PRELIMS TEST SERIES (PTS)

Civil Services Examination 2025

Test Code: 01092710 DATE : 27/10/2024

A
GENERAL STUDIES
Test Booklet Series

(Paper-I)
M1T10 : Environment and Ecology and
Current Affairs (August 2024)

Time Allowed: Two Hours Maximum Marks: 200

Before attempting paper please read the instructions given on page no. 2 carefully and follow
them.

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(1 – A)
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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

1. Consider the following statements: (b) It promotes the introduction of non-

native species, potentially disrupting
Statement I:
the fragile Antarctic ecosystem.
The depletion of stratospheric ozone is (c) It can stabilize ice melt by providing a
more pronounced in the Antarctic than in natural barrier against melting.
the Arctic. (d) It reduces the nutrient flow in Antarctic
waters, affecting marine ecosystems.
Statement II:
4. Consider the following statements:
The Antarctic stratosphere experiences
1. The presence of large quantities of
prolonged low temperatures compared to
algae increases Dissolved Oxygen
the Arctic stratosphere.
levels in water bodies.
Which of the following is correct in respect 2. Discharge of hot wastewater from
of the above statements? industries reduces Dissolved Oxygen
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are levels in water bodies.
correct and Statement II is the correct Which of the statements given above is/are
explanation for Statement I. correct?
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are (a) 1 only
correct, but Statement II is not the (b) 2 only
correct explanation for Statement I. (c) Both 1 and 2
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II (d) Neither 1 nor 2
is incorrect. 5. Consider the following statements:
(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement
Statement I:
II is correct.
Coastal wetlands are highly effective at
2. Which of the following measures can long-term carbon storage.
increase the Earth’s albedo?
Statement II:
1. Spraying sulphate aerosols into the
stratosphere. The majority of soil in coastal wetlands is
2. Spraying seawater aerosols over the anaerobic due to consistent water saturation.
oceans. Statement III:
3. Using asphalt on house roofs.
Wetland soils lead to faster decomposition
4. Placing artificial mirrors in outer space. of organic matter compared to terrestrial
Select the correct answer using the code ecosystems.
given below: Which one of the following is correct in
(a) 2, 3 and 4 only respect of the above statements?
(b) 1 and 2 only (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only correct and both explain Statement I
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (b) Both Statement II and Statement III
are correct, but only one explains
3. Which of the following best explains the
Statement I
potential ecological impact of ongoing
(c) Only one of the Statements II and III is
Antarctic greening?
correct and that explains Statement I
(a) It leads to the expansion of native
(d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III
species, enhancing local biodiversity. is correct

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6. Which of the following areas is notified (b) Rising sea surface temperatures due to
under the provisions of the Indian Forest global warming
Act, 1927, where all activities are prohibited (c) Absorption of excess carbon dioxide
unless specifically permitted? from the atmosphere
(a) Community Reserve (d) Emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and
(b) Reserved Forest nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) from industrial
(c) Protected Forest activities
(d) National Park
10. Consider the following statements regarding
7. Consider the following statements:
methane (CH₄) and its impact on climate
1. The Global River Cities Alliance was
change:
founded on the sidelines of the G20
1. Methane has a longer atmospheric
Summit held in New Delhi.
lifespan than carbon dioxide.
2. Its primary focus is on boosting
international trade by utilizing river 2. The global warming potential of
networks between member cities. methane is lower than that of carbon
dioxide.
Which of the statements given above is/are
3. Human activities contribute more
correct?
to methane emissions than natural
(a) 1 only
sources.
(b) 2 only
4. Fossil fuels are the largest anthropogenic
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 source of methane emissions.

8. Consider the following statements Which of the above statements is/are

regarding international efforts to control correct?
ozone depletion: (a) 1 and 2 only
1. Montreal Protocol mandates the same (b) 3 only
phase-out timelines for all countries (c) 2 and 3 only
due to the severity of ozone depletion. (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
2. Under the Kigali Agreement,
11. Which of the following human activities
parties agreed to phase down
is considered to contribute significantly to
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)
positive climate forcing?
due to their high Global Warming
(a) Large-scale afforestation
Potential.
(b) Carbon sequestration initiatives
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) Combustion of fossil fuels releasing
not correct?
Carbon dioxide
(a) 1 only
(d) Expansion of organic farming
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 12. Consider the following statements regarding
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 biofertilizers:
9. Ocean acidification has become a major 1. Biofertilizers are microbial products
environmental concern due to its impact on that generally contain elements like
marine ecosystems and biodiversity. What nitrogen and phosphorus.
is the primary cause of ocean acidification? 2. Mycorrhiza, an important biofertilizer,
(a) Increased nutrient runoff from is a symbiotic association between
agricultural activities algae and fungi.

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

Which of the statements given above is/are 16. Recently, the Government of India
correct? announced the removal of the windfall tax
(a) 1 only on crude oil. Which of the following best
(b) 2 only defines the term “windfall tax”?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) A tax levied on the difference between
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 the international and domestic price of
crude oil.
13. Which of the following Articles of the Indian
(b) A tax imposed on businesses that
Constitution would require amendment
generate excessive profits due to
to implement the ‘One Nation, One
unexpected events or circumstances.
Election’ scheme as per recommendations
(c) A tax levied on the sale of renewable
of the Kovind Committee on Simultaneous
energy appliances and infrastructure.
Elections? (d) A tax on the profits of companies
1. Article 83 (Duration of Houses of engaged in environmentally harmful
Parliament) practices.
2. Article 172 (Duration of State
Legislatures) 17. Consider the following statements:
3. Article 171 (Composition of the Statement I:
Legislative Councils) Global warming is causing a rise in sea
4. Article 327 (Power of Parliament levels.
to make provisions with respect to
elections to Legislatures) Statement II:

Select the correct answer using the code Melting glaciers and ice sheets add more
water to the oceans.
given below:
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only Statement III:
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only As ocean water warms, it undergoes thermal
(c) 2 and 3 only expansion
(d) 1, 2 and 4 only
Which one of the following is correct in
14. Which of the following flagship reports, respect of the above statements?
recently published by the World Bank, (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are
highlighted the challenges of the middle- correct and both explain Statement I
income trap faced by countries like India (b) Both Statement II and Statement III
and China? are correct, but only one explains
(a) World Economic Outlook Statement I
(b) World Development Report (c) Only one of the Statements II and III is
(c) Global Financial Stability Report correct and that explains Statement I
(d) Ease of Doing Business Report (d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III
15. Which of the following countries has been is correct
recently recognized by the World Health 18. Consider the following statements
Organization (WHO) as the first country in with regard to the persistent arsenic
the world to eliminate leprosy? contamination of groundwater in certain
(a) Congo states of India:
(b) Jordan 1. Coal-fired thermal power plants
(c) Pakistan are the primary source of arsenic in
(d) Tonga groundwater.

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PTS (GS): CSE 2025

2. Arsenic is a naturally occurring (d) It signifies that each country should

element found in rocks. take climate action based on its
Which of the statements given above is/are economic capacity, ensuring a fair
correct? distribution of responsibilities.
(a) 1 only 21. With reference to the E-Waste
(b) 2 only (Management) Rules, 2022, consider the
(c) Both 1 and 2 following statements:
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 1. It is the responsibility of producers of
19. Consider the following statements: electrical and electronic equipment to
meet the recycling targets for e-waste.
Statement I:
2. The management of solar photovoltaic
Golden tigers have a unique blonde or pale (PV) modules is excluded from these
golden color and reddish stripes instead of rules.
the black stripes found on normal tigers.
Which of the statements given above is/are
Statement II: correct?
Golden tigers have a recessive gene that (a) 1 only
affects their pigmentation. (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Which one of the following is correct in
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are 22. Consider the following statements regarding
correct and Statement-II is the correct the Water (Prevention and Control of
explanation for Statement-I Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024:
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II 1. It empowers the Centre to frame rules
are correct and Statement-II is not the to select the chairpersons of State
correct explanation for Statement-I Pollution Control Boards.
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II 2. Provisions of imprisonment have been
is not correct added for several offences which were
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement- earlier neglected as being “minor”.
II is correct. 3. Amended version of the Act will be
implemented in a phased manner
20. Which among the following statements
starting with the states covered under
best describes the term “Just Transition” in
the Namami Gange Program.
relation to climate change?
(a) It refers to the process of moving How many of the above statements are
from fossil fuels to renewable energy correct?
sources. (a) Only one
(b) It means greening the economy in a way (b) Only two
that is fair and inclusive to everyone, (c) All three
creating decent work opportunities and (d) None
leaving no one behind.
23. Consider the following countries:
(c) It means countries historically
1. Greece
responsible for climate change should
bear the main burden of supporting 2. Bulgaria
developing countries. 3. Turkey

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

4. Iran 26. Consider the following statements regarding

5. Russia the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):
6. Ukraine 1. It is an emergency action plan and
7. Syria is enforced only when air pollution
reaches a certain threshold.
How many of the above countries share a
2. Its implementation is triggered when
border with the ‘Black Sea’? the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches
(a) Only two “severe” levels.
(b) Only three 3. It is implemented jointly by the
(c) Only four Environmental Pollution Prevention
(d) Only five and Control Authority (EPCA) and the
24. With reference to Dichloro-Diphenyl- Delhi government.
Trichloroethane (DDT), consider the How many of the statements given above
following statements: are correct?
1. The use of DDT is banned and (a) Only one
prohibited for all purposes under the (b) Only two
Stockholm Convention. (c) All three
(d) None
2. China is currently the only producer of
DDT in the world. 27. They are the smallest sea turtles of India. An
event, known as the Arribada, is exhibited by
Which of the statements given above is/are
these species on the Indian Coast. Trade of
correct?
these turtles and their products are banned
(a) 1 only under CITES Appendix I.
(b) 2 only
Which of the following species is being
(c) Both 1 and 2
described above?
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) Green turtles
25. Consider the following statements regarding (b) Hawksbill turtles
Critical Wildlife Habitats in India: (c) Leatherback turtles
1. They are notified under the Wildlife (d) Olive Ridley turtles
Protection Act, 1972. 28. Consider the following statements regarding
2. The idea behind creating such areas is the TAPI Gas Pipeline Project:
to prevent human-wildlife conflict in
Statement I:
the Protected Areas.
Afghanistan has recently agreed to waive
3. No human activities are allowed in
the transit fee for gas passing through its
these areas.
territory.
Which of the statements given above are
Statement II:
correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only The project offers multiple economic
benefits for Afghanistan.
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only Which one of the following is correct in
(d) 1, 2 and 3 respect of the above statements?

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(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are 31. Which of the following satellites has been
correct and Statement II is the correct recently developed by NASA to detect and
explanation for Statement I monitor super-emitters of greenhouse gases
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are like methane and carbon dioxide?
correct, but Statement II is not the (a) Tanager-1
correct explanation for Statement I (b) Envisat
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II (c) Cartosat-3
is incorrect (d) Jason-3
(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement 32. In the context of recent developments
II is correct regarding the Unified Pension Scheme,
29. Consider the following statements: consider the following statements:
1. Under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS),
Statement I: employees’ salaries were not subject to
Ozone (O3) is a potent Greenhouse Gas deductions for pension contributions.
(GHG). 2. Under the New Pension Scheme (NPS),
the contribution to the pension account
Statement II:
is made solely by the employee.
Ozone (O3) absorbs ultraviolet radiation 3. Under the Unified Pension Scheme
coming from the Sun. (UPS), both the employee and the
Which one of the following is correct in government will contribute to the
respect of the above statements? pension account.
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are Which of the statements given above is/are
correct and Statement-II is the correct correct?
explanation for Statement-I (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II (b) 1 and 3 only
are correct and Statement-II is not the (c) 3 only
correct explanation for Statement-I (d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II 33. In the context of climate change, consider
is incorrect the following statements
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement- 1. Volcanic eruptions can lead to a
II is correct decrease in the Earth’s average
30. SAMRIDH scheme, a flagship initiative of temperature.
the Ministry of Electronics and Information 2. Change in the earth’s axial tilt affects
Technology (MeitY), aims at: the amount of isolation.
(a) Promoting digital literacy among rural 3. An increased number of sunspots leads
populations to warmer conditions.
(b) Supporting the growth of software Which of the statements given above are
product startups correct?
(c) Enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure (a) 1 and 2 only
in India (b) 1 and 3 only
(d) Developing indigenous hardware (c) 2 and 3 only
manufacturing capabilities (d) 1, 2 and 3

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

34. Consider the following climate initiatives (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

in India: (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
1. National Water Mission 38. Consider the following statements with
2. National Biodiversity Mission respect to the Forest Rights Act, 2006:
3. National Solar Mission
1. The Act defines the phrase ‘Critical
4. National Green Hydrogen Mission
Tiger Habitat’ for conservation areas in
Which of the initiatives given above form tribal regions.
a part of India’s National Action Plan on 2. The Act provides for diversion of forest
Climate Change (NAPCC)? land for public utility facilities with
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only the recommendation of the District
(b) 2 and 3 only Collector.
(c) 1 and 3 only
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
correct?
35. The “UN World Restoration Flagship” is an (a) 1 only
initiative under which of the following? (b) 2 only
(a) Paris Agreement on Climate Change (c) Both 1 and 2
(b) UN Framework Convention on Climate (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Change
(c) UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 39. Consider the following statements regarding
(d) Convention on Biological Diversity ‘Ozone’:
1. It is a non-reactive gas.
36. Consider the following statements:
2. Average total ozone concentration is
1. Saltwater crocodile is the largest reptile
generally lower at the poles than at the
in the world.
equator.
2. Saltwater crocodile is found only
3. Tropospheric ozone is formed naturally,
in Bhitarkanika national park and
Andaman & Nicobar Islands. whereas stratospheric ozone forms
from volatile organic compounds and
Which of the statements given above is/are nitrogen oxides.
correct?
(a) 1 only Which of the statements given above is/are
(b) 2 only correct?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) 1 and 2 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
37. Which of the following pollutants are
(d) 1 and 3 only
included under the National Ambient Air
Quality Standards (NAAQS) of India? 40. Consider the following statements regarding
1. Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) the Law Commission of India:
2. Methane (CH₄) 1. It is a statutory body established under
3. Ozone (O₃) the provisions of the Legal Services
4. Benzene (C₆H₆) Authorities Act, 1987.
5. Carbon Monoxide (CO) 2. Serving judges of the Supreme Court
Select the correct answer using the code and High Courts can be appointed to
given below: the commission.
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only 3. Each Law Commission is generally
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only constituted for a term of three years.

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PTS (GS): CSE 2025

Which of the statements given above are 2. It primarily conducts scientific research
correct? on drivers of climate change.
(a) 1 and 3 only 3. It prepares comprehensive Assessment
(b) 1 and 2 only Reports containing information on
(c) 2 and 3 only climate change.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Which of the statements given above are
41. The Security of Supply Arrangement correct?
(SOSA), recently signed between India and (a) 1 and 2 only
the United States, primarily aims to: (b) 2 and 3 only
(a) Prioritize the procurement of military (c) 1 and 3 only
equipment for joint defence production. (d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) Ensure reciprocal priority support for 45. In the context of climate change, consider
goods and services to address national the following statements:
security supply chain needs. 1. Net Zero refers to cutting down carbon
(c) Enhance bilateral defence trade by emissions to absolute zero.
reducing tariffs on military hardware. 2. The Paris Agreement aims to achieve
(d) Establish a framework for joint military Net Zero by 2050.
exercises and defence technology
transfers. Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
42. Stratospheric Aerosol Injection is a (a) 1 only
proposed Solar Geo-engineering method (b) 2 only
to combat global warming. This technique (c) Both 1 and 2
aims to mimic the effects of which of the (d) Neither 1 nor 2
following natural phenomena?
(a) Evaporative cooling process of 46. Consider the following laws in India:
transpiring plants 1. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
(b) Formation of rain clouds, where water 2. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
droplets reflect sunlight 3. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
(c) Heat dispersion by deep ocean currents 4. Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991
(d) Cooling effect following large volcanic 5. Biological Diversity Act, 2002
eruptions 6. Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional
Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest
43. Global Dimming, the gradual reduction of Rights) Act, 2006
sunlight reaching Earth, is primarily caused
by which of the following? How many of the above laws fall under the
(a) Increased volcanic activity jurisdiction of the National Green Tribunal
(b) Air pollution (NGT)?
(c) Changes in natural solar cycle (a) Only three
(d) Deforestation and land-use changes (b) Only four
(c) Only five
44. Consider the following statements regarding (d) All six
the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC): 47. Consider the following biomass:
1. It is an organisation of governments 1. Sugarcane juice
that are members of the United Nations 2. B- heavy Molasses
or WMO. 3. C- heavy Molasses

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

How many of the above can be used to Which of the statements given above are
produce ethanol as per the National Biofuel correct?
Policy 2018? (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) Only one (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) Only two (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) All three (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None 51. With reference to Black Carbon, consider
48. Which of the following statements is correct the following statements:
with reference to the Montreux Record? 1. It is a short-lived climate pollutant.
(a) It is a register of wetland sites which 2. Incomplete combustion of biomass is
are totally isolated from humans and an important source of Black Carbon.
are completely protected. 3. It warms the atmosphere more than
(b) It is maintained as part of the Ramsar carbon dioxide per unit of mass.
List. Which of the statements given above is/are
(c) A site once added to the Montreux correct?
record cannot be removed. (a) 1 only
(d) Chilika Lake and Keoladeo National (b) 1 and 2 only
Park are the sites in India under (c) 2 and 3 only
Montreux Record. (d) 1, 2 and 3
49. Consider the following statement about 52. Consider the following:
International Convention on Civil Liability 1. Composting
for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC): 2. Bio-Augmentation
1. The Convention applies to all seagoing 3. Biopiles
vessels carrying bulk oil as cargo. 4. Phytoremediation
2. It mandates that shipowners maintain 5. Landfarming
insurance to cover oil pollution Which of the methods given above are
damage. considered a type of Ex-situ Bioremediation?
3. Warships and other vessels owned or (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
maintained by a State are exempted. (b) 1, 3 and 5 only
Which of the statements given above are (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
correct? (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
(a) 1 and 2 only 53. Which of the following countries was
(b) 2 and 3 only not a signatory to the first legally binding
(c) 1 and 3 only Artificial Intelligence (AI) safety treaty
(d) 1, 2 and 3 signed recently in Vilnius, Lithuania?
50. In the context of lead poisoning, consider (a) United States
the following statements: (b) United Kingdom
1. There is no known safe level of lead (c) European Union
(d) India
exposure.
2. More than 80% of total global 54. Which of the following best describes the
consumption of lead is for production term “Greenhushing”, often seen in news?
of batteries. (a) Companies exaggerating their
3. India has recently phased out the use of environmental achievements to gain
lead in paints. public approval

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PTS (GS): CSE 2025

(b) Companies deliberately withholding 2. It does not cover radioactive wastes

information about their environmental and their disposal.
goals and achievements. Which of the statements given above is/are
(c) Companies remaining neutral in correct?
environmental debates to avoid public (a) 1 only
backlash (b) 2 only
(d) Companies under-reporting carbon (c) Both 1 and 2
emissions to evade regulatory penalties (d) Neither 1 nor 2
55. Consider the following sectors: 58. Which of the following are the possible
1. Agriculture reasons for the recent shrinking of the
2. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Caspian Sea?
3. Export Credit 1. Loss of water in the tributaries of the
4. Social Infrastructure sea.
5. Renewable Energy 2. Lower rainfall in the region.
How many of the above categories are 3. Rise in temperature in the region.
included in the Priority Sector Lending Select the correct answer using the codes
(PSL) norms of Reserve Bank of India? given below:
(a) Only two (a) 2 only
(b) Only three (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) Only four (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All five (d) 1, 2 and 3
56. With reference to the concept of Teal 59. Consider the following statements:
Carbon, consider the following statements:
Statement I:
1. It is produced by the incomplete
combustion of organic matter from Photochemical smog tends to persist longer
sources such as wildfires and fossil during temperature inversion conditions.
fuel combustion. Statement II:
2. Restoring degraded wetlands can help
Temperature inversion traps cooler air along
in increasing teal carbon sequestration
with pollutants near the ground.
and combating climate change.
Which one of the following is correct in
Which of the statements given above is/are
respect of the above statements?
correct?
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are
(a) 1 only correct, and Statement II is the correct
(b) 2 only explanation for Statement I
(c) Both 1 and 2 (b) Both Statement I and Statement II are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 correct, but Statement II is not the
57. Consider the following statements regarding correct explanation for Statement I
the ‘Basel Convention’: (c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II
1. It aims to control the transboundary is incorrect
movements of hazardous wastes and (d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement
their disposal. II is correct

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

60. With reference to international initiatives Select the correct answer using the code
aimed at reducing marine pollution, given below:
consider the following pairs: (a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
Convention Objective
(c) 2 and 3 only
1. MARPOL : To prevent marine (d) 1 and 3 only
Convention pollution from ships.
63. Consider the following statements regarding
2. London : To control the
the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue
Convention dumping of waste
(QUAD):
into the ocean.
1. One of the core objectives of the
3. Nairobi : To prevent nuclear QUAD is creating an ecosystem for
Convention activities in the
investment in the Indo-Pacific region.
coastal regions.
2. India is proposed to host the QUAD
Which of the pairs given above are correctly Summit in 2025.
matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only Which of the statements given above is/are
(b) 1 and 3 only correct?
(c) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3 (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
61. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Maandhan Yojana (PM-KMY), consider the
64. With reference to Carbon sequestration,
following statements:
consider the following statements:
1. It is an old-age pension scheme for
1. It can occur through natural processes
small and marginal farmers aged 18 to
such as photosynthesis in plants.
40 years.
2. Atmosphere holds more carbon than
2. The government matches the monthly
the oceanic carbon sinks.
contributions made by the enrolled
farmers. Which statements given above is/are not
3. Eligible farmers are given a minimum correct?
monthly pension of Rs. 3,000 after (a) 1 only
attaining the age of sixty. (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
How many of the above statements are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
correct?
(a) Only one 65. Consider the following statements
(b) Only two Statement I:
(c) All three
Climate proofing refers to actions that
(d) None
remove more carbon dioxide from the
62. Which of the following factors are likely atmosphere than they emit.
to cause the formation of Dead Zones in
Statement II:
marine ecosystems?
1. Increased nutrient availability Climate proofing ensures that development
2. Rise in water temperature projects are resilient to the impacts of
3. Increased water circulation climate variability and change.

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Which one of the following is correct in 2. Azerbaijan : Caspian Sea : Salt Lake
respect of the above statements?
3. UAE : Persian Gulf : Shallow Marginal
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are Sea
correct and Statement- II is the correct
explanation for Statement-I In how many of the above rows is the given
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement- II information correctly matched?
are correct and Statement-II is not the (a) Only one
correct explanation for Statement-I (b) Only two
(c) Statement- I is correct but Statement-II (c) All three
is incorrect (d) None
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement- 69. Which one of the following is the correct
II is correct description of the term “Phthalates”,
66. The term “Global Stocktake”, sometimes sometimes seen in news?
seen in the news, is related to: (a) A group of chemicals used to make
(a) Periodic review mechanism to assess plastics more flexible and harder to
the progress in addressing climate break
change (b) A type of heavy metal contaminant
(b) Assessment of global biodiversity found in industrial wastewater
conservation efforts (c) A chemical component responsible for
(c) Evaluating the implementation of imparting bioluminescence in marine
Sustainable Development Goals across organisms.
countries (d) A radioactive isotope used in medical
(d) Initiative of WHO to ensure sufficient imaging and cancer treatments
stock of COVID vaccines around the 70. With reference to diseases caused by
world pollutants, consider the following pairs:
67. Which of the given measures can help in Disease Causing Pollutant
mitigating the effect of climate change? 1. Itai-Itai Disease : Cadmium
1. Reducing the practise of gas flaring
2. Blue Baby : Nitrates
2. Eliminating the practise of Coal
Syndrome
washing
3. Reducing the number of mass rapid 3. Black Foot : Arsenic
transport system Disease
Select the correct answer using the code Which of the pairs given above are correctly
given below: matched?
(a) 1 only (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

68. Consider the following pairs: 71. In the context of ‘Ballast Water’ carried
in tanks of ships, consider the following
Country Bordering Type of the
waterbody waterbody
statements:
1. Ballast Water is crucial for ensuring
1. Egypt : Mediterranean : Intercontinental
Sea Sea stability and proper immersion of ships
during journeys.

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

2. Under the Ballast Water Management 1. Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a potent

(BWM) Convention 2004, all ships greenhouse gas.
engaged in international traffic must 2. Agricultural runoff rich in nitrogen
manage their ballast water according compounds like nitrates leads to
to a ship-specific plan. eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems.
3. India has not signed the BWM 3. Excessive use of nitrogen-based
Convention. fertilizers can result in soil acidification.

Which of the statements given above are How many of the statements given above
correct? are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (a) Only one
(b) 2 and 3 only (b) Only two
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) All three
(d) None
(d) 1, 2 and 3
75. With reference to Acid Rain, consider the
72. Consider the following provisions of the
following statements:
Indian Constitution:
1. It primarily occurs when water vapor
1. Preamble and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
2. Part IV form carbonic acid.
3. Part IV-A 2. One of the significant sources of acid
How many of the above explicitly deal with rain is the combustion of fuels in motor
vehicles.
the protection of the environment?
3. It can result in the leaching of essential
(a) Only one
nutrients from the soil, reducing its
(b) Only two fertility.
(c) All three
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) None
correct?
73. What is the primary aim of the RESET (a) 1 only
Programme, recently launched by the (b) 2 and 3 only
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and (c) 1 and 3 only
Labour & Employment? (d) 1, 2, and 3
(a) Promote sports infrastructure 76. Consider the following pairs:
development in rural areas. India’s Bilateral Partner Country
(b) Develop a specialized program to Defense Exercise
nurture potential Olympic athletes 1. Eastern Bridge-7 : Oman
from grassroots levels. 2. AL NAJAH : UAE
(c) Empower retired athletes to contribute
3. SADA TANSEEQ : Saudi Arabia
to sports administration and other
How many of the pairs given above are
sectors.
correctly matched?
(d) Facilitate educational scholarships for
(a) Only one pair
the children of athletes. (b) Only two pairs
74. With reference to nitrogen pollution, (c) All three pairs
consider the following statements: (d) None of the pairs

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PTS (GS): CSE 2025

77. Which of the following best describes the (a) 1 only

concept of “Ecological Overshoot”? (b) 2 only
(a) The point at which human demand for (c) Both 1 and 2
natural resources exceeds the Earth’s (d) Neither 1 nor 2
capacity to regenerate them.
(b) The over-utilization of water resources 81. Consider the following factors:
in an ecosystem, leading to permanent 1. Change in ocean temperature.
ecological damage. 2. Runoff and pollution.
(c) A condition where carbon emissions 3. Over exposure to sunlight.
surpass the global absorption capacity 4. Extreme low tides.
of forests and oceans.
How many of the above factors can be a
(d) The excessive conversion of agricultural
potential cause of coral bleaching?
land to urban infrastructure.
(a) Only one
78. Consider the following statements regarding (b) Only two
the National Board for Wild Life (NBWL): (c) Only three
1. Its recommendation is mandatory
(d) All four
for alteration in the boundaries of a
National Park. 82. Arrange the following Greenhouse Gases
2. Its approval is necessary for de- in order of their Global Warming Potential,
notification of a Tiger Reserve. from lowest to highest:
Which of the statements given above is/are 1. Methane (CH₄)
correct? 2. Nitrous Oxide (N₂O)
(a) 1 only 3. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
(b) 2 only 4. Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF₆)
(c) Both 1 and 2 Select the correct sequence using the code
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
given below:
79. In the context of environment, the term (a) 1-2-3-4
“New Collective Quantified Goal” often (b) 1-3-2-4
seen in the news is related to: (c) 2-1-4-3
(a) Roadmap to triple the share of (d) 2-3-1-4
renewable energy by 2030
(b) Global timeline to meet Net Zero 83. Consider the following statements regarding
Emissions the recently launched Climate Finance
(c) Global climate finance target Action Fund (CFAF):
(d) Intensified roadmap to achieve the 1. It will receive annual contributions
Sustainable Development Goals from fossil fuel-producing countries
80. Consider the following statements with and companies.
reference to Cloud Seeding: 2. It is the first fund that will exclusively
1. It works only when there are enough focus on disaster relief measures in
pre-existing clouds in the atmosphere. climate-vulnerable regions.
2. Silver iodide can be used in cloud 3. It is a joint initiative of India and
seeding. France.
Which of the statements given above is/are How many of the statements given above
correct? are correct?

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

(a) Only one and the total emissions generated

(b) Only two globally.
(c) All three (d) Shortfall in renewable energy
(d) None production needed to meet net zero
emission goals.
84. In a recent milestone for space exploration,
the “Polaris Dawn” became the first mission 87. Known as the ‘Tree of Life’, these trees
to: define African landscapes and some are
(a) Reach the farthest orbital point from known to exist for over 1,000 years, thus
Earth becoming one of the largest living beings
(b) Conduct a private spacewalk on the planet. They have historically
(c) Establish a communication network survived extreme climate fluctuations
with deep-space capabilities such as droughts and floods, adapting to
(d) Return rock samples from Mars the environment. The trees are icons of
endurance and climate resilience.
85. Consider the following statements regarding
Radon pollution: Which of the following trees have been
1. Radon is a naturally occurring described in the above passage?
radioactive gas. (a) Umsenge tree
2. Solid biomass cooking fuels are (b) Baobab tree
the primary source of indoor radon (c) Banyan Tree
pollution in rural areas. (d) Dragon Blood Tree
3. Radon is one of the leading causes of 88. Which of the following international non-
lung cancer. governmental organizations primarily
Which of the statements given above is/are focuses on reducing illegal and
correct? unsustainable trade in wildlife species?
(a) 2 only (a) World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
(b) 1 and 2 only (b) TRAFFIC
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) International Union for Conservation
(d) 2 and 3 only of Nature (IUCN)
(d) Greenpeace International
86. In the context of the “Emission Gap
Report” by United Nations Environment 89. In the context of climate change, consider
Programme, what does the term “Emission the following statements regarding the
Gap” refer to? “Santiago network”:
(a) Gap between emission reduction 1. It aims to facilitate technical assistance
committed under Nationally for countries to address climate-related
Determined Contributions (NDCs) loss and damage.
and the actual emissions reductions 2. It operates under the Paris Agreement
achieved. to support adaptation efforts in high-
(b) Gap between countries' pledges on emission countries.
greenhouse gas emissions reductions Which of the statements given above is/are
and the reductions required to limit correct?
global warming to below 2°C by the (a) 1 only
end of the century. (b) 2 only
(c) Gap between the amount of emissions (c) Both 1 and 2
offset by carbon capture technologies (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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90. Recently, the Government of India has Which one of the following is described in
taken various measures for the conservation the above passage?
of Dolphins. In this context, consider the (a) Keoladeo National Park
following statements: (b) Ranthambore National Park
1. All Dolphins are Whales (c) Sariska Tiger Reserve
2. All Dolphins are Mammals (d) Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary
3. All Dolphins are Blinds
94. Government of India recently launched
Which of the statements given above is/are the International Big Cat Alliance to
correct? promote the conservation of big cats
(a) 1 and 2 only globally. Which of the following big cats
(b) 2 only
are included in the Alliance but are not
(c) 3 only
found in India?
(d) 2 and 3 only
1. Cheetah
91. Which of the following is the least likely to be 2. Jaguar
an environmental benefit of biodegradable 3. Snow Leopard
plastics over traditional plastics? 4. Puma
(a) Reduced accumulation of plastic waste
Select the correct answer using the code
in landfills and natural environments.
(b) Better recyclability than traditional given below:
plastic (a) 2 only
(c) Lower microplastic pollution in oceans (b) 2 and 4 only
and waterways. (c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) Faster decomposition under natural (d) 2, 3, and 4 only
conditions, leading to less persistent 95. ‘Towards 1000’ strategy, a guiding principle
pollution. of International Solar Alliance, relates to
92. Central Pollution Control Board of India which of the following?
was established under which of the 1. Mobilizing USD 1,000 billion of
following Acts? investments in solar energy
(a) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 2. Providing energy access to 1,000
(b) Water (Prevention and Control of million people using clean energy
Pollution) Act, 1974 solution
(c) Air (Prevention and Control of 3. Installation of 1,000 GW of solar
Pollution) Act, 1981 energy capacity
(d) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 4. Mitigate global solar emissions of
93. It is one of the most important waterfowl 1,000 million tonnes of CO2 every
refuges of the world, a Ramsar site and a year.
World Heritage site. It was the only known Select the correct answer using the code
wintering site of the central population of given below:
the critically endangered Siberian Crane, (a) 1 and 2 only
and also serves as a wintering area for other (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
globally threatened species such as the (c) 1, 2 and 3 only
Greater Spotted Eagle and Imperial Eagle. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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 Environment and Ecology and Current Affairs (August 2024): M1T10

96. With respect to fluoride pollution, consider 2. Government of India has set a target
the following statements: of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol
1. Improper disposal of certain consumer by 2025-26, whereas the target for
products like batteries and electronic blending of biodiesel in diesel is 5%
devices can cause fluoride pollution. by 2030.
2. Combustion of coal in thermal power Which of the statements given above is/are
plants can release fluoride in air. correct?
3. Natural weathering of rocks can release (a) 1 only
fluoride in groundwater. (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
How many of the above statements are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
correct?
(a) Only one 99. Which of the best describes the term
(b) Only two “Karakoram Anomaly”?
(c) All three (a) A pattern of zero or positive mass
balance changes in glaciers in the
(d) None
Karakoram region.
97. With reference to climate change in the (b) An unexpected increase in vegetation
geological past, consider the following cover in the Karakoram area.
statements: (c) An increase in the frequency of extreme
1. Rings in the trees provide clues about weather events in the Karakoram area.
wet and dry periods. (d) An unexpected decrease in the rate of
2. Sediment deposits in glacial lakes desertification in the Karakoram area.
reveal the occurrence of warm and
100. Arctic amplification has the potential to
cold periods.
trigger positive feedback loops within the
Which of the above statements is/are climate system. Which of the following
correct? represents such a feedback mechanism?
(a) 1 only (a) Increased plant productivity in the
(b) 2 only tundra, enhancing carbon sequestration
(c) Both 1 and 2 (b) Increased Arctic evaporation leading
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 to more cloud formation, thereby
98. Consider the following statements regarding increasing atmospheric heat retention
biofuels in India: (c) Sea ice loss promoting phytoplankton
1. Bioethanol is mainly derived from blooms, absorbing atmospheric CO2
sugar and starch containing materials, (d) Reduced snow and ice cover leading
while biodiesel is produced from oils to a darker surface and increased solar
and fats. absorption

nnnn

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Space for Rough Work

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