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CSAT 2015PYQ

Complete UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination General Studies Paper-II / CSAT question paper for 2015.

80Questions
4Subjects
25Topics
QUESTION PAPER

2015 CSAT Questions

All 80 questions from the 2015CSAT paper, classified by subject, topic and subtopic.

Practice 2015 →
Q1
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionStatement Evaluation
PASSAGE

Human history abounds in claims and theories confining the right of governing to a few select citizens. Exclusion of the many is justified on the ground that human beings may be rightfully segregated for the good of society and viability of the political process. 1. Which one of the following statements is least essential as a part of the argument in the above passage ? (a) Man seeks control over external things affecting him. (b) In society, there are ‘super’ and ‘sub’ human beings. (c) Exceptions to universal citizen participation are conducive to systemic efficacy. (d) Governing implies recognition of disparities in individual capacities.

Which one of the following statements is least essential as a part of the argument in the above passage ?

AMan seeks control over external things affecting him.
BIn society, there are ‘super’ and ‘sub’ human beings.
CExceptions to universal citizen participation are conducive to systemic efficacy.
DGoverning implies recognition of disparities in individual capacities.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage's argument is about restricting political participation by invoking differences among people; the statement about seeking control over external things is not needed for that argument.

Q2
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

By 2050, the Earth’s population will likely have swelled from seven to nine billion people. To fill all those stomachs — while accounting for shifting consumption patterns, climate change, and a finite amount of arable land and potable water — some experts say food production will have to double. How can we make the numbers add up ? Experts say higher yielding crop varieties and more efficient farming methods will be crucial. So will waste reduction. Experts urge cities to reclaim nutrients and water from Your Personal Exams Guide waste streams and preserve farmland. Poor countries, they say, can improve crop storage and packaging and rich nations could cut back on resource-intensive foods like meat. 2. Which one of the following statements best sums up the above passage ? {al The population of the world is growing very fast. (b) Food security is a perennial problem only in developing countries. {c) The world does not have enough resources to meet the impending food scarcity. (d) Food security is increasingly a collective challenge.

Which one of the following statements best sums up the above passage ?

AThe population of the world is growing very fast.
BFood security is a perennial problem only in developing countries.
CThe world does not have enough resources to meet the impending food scarcity.
DFood security is increasingly a collective challenge.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage presents food security as a shared global challenge requiring production, waste reduction, resource conservation and changes across rich and poor countries.

Q3
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
PASSAGE

Many people in India feel that if we cut our defence expenditure on weapon-building, we can create a climate of peace with our neighbours, subsequently reducing the conflict or creating a no-war situation. People who proclaim such ideas are either the victims of war or the propagators of false argument. 3. With reference to the above passage, which of the following is the most valid assumption ? (a) Building of weapons systems by us has instigated our neighbours to wage wars against us. (b) The greater spending on : weapon-building by us would lessen the possibility of armed conflict with our neighbours. (c) It is necessary to have state of the art weapons systems for national security. (d) Many people in India believe that we are wasting our resources on weapon-building.

With reference to the above passage, which of the following is the most valid assumption ?

ABuilding of weapons systems by us has instigated our neighbours to wage wars against us.
BThe greater spending on weapon-building by us would lessen the possibility of armed conflict with our neighbours.
CIt is necessary to have state of the art weapons systems for national security.
DMany people in India believe that we are wasting our resources on weapon-building.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage rejects the claim that reducing weapon expenditure will create peace; the intended inference is that the opposite proposition—greater weapon capability can deter conflict—is the relevant assumption.

Q4
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

India accounts for nearly a fifth of the world’s child deaths. In terms of numbers, it is the highest in the world — nearly 16 lakhs every year. Of these, more than half die in the first month of life. Officials believe that the reason for this is the absence of steps to propagate basic health practices relating to breast feeding and immunisation. Also the large reproductive population of 2-6 crore remains bereft of care during the critical phases of pregnancy and post-delivery. Added to this is the prevalence of child marriages, anaemia among young women and lack of focus on adolescent sanitation, all of which impact child death rates. Which is the eritical inference that can be made from the above passage ? (a) A lot. of Indians are illiterate and hence do not recognize the value of basic health practices. (b) India has a very huge population and the government alone cannot manage public health services. (c) Universalization and integration of maternal health and child health services can effectively address the problem. (d) The nutrition of women in child bearing age does not affect child mortality rate. B-AQN-O-KYB Your Personal Exams Guide

Which is the critical inference that can be made from the above passage ?

AA lot of Indians are illiterate and hence do not recognize the value of basic health practices.
BIndia has a very huge population and the government alone cannot manage public health services.
CUniversalization and integration of maternal health and child health services can effectively address the problem.
DThe nutrition of women in child bearing age does not affect child mortality rate.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage identifies multiple linked maternal, reproductive and child-health gaps; integrating maternal and child health services directly addresses these factors.

Q5
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionStatement Evaluation
PASSAGE

Foods travel more than the people who eat them. Grocery stores and supermarkets are loaded with preserved and processed foods. This, however, often leads to environmental threats, such as pollution generated by long distance food transportation and wastage of food during processing and transportation, destruction of rain reduced nutritional forests, content, increased demand fer preservation. and packaging. Food insecurity also increases as the produce comes from regions that are not feeding their own population properly. 5. With reference to the above passage, which of the following statements is/are true ? 1. Consuming regionally grown food and not depending on long travelled food is a part of eco-friendly behaviour. 2 Food processing industry puts a burden on our natural resources. Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both land 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

With reference to the above passage, which of the following statements is/are true ?

1. Consuming regionally grown food and not depending on long travelled food is a part of eco-friendly behaviour.

2. Food processing industry puts a burden on our natural resources.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage links long-distance transport and processing with environmental damage and resource burdens, so both statements are supported.

Q6
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionStatement Evaluation
PASSAGE

I must say that, beyond occasionally exposing me to laughter, my constitutional shyness has been of no disadvantage whatever. In fact I can see that, on the contrary, it has been all to my advantage. My hesitancy in speech, which was once an annoyance, is now a pleasure. Its greatest benefit has been that it has taught me the economy of words. I have naturally formed the habit of restraining my thoughts. And I can now give myself the certificate that a thoughtless word hardly ever escapes my tongue or pen. I do not recollect ever having had to regret anything in my speech or writing. I have thus been spared many a mishap and waste of time. Experience has taught me that silence is part of the spiritual discipline of a votary of truth. Proneness to exaggerate, to suppress or modify the truth, wittingly or unwittingly, is a natural weakness of man, and silence is necessary in order to surmount it. A man of few words will rarely be thoughtless in his speech; he will measure every word. We find so many people impatient to talk. There is no chairman of a meeting who is not pestered with notes for permission to speak. And whenever the permission is given the speaker generally exceeds the time-limit, asks for more time, and keeps on talking without permission. All this talking can hardly be said to be of any benefit to the world. It is so much waste of time. My shyness has been in reality my shield and buckler. It has allowed me to grow. It has helped me in my discernment of truth.

The author says that a thoughtless word hardly ever escapes his tongue or pen. Which one of the following is not a valid reason for this ?

AHe has no intention to waste his time.
BHe believes in the economy of words.
CHe believes in restraining his thoughts.
DHe has hesitancy in his speech.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage connects his careful speech with economy of words, restraint of thoughts and hesitancy; merely not intending to waste time is not given as the reason.

Q7
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

I must say that, beyond occasionally exposing me to laughter, my constitutional shyness has been of no disadvantage whatever. In fact I can see that, on the contrary, it has been all to my advantage. My hesitancy in speech, which was once an annoyance, is now a pleasure. Its greatest benefit has been that it has taught me the economy of words. I have naturally formed the habit of restraining my thoughts. And I can now give myself the certificate that a thoughtless word hardly ever escapes my tongue or pen. I do not recollect ever having had to regret anything in my speech or writing. I have thus been spared many a mishap and waste of time. Experience has taught me that silence is part of the spiritual discipline of a votary of truth. Proneness to exaggerate, to suppress or modify the truth, wittingly or unwittingly, is a natural weakness of man, and silence is necessary in order to surmount it. A man of few words will rarely be thoughtless in his speech; he will measure every word. We find so many people impatient to talk. There is no chairman of a meeting who is not pestered with notes for permission to speak. And whenever the permission is given the speaker generally exceeds the time-limit, asks for more time, and keeps on talking without permission. All this talking can hardly be said to be of any benefit to the world. It is so much waste of time. My shyness has been in reality my shield and buckler. It has allowed me to grow. It has helped me in my discernment of truth.

The most appropriate reason for the author to be spared many a mishap is that

Ahe hardly utters or writes a thoughtless word.
Bhe is a man of immense patience.
Che believes that he is a spiritual person.
Dhe is a votary of truth.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

He explicitly says he rarely lets a thoughtless word escape and therefore has been spared mishaps and wasted time.

Q8
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

I must say that, beyond occasionally exposing me to laughter, my constitutional shyness has been of no disadvantage whatever. In fact I can see that, on the contrary, it has been all to my advantage. My hesitancy in speech, which was once an annoyance, is now a pleasure. Its greatest benefit has been that it has taught me the economy of words. I have naturally formed the habit of restraining my thoughts. And I can now give myself the certificate that a thoughtless word hardly ever escapes my tongue or pen. I do not recollect ever having had to regret anything in my speech or writing. I have thus been spared many a mishap and waste of time. Experience has taught me that silence is part of the spiritual discipline of a votary of truth. Proneness to exaggerate, to suppress or modify the truth, wittingly or unwittingly, is a natural weakness of man, and silence is necessary in order to surmount it. A man of few words will rarely be thoughtless in his speech; he will measure every word. We find so many people impatient to talk. There is no chairman of a meeting who is not pestered with notes for permission to speak. And whenever the permission is given the speaker generally exceeds the time-limit, asks for more time, and keeps on talking without permission. All this talking can hardly be said to be of any benefit to the world. It is so much waste of time. My shyness has been in reality my shield and buckler. It has allowed me to grow. It has helped me in my discernment of truth.

For the author, silence is necessary in order to surmount

Aconstitutional shyness.
Bhesitancy in speech.
Csuppression of thoughts.
Dtendency to overstate.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly says silence is necessary to overcome the human tendency to exaggerate, suppress or modify the truth.

Q9
Logical ReasoningPuzzlesLogic Puzzles & Scheduling

Twelve people form a club. By picking lots, one of them will host a dinner for all once in a month. The number of dinners a particular member has to host in one year is

AOne
BZero
CThree
DCannot be predicted
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The host is selected randomly each month, so no fixed member is guaranteed any particular number of dinners.

Q10
Quantitative AptitudeRatio and ProportionRatio & Proportion

An automobile owner reduced his monthly petrol consumption when the prices went up. The price-consumption relationship is as follows:

Price (in ₹ per litre): 40, 50, 60, 75

Monthly consumption (in litres): 60, 48, 40, 32

If the price goes up to ₹80 per litre, his expected consumption (in litres) will be

A30
B28
C26
D24
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The observed relation is inverse: price × consumption = 40×60 = 50×48 = 60×40 = 2400. Thus at ₹80, consumption = 2400/80 = 30 litres.

Q11
Logical ReasoningNumber SeriesNumber / Alphabet Series
PASSAGE

Figure/sequence on PDF page 8

Question includes a visual element.

Consider the figures given below. To fit the question mark, the correct answer is

AFigure option A — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
BFigure option B — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
CFigure option C — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
DFigure option D — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The symbols and marked positions follow the sequence shown in the preceding figures; option A completes the required progression.

Q12
Logical ReasoningMathematical OperationsOperator / Symbol Problems

Consider the following matrix:

3 8 10 2 ? 1

6 56 90 2 20 0

What is the missing number at ‘?’ in the matrix ?

A5
B0
C7
D3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Each lower entry is the upper entry multiplied by the number immediately below the corresponding pattern: 3×2=6, 8×7=56, 10×9=90, 2×1=2, so ?×4=20 and ?=5.

Q13
Logical ReasoningNumber SeriesNumber / Alphabet Series

What is the missing number ‘X’ of the series 7, X, 21, 31, 43?

A11
B12
C13
D14
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The differences are 6, 8, 10, 12, so X=13.

Q14
Logical ReasoningNon-Verbal ReasoningFigure / Spatial Reasoning
PASSAGE

Figure options on PDF page 8

Question includes a visual element.

Four cardboard pieces of specific shapes are shown in the following figure. Which one of the following figures given can be formed by joining these pieces together?

AFigure option A — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
BFigure option B — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
CFigure option C — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
DFigure option D — see the original figure on PDF page 8.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Only option D can be assembled from the four given cardboard pieces without changing their shapes.

Q15
Quantitative AptitudePercentageBasic Percentage

In a test, a candidate attempted only 8 questions and secured 50% marks in each of the questions. If he obtained a total of 40% in the test and all questions in the test carried equal marks, how many questions were there in the test?

A8
B10
C15
D16
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The candidate earned 8×50%=4 question-equivalents. This is 40% of the total, so total questions = 4/0.40 = 10.

Q16
Quantitative AptitudeProblems Based on AgesAge Problems

A father is nine times as old as his son and the mother is eight times as old as the son. The sum of the father’s and the mother’s age is 51 years. What is the age of the son?

A7 years
B5 years
C4 years
D3 years
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Let the son's age be x. Then 9x+8x=51, so 17x=51 and x=3.

Q17
Logical ReasoningBlood RelationsFamily Relations

Four persons A, B, C and D consisting of two married couples are in a group. Both the women are shorter than their respective husbands. A is the tallest among the four. C is taller than B. D is B’s brother. In this context, which one of the following statements is not correct?

AAll four have family ties.
BB is the shortest among the four.
CC is taller than D.
DA is B’s husband.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

D is B's brother, so C being taller than D is not forced by the given constraints; the other statements are consistent with the family and height relations.

Q18
Logical ReasoningPuzzlesLogic Puzzles & Scheduling

Consider the following statements:

1. A man had a wife, two sons and two daughters in his family.

2. The daughters were invited to a feast and the male members of the family went out to take part in a picnic.

3. The man’s father did not return from his work.

Which of the following statements is true?

AOnly the man’s wife was left at home.
BIt is likely that the man’s wife was left at home.
CNone was left at home.
DMore than one person was left at home.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The statements allow the wife to remain at home, but do not establish that she definitely did; therefore 'likely' is the supported statement.

Q19
Logical ReasoningPuzzlesLogic Puzzles & Scheduling

Geeta: Naresh has become a better boxer since he started meditation.

Radha: Impossible. A boxer’s most important asset is his aggressiveness.

Radha’s statement reflects her belief that

Ameditation tends to make a person less aggressive.
Bmeditation has little or no effect on the person who practises it.
CNaresh was a poor boxer earlier because he was not aggressive enough.
DNaresh would not have taken to meditation as he was a boxer.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Radha rejects the improvement because she regards aggressiveness as essential; her statement therefore implies that meditation tends to reduce aggressiveness.

Q20
Logical ReasoningSyllogismSyllogism & Set Relations

All good athletes want to win and all athletes who want to win eat a well-balanced diet; therefore all athletes who do not eat a well-balanced diet are bad athletes. The best conclusion from this statement is that

Ano bad athlete wants to win.
Bno athlete who does not eat a well-balanced diet is a good athlete.
Cevery athlete who eats a well-balanced diet is a good athlete.
Dall athletes who want to win are good athletes.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

If every good athlete wants to win and every athlete who wants to win eats a balanced diet, then an athlete who does not eat a balanced diet cannot be a good athlete.

Q21
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
PASSAGE

The richer States have a responsibility to cut down carbon emissions and promote clean energy investments. These are the States that got electricity, grew faster and now have high per capita income, making them capable of sharing India’s burden of becoming eco-friendly. Delhi, for example, can help by generating its own clean electricity using solar rooftop panels Your Personal Exams Guide

Which among the following is the most logical and rational assumption that can be made from the above passage?

AThe richer States must lead in the production and adoption of renewable energy.
BThe poor States always have to depend on rich States for electricity.
CThe State Electricity Board can improve their finances by undertaking renewable energy projects.
DThe high economic disparity between the rich and poor States is the major cause of high carbon emissions in India.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage argues that richer States have greater capacity and responsibility to lead clean-energy adoption and help poorer States.

Q22
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

Set against a rural backdrop, ‘Stench of kerosene’ is the story of a couple, Guleri and Manak, who have been happily married for several years but do not have a child. Manak’s mother is desperate to have a grandchild to carry on the family name. Hence, she gets Manak remarried in Guleri’s absence. Manak, who acts as a reluctant but passive spectator, is meanwhile, informed by a friend that Guleri, on hearing about her husband's second marriage, poured kerosene on her clothes and set fire to them. Manak is heartbroken and begins to live or even help poor States finance their clean as if he were a dead man, When his second wife energy projects. It is no secret that State Electricity Boards, which control 95% of the delivers a son, Manak stares at the child for a long time and blurts out, “Take him away! He distribution network, are neck-deep in losses. stinks of kerosene.” These losses further discourage State utilities a, Ss BBicoay . 8 22. This is a sensitive issue-based story which from adopting renewable energy as it is more tries to sensitise the readers about expensive than fossil fuels. (a) Male chauvinism and infidelity (b} Love and betrayal (c) Lack of legal safeguards for women 21. Which among the following is the most logical and rational assumption that can {d)} Influence of patriarchal mindset be made from the above passage ? (ai The richer States must lead in the

This is a sensitive issue-based story which tries to sensitise the readers about

AMale chauvinism and infidelity
BLove and betrayal
CLack of legal safeguards for women
DInfluence of patriarchal mindset
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The story centres on a woman's forced marginalisation within a patriarchal family structure and the consequences of that mindset.

Q23
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

production and adoption of renewable The ultimate aim of government is not to SUET EY rule or control by fear, nor to demand obedience, (b) The poor States always have to depend but conversely, to free every man from fear, that on rich States for electricity. he may live in all possible security. In other . words, to strengthen his natural right to exist (c} The State improve their finances by undertaking Electricit; Ss Gi . na : emieity Board an and work without injury to himself or others. ; : The object of government is not to change men sean energy pryects: from rational beings into beasts or puppets. It (d) The high economic disparity between | should enable them to develop their minds and the rich and poor States is the major | bodies in security, and to employ their reason cause of high carbon emissions in India. unshackled. B-AQN-O-KYB (12-A)

Which among the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage?

AThe true aim of government is to secure the citizens their social and political freedom.
BThe primary concern of government is to provide absolute social security to all its citizens.
CThe best government is the one that allows the citizens to enjoy absolute liberty in all matters of life.
DThe best government is the one that provides absolute physical security to the people of the country.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage defines government as protecting people from fear while allowing them to live and reason freely; it does not support absolute liberty or merely physical security.

Q24
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
PASSAGE

Our municipal corporations are understaffed. The issue of skills and competencies of the staff poses an even greater challenge. Urban services delivery and infrastructure are complex to plan and execute. They require a high degree of specialization and professionalism. The current framework within which municipal employees, including senior management, are recruited does not adequately factor in the technical and managerial competencies required. Cadre and recruitment rules only specify the bare minimum in academic qualifications. There is no mention of managerial or technical competencies, or of relevant work experience. This is the case with most municipal corporations. They also suffer from weak organisation design and structure. B-AQN-O-KYB Your Personal Exams Guide 24. Which among the following is the most logical and rational assumption that-can be made from the above passage ? (a) The task of providing urban services is a complex issue which requires the organisational expansion of municipal bodies all over the country, (b) Our cities can provide better quality of life if our local government bodies have adequate staff with required skills and competencies. (c) Lack of skilled staff is due to the absence of institutions which offer the requisite skills in city management. (d) Our country is not taking advantage of the demographic dividend to manage the problems associated with rapid urbanization.

Which among the following is the most logical and rational assumption that can be made from the above passage?

AThe task of providing urban services is a complex issue which requires the organisational expansion of municipal bodies all over the country.
BOur cities can provide better quality of life if our local government bodies have adequate staff with required skills and competencies.
CLack of skilled staff is due to the absence of institutions which offer the requisite skills in city management.
DOur country is not taking advantage of the demographic dividend to manage the problems associated with rapid urbanization.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage identifies inadequate staffing, skills and competencies as barriers to effective urban service delivery, so adequate skilled staff is the relevant assumption.

Q25
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Flamingos in large flocks in the wild are social and extremely loyal. They perform group mating dances. Parents are very fond of their chicks, protection while both males and females fly off to search for food. gathering them into créches for 25. Which among the following is the most logieal corollary to the above passage ? (a) Mass nesting in all species of birds is essential to ensure complete survival of their offspring. (b) Only birds have the capacity to develop social behaviour and thus can do mass nesting to raise their chicks in safety. (ce) Social behaviour in some species of birds increases the odds of survival in an unsafe world. (d) All species of birds set up créches for their chicks to teach them social behaviour and loyalty.

Which among the following is the most logical corollary to the above passage?

AMass nesting in all species of birds is essential to ensure complete survival of their offspring.
BOnly birds have the capacity to develop social behaviour and thus can do mass nesting to raise their chicks in safety.
CSocial behaviour in some species of birds increases the odds of survival in an unsafe world.
DAll species of birds set up crèches for their chicks to teach them social behaviour and loyalty.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage gives flamingos as an example of social behaviour that protects offspring; it does not justify universal claims about all birds.

Q26
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

Vast numbers of Indian citizens without bank accounts live in rural areas, are financially and functionally illiterate, and have little experience with technology. A research study was conducted in a particular area in which electronic wage payments in Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) are meant to go directly to the poor. It was observed that recipients often assume that the village leader needs to mediate the process, as was the case under the previous paper-based system. Among households under this research study area who claimed to have at least one bank account, over a third reported still receiving MGNREGS wages in cash directly from a village leader. 26. What is the most logical, rational and crucial message that is implied in the above passage ? (a) MGNREGS should be extended only to those who have a bank account. (b) The paper-based system of payments is more efficient than electronic payment in the present scenario. (c) The goal of electronic wage payments was not to eliminate mediation by village leaders. (d) It is essential to provide financial literacy to the rural poor. B-AQN-O-KYB Your Personal Exams Guide

What is the most logical, rational and crucial message that is implied in the above passage?

AMGNREGS should be extended only to those who have a bank account.
BThe paper-based system of payments is more efficient than electronic payment in the present scenario.
CThe goal of electronic wage payments was not to eliminate mediation by village leaders.
DIt is essential to provide financial literacy to the rural poor.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage highlights financial and functional illiteracy as the reason rural recipients still rely on intermediaries despite electronic payments.

Q27
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionStatement Evaluation
PASSAGE

Individuals, groups and leaders who promote human development operate under strong institutional, structural and political constraints that affect policy ‘options. But experience suggests broad principles for shaping an appropriate agenda for human development. One important finding from several decades of human development experience is that focusing exclusively on economic growth is problematic. While we have good knowledge about how to advance health and education, the causes of growth are much less certain and growth is often elusive. Further, an unbalanced emphasis on growth is often associated with negative environmental consequences and adverse distributional effects, The experience of China, with its impressive growth record, reflects these broader concerns and underlines the importance of balanced investments in the non-income aspects of human approaches that emphasize development. 27. With reference to the above passage, consider the following statements : Ll In developing countries, a strong institutional framework is the only requirement for human development and policy options. 2. Human development and economic growth are not always positively inter-related. 3. Focusing only on human development should be the goal of economic growth. Which of the above statements is/are correct ? (a) lonly (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2only (d) 1,2and3

With reference to the above passage, consider the following statements:

1. In developing countries, a strong institutional framework is the only requirement for human development and policy options.

2. Human development and economic growth are not always positively inter-related.

3. Focusing only on human development should be the goal of economic growth.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A1 only
B2 and 3 only
C2 only
D1, 2 and 3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage rejects exclusive reliance on one factor and supports balanced human development. Only statement 2 is consistent with it.

Q28
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
PASSAGE

Individuals, groups and leaders who promote human development operate under strong institutional, structural and political constraints that affect policy ‘options. But experience suggests broad principles for shaping an appropriate agenda for human development. One important finding from several decades of human development experience is that focusing exclusively on economic growth is problematic. While we have good knowledge about how to advance health and education, the causes of growth are much less certain and growth is often elusive. Further, an unbalanced emphasis on growth is often associated with negative environmental consequences and adverse distributional effects, The experience of China, with its impressive growth record, reflects these broader concerns and underlines the importance of balanced investments in the non-income aspects of human approaches that emphasize development. 27. With reference to the above passage, consider the following statements : Ll In developing countries, a strong institutional framework is the only requirement for human development and policy options. 2. Human development and economic growth are not always positively inter-related. 3. Focusing only on human development should be the goal of economic growth. Which of the above statements is/are correct ? (a) lonly (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2only (d) 1,2and3

With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

1. Higher economic growth is essential to ensure reduction in economic disparity.

2. Environmental degradation is sometimes a consequence of economic growth.

Which of the above is/are valid assumption/assumptions?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage says an unbalanced emphasis on growth can produce adverse distributional and environmental effects; it does not say higher growth is essential to reduce disparity.

Q29
Logical ReasoningRanking & OrderingRanking & Position

If A runs less fast than B, and B runs as fast but not faster than C; then, as compared to A, C runs

Aslower than A
Bfaster than A
Cwith same speed as A
DGiven data is not sufficient to determine
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

A is slower than B, while C is at least as fast as B; therefore C must be faster than A.

Q30
Quantitative AptitudeRatio and ProportionRatio & Proportion

Each of A, B, C and D has ₹100. A pays ₹20 to B, who pays ₹10 to C, who gets ₹30 from D. In this context, which one of the following statements is not correct?

AC is the richest.
BD is the poorest.
CC has more than what A and D have together.
DB is richer than D.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Final amounts are A=80, B=110, C=140 and D=70. C does not exceed A+D, because 140 < 80+70=150.

Q31
Logical ReasoningSet TheorySets & Venn Diagrams

In a town, 45% population read magazine A, 55% read magazine B, 40% read magazine C, 30% read magazines A and B, 15% read magazines B and C, 25% read magazines A and C; and 10% read all the three magazines. What percentage do not read any magazine?

A10%
B15%
C20%
D25%
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Using inclusion–exclusion, the percentage reading at least one is 45+55+40−30−15−25+10=80%; hence 20% read none.

Q32
Logical ReasoningSyllogismSyllogism & Set Relations

Examine the following statements:

1. Lady’s finger is tastier than cabbage.

2. Cauliflower is tastier than lady’s finger.

3. Cabbage is not tastier than peas.

The conclusion that can be drawn from these statements is that

Apeas are as tasty as lady’s finger.
Bpeas are as tasty as cauliflower and lady’s finger.
Ccabbage is the least tasty of the four vegetables.
Dcauliflower is tastier than cabbage.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Cauliflower is tastier than lady’s finger and lady’s finger is tastier than cabbage; therefore cauliflower is tastier than cabbage.

Q33
Logical ReasoningDirection SenseDirection, Distance & Turns

Shahid and Rohit start from the same point in opposite directions. After each 1 km, Shahid always turns left and Rohit always turns right. Which of the following statements is correct?

AAfter both have travelled 2 km, the distance between them is 4 km.
BThey meet after each has travelled 3 km.
CThey meet for the first time after each has travelled 4 km.
DThey go on without ever meeting again.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

After the first kilometre they move in opposite directions; after the next turns they move toward parallel perpendicular paths, and after the third kilometre their paths bring them to the same point.

Q34
Quantitative AptitudeTime, Speed and DistanceDistance, Time & Speed

In a 500 metres race, B starts 45 metres ahead of A, but A wins the race while B is still 35 metres behind. What is the ratio of the speeds of A to B assuming that both start at the same time?

A25:21
B25:20
C5:3
D5:7
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

When A finishes 500 m, B has covered 500−45−35=420 m. Equal time gives speed ratio 500:420 = 25:21.

Q35
Quantitative AptitudeMixture and AlligationAlligation / Concentration

Two equal glasses of same type are respectively 1/3 and 1/4 full of milk. They are then filled up with water and the contents are mixed in a pot. What is the ratio of milk and water in the pot?

A7:17
B1:3
C9:21
D11:23
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Milk = 1/3+1/4=7/12 of one glass volume; water = 2/3+3/4=17/12. Ratio = 7:17.

Q36
Quantitative AptitudeSet TheorySets & Venn Diagrams

Out of 130 students appearing in an examination, 62 failed in English, 52 failed in Mathematics, whereas 24 failed in both English and Mathematics. The number of students who passed finally is

A40
B50
C55
D60
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Failed in at least one = 62+52−24=90. Therefore passed = 130−90=40.

Q37
Logical ReasoningSet TheorySets & Venn Diagrams

In a group of persons travelling in a bus, 6 persons can speak Tamil, 15 can speak Hindi and 6 can speak Gujarati. In that group none can speak any other language. If 2 persons in the group can speak two languages only and one person can speak all the three languages, then how many persons are there in the group?

A21
B22
C23
D24
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The total of language memberships is 6+15+6=27. A person speaking all three contributes 3 and each of the two bilingual persons contributes 2, so total people = 27−2−2=23.

Q38
Quantitative AptitudeRatio and ProportionRatio & Proportion

In a parking area, the total number of wheels of all the cars (four-wheelers) and scooters/motorbikes (two-wheelers) is 100 more than twice the number of parked vehicles. The number of cars parked is

A35
B45
C50
D55
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

If cars=x and two-wheelers=y, 4x+2y=2(x+y)+100, giving 2x=100 and x=50.

Q39
Logical ReasoningStatement & ConclusionStatement, Assumption & Conclusion
PASSAGE

The mangrove food-chain statement on PDF page 20.

Which among the following is the most logical inference of the above statement?

ACoastal areas cannot have food chains without mangroves.
BMangroves are an essential component of all marine ecosystems.
CMangroves have a crucial role in some of the coastal food chains.
DThe composition of marine flora and fauna is largely determined by mangroves.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The statement traces a food chain beginning with mangrove leaf litter; it supports a crucial role in some coastal food chains, not a universal claim about all marine ecosystems.

Q40
Logical ReasoningStatement & ConclusionStatement, Assumption & Conclusion
PASSAGE

Liberty statement on PDF page 20.

“By liberty I mean the eager maintenance of that atmosphere in which men have the opportunity to be their best selves.” Which one of the following expresses the view implied in the above statement?

ALiberty is the absence of restraint on human action.
BLiberty is what law permits people to perform.
CLiberty is the ability to do what one desires.
DLiberty is the maintenance of conditions for the growth of human personality.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The statement defines liberty positively as maintaining conditions in which people can develop their capacities, matching option D.

Q41
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

Climate change is already making many people hungry all over the world, by disrupting crop yields and pushing up prices. And it is not just food but nutrients that are becoming scarcer as the climate changes. It is the poorest communities that will suffer the worst effects of climate change, including increased hunger and malnutrition as crop production and livelihoods are threatened. On the other hand, poverty is a driver of climate change, as desperate communities resort to unsustainable use of resources to meet current needs. 43. Which among the following is the mest logical corollary to the above passage ? (a} Government should allocate more funds to poverty alleviation programmes and increase food subsidies to the poor communities. (b) Poverty and climate impacts reinforce each other and therefore we have to re-imagine our food systems. (c) All the countries of the world must unite in fighting poverty and malnutrition and treat poverty as a global problem. (d) We must stop unsustainable agricultural practices immediately and control food prices. Your Personal Exams Guide

What is the most logical, rational and crucial message that is implied in the above passage?

AUnder the present circumstances, India should completely avoid all trade liberalisation policies and all subsidies.
BDue to its peculiar socio-economic situation, India is not yet ready for trade liberalisation process.
CThere is no solution in sight for the problems of continuing poverty and inflation in India in the near future.
DEconomic reforms can often create a high inflation economy.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage links several inflationary pressures to outcomes of economic reforms, including trade liberalisation and subsidy reduction; it does not argue for abandoning reforms altogether.

Q42
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionArgument / Reasoning
PASSAGE

The Global Financial Stability. Report finds that the share of portfolio investments from advanced economies in the total debt and equity investments in emerging economies has doubled in the past decade to 12 percent. The phenomenon has implications for Indian policy makers as foreign portfolio investments in the debt and equity markets have been on the rise. The phenomenon is also flagged as a threat that could compromise global financial stability in a chain reaction, in the event of United States Federal Reserve’s imminent reversal of its “Quantitative Easing” policy. 42. Which among the following is the most rational and critical inference that can be made from the above passage ? (a) Foregin portfolio investments are not good for emerging economies. (b) Advanced economies undermine the global financial stability. (ec) India should desist from accepting foreign portfolio investments in the future. (d) Emerging economies are at a risk of shock from advanced economies.

In the light of the argument in the above passage, which one of the following statements is the most convincing explanation?

AThe Right of personal property is a Natural Right duly supported by statutes and scriptures.
BPersonal property is a theft and an instrument of exploitation. The Right of personal property is therefore violative of economic justice.
CThe Right of personal property is violative of distributive justice and negates the principle of cooperation.
DThe comprehensive idea of economic justice demands that the Right of each person to acquisition of property has to be reconciled with that of others.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage says property rights are not absolute and must be reconciled with liberty, equality and cooperation; D expresses that balance.

Q43
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Open defecation is disastrous when practised in very densely populated areas, where it is impossible to keep away human faeces from hands, Groundwater is also contaminated by open crops, wells, food and _ children’s defecation. Many ingested germs and worms spread diseases. They prevent the body from absorbing calories and nutrients. Nearly one-half of India’s children remain malnourished. Lakhs of them Diarrhoea leaves Indians’ bodies smaller on die from preventable conditions. average than those of people in some poorer countries where people eat fewer calories. Underweight mothers produce stunted babies prone to sickness who may fail to develop their full cognitive potential. The germs released into environment harm rich and poor alike, even those who use latrines. 43. Which among the following is the most eritical inference that can be made from the above passage ? (a) The Central and State governments in India do not have enough resources to afford a latrine for each household. (b) Open defecation is the most important public health problem of India. fc) Open defecation reduces the human capital of India’s workforce. (2) Open defecation is a public health problem in all developing countries. B-AQN-O-KYB Your Personal Exams Guide

Which among the following is the most critical inference that can be made from the above passage?

AThe Central and State governments in India do not have enough resources to afford a latrine for each household.
BOpen defecation is the most important public health problem of India.
COpen defecation reduces the human capital of India’s workforce.
DOpen defecation is a public health problem in all developing countries.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage connects open defecation to disease, malnutrition, stunting and impaired cognitive development, showing its effect on human capital.

Q44
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

We generally talk about democracy but when it comes to any particular thing, we prefer a belonging to our caste or community or religion. So long as we have this kind of temptation, our democracy will remain a phoney kind of demoeracy. We must be in a position to a man and to extend opportunities for development io those who deserve them and not to those who happen to belong to our community or race. This fact of favouritism has been responsible for much respect a man as discontent and ill-will in our country. 44. Which one of the following statements best sums up the above passage ? (a) Our country has a Jot of diversity with its many castes, communities and religions. (b) ‘True democracy could be established by providing equal opportunities to all. (c) So far none of us have actually understood the meaning of democracy. (d) It will never be possible for us to establish truly democratic governance in our country.

Which one of the following statements best sums up the above passage?

AOur country has a lot of diversity with its many castes, communities and religions.
BTrue democracy could be established by providing equal opportunities to all.
CSo far none of us have actually understood the meaning of democracy.
DIt will never be possible for us to establish truly democratic governance in our country.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage criticises caste/community favouritism and says democracy requires respect and equal opportunity rather than group-based preference.

Q45
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionStatement Evaluation
PASSAGE

The existence/establishment of formal financial institutions that offer safe, reliable, and alternative financial instruments is fundamental in mobilising savings. To save, individuals need access to safe and reliable financial institutions, such as banks, and to appropriate financial and reasonable financial incentives. Such access is not always available to all people in developing countries like India and more so, in rural areas. Savings help poor households manage volatility in cash flow, smoothen consumption, and build working capital. Poor households without access instruments to a formal savings mechanism encourage immediate spending temptations.

With reference to the above passage, consider the following statements:

1. Indian financial institutions do not offer any financial instruments to rural households to mobilise their savings.

2. Poor households tend to spend their earnings/savings due to lack of access to appropriate financial instruments.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage says access is not always available, not that institutions offer no instruments at all; it does support the second statement.

Q46
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

The existence/establishment of formal financial institutions that offer safe, reliable, and alternative financial instruments is fundamental in mobilising savings. To save, individuals need access to safe and reliable financial institutions, such as banks, and to appropriate financial and reasonable financial incentives. Such access is not always available to all people in developing countries like India and more so, in rural areas. Savings help poor households manage volatility in cash flow, smoothen consumption, and build working capital. Poor households without access instruments to a formal savings mechanism encourage immediate spending temptations.

What is the crucial message conveyed in the passage?

AEstablish more banks
BIncrease the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate
CIncrease the interest rate of bank deposits
DPromote financial inclusion
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage stresses access to formal financial institutions and suitable instruments, especially for poor and rural households.

Q47
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
PASSAGE

Vast numbers of Indian citizens without bank accounts live in rural areas, are financially and functionally illiterate, and have little experience with technology. A research study was conducted in a particular area in which electronic wage payments in Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) are meant to go directly to the poor. It was observed that recipients often assume that the village leader needs to mediate the process, as was the case under the previous paper-based system. Among households under this research study area who claimed to have at least one bank account, over a third reported still receiving MGNREGS wages in cash directly from a village leader. 26. What is the most logical, rational and crucial message that is implied in the above passage ? (a) MGNREGS should be extended only to those who have a bank account. (b) The paper-based system of payments is more efficient than electronic payment in the present scenario. (c) The goal of electronic wage payments was not to eliminate mediation by village leaders. (d) It is essential to provide financial literacy to the rural poor. B-AQN-O-KYB Your Personal Exams Guide

Which among the following is the most logical assumption that can be made from the above passage?

AGovernment should always be given wide discretionary power in all matters of administration.
BThe supremacy of rules and safeguards should prevail as opposed to the influence of exclusive discretion of authority.
CParliamentary democracy is possible only if the Government has wider discretionary power.
DNone of the above statements is a logical assumption that can be made from this passage.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage repeatedly warns of misuse of discretion and calls for rules and safeguards, making B the supported assumption.

Q48
Quantitative AptitudePermutation and CombinationPermutations / Arrangements

A selection is to be made for one post of Principal and two posts of Vice-Principal. Amongst the six candidates called for the interview, only two are eligible for the post of Principal while they all are eligible for the post of Vice-Principal. The number of possible combinations of selectees is

A4
B12
C18
DNone of the above
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Choose the Principal in 2 ways. After that, choose 2 Vice-Principals from the remaining 5: C(5,2)=10. Total = 20, which is not listed.

Q49
Quantitative AptitudePermutation and CombinationPermutations / Arrangements

A student has to opt for 2 subjects out of 5 subjects for a course, namely, Commerce, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics I and Mathematics II. Mathematics II can be offered only if Mathematics I is also opted. The number of different combinations of two subjects which can be opted is

A5
B6
C7
D8
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

There are C(4,2)=6 valid pairs excluding Mathematics II, plus the valid pair (Mathematics I, Mathematics II), giving 7.

Q50
Quantitative AptitudeRatio and ProportionRatio & Proportion

A person ordered 5 pairs of black socks and some pairs of brown socks. The price of a black pair was thrice that of a brown pair. While preparing the bill, the bill clerk interchanged the number of black and brown pairs by mistake which increased the bill by 100%. What was the number of pairs of brown socks in the original order?

A10
B15
C20
D25
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Let a brown pair cost x and let n be the number of brown pairs. Original bill = (15+n)x; swapped bill = (5+3n)x. Doubling gives 5+3n=30+2n, so n=25.

Q51
Logical ReasoningSet TheorySets & Venn Diagrams

The number of persons who read magazine X only is thrice the number of persons who read magazine Y. The number of persons who read magazine Y only is thrice the number of persons who read magazine X. Then, which of the following conclusions can be drawn?

1. The number of persons who read both the magazines is twice the number of persons who read only magazine X.

2. The total number of persons who read either one magazine or both the magazines is twice the number of persons who read both the magazines.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERX
EXPLANATION

The uploaded Series-A key marks this item X (dropped). It is therefore not scored and no official answer should be substituted.

Q52
Data InterpretationData InterpretationData Interpretation
PASSAGE

Graph on PDF page 28

Question includes a visual element.

The graph below depicts the earnings of A and B over the period 2000 to 2010. From the graph, which one of the following can be concluded?

AOn the average A earned more than B during this period.
BOn the average B earned more than A during this period.
CThe earnings of A and B were equal during this period.
DThe earnings of A were less as compared to B during this period.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The graph shows A's earnings above B's for most of the period, so the average earnings of A are higher.

Q53
Quantitative AptitudeTime and WorkWork & Time

Two pipes A and B can independently fill a tank completely in 20 and 30 minutes respectively. If both the pipes are opened simultaneously, how much time will they take to fill the tank completely?

A10 minutes
B12 minutes
C15 minutes
D25 minutes
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Combined rate = 1/20+1/30=1/12 tank per minute, so the tank fills in 12 minutes.

Q54
Logical ReasoningCubes and DiceCube / Dice Problems
PASSAGE

Cube adjacency problem on PDF page 28

Question includes a visual element.

Each of the six different faces of a cube has been coated with a different colour i.e., V, I, B, G, Y and O. Following information is given:

1. Colours Y, O and B are on adjacent faces.

2. Colours I, G and Y are on adjacent faces.

3. Colours B, G and Y are on adjacent faces.

4. Colours O, V and B are on adjacent faces.

Which is the colour of the face opposite to the face coloured with O?

AB
BV
CG
DI
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The adjacency constraints force G to be opposite O; hence option C.

Q55
Logical ReasoningSyllogismSyllogism & Set Relations

Consider the following statements followed by two conclusions:

Statements: Some men are great. Some men are wise.

Conclusion I: Men are either great or wise.

Conclusion II: Some men are neither great nor wise.

Which one of the following is correct?

AOnly conclusion I is valid
BOnly conclusion II is valid
CBoth the conclusions are valid
DNeither of the conclusions is valid
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The two statements establish only that some men are great and some are wise; neither universal conclusion follows.

Q56
Logical ReasoningAnalytical & Critical ReasoningAnalytical / Critical Reasoning

Consider the following statements:

1. Some claim to have seen UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects).

2. Life on other heavenly bodies is considered to be a possibility.

3. Voyage to space is now an established fact.

From the above statements, it may be concluded that

AUFOs are heavenly bodies
BUFOs are sent from other heavenly bodies
CSome living species in other heavenly bodies are more intelligent than man
DNothing definite can be said about the UFOs
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The statements do not establish the nature or origin of UFOs, so no definite conclusion about them is justified.

Q57
Quantitative AptitudeNumber SystemDigits & Number Formation

If ABC × DEED = ABCABC; where A, B, C, D and E are different digits, what are the values of D and E?

AD = 2, E = 0
BD = 0, E = 1
CD = 1, E = 0
DD = 1, E = 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

ABCABC = ABC×1001, so DEED=1001. Therefore D=1 and E=0.

Q58
Data InterpretationData InterpretationGraphs
PASSAGE

Graph on PDF page 30

Question includes a visual element.

Year-wise variation of the price of a certain commodity is shown in the following graph. The price of the commodity in the year 1990

Amust have been ₹10/-
Bmust have been ₹12/-
Cmust have been anywhere between ₹10/- and ₹20/-
Dis higher than that in the year 1991
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The graph does not fix one exact value for 1990; it places the price within the ₹10–₹20 range.

Q59
Data InterpretationData InterpretationBar Charts
PASSAGE

Bar charts on PDF page 30

Question includes a visual element.

The proportion of expenditure on various items by two families A and B are represented in the following Bar Charts. From these charts, we can conclude that

AFamily A spent more money on food than Family B.
BFamily B spent more money on food than Family A.
CFamily A and Family B spent the same amount on food.
DThe expenditure on food by Family A and Family B cannot be compared.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Family A spends 50% of ₹20,000 = ₹10,000 on food; Family B spends 10% of ₹1,00,000 = ₹10,000. The amounts are equal.

Q60
Logical ReasoningRanking & OrderingRanking & Position

Usha runs faster than Kamala, Priti runs slower than Swati, Swati runs slower than Kamala. Who is the slowest runner?

AKamala
BPriti
CSwati
DUsha
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The order is Usha > Kamala > Swati > Priti, so Priti is the slowest.

Q61
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

India has suffered from persistent high inflation, Increase in administered prices, demand and supply imbalances, imported inflation aggravated by rupee depreciation, and speculation — have combined to keep high inflation going. If there is an element common to all of them, it is that many of them are the outcomes of economic reforms. India’s vulnerability to the effects of changes in international prices has increased with trade liberalisation. The effort to reduce subsidies has resulted in a continuous increase in the prices of commodities that are administered. 61. What is the most logical, rational and crucial message that is implied in the above passage ? (a) Under the present circumstances, India should completely avoid all trade liberalisation policies and all subsidies. (b) Due to its peculiar socio-economic situation, India is not yet ready for trade liberalisation process. (c) There is no solution in sight for the problems of continuing poverty and inflation in India in the near future. (d) Economie reforms can often create a high inflation economy.

What is the most logical, rational and crucial message that is implied in the above passage?

AUnder the present circumstances, India should completely avoid all trade liberalisation policies and all subsidies.
BDue to its peculiar socio-economic situation, India is not yet ready for trade liberalisation process.
CThere is no solution in sight for the problems of continuing poverty and inflation in India in the near future.
DEconomic reforms can often create a high inflation economy.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage connects several inflationary pressures with outcomes of economic reforms, including trade liberalisation and subsidy reduction.

Q62
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

No Right is absolute, exclusive or inviolable. The Right of personal property, similarly, has to be perceived in the larger context of its assumed legitimacy. The Right of personal property should unite the principle of liberty with that of equality, and both with the principle of cooperation. Your Personal Exams Guide 62. In the light of the argument in the above passage, which one of the following statements is the most convincing explanation ? (a) The Right of personal property is a Natural Right duly supported by statutes and scriptures. (b) Personal property is a theft and an instrument of exploitation. The Right of personal property is therefore violative of economic justice. (c) The Right of personal property is violative of distributive justice and negates the principle of cooperation. (d) The comprehensive idea of economic justice demands that the Right of each person to acquisition of property has to be reconciled with that of others.

In the light of the argument in the above passage, which one of the following statements is the most convincing explanation?

AThe Right of personal property is a Natural Right duly supported by statutes and scriptures.
BPersonal property is a theft and an instrument of exploitation. The Right of personal property is therefore violative of economic justice.
CThe Right of personal property is violative of distributive justice and negates the principle of cooperation.
DThe comprehensive idea of economic justice demands that the Right of each person to acquisition of property has to be reconciled with that of others.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage treats property rights as legitimate only within a broader framework of liberty, equality and cooperation, so reconciliation with others is essential.

Q63
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionArgument / Reasoning
PASSAGE

The conflict between man and State is as old as State history. Although attempts have been made for centuries to bring about a proper adjustment between the competing claims of State and the individual, the solution seems to be still far off. This is primarily because of the dynamic nature of human society where old values and ideas constantly yield place to new ones. It is obvious that if individuals are allowed to have absolute freedom of speech and action, the result would be chaos, ruin and anarchy. 63. The author's viewpoint can be best summed up in which of the following statements ? (a) The conflict between the claims of State and individual remains unresolved. (b) Anarchy and chaos are the obvious results of democratic traditions. (c) Old values, ideas and traditions persist despite the dynamic nature of human society. (d) Constitutional guarantee of freedom of speech is not in the interest of society. B-AQN-O-KYB

The author's viewpoint can be best summed up in which of the following statements?

AThe conflict between the claims of State and individual remains unresolved.
BAnarchy and chaos are the obvious results of democratic traditions.
COld values, ideas and traditions persist despite the dynamic nature of human society.
DConstitutional guarantee of freedom of speech is not in the interest of society.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage's central point is that the tension between individual freedom and state authority remains unresolved.

Q64
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionStatement Evaluation
PASSAGE

Climate change is a complex policy issue with major implications in terms of finance. All actions to address climate change ultimately involve costs. Funding is vital for countries like India to design and implement adaptation and mitigation plans and projects. Lack of funding is a large impediment to implementing adaptation plans. The scale and magnitude of the financial support required by developing countries to enhance their domestic mitigation and adaptation actions are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)... The Convention squarely puts the responsibility for provision of financial support on the developed countries, taking into account their contribution to the stock of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Given the magnitude of the task and the funds required, domestic finances are likely to fall short of the current and projected . needs of the developing countries. Global funding through the multilateral mechanism of the Convention will enhance their domestic capacity to finance the mitigation efforts. 64. According to the passage, which of the following is/are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under UNFCCC regarding the role of developing countries in climate change ? 1. The scale and size of required financial support. i) The crop loss due to climate change in the developing countries. 3. To enhance the mitigation and adaptation actions in the developing countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) lonly (b) 2 and 3 only {c) land 3 only (d) 1,2and3 B-AQN-O-KYB 65. 66. 67.

According to the passage, which of the following is/are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under UNFCCC regarding the role of developing countries in climate change?

1. The scale and size of required financial support.

2. The crop loss due to climate change in the developing countries.

3. To enhance the mitigation and adaptation actions in the developing countries.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A1 only
B2 and 3 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly says the scale of financial support required to enhance mitigation and adaptation is debated; it does not identify crop loss as the debated issue.

Q65
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Climate change is a complex policy issue with major implications in terms of finance. All actions to address climate change ultimately involve costs. Funding is vital for countries like India to design and implement adaptation and mitigation plans and projects. Lack of funding is a large impediment to implementing adaptation plans. The scale and magnitude of the financial support required by developing countries to enhance their domestic mitigation and adaptation actions are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)... The Convention squarely puts the responsibility for provision of financial support on the developed countries, taking into account their contribution to the stock of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Given the magnitude of the task and the funds required, domestic finances are likely to fall short of the current and projected . needs of the developing countries. Global funding through the multilateral mechanism of the Convention will enhance their domestic capacity to finance the mitigation efforts. 64. According to the passage, which of the following is/are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under UNFCCC regarding the role of developing countries in climate change ? 1. The scale and size of required financial support. i) The crop loss due to climate change in the developing countries. 3. To enhance the mitigation and adaptation actions in the developing countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) lonly (b) 2 and 3 only {c) land 3 only (d) 1,2and3 B-AQN-O-KYB 65. 66. 67.

In this passage, the Convention puts the responsibility for the provision of financial support on the developed countries because of

1. their higher level of per capita incomes.

2. their large quantum of GDP.

3. their large contribution to the stock of GHGs in the atmosphere.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A1 only
B1 and 2 only
C3 only
D1, 2 and 3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly gives their contribution to the accumulated stock of greenhouse gases as the basis.

Q66
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Climate change is a complex policy issue with major implications in terms of finance. All actions to address climate change ultimately involve costs. Funding is vital for countries like India to design and implement adaptation and mitigation plans and projects. Lack of funding is a large impediment to implementing adaptation plans. The scale and magnitude of the financial support required by developing countries to enhance their domestic mitigation and adaptation actions are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)... The Convention squarely puts the responsibility for provision of financial support on the developed countries, taking into account their contribution to the stock of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Given the magnitude of the task and the funds required, domestic finances are likely to fall short of the current and projected . needs of the developing countries. Global funding through the multilateral mechanism of the Convention will enhance their domestic capacity to finance the mitigation efforts. 64. According to the passage, which of the following is/are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under UNFCCC regarding the role of developing countries in climate change ? 1. The scale and size of required financial support. i) The crop loss due to climate change in the developing countries. 3. To enhance the mitigation and adaptation actions in the developing countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) lonly (b) 2 and 3 only {c) land 3 only (d) 1,2and3 B-AQN-O-KYB 65. 66. 67.

With regards to developing countries, it can be inferred from the passage that climate change is likely to have implications on their

1. domestic finances.

2. capacity for multilateral trade.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage says domestic finances are likely to fall short of mitigation and adaptation needs; it does not discuss multilateral trade capacity.

Q67
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

Climate change is a complex policy issue with major implications in terms of finance. All actions to address climate change ultimately involve costs. Funding is vital for countries like India to design and implement adaptation and mitigation plans and projects. Lack of funding is a large impediment to implementing adaptation plans. The scale and magnitude of the financial support required by developing countries to enhance their domestic mitigation and adaptation actions are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)... The Convention squarely puts the responsibility for provision of financial support on the developed countries, taking into account their contribution to the stock of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Given the magnitude of the task and the funds required, domestic finances are likely to fall short of the current and projected . needs of the developing countries. Global funding through the multilateral mechanism of the Convention will enhance their domestic capacity to finance the mitigation efforts. 64. According to the passage, which of the following is/are a matter of intense debate in the multilateral negotiations under UNFCCC regarding the role of developing countries in climate change ? 1. The scale and size of required financial support. i) The crop loss due to climate change in the developing countries. 3. To enhance the mitigation and adaptation actions in the developing countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) lonly (b) 2 and 3 only {c) land 3 only (d) 1,2and3 B-AQN-O-KYB 65. 66. 67.

Which one of the following is essentially discussed in the passage?

AConflict between developed and developing countries regarding support for mitigation
BOccurrence of climate change due to excessive exploitation of natural resources by the developed countries
CLack of political will on the part of all the countries to implement adaptation plans
DGovernance problems of developing countries as a result of climate change
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage focuses on the financial responsibility and support dispute between developed and developing countries for climate mitigation and adaptation.

Q68
Logical ReasoningClocksClock Angles & Coincidence

Between 6 PM and 7 PM the minute hand of a clock will be ahead of the hour hand by 3 minutes at

A6:15 PM
B6:18 PM
C6:36 PM
D6:48 PM
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

At 6:t, the minute hand leads the hour hand by 3 minutes when 5.5t−30×6 = 18 degrees; solving gives t=36 minutes.

Q69
Quantitative AptitudePermutation and CombinationPermutations / Arrangements

There are 5 tasks and 5 persons. Task-1 cannot be assigned to either person-1 or person-2. Task-2 must be assigned to either person-3 or person-4. Every person is to be assigned one task. In how many ways can the assignment be done?

A6
B12
C24
D144
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Task 2 has 2 choices. For each choice, Task 1 has 2 choices among the remaining eligible persons, and the remaining three tasks can be assigned in 3! ways: 2×2×6=24.

Q70
Quantitative AptitudeRatio and ProportionRatio & Proportion

The monthly incomes of Peter and Paul are in the ratio of 4 : 3. Their expenses are in the ratio of 3 : 2. If each saves ₹6,000 at the end of the month, their monthly incomes respectively are (in ₹)

A24,000 and 18,000
B28,000 and 21,000
C32,000 and 24,000
D34,000 and 26,000
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Let incomes be 4x and 3x and expenses 3y and 2y. Equal savings give 4x−3y=6000 and 3x−2y=6000, yielding x=6000 and incomes ₹24,000 and ₹18,000.

Q71
Quantitative AptitudeTime, Speed and DistanceAverage Speed

Two cities A and B are 360 km apart. A car goes from A to B with a speed of 40 km/hr and returns to A with a speed of 60 km/hr. What is the average speed of the car?

A45 km/hr
B48 km/hr
C50 km/hr
D55 km/hr
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Total distance is 720 km and total time is 360/40+360/60=15 hours, so average speed = 720/15 = 48 km/hr.

Q72
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionDetail Retrieval
PASSAGE

A, B, C, D, E and F are cousins. No two cousins are of the same age, but all have birthdays on the same day of the same month. The youngest is 17 years old and the oldest E is 22 years old. F is somewhere between B and D in age. A is older than B. C is older than D. A is one year older than C.

Which one of the following is possible?

AD is 20 years old
BF is 18 years old
CF is 19 years old
DF is 20 years old
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Testing the age-order constraints shows F=18 is feasible; the other proposed ages conflict with the fixed relative-order conditions.

Q73
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

A, B, C, D, E and F are cousins. No two cousins are of the same age, but all have birthdays on the same day of the same month. The youngest is 17 years old and the oldest E is 22 years old. F is somewhere between B and D in age. A is older than B. C is older than D. A is one year older than C.

What is the number of logically possible orders of all six cousins in terms of increasing age?

A1
B2
C3
D4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The constraints permit two distinct consistent age orders, so the number of logically possible orders is 2.

Q74
Quantitative AptitudePermutation and CombinationPermutations / Arrangements

In a society it is customary for friends of the same sex to hug and for friends of opposite sex to shake hands when they meet. A group of friends met in a party and there were 24 handshakes. Which one among the following numbers indicates the possible number of hugs?

A39
B30
C21
D20
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

If there are m men and f women, handshakes give mf=24. The (4,6) split gives hugs C(4,2)+C(6,2)=6+15=21.

Q75
Logical ReasoningCoding-DecodingLetter / Number Coding

Two men, Anil and David, and two women, Shabnam and Rekha are in a sales group. Only two speak Tamil. The other two speak Marathi. Only one man and one woman can drive a car. Shabnam speaks Marathi. Anil speaks Tamil. Both Rekha and David can drive. Which of the following statements is true?

ABoth the Tamil speakers can drive a car.
BBoth the Marathi speakers can drive a car.
CBoth of those who can drive a car speak Marathi.
DOne of those who can drive a car speaks Tamil.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The drivers are Rekha and David. The language constraints make Rekha the second Tamil speaker and David the second Marathi speaker, so exactly one driver speaks Tamil.

Q76
Logical ReasoningDirection SenseDirection, Distance & Turns

In a plane, line X is perpendicular to line Y and parallel to line Z; line U is perpendicular to both lines V and W; line X is perpendicular to line V. Which one of the following statements is correct?

AZ, U and W are parallel.
BX, V and Y are parallel.
CZ, V and U are all perpendicular to W.
DY, V and W are parallel.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

From X⊥Y and X⊥V, Y∥V; from U⊥V and U⊥W, V∥W. Hence Y, V and W are parallel.

Q77
Quantitative AptitudeRatio and ProportionRatio & Proportion

A cow costs more than 4 goats but less than 5 goats. If a goat costs between ₹600 and ₹800, which of the following is a most valid conclusion?

AA cow costs more than ₹2,500.
BA cow costs less than ₹3,600.
CA cow costs between ₹2,600 and ₹3,800.
DA cow costs between ₹2,400 and ₹4,000.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

A cow costs more than 4 goats, so it is above ₹2,400; it costs less than 5 goats, so it is below ₹4,000. Thus D gives the valid overall range.

Q78
Logical ReasoningPuzzlesLogic Puzzles & Scheduling

A society consists of only two types of people — fighters and cowards. Two cowards are always friends. A fighter and a coward are always enemies. Fighters are indifferent to one another. If A and B are enemies, C and D are friends, E and F are indifferent to each other, A and E are not enemies, while B and F are enemies. Which of the following statements is correct?

AB, C and F are cowards.
BA, E and F are fighters.
CB and E are in the same category.
DA and F are in different categories.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

C and D being friends means they are fighters. A and E are not enemies, so both are fighters; E and F are indifferent, so F is also a fighter. Thus B is the coward and A,E,F are fighters.

Q79
Quantitative AptitudeArithmeticBasic Arithmetic

In a box of marbles, there are three less white marbles than the red ones and five more white marbles than the green ones. If there are a total of 10 white marbles, how many marbles are there in the box?

A26
B28
C32
D36
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

With W=10, red=13 and green=5. Total = 13+10+5 = 28.

Q80
Quantitative AptitudePercentageBasic Percentage

Candidates in a competitive examination consisted of 60% men and 40% women. 70% men and 75% women cleared the qualifying test and entered the final test where 80% men and 70% women were successful. Which of the following statements is correct?

ASuccess rate is higher for women.
BOverall success rate is below 50%.
CMore men cleared the examination than women.
DBoth (a) and (b) above are correct.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Using 100 candidates, 60 men yield 42 qualifiers and 33.6 final successes; 40 women yield 30 qualifiers and 21 final successes. More men succeed in absolute number.