decrease in the cultivation of plantation crops and commercial crops
70. Who among the following were the founders of the “Hind Mazdoor Sabha” established in 1948?
(a)B. Krishna Pillai, E.M.S. Namboodiripad and K.C. George
(b)Jayaprakash Narayan, Deen Dayal Upadhyay and M.N. Roy
(c)C.P. Ramaswamy Iyer, K. Kamaraj and Veeresalingam Pantulu
(d)Ashok Mehta. T.S. Ramanujam and G.G. Mehta
75. Which one of the following statements does not apply to the system of Subsidiary Alliance introduced by Lord Wellesley?
(a)To maintain a large standing army at others expense
(b)To keep India safe from Napoleonic danger
(c)To secure a fixed income for the Company
(d)To establish British paramountcy over the Indian States
76.Which of the following led to the introduction of English Education in India?
1. Charter Act of 1813
2. General Committee of Public Instruction, 1823
3. Orientalist and Anglicist Controversy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a)1 and 2 only
(b)2 only
(c)1 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3
79. In 1920, which of the following changed its name to “ Swarajya Sabha”?
(a)All India Home Rule League
(b)Hindu Mahasabha
(c)South Indian Liberal Federation
(d)The Servants of India Society
80. Which among the following events happened earliest?
(a)Swami Dayanand established Arya Samaj.
(b)Dinabandhu Mitra wrote Neeldarpan.
(c)Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay wrote Anandmath.
(d)Satyendranath Tagore became the first Indian to succeed in the Indian Civil Services Examination.
89. With reference to educational institutions during colonial rule in India, consider the following pairs:
Institution- Founder
1.Sanskrit College at Benaras – William Jones
2.Calcutta Madrasa – Warren Hastings
3.Fort William College – Arthur Wellesley
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a)1 and 2
(b)2 only
(c)1 and 3
(d)3 only
2017
13. Who among the following was/were associated with the introduction of Ryotwari Settlement in India during the British rule?
1. Lord Cornwallis
2. Alexander Read
3. Thomas Munro
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a)1 only
(b)1 and 3 only
(c)2 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3
15.The Trade Disputes Act of 1929 provided for
(a)the participation of workers in the management of industries.
(b)arbitrary powers to the management to quell industrial disputes.
(c)an intervention by the British Court in the event of a trade dispute.
(d)a system of tribunals and a ban on strikes.
24.Consider the following statements:
1. The Factories Act, 1881 was passed with a view to fix the wages of industrial workers and to allow the workers to form trade unions.
2. N.M. Lokhande was a pioneer in organizing the labour movement in British India.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2
26.The object of the Butler Committee of 1927 was to
(a)Define the jurisdiction of the Central and Provincial Governments.
(b)Define the powers of the Secretary of State for India.
(c)Impose censorship on national press
(d)Improve the relationship between the Government of India and the Indian States.
37.Consider the following pairs:
1. Radhakanta Deb — First President of the British Indian Association
2. Gazulu Lakshminarasu Chetty — Founder of the Madras Mahajana Sabha
3. Surendranath Banerjee — Founder of the Indian Association
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a)1 only
(b)1 and 3 only
(c)2 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3
62.In the context of Indian history, the principle of ‘Dyarchy (diarchy)’ refers to
(a)Division of the central legislature into two houses.
(b)Introduction of double government i.e., Central and State governments.
(c)Having two sets of rulers; one in London and another in Delhi.
(d)Division of the subjects delegated to the provinces into two categories.
93.With reference to Indian freedom struggle, consider the following events:
1. Mutiny in Royal Indian Navy
2. Quit India Movement launched
3. Second Round Table Conference
What is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?
(a)1-2-3
(b)2-1-3
(c)3-2-1
(d)3-1-2
2016
49.The ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the
(a)agitation against the Partition of Bengal
(b)Home Rule Movement
(c)Non-Cooperation Movement
(d)visit of the Simon Commission to India
58.Satya Shodhak Samaj organized
(a)A movement for the upliftment of tribals in Bihar.
(b)A temple entry movement in Gujarat.
(c)An anti-caste movement in Maharashtra.
(d)A peasant movement in Punjab.
64.The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to
(a)social reforms
(b)educational reforms
(c)reforms in police administration
(d)constitutional reforms
69.Consider the following:
1. Calcutta Unitarian Committee
2. Tabernacle of New Dispensation
3. Indian Reforms Association
Keshab Chandra Sen is associated with the establishment of which of the above?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only
92.What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?
(a)Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto
(b)Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government
(c)Foundation of Muslim League
(d)Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian national Congress
93.The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War
(a)India should be granted complete Independence.
(b)India should be partitioned into two before granting Independence.
(c)India should be made a Republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth.
(d)India should be given Dominion status.
2015
16.With reference to Rowlatt Satyagraha, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The Rowlatt Act was based on the recommendations of the ‘Sedition Committee’
2. In Rowlatt Satyagraha Gandhiji tried to utilize the Home Rule League
3. Demonstrations against the arrival of Simon Commission coincided with Rowlatt Satyagraha
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a)1 only
(b)1 and 2 only
(c)2 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3
20.Who of the following was/were economic critics/critics of colonialism in India?
1. Dadabhai Naoroji
2. G. Subramania Iyer
3. R. C. Dutt
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a)1 only
(b)1 and 2 only
(c)2 and 3 only
(d)1,2 and 3
26.With reference to Congress Socialist Party, consider the following statements:
1. It advocated the boycott of British goods and evasion of taxes.
2. It wanted to establish the dictatorship of the proletariat.
3. It advocated separate electorate for minorities and oppressed classes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 and 2 only
(b)3 only
(c)1, 2 and 3
(d)None
28.The Government of India Act of 1919 clearly defined
a)the separation of power between the judiciary and the legislature
b)the jurisdiction of the central and provincial governments
c)the powers of the Secretary of State for India and the Viceroy
d)None of the above
46.Who of the following organized a march on the Tanjore coast to break the Salt Law in April 1930?
(a)V.O Chidambaram Pillai
(b)C. Rajagopalachari
(c)K. Kamaraj
(d)Annie Besant
48.Consider the following statements :
1. The first woman President of the Indian National Congress was Sarojini Naidu.
2. The first Muslim President of the Indian National Congress was Badruddin Tyabji
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2
68.Which one of the following movements has contributed to a split in the Indian National Congress resulting in the emergence of ‘moderates’ and ‘extremists’?
(a)Swadeshi Movement
(b)Quit India Movement
(c)Non-Cooperation Movement
(d)Civil Disobedience Movement
2014
15.The Radcliffe Committee was appointed to:
(a)solve the problem of minorities in India
(b)give effect to the Independence Bill
(c)delimit the boundaries between India and Pakistan
(d)enquire into the riots in East Bengal
81.The Partition of Bengal made by Lord Curzon in 1905 lasted until
(a)The First World War when Indian troops were needed by the British and the partition was ended.
(b)King George V abrogated Curzon’s Act at the Royal Durbar in Delhi in 1911
(c)Gandhiji launched his Civil Disobedience Movement
(d)The Partition of India in 1947 when East Bengal became East Pakistan
82.The 1929 Session of Indian, National Congress is of significance in the history of the Freedom Movement because the
(a)attainment of Self-Government was declared as the objective of the Congress
(b)attainment of Poorna Swaraj Was adopted as the goal of the Congress
(c)Non-Cooperation Movement was launched
(d)decision to participate in the Round Table Conference in London was taken
86.The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a
(a)revolutionary association of Indians with headquarters at San Francisco
(b)nationalist organization operating from Singapore
(c)militant organization with headquarters at Berlin
(d)communist movement for India’s freedom with head-quarters at Tashkent
92.What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria’s Proclamation (1858)?
1. To disclaim any intention to annex Indian States
2. To place the Indian administration under the British Crown
3. To regulate East India Company’s trade with India
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a)1 and 2 only
(b)2 only
(c)1 and 3 only
(d)1, 2 and 3
Modern History Answer Key
2024 [Unofficial]
57- B
61- D
62- A
2023
50-D
81-A
83-A
2022
51-C
53-D
54-B
55-B
2021
33-A
36-C
39-C
42-B
43-A
44-C
46-C
47-D
48-B
2020
23-A
26-A
27-B
28-A
32-B
33-B
34-D
35-D
2019
2-B
4-A
5-C
6-D
14-B
15-D
21-A
2018
11-C
19-A
38-B
51-C
52-C
68-D
69-C
70-D
75-C
76-D
79-A
80-B
89-B
2017
13-C
15-D
24-B
26-D
37-B
62-D
93-C
2016
49-A
58-C
64-D
69-B
92-B
93-D
2015
16-B
20-D
26-D
28-B
46-B
48-B
68-A
2014
15-C
81-B
82-B
86-A
92-A
Culture
2023
82. Consider the following pairs :
Site Well known for
1. Besnagar : Shaivite cave shrine
2. Bhaja : Buddhist cave shrine
3. Sittanavasal : Jain cave shrine
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
2022
93. Which of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct?
(a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture
(b) The social classification of varna was known to Sangam poets
(c) Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic
(d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational
94. Yogavasistha was translated into Persian by Nizamuddin Panipati during the reign of:
(a) Akbar
(b) Humayun
(c) Shah Jahan
(d) Aurungzeb
95. The world’s second tallest statue sitting in the pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja?
(a) The best means of salvation was devotion
(b) vedas are eternal, self existent and wholly authoritative
(c) Logical arguments were essential means for the highest bliss
(d) Salvation was to be attained through meditation
96. The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga Shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al Beruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S.Radhakrishnan.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1,2 and 3
2021
50. Consider the following statements:
(1) 21st February is declared to be International Mother Language Day by UNICEF.
(2) The demand that Bangla has to be one of the national languages was raised in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
95. With reference to India, the terms ‘Halbi, Ho and Kui’ pertain to
(a) Dance forms of Northwest India
(b) Musical instruments
(c) Prehistoric cave paintings
(d) Tribal languages
2020
22. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
31. With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is the correct description of the term ‘paramitas’?
(a) The earliest Dharmashastra texts written in aphoristic (sutra) style
(b) Philosophical schools that did not accept the authority of Vedas
(c) Perfections whose attainment led to the Bodhisattva path
(d) Powerful merchant guilds of early medieval South India
71. With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs:
1. Parivrajaka – Renunciant and Wanderer
2. Shramana – Priest with a high status
3. Upasaka – Lay follower of Buddhism
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2019
No Questions Asked.
2018
22.Consider the following pairs:
Tradition — State
1. Chapchar Kut Festival — Mizoram
2. Khongjom Parba ballad — Manipur
3. Thang-Ta Dance — Sikkim
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2
(c) 1 and 2
(d) 2 and 3
42. The well-known painting “Bani Thani” belongs to the
(a) Bundi school
(b) Jaipur school
(c) Kangra school
(d) Kishangarh school
44. With reference to culture history of India, consider the following statements:
1. Most of the Tyagaraja Kritis are devotional songs in praise of Lord Krishna.
2. Tyagaraja created several new ragas.
3. Annamacharya and Tyagaraja are contemporaries.
4. Annamacharya keertanas are devotional songs in praise of Lord Venkateswara.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2, 3 and 4
54. Consider the following pairs:
Crafts: Heritage of
1. Puthukkuli shawls: Tamil Nadu
2. Sujni embroidery: Maharashtra
3. Uppada Jamdani sarees: Karnataka
Which of the pairs given above is /are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3
2017
12. With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements:
1. It is a song and dance performance.
2. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.
3. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 only
69. The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous and oft-illustrated paintings at:
(a) Ajanta
(b) Badami
(c) Bagh
(d) Ellora
70. Consider the following pairs:
Traditions: Communities
1. Chaliha Sahib Festival: Sindhis
2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra: Gonds
3. Wari-Warkari: Santhals
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the above
75. Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?
1. Arasavalli
2. Amarakantak
3. Omkareshwar
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2016
65. What is/are common to the two historical places known as Ajanta and Mahabalipuram?
1. Both were built in the same period.
2. Both belong to the same religious denomination.
3. Both have rock-cut monuments.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) None of the statements given above is correct
89. With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorizing of chronicles, dynastic histories and epic tales was the profession of who of the following?
(a) Shramana
(b) Parivrajaka
(c) Agrahaarika
(d) Maagadha
2015
54. With reference to the Art and Archeological history of India, which one among the following was made the earliest?
(a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
(b) Rock cut Elephant at Dhauli
(c) Rock cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram
(d) Varaha image at Udaygiri
75. Which one of the following was given Classical Status recently?
(a) Odia
(b) Konkani
(c) Bhojpuri
(d) Assamese
96. Kalamkari painting refers to
(a) hand painted cotton textile in South India
(b) Handmade drawing on Bamboo handicrafts in North east India
(c) A block painted woollen cloth in Western himalayan region of India
(d) A hand painted decorative silk cloth in Northwestern India
2014
8. Consider the following languages:
1. Gujarati
2. Kannada
3. Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘classical language/languages’ by the Government?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
44.With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan’ refers to
(a) an assembly of village elders
(b) a religious sect
(c) a style of temple construction
(d) an administrative functionary
54. With reference to the art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?
(a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
(b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
(c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram
(d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri
75. Which one of the following was given classical language status recently?
(a) Odia
(b) Konkani
(c) Bhojpuri
(d) Assamese
76. Consider the following towns of India:
1. Bhadrachalam
2. Chanderi
3. Kancheepuram
4. Karnal
Which of the above are famous for the production of traditional sarees/fabric?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1, 3 and 4
83. With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements:
1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama
2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
84. Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on the Saka Era corresponds to which one of the following dates of the Gregorian calendar in a normal year of 365 days?
a) 22 March (or 21st March)
b) 15th May (or 16th May)
c) 31st March (or 30th March)
d) 21st April (or 20th April)
85. With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs:
Famous work of sculpture: Site
1. A grand image of Buddha’s Mahaparinivana with numerous celestial musicians above and the sorrowful figures of his followers below: Ajanta
2. A huge image of Varaha Avatar (boar incarnation) of Lord Vishnu, as he rescues Goddess Earth from the deep and chaotic waters, sculptured on rock: Mount Abu
3. “Arjuna’s penance:/ “Descent of Ganga” sculpted on the surface of huge boulders: Mamallapuram
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
87. With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is ‘Kalaripayattu’?
(a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India
(b) It is an ancient style bronze and brass work still found in the southern part of the Coromandel area
(c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar
(d) It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India
88. Consider the following pairs:
1. Garba: Gujarat
2. Mohiniattam: Odisha
3. Yakshagana: Karnataka
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
89. With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs:
1. Tabo monastery and temple complex: Spiti Valley
2. Lhotsava Lhakhang temple, Nako: Zanskar Valley
3. Alchi temple complex: Ladakh complex
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
90. Consider the following statements :
1. ‘Bijak’ is a composition of the teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal
2. The Philosophy of PushtiMarg was propounded by Madhvacharya
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor
91. A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their
(a) martial arts in North-East India
(b) musical tradition in NorthWest India
(c) classical vocal music in South India
(d) pietra dura tradition in Central India
96. Kalamkari painting refers to
(a)a hand-painted cotton textile in South India
(b) a handmade drawing on bamboo handicrafts in North-East India
(c) a block-painted woollen cloth in Western Himalayan region of India
(d) a hand-painted decorative silk cloth in North-Western India
Culture Answer Key
2024
NA
2023
82-B
2022
93-B
94-A
95-A
96-A
2021
50-B
95-D
2020
22-B
31-C
71-B
2019
NA
2018
22-B
42-D
44-B
54-A
2017
12-B
69-A
70-A
75-A
2016
65-B
89-D
2015
54-A
75-A
96-A
2014
8-C
44-C
76-B
83-B
84-A
85-C
87-D
88-C
89-C
90-B
91-B