Environment – UPSC Prelim – GS – Question Paper

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2026

21. Consider the following statements with reference to India’s response to climate change:

I. India’s Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) is a crucial tool for achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

II. India’s 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted in December, 2024 recorded around 8% decrease in Greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 over 2019.

III. Climate-resilient development necessarily depends on quick and short-term achievement of emission reduction targets.

Which of the following relationships among the above statements is/are correct?

1. Statement I is empirically supported by statement II.
2. Statement III contradicts the approach implicit in statement I.
3. Statement I and statement III together establish the premise of long-term sustainability.

Select the answer using the code given below :

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2

c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

22. With respect to the Western Hoolock Gibbons, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. A Sanctuary in North-east India is home to this ape species listed as Endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
2. They have specialised brachiation and can easily swing between trees.
3. They possess a strong and heavy build like gorillas, yet are remarkably agile tree climbers.

Select the answer using the code given below:

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2

c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

23. Which of the following best explain(s) the rationale for protecting mangrove ecosystems in the context of climate resilience?

1. Mangroves reduce tidal energy and store freshwater, making them ideal sites for paddy cultivation in saline estuarine belts.
2. Their salt-sensitive roots filter seawater, making mangroves key to converting coastal land into freshwater aquaculture zones.
3. By withstanding tidal surges and offering biomass resources, mangroves function both as natural bioshields and livelihood bases for rural communities.

Select the answer using the code given below:

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2

c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

27. Which of the following statements with regard to the arrival of Amur Falcons at Doyang Lake in Nagaland each year from Mongolia is/are correct?

1. It showcases how sustained local conservation efforts can contribute to the arrival and protection of international migratory birds.
2. It reflects the global success of advanced tracking technologies that guide migratory birds back to their stopover sites.
3. It confirms that Amur Falcons have adapted to permanent residency in India due to favourable habitat changes.

Select the answer using the code given below:

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2

c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

28. Which among the following is/are the objective(s) of the Rainfed Area Development (RAD) initiative under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)?

1. Encouraging monoculture in rainfed areas
2. Increasing rice cultivation in irrigated regions
3. Enhancing productivity and minimising climatic risks through Integrated Farming Systems (IFS)

Select the answer using the code given below:

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2

c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

29. Which of the following is/are the most significant implication(s) of obtaining Oeko-Tex certification for Eri Silk in the global textile industry?

1. It allows Indian exporters to compete in high-end markets that prioritise chemical-free products.
2. It confirms that Eri Silk meets international safety, environmental, and quality standards, enabling its entry into premium eco-conscious markets.

Select the answer using the code given below:

a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) Neither 1 nor 2

36. Consider the following statements about Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid) :

1. It is an epiphytic orchid.
2. The species is endemic to North-east India.
3. It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 3

c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

38. At the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) held in June, 2025 in France, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations demonstrated its leading voice on marine and ocean issues, especially on sustainable fisheries and aquaculture for resilient livelihood and “Blue Transformation”.

Which of the following combinations about the “Four Betters” proposed by FAO for “Blue Transformation” is correct?

a) Better production, better nutrition, better environment and better ocean

b) Better production, better nutrition, better environment and better life

c) Better coral reefs, better nutrition, better environment and better life

d) Better estuaries, better nutrition, better environment and better mangrove vegetation

40. Which one of the following is the first Plan Vivo certified Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) project in India?

a) Uttarakhand REDD+ project

b) ICFRE-ICIMOD Transboundary REDD+ project in North-Eastern Himalayas

c) Khasi Hills Community REDD+ project

d) Sikkim Mamley Kamrang Community REDD+ project

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2025

9. Consider the following statements :

Statement I :

Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases.

Statement II :

Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs.

Statement III :

Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(A) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

(B) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

(C) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

(D) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

31. Consider the following statements :

Statement I :

Studies indicate that carbon dioxide emissions from cement industry account for more than 5% of global carbon emissions.

Statement II :

Silica-bearing clay is mixed with limestone while manufacturing cement.

Statement III :

Limestone is converted into lime during clinker production for cement manufacturing.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(A) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

(B) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

(C) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

(D) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

32. Consider the following statements :

Statement I :

At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), India refrained from signing the “Declaration on Climate and Health”.

Statement II :

The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a binding declaration; and if signed, it becomes mandatory to decarbonize health sector.

Statement III :

If India’s health sector is decarbonized, the resilience of its health-care system may be compromised.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(A) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

(B) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

(C) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

(D) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

34. Consider the following statements :

Statement I :

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate change is frequently discussed in global discussions on sustainable development and climate change.

Statement II :

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate change sets out the principles of carbon markets.

Statement III :

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate change intends to promote inter-country non-market strategies to reach their climate targets.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(A) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

(B) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

(C) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

(D) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

35. Which one of the following launched the ‘Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific’?

(A) The Asian Development Bank (ADB)

(B) The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

(C) The New Development Bank (NDB)

(D) The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)

36. With reference to Direct Air Capture, an emerging technology, which of the following statements is/are correct?
    I.  It can be used as a way of carbon sequestration.
    II.  It can be a valuable approach for plastic production and in food processing.
    III.  In aviation, it can be a source of carbon for combining with hydrogen to create synthetic low-carbon fuel.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(A) I and II only

(B) III only

(C) I, II and III

(D) None of the above statements is correct

37. Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements :
    I.  It is an omnivorous crustacean.
    II.  Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
    III.  In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(A) I only

(B) I and III

(C) II only

(D) II and III

38. Consider the following statements :
    I.  Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in India are less than 0.5 t CO₂/capita.
    II.  In terms of CO₂ emissions from fuel combustion, India ranks second in Asia-Pacific region.
    III.  Electricity and heat producers are the largest sources of CO₂ emissions in India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(A) I and III only

(B) II only

(C) II and III only

(D) I, II and III

39. Consider the following pairs :

    Plant                               Description

I.  Cassava               :         Woody shrub

II.  Ginger                 :         Herb with pseudostem

III. Malabar spinach   :       Herbaceous climber

IV.  Mint                     :        Annual shrub

V.  Papaya                 :        Woody shrub

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(A) Only two

(B) Only three

(C) Only four

(D) All the five

40. With reference to the planet Earth, consider the following statements :
    I.  Rain forests produce more oxygen than that produced by oceans.
    II.  Marine phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria produce about 50% of world’s oxygen.
    III.  Well-oxygenated surface water contains several folds higher oxygen than that in atmospheric 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(A) I and II

(B) II only

(C) I and III

(D) None of the above statements is correct

44. Consider the following :

1. Cigarette butts
2. Eyeglass lenses
3. Car tyres

How many of them contain plastic?

(A) Only one

(B) Only two

(C) All the three

(D) None

50. Consider the following statements :

Statement I :

Activated carbon is a good and an attractive tool to remove pollutants from effluent streams and to remediate contaminants from various industries.

Statement II :

Activated carbon exhibits a large surface area and a strong potential for adsorbing heavy metals.

Statement III :

Activated carbon can be easily synthesized from environmental wastes with high carbon content.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(A) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

(B) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

(C) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

(D) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

64. The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35 °C. Which of the following statements best reflect(s) the implication of the above‐said report?
    I.  Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts.
    II.  The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(A) I only

(B) II only

(C) Both I and II

(D) Neither I nor II

85. Artificial way of causing rainfall to reduce air pollution makes use of

(A) silver iodide and potassium iodide

(B) silver nitrate and potassium iodide

(C) silver iodide and potassium nitrate

(D) silver nitrate and potassium chloride

90. Which organization has enacted the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss?

(A) The European Union

(B) The World Bank

(C) The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development

(D) The Food and Agriculture Organization

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2024

61. The organisms “Cicada, Froghopper and Pond skater” are:

(a) Birds

(b) Fish

(c) Insects

(d) Reptiles
 

62. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:

Many chewing gums found in the market are considered a source of environmental pollution.

Statement-II:

Many chewing gums contain plastic as gum base.

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 explains Statement-I

(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I

(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect

(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
 

63. Consider the following pair:

Country	Animal found in its natural habitat
1. Brazil	Indri
2. Indonesia	Elk
3. Madagascar	Bonobo

How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None
 

64. Consider the following statements regarding World Toilet Organization:

1. It is one of the agencies of the United Nations.
2. World Toilet Summit, World Toilet Day and World Toilet College are the initiatives of this organization, to inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis.
3. The main focus of its function is to grant funds to the least developed countries and developing countries to achieve the end of open defecation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 2

(d) 2 and 3
 

65. Consider the following statements:

1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.
3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

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
 

66. Which one of the following is the correct description of “100 Million Farmers”?

(a) It is a platform for accelerating the transition towards food and water systems that are net-zero, nature-positive and aims to increase farmer resilience.

(b) It is an international alliance and a network of individuals and farming organisations interested in supporting organic animal husbandry.

(c) It is a digital platform built on blockchain for fertilizer trading.

(d) It is a platform encouraging farmers to form FPOs or Agribusiness Consortiums.
 

67. Consider the following:

1. Battery storage
2. Biomass generators
3. Fuel cells
4. Rooftop solar photovoltaic units

How many of the above are considered “Distributed Energy Resources”?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four
 

68. Which one of the following shows a unique relationship with an insect that has coevolved with it and that is the only insect that can pollinate this tree?

(a) Fig

(b) Mahua

(c) Sandalwood

(d) Silk cotton
 

69. Consider the following:

1. Butterflies
2. Fish
3. Frogs

How many of the above have poisonous species among them?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None
 

70. Consider the following:

1. Cashew
2. Papaya
3. Red sanders

How many of the above trees are actually native to India?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

77. With reference to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are used in making many consumer products, consider the following statements:

1. PFAS are found to be widespread in drinking water, food and food packaging materials.
2. PFAS are not easily degraded in the environment.
3. Persistent exposure to PFAS can lead to bioaccumulation in animal bodies.

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
 

78. Consider the following:

1. Carabid beetles
2. Centipedes
3. Flies
4. Termites
5. Wasps

Parasitoid species are found in how many of the above kind of organisms?

(a) Only two

(b) Only three

(c) Only four

(d) All five
 

79. Consider the following plants:

1. Groundnut
2. Horse-gram
3. Soybean

How many of the above belong to the pea family?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) None
 

80. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:

The Indian Flying Fox is placed under the “vermin” category in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

Statement-II:

The Indian Flying Fox feeds on the blood of other animals.

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 explains Statement-I

(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I

(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect

(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2023

33. Consider the following trees:

1. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)

2. Mahua (Madhuca indica)

3. Teak (Tectona grandis)

How many of the above are deciduous trees?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

66. With reference to coal-based thermal power plants in India, consider the following statements :

1. None of them uses seawater.

2. None of them is set up in water-stressed district.

3. None of them is privately owned.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

18. Consider the following statements:

Once the Central Government notifies an area as a ‘Community Reserve’

1. the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest
2. hunting is not allowed in such area
3. people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce
4. People of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four

22. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I: Marsupials are not naturally found in India.

Statement-II: Marsupials can thrive only in montane grasslands with no predators.

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

23. ‘Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations?

(a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature

(b) The United Nations Environment Programme

(c) The United Commission for Environment and Nations World Development

(d) The World Wide Fund for Nature

24. Consider the following fauna:

1. Lion-tailed Macaque
2. Malabar Civet
3. Sambar Deer

How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

25. Which one of the following organisms perform a waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?

(a) Butterflies

(b) Dragonflies

(c) Honeybees

(d) Wasps

26. Consider the following statements:

1. Some mushrooms have medicinal properties.
2. Some mushrooms have psycho-active properties.
3. Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties.
4. Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four

27. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian squirrels :

1. They build nests by making burrows in the ground.
2. They store their food materials like nuts and seeds in the ground.
3. They are omnivorous.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

29. Which one of the following makes a tool with a stick to scrape insects from a hole in a tree or a log of wood?

(a) Fishing cat

(b) Orangutan

(c) Otter

(d) Sloth bear

30. Consider the following:

1. Aerosols
2. Foam agents
3. Fire retardants
4. Lubricants

In the making of how many of the above are hydrofluorocarbons used?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four

78. Consider the following activities:

1. Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively
2. Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime
3. Capturing carbon dioxide released by various industries and pumping it into abandoned subterranean mines in the form of carbonated waters

How many of the above activities are often considered and discussed for carbon capture and sequestration?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

89. Consider the following statements regarding mercury pollution

1. Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world.
2. Coal-based thermal power plants cause mercury pollution.
3. There is no known safe level of exposure to mercury.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

96. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I: According to the United Nations World Water Development Report, 2022′, India extracts more than a quarter of the world’s groundwater withdrawal each year.

Statement-II: India needs to extract more than a quarter of the world’s groundwater each year to satisfy the drinking water and sanitation needs of almost 18% of world’s population living in its territory.

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-l

(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

99. Consider the following statements:

1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the realization of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol.
2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction.

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

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2022

42. Consider the following statements :

1. “The Climate Group” is an international non-profit organization that drives climate action by building large networks and runs them.
2. The International Energy Agency in partnership with the Climate Group launched a global initiative “EP100”.
3. EP100 brings together leading companies committed to driving innovation in energy efficiency and increasing competitiveness while delivering on emission reduction goals.
4. Some Indian companies are members of EP100.
5. The International Energy Agency is the Secretariat to the “Under2 Coalition”.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only

(c) 2, 3 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

44. In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements:

1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 ug/m³ and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m³.
2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather.
3. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream.
4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 3 and 4

(b) 1 and 4 only

(c) 2, 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 2 only

75. Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986?

(a) Central Water Commission

(b) Central Ground Water Board

(c) Central Ground Water Authority

(d) National Water Development Agency

80. Which one of the following best describes the term “greenwashing” ?

(a) Conveying a false impression that a company’s products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound

(b) Non-inclusion of ecological/environmental costs in the Annual Financial Statements of a country

(c) Ignoring the disastrous ecological consequences while undertaking infrastructure development

(d) Making mandatory provisions for environmental costs in a government project/programme

81. Consider the following statements :

1. High clouds primarily reflect solar radiation and cool the surface of the Earth.
2. Low clouds have a high absorption of infrared radiation emanating from the Earth’s surface and thus cause warming effect.

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

84. Consider the following statements:

1. Gujarat has the largest solar park in India.
2. Kerala has a fully solar powered International Airport.
3. Goa has the largest floating solar photovoltaic project in India.

Which of the statements given below is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 3 only

89. With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements:

1. Wild animals are the sole property of the government.
2. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled for equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside.
3. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 3 only

41. “Climate Action Tracker” which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a :

(a) Database created by coalition of research organisations

(b) Wing of “International Panel of Climate Change”

(c) Committee under “United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change”

(d) Agency promoted and financed by United Nations Environment Programme and World Bank

43. “If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys.” Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statements?

(a) The water cycle in wetlands involves surface runoff, subsoil percolation and evaporation.

(b) Algae from the nutrient base upon which fish, crustaceans, molluscs, birds, reptiles and mammals thrive.

(c) Wetlands play a vital role in maintaining sedimentation balance and soil stabilization.

(d) Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients.

49. “Biorock technology” is talked about in which one of the following situations?

(a) Restoration of damaged coral reefs

(b) Development of building materials using plant residues

(c) Identification of areas for exploration/extraction of shale gas

(d) Providing salt licks for wild animals in forests/protected areas.

50. The “Miyawaki method” is well known for the:

(a) Promotion of commercial farming in arid and semi-arid areas

(b) Development of gardens using genetically modified flora

(c) Creation of mini forests in urban areas

(d) Harvesting wind energy on coastal areas and on sea surfaces

21. Among the following crops, which one is the most important anthropogenic source of both methane and nitrous oxide?

(a) Cotton

(b) Rice

(c) Sugarcane

(d) Wheat

100. Consider the following

1. Carbon monoxide

2. Nitrogen oxide

3. Ozone

4. Sulphur dioxide

Excess of which of the above in the environment is/are cause(s) of acid rain?

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 4 only

(d) 1, 3 and 4

98. Consider the following statements:

1. Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.

2. Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.

3. Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 2

(d) 2 and 3

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2021

26. ‘’R2 Code of Practices’’ constitute a tool available for promoting the adoption of
    a) Environmentally responsible practices in the electronics recycling industry
    b) Ecological management of ‘’Wetlands of International Importance” under the Ramsar Convention
    c) Sustainable practices in the cultivation of agricultural crops in degraded lands
    d) ‘’Environmental Impact Assessment’’ in the exploitation of natural resources

27. Why is there a concern about copper smelting plants?
    1. They may release lethal quantities of carbon monoxide into the environment
    2. The copper slag can cause the leaching pf some heavy metals into the environment
    3. They may release sulphur dioxide as a pollutant

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

43. Consider the following animals
    1. Hedgehog
    2. Marmot
    3. Pangolin

To reduce the chance of being captured by predators, which of the above organisms rolls up/roll up and protects/protect its/their vulnerable parts?

a) 1 and 2

b) 2 only

c) 3 only

d) 1 and 3

57. Consider the following statements:

Statement 1:

The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Arbor Day Foundation have recently recognized Hyderabad as 2020 Tree City of the World

Statement 2:

Hyderabad was selected for the recognition for a year following its commitment to grow and maintain the Urban forests.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is the correct explanation for Statement 1

(b) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct but Statement 2 is not the correct explanation for Statement 1.

(C) Statement 1 is correct but Statement 2 is not correct.

(d) Statement 1 is not correct but Statement 2 is correct.

71. The vegetation of savannah consists of grassland with scattered small trees. The forest development in such areas is generally kept in check by one or more or a combination of some conditions.

   Which of the following are such conditions?

1. Burrowing animals and termites.
2. Fire
3. Grazing herbivores
4. Seasonal rainfall
5. Soil properties

   Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and2

(b) 4 and 5

(c) 2, 3 and 4

(d) 1, 3 and 5

73. Consider the following statements:
    1. Moringa (drumstick tree) is a leguminous evergreen tree.
    2. Tamarind tree is endemic to south Asia.
    3. In India, most of the tamarind is collected as minor forest produce.
    4. India exports tamarind and seeds of moringa.
    5. Seeds of moringa and tamarind can be used in the production of biofuels.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5

(b) 3, 4 and 5

(c) 1, 3 and 4

(d) 1,2, 3 and 5

81. How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?1.Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant.
    2. Conventional chemical farming can cause increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
    3. Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in such regions.
    4. Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 3

(b) 1, 2 and 4

(c) 4 only

(d) 2 and 3

82 With reference to ‘palm oil’, consider the following statements:

1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia.

     2.  The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes.

     3.  The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.

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

89. In the context of India’s preparation for Climate-smart Agriculture, consider the following statements :
    1. The ‘Climate-Smart village’ approach in India is a part of a project led by climate change, Agriculture and food security (CCAFS), an international research programme.
    2. The project of CCAFS is carried out under Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) headquartered in France.
    3. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR’S research centers.

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

90. “Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome and as a result the soil surface is often almost bare. Apart from trees, the vegetation is largely composed of plant forms that reach up into the canopy vicariously, by climbing the trees or growing as epiphytes, rooted on the upper branches of trees.” This is the most likely descriptions of

(a) Coniferous forest

(b) Dry deciduous forest

(c) Mangrove forest

(d) Tropical rain forest

24. With reference to ‘’Water Credit”, consider the following statements:
    1. It puts microfinance tools to work in the water and sanitation sector.
    2. It is a global initiative launched under the aegis of the World Health Organization and the World Bank.
    3. It aims to enable the poor people to meet their water needs without depending on subsidies.

    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

29. What is blue carbon?
    a) Carbon captured by oceans and coastal ecosystems
    b) Carbon sequestered in forest biomass and agricultural soils
    c) Carbon contained in petroleum and natural gas
    d) Carbon present in the atmosphere

49. The ‘’Common Carbon Metric’’ supported by UNEP, has been developed for
    a) Assessing the carbon footprint of building operations around the world
    b) Enabling commercial farming entities around the world to enter carbon emission trading
    c) Enabling governments to assess the overall carbon footprint caused by their countries
    d) Assessing the overall carbon foot-print caused by the use of fossil fuels by the world in a unit time

28. With reference to furnace oil, consider the following statements:
    1. It is a product of oil refineries
    2. Some industries use it to generate power
    3. Its use causes sulphur emissions into the environment

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

47. In the case of which of the following biogeochemical cycles, the weathering of rocks is the main source of release of nutrients to enter the cycle?
    a) Carbon cycle
    b) Nitrogen cycle
    c) Phosphorus cycle
    d) Sulphur cycle

44. With reference to the ‘’New York Declaration on Forests’’, which of the following statements are correct?
    1. It was first endorsed at the United Nations Climate Summit in 2014
    2. It endorses a global timeline to end the loss of forests
    3. It is a legally binding international declaration
    4. It is endorsed by governments, big companies and indigenous communities.
    5. India was one of the signatories at its inception

Select the correct answer using the code given below

a) 1, 2 and 4

b) 1, 3 and 5

c) 3 and 4

d) 2 and 5

42. Consider the following kinds of organisms:
    1. Copepods
    2. Cyanobacteria
    3. Diatoms
    4. Foraminifera

Which of the above are primary producers in the food chains of oceans?

a) 1 and 2

b) 2 and 3

c) 3 and 4

d) 1 and 4

45. Magnetite particles, suspected to cause neurodegenerative problems are generated as environmental pollutants from which of the following?
    1. Brakes of motor vehicles
    2. Engines of motor vehicles
    3. Microwave stoves within homes
    4. Power plants
    5. Telephone lines

Select the correct answer using the code given below

a) 1, 2, 3 and 5only

b) 1, 2 and 4 only

c) 3, 4 and 5 only

d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

46. Which one of the following is a filter feeder?
    a) Catfish
    b) Octopus
    c) Oyster
    d) Pelican

UPSC Prelim GS Question Paper – 2020

58. Consider the following statements:

1. 36% of India’s districts are classified as “overexploited” or “critical” by the Central Ground Water Authority(CGWA).
2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act.
3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1 and 3 only

61. If a particular plant species is placed under Schedule VI of the Wildlife Protection Act,1972, what is the implication?

(a) A licence is required to cultivate that plant.

(b) Such a plant cannot be cultivated under any circumstances.

(c) It is a Genetically Modified crop plant.

(d) Such a plant is invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.

65. Which one of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon’?

It is a measure, in monetary value, of the

(a) long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.

(b) requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.

(c) efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live in a new place.

(d) contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.

92. With reference to Indian Elephants, consider the following statements :

1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
4. Among the States in India, the highest population is in Kerala.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 3 and 4 only.

51. What are the advantages of fertigation in agriculture?

1. Controlling the alkalinity of irrigation water is possible.
2. Efficient application of Rock Phosphate and all other phosphatic fertilizers is possible.
3. Increased availability of nutrients to plants is possible.
4. Reduction in the leaching of chemical nutrients is possible.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1,2 and 4 only

(c) 1,3 and 4 only

(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

63. What is/are the advantage/advantages of zero tillage in agriculture ?

1. Sowing of wheat is possible without burning the residue of the previous crop.
2. Without the need for nursery of rice saplings, direct planting of paddy seeds in the wet soil is possible.
3. Carbon sequestration in the soil is possible.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1,2 and 3 only

69. With reference to the current trends in the cultivation of sugarcane in India, consider the following statements:

1. A substantial saving in seed material is made when ‘bud chip settlings are raised in a nursery and transplanted in the main field.
2. When direct planting of setts is done, the germination percentage is better with single-budded setts as compared to setts with many buds.
3. If bad weather conditions prevail when setts are directly planted, single-budded setts have better survival as compared to large setts.
4. Sugarcane can be cultivated using settlings prepared from tissue culture.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 4 only

(d) 2,3 and 4 only

53. With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature(OMT),which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. OMT is measured upto a depth of 26 degree Celsius isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March.

2. OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.

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

55. With reference to India’s Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?

1. It is spread over two districts.

2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.

3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard.

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

8. Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?

1. Automobile exhaust

2. Tobacco smoke

3. Wood burning

4. Using varnished wooden furniture

5. Using products made of polyurethane

Select the correct answer using the given code below-

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

98. In rural road construction, the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?

1. Copper slag

2. Cold mix asphalt technology

3. Geotextiles

4. Hot mix asphalt technology

5. Portland cement

Select the correct answer using the given code below

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 4 and 5 only

(d) 1 and 5 only

99. Consider the following statements

1. Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury.

2. Coal fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment.

3. High ash content is observed in Indian Coal.

Which of the above given statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

100. What is the use of Biochar in farming?

1. Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in the vertical farming

2. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it promotes the growth of nitrogen fixing microorganisms.

3. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it enables the medium to retain water for a longer time.

Which of the above given statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3 only

40. Consider the following pairs

International agreement/setup	Subject
1. Alma Ata declaration	Healthcare of the people
2. Hague convention	Biological and Chemical Weapons
3. Talanoa dialogue	Global Climate Change
4. Under2 Coalition	Child Rights

Which of the pairs above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 4 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 2, 3 and 4 only