WBCS Prelims General Knowledge Questions 2024
Question 54. The script of Santhal language is
(A) Tirhuta
(B) Devanagari
(C) Olchiki
(D) Chisoi
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) Olchiki
Explanation
Ol Chiki (also written as Ol Cemet’) is the official script of the Santali language. It was invented by Pandit Raghunath Murmu in 1925 to provide a unique writing system for the Santali-speaking community. Before the introduction of Ol Chiki, Santali was written using scripts such as Devanagari, Bengali, Odia, and Roman.
Exam Facts
- Santali belongs to the Austroasiatic (Munda) language family.
- Ol Chiki script was invented by Pandit Raghunath Murmu in 1925.
- Santali was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution by the 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
- Santali is widely spoken in Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar.
- The Santhal are one of the largest tribal communities in India.
- Tirhuta (Mithilakshar) is the traditional script of the Maithili language.
- Devanagari is the script used for languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Nepali, and Sanskrit.
Question 90.
“My two fingers on a typewriter have never connected with my brain. My hand on a pen does. A fountain pen, of course.” — Graham Greene.
Which one of the following is a manufacturer of Fountain Pens?
(A) Voltas
(B) Sailor
(C) Hyundai
(D) Kirloskar
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Sailor
Explanation
Sailor is a renowned Japanese manufacturer of fountain pens, established in 1911. It is internationally known for producing high-quality fountain pens with precision-crafted gold nibs. The other options—Voltas, Hyundai, and Kirloskar—are companies engaged in engineering, automobiles, or industrial products, not fountain pen manufacturing.
Exam Facts
- Sailor Pen Co., Ltd. was founded in 1911 in Hiroshima, Japan.
- The three globally famous Japanese fountain pen brands are Sailor, Pilot, and Platinum.
- Pilot Corporation was established in 1918 and is another leading Japanese pen manufacturer.
- Voltas is an Indian company of the Tata Group, known for air conditioners and engineering solutions.
- Hyundai is a South Korean multinational best known for automobiles and heavy industries.
- Kirloskar Group is an Indian industrial conglomerate founded by Laxmanrao Kirloskar in 1888, known for pumps, engines, and engineering products.
- Fountain pens use liquid ink stored in a reservoir or cartridge, unlike ballpoint pens, which use oil-based ink.
Question 125. The film Ek Ruka Hua Faisla (1986), directed by Basu Chatterjee, was adapted from the 1957 American film 12 Angry Men. Recently, it was adapted as a play in the Bengali language. Which group adopted it and what is the name of the play?
(A) Nandikar, Ek Theke Baro
(B) Sayak, Kundubabu
(C) Rangakarmee, Rudali
(D) Natasena, Fata Gopal
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) Nandikar, Ek Theke Baro
Explanation
The Bengali theatre group Nandikar adapted 12 Angry Men into the Bengali play Ek Theke Baro. The play revolves around twelve jurors debating the guilt of an accused and emphasizes reason, justice, and the importance of overcoming prejudice before delivering a verdict.
Exam Facts
- Ek Ruka Hua Faisla (1986) was directed by Basu Chatterjee.
- The film is an adaptation of 12 Angry Men (1957), directed by Sidney Lumet.
- The original story was written by Reginald Rose as a 1954 television play, later adapted into the 1957 film.
- Nandikar is one of the most prominent Bengali theatre groups, founded in 1960 in Kolkata.
- The Bengali adaptation is titled Ek Theke Baro (“One to Twelve”).
- Swatilekha Sengupta adapted the play into Bengali, and it was directed by Saptarshi Maulik.
- 12 Angry Men is regarded as one of the greatest courtroom dramas and explores themes of reasonable doubt, justice, prejudice, and civic responsibility.
Question 131. What is the Full Form of BRICS? How many Members are there in BRICS?
(A) Brazil, Russia, Indonesia, Chile & Spain. It is an intergovernmental organization comprising of fourteen countries.
(B) Britain, Romania, India, China and Sri Lanka. It is an intergovernmental organization comprising of five countries.
(C) Brazil, Russia, India, China & South Africa. It is an intergovernmental organization comprising of eleven countries.
(D) None of the above.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) Brazil, Russia, India, China & South Africa. It is an intergovernmental organization comprising of eleven countries.
Explanation
BRICS originally consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRIC). South Africa joined in 2010, after which the grouping became BRICS. As of 2026, BRICS has 11 full member countries, making option (C) correct.
Exam Facts
- BRIC was formed in 2006; the first BRIC Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009.
- South Africa joined in 2010, and the group was renamed BRICS.
- As of 2026, the 11 full members are: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia.
- BRICS is an intergovernmental grouping that promotes cooperation in economic, political, financial, trade, science, technology, and cultural fields.
- The New Development Bank (NDB), formerly called the BRICS Development Bank, was established in 2014 at the Fortaleza Summit (Brazil) and is headquartered in Shanghai, China.
- The Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) was also established in 2014 to provide financial support during balance-of-payments crises.
- India assumed the BRICS Chairmanship in 2026.
Question 146. The Indian Sangita Samaj was founded by—
(A) Rajanikanta Sen
(B) Jyotirindranath Tagore
(C) Dwijendralal Roy
(D) Sourindro Mohun Tagore
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Jyotirindranath Tagore
Explanation
The Indian Sangita Samaj (Bharat Sangit Samaj) was founded by Jyotirindranath Tagore in 1897 at Calcutta (Kolkata). The institution was established to promote Indian classical music, theatre, and cultural activities during the Bengal Renaissance. Jyotirindranath Tagore was a noted playwright, composer, translator, and musician, and played a significant role in the development of modern Bengali culture.
Exam Facts
- Indian Sangita Samaj (Bharat Sangit Samaj) was founded in 1897 in Calcutta (Kolkata).
- Jyotirindranath Tagore (1849–1925) was the elder brother of Rabindranath Tagore.
- He was a playwright, musicologist, composer, translator, artist, and social reformer.
- Jyotirindranath founded several cultural organizations, including the Adi Brahmo Samaj Sangit Vidyalay (1875) and Bharat Sangit Samaj (1897).
- Rabindranath Tagore received his early musical training under the guidance of Jyotirindranath.
- Sourindro Mohun Tagore (1840–1914) was also a famous musicologist, but he founded the Bengal Music School and the Bengal Academy of Music, not the Indian Sangita Samaj.
- Rajanikanta Sen was a celebrated Bengali poet and composer, while Dwijendralal Roy was a noted playwright, poet, and composer.
Question 147. What is the study and analysis of Coins known as?
(A) Coinography
(B) Epigraphy
(C) Numismatics
(D) Calligraphy
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) Numismatics
Explanation
Numismatics is the scientific study and analysis of coins, currency, medals, and other forms of money. It is an important source for reconstructing ancient and medieval Indian history, as coins provide information about rulers, dynasties, economy, trade, religion, and art. Questions on numismatics are frequently asked in competitive examinations.
Exam Facts
- Numismatics is the study of coins, currency, medals, and monetary history.
- Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions engraved on stone, metal, copper plates, etc.
- Palaeography is the study of ancient scripts and handwriting.
- Calligraphy is the art of beautiful handwriting, not the study of coins.
- The earliest coins in India were the Punch-marked Coins, issued around the 6th century BCE during the Mahajanapada period.
- Indo-Greek rulers were the first in India to issue gold coins extensively and to inscribe rulers’ portraits on coins.
- Gupta gold coins are regarded as some of the finest examples of ancient Indian numismatic art and provide valuable information about Gupta rulers.
Question 148. Which of the following is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
(A) Ellora Caves
(B) Kaziranga National Park
(C) Churches and Convents of Goa
(D) Gateway of India
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D) Gateway of India
Explanation
The Gateway of India in Mumbai is a historic monument but it is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In contrast, Ellora Caves, Kaziranga National Park, and the Churches and Convents of Goa are all inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to their outstanding cultural or natural significance.
Exam Facts
- Ellora Caves (Maharashtra) were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and are famous for Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut caves.
- Kaziranga National Park (Assam) became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and is renowned for the one-horned rhinoceros.
- Churches and Convents of Goa were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 and include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
- The Gateway of India is located in Mumbai, was designed by George Wittet, and was completed in 1924.
- The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites are classified into Cultural, Natural, and Mixed categories.
- India has 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (2026), comprising 35 Cultural, 7 Natural, and 1 Mixed site.
Question 180. Under what authority can the President of the United States of America impose tariffs?
(A) Congress passed laws allowing the President to impose tariffs unilaterally for national security reasons.
(B) The Constitution of the United States authorizes the President to impose tariff subject to some restrictions.
(C) The President of the United States has sweeping powers to impose tariffs to correct the trade imbalance.
(D) None of the above.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) Congress passed laws allowing the President to impose tariffs unilaterally for national security reasons.
Explanation
Under the U.S. Constitution, the power to levy tariffs belongs primarily to Congress. However, Congress has delegated limited authority to the President through various laws, such as the Trade Expansion Act, 1962, allowing tariffs to be imposed in specific situations, including national security. Therefore, option (A) is correct.
Exam Facts
- The U.S. Constitution (Article I, Section 8) gives Congress the power to regulate foreign commerce and impose tariffs.
- Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, 1962 allows the U.S. President to impose tariffs or other trade restrictions on imports that threaten national security.
- Section 301 of the Trade Act, 1974 authorizes action against unfair foreign trade practices.
- The Trade Act of 1974 also provides the basis for safeguard measures under Section 201.
- The U.S. Department of Commerce investigates whether imports threaten national security before action under Section 232.
- Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, generally paid by the importer.
- The World Trade Organization (WTO), established in 1995, regulates global trade and aims to reduce trade barriers among member countries.
Question 112. Homage was paid to Thiruvalluvar. Who was he? Why is he famous for?
(A) Thiruvalluvar was a celebrated Tamil poet and philosopher. He wrote Tirukkural, a classical Tamil text of 1,330 short couplets (kurals).
(B) Thiruvalluvar was a celebrated Assamese poet and philosopher. He translated the Mahabharata into Assamese.
(C) Thiruvalluvar was a king of the Chola dynasty. He conquered Ceylon.
(D) Thiruvalluvar was the court poet of Rajaraja I. He wrote several poems on contemporary subjects.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) Thiruvalluvar was a celebrated Tamil poet and philosopher. He wrote Tirukkural, a classical Tamil text of 1,330 short couplets (kurals).
Explanation
Thiruvalluvar is one of the greatest Tamil poets and philosophers, believed to have lived between the 1st century BCE and 5th century CE. He is best known for authoring the Tirukkural, a masterpiece of Tamil literature containing 1,330 couplets that deal with ethics, virtue, wealth, and love. The work is regarded as a universal guide to righteous living and is one of the most translated works in the world.
Exam Facts
- Tirukkural consists of 1,330 couplets (Kurals) arranged in 133 chapters, with 10 couplets in each chapter.
- The work is divided into three books: Aram (Virtue), Porul (Wealth), and Inbam (Love).
- Thiruvalluvar Day is celebrated annually in Tamil Nadu, usually during the Pongal festival period.
- A 133-foot-tall Thiruvalluvar Statue stands at Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, symbolizing the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural.
- Valluvar Kottam, a memorial dedicated to Thiruvalluvar, is located in Chennai.
- Tamil is one of the Classical Languages of India, recognized by the Government of India in 2004.
- The Tirukkural has been translated into more than 80 languages, making it one of the most translated literary works in the world.
WBCS Prelims General Knowledge Questions 2023
Question 40. Where is the Headquarters of the Asian Pacific Postal Union?
(A) Manila
(B) Bangkok
(C) Colombo
(D) Mumbai
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Bangkok
Explanation
The Asian-Pacific Postal Union (APPU) is an intergovernmental organization that promotes cooperation and development among postal administrations in the Asia-Pacific region. Its headquarters is located in Bangkok, Thailand. The APPU works closely with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) to improve postal services and regional coordination.
Exam Facts
- Headquarters: Bangkok, Thailand.
- Asian-Pacific Postal Union (APPU) was established in 1961.
- APPU is a restricted union of the Universal Postal Union (UPU).
- The Universal Postal Union (UPU) was established in 1874 by the Treaty of Bern.
- UPU Headquarters: Bern, Switzerland.
- The UPU became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1948.
- APPU promotes postal cooperation, training, modernization, and capacity building among postal administrations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Question 48. Where is the Appellate Body of the World Trade Organization (WTOAB) located?
(A) New York
(B) Geneva
(C) Paris
(D) Hague
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Geneva
Explanation
The Appellate Body of the World Trade Organization (WTO) was based at the WTO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. It functioned as the highest authority for hearing appeals in WTO trade disputes under the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU). Although the Appellate Body has been non-functional since December 2019 due to the absence of the required number of members, its official seat remains Geneva.
Exam Facts
- WTO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
- The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established on 1 January 1995, replacing the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), 1947.
- The Appellate Body consisted of 7 members, each appointed for a 4-year term, renewable once.
- The Appellate Body hears appeals against reports of WTO dispute settlement panels.
- Since 11 December 2019, the Appellate Body has remained non-functional because it lacks the minimum number of members required to hear appeals.
- The Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU) provides the legal framework for resolving trade disputes among WTO members.
- India is a founding member of the WTO and was also a contracting party to GATT (1947).
Question 76. Which city is the Headquarters of BIMSTEC?
(A) New Delhi
(B) Colombo
(C) Dhaka
(D) Jakarta
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) Dhaka
Explanation
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization that promotes cooperation among countries surrounding the Bay of Bengal. Its Permanent Secretariat is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which serves as the headquarters of the organization.
Exam Facts
- BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.
- Headquarters: Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- Established: 6 June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration.
- Member Countries (7): Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
- The BIMSTEC Secretariat was inaugurated in 2014 in Dhaka.
- BIMSTEC acts as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia.
- The organization works in areas such as trade, connectivity, security, energy, technology, agriculture, disaster management, and public health.
Question 111. When is International Customs Day 2023 observed?
(A) January 25
(B) January 26
(C) January 27
(D) January 28
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) January 26
Explanation
International Customs Day is observed every year on 26 January to recognize the role of customs administrations in facilitating international trade, ensuring border security, and combating smuggling. The day is celebrated under the auspices of the World Customs Organization (WCO).
Exam Facts
- International Customs Day: 26 January every year.
- The day commemorates the inaugural session of the Customs Co-operation Council (CCC) held on 26 January 1953 in Brussels.
- The Customs Co-operation Council (CCC) was renamed the World Customs Organization (WCO) in 1994.
- World Customs Organization (WCO) Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium.
- The WCO was established in 1952 as the Customs Co-operation Council.
- The WCO develops international customs standards, promotes trade facilitation, and combats smuggling, customs fraud, and illicit trafficking.
- India is a member of the World Customs Organization.
Question 144. In the world, in Postal Services India ranks—
(A) Third
(B) Second
(C) First
(D) Fourth
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) First
Explanation
India Post has the largest postal network in the world, with more than 1.5 lakh post offices, the majority of which are located in rural areas. It plays a vital role in mail delivery, financial inclusion, e-commerce logistics, and government welfare services across the country.
Exam Facts
- India ranks first in the world in terms of the largest postal network.
- India Post was established on 1 October 1854 during the tenure of Lord Dalhousie.
- Headquarters of India Post: New Delhi.
- India Post functions under the Ministry of Communications, Government of India.
- More than 90% of India’s post offices are located in rural areas, making it the world’s largest rural postal network.
- PIN (Postal Index Number) was introduced in India on 15 August 1972 by Shriram Bhikaji Velankar.
- A PIN Code consists of 6 digits: the first digit denotes the postal zone, while the last three digits identify the specific post office.
WBCS Prelims General Knowledge Questions 2022
Question 37. Who painted the image of Bharat Mata?
A. Rabindranath Tagore
B. Abanindranath Tagore
C. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
D. Mahatma Gandhi
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Abanindranath Tagore
Explanation
The famous painting Bharat Mata was painted by Abanindranath Tagore in 1905, during the Swadeshi Movement following the Partition of Bengal. The painting depicts Bharat Mata as a four-armed saffron-clad woman, symbolizing the nation with knowledge, food, clothing, and spiritual strength. It became an iconic symbol of Indian nationalism.
Exam Facts
- Abanindranath Tagore (1871–1951) was the founder of the Bengal School of Art.
- Bharat Mata was painted in 1905, the year of the Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon.
- The painting originally depicted the figure as “Banga Mata” (Mother Bengal) before becoming known as Bharat Mata.
- The four hands of Bharat Mata hold a book, sheaves of paddy, a white cloth, and a rosary (mala), symbolizing learning, food, clothing, and spirituality.
- Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay popularized the idea of Bharat Mata through his novel Anandamath (1882) and the song Vande Mataram.
- Rabindranath Tagore composed Jana Gana Mana, India’s National Anthem, and was the first Asian Nobel Laureate (1913).
- The Bengal School of Art emerged as a reaction against Western academic art and emphasized Indian cultural and artistic traditions.
Question 94. The earlier name of WTO was
A. UNCTAD
B. GATT
C. UNIDO
D. OECD
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) GATT
Explanation
The World Trade Organization (WTO) replaced the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) on 1 January 1995. GATT, established in 1947, was a multilateral agreement to reduce trade barriers, while the WTO became a permanent international organization with a broader mandate covering trade in goods, services, and intellectual property.
Exam Facts
- GATT stands for General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
- GATT was signed in 1947 and came into force on 1 January 1948.
- WTO was established on 1 January 1995 after the Uruguay Round (1986–1994) negotiations.
- WTO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
- The Marrakesh Agreement (1994) established the WTO.
- WTO administers agreements on trade in goods (GATT 1994), services (GATS), and intellectual property (TRIPS).
- UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) was established in 1964 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
- UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) is headquartered in Vienna, Austria, while OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) is headquartered in Paris, France.
Question 112. Legendary musician Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, who passed away recently, is associated with which of the following instruments?
A. Sitar
B. Flute
C. Sarod
D. Santoor
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D) Santoor
Explanation
Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma was one of India’s greatest classical musicians and is credited with popularizing the Santoor as a solo instrument in Hindustani Classical Music. Originally a folk instrument from Jammu & Kashmir, he transformed the Santoor into a respected classical concert instrument through his innovations and performances.
Exam Facts
- Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma (1938–2022) was a renowned Santoor maestro.
- The Santoor is a stringed percussion instrument traditionally associated with Jammu & Kashmir.
- Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma received the Padma Shri (1991), Padma Bhushan (2001), and Padma Vibhushan (2023, posthumously).
- He collaborated with Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Pandit Brij Bhushan Kabra to produce the iconic instrumental album Call of the Valley (1967).
- He also composed music for several Hindi films with Hariprasad Chaurasia under the duo Shiv–Hari, including Silsila, Chandni, Lamhe, and Darr.
- Pandit Ravi Shankar is associated with the Sitar, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia with the Flute (Bansuri), and Ustad Amjad Ali Khan with the Sarod.
- The Santoor is played by striking its strings with a pair of light wooden mallets, called mezrab or kalam.
Question 118. ‘Pongal’ is the main festival of
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Karnataka
C. Kerala
D. Andhra Pradesh
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu
Explanation
Pongal is the most important harvest festival of Tamil Nadu, celebrated every year in mid-January to mark the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai. It is a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), nature, cattle, and agricultural prosperity.
Exam Facts
- Pongal is the state festival of Tamil Nadu and is celebrated for 4 days:
- Bhogi Pongal
- Surya Pongal
- Mattu Pongal
- Kaanum Pongal
- The festival coincides with Makar Sankranti, usually observed on 14 or 15 January.
- Surya Pongal is dedicated to Lord Surya (Sun God).
- During the festival, rice is boiled with milk and jaggery in a new pot; when it overflows, people exclaim “Pongalo Pongal!”, symbolizing prosperity.
- Mattu Pongal is celebrated to honour cattle, especially cows and bulls, for their contribution to agriculture.
- The famous Jallikattu (traditional bull-taming sport) is associated with the Pongal celebrations in Tamil Nadu.
- Similar harvest festivals in other states include Makar Sankranti (North India), Magh Bihu/Bhogali Bihu (Assam), Lohri (Punjab), Uttarayan (Gujarat), and Onam (Kerala).
Question 160. Lata Mangeshkar was awarded Bharat Ratna in the year—
A. 2000
B. 2003
C. 2001
D. 2005
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) 2001
Explanation
Lata Mangeshkar, popularly known as the “Nightingale of India”, was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 2001 for her exceptional contribution to Indian music. She is regarded as one of the greatest playback singers in the history of Indian cinema.
Exam Facts
- Lata Mangeshkar (1929–2022) received the Bharat Ratna in 2001.
- She was popularly known as the “Nightingale of India”.
- She received the Padma Bhushan (1969), Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1989), Padma Vibhushan (1999), and Bharat Ratna (2001).
- Lata Mangeshkar sang thousands of songs in over 30 Indian languages during a career spanning more than seven decades.
- Her first major Hindi playback song was “Aayega Aanewala” from the film Mahal (1949).
- She was awarded France’s highest civilian honour, the Officer of the Legion of Honour, in 2007.
- The Bharat Ratna was instituted in 1954 and is India’s highest civilian award.
WBCS Prelims General Knowledge Questions 2021
Question 48. Which among the following novels of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay vividly reflected the revolutionary movement of India?
(A) Srikanta
(B) Pather Dabi
(C) Palli Samaj
(D) None of the above
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Pather Dabi
Explanation
Pather Dabi (1926) is Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s most famous political novel depicting the Indian revolutionary movement against British colonial rule. The novel portrays a secret revolutionary organization led by Sabyasachi and inspired many young nationalists. Owing to its revolutionary content, the British Government banned the book soon after its publication.
Exam Facts
- Pather Dabi was written by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and published in 1926.
- The novel was banned by the British Government under colonial rule because of its revolutionary and anti-colonial themes.
- Sabyasachi is the central revolutionary character in the novel.
- Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay (1876–1938) is one of the greatest Bengali novelists.
- His famous works include Devdas, Parineeta, Charitraheen, Srikanta, Palli Samaj, Biraj Bou, Grihadaha, and Pather Dabi.
- Srikanta is largely an autobiographical novel dealing with travel, society, and human relationships rather than revolutionary politics.
- Palli Samaj focuses on rural Bengali society and social reform, not the freedom movement.
Question 72. ‘Letters from Burma’ is a book of essays penned by
(A) Aung San Suu Kyi
(B) Rashbehari Bose
(C) Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay
(D) Subhas Chandra Bose
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) Aung San Suu Kyi
Explanation
Letters from Burma is a collection of essays written by Aung San Suu Kyi, the Myanmar democracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. The essays were originally published in the Japanese newspaper Mainichi Shimbun and provide insights into the culture, politics, and everyday life of Myanmar (Burma).
Exam Facts
- Letters from Burma was written by Aung San Suu Kyi and published in 1997.
- Aung San Suu Kyi received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her non-violent struggle for democracy.
- She is the daughter of General Aung San, regarded as the father of modern Myanmar.
- Myanmar was officially known as Burma until 1989, when the military government changed the country’s English name.
- Capital of Myanmar: Naypyidaw (since 2005); the former capital was Yangon (Rangoon).
- ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) includes Myanmar as a member.
- Other notable works of Aung San Suu Kyi include Freedom from Fear and The Voice of Hope.
Question 146. Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize is awarded in the field of
(A) Peace
(B) Science and Technology
(C) Medicine
(D) Economics
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) Science and Technology
Explanation
The Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Science and Technology is one of India’s most prestigious awards for scientific research. It is awarded annually by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to Indian scientists for outstanding contributions in various fields of science and technology.
Exam Facts
- The Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize was instituted in 1958 by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
- It is named after Sir Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (1894–1955), the first Director-General of CSIR and a pioneer of scientific research in India.
- The award recognizes outstanding contributions to science and technology by Indian scientists.
- The prize is awarded in disciplines such as Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Earth, Atmosphere, Ocean and Planetary Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Medical Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Computer Sciences.
- CSIR Headquarters: New Delhi.
- CSIR was established on 26 September 1942 and is India’s largest publicly funded research and development organization.
- Sir Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar is popularly known as the “Father of Research Laboratories in India.”
Question 155. How many new Government Medical Colleges have become functional in West Bengal during the last ten years? (WBCS 2020)
(A) 8
(B) 6
(C) 5
(D) 3
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (B) 6
Explanation
As per the West Bengal Government’s achievements during the ten years preceding the 2020 WBCS examination, 6 new Government Medical Colleges had become functional in the state. These colleges were established to increase MBBS seats and improve healthcare infrastructure across West Bengal.
Exam Facts
- The 6 new Government Medical Colleges were established at Arambagh (Hooghly), Tamluk (Purba Medinipur), Barasat (North 24 Parganas), Jhargram, Uluberia (Howrah), and Jalpaiguri.
- These colleges were set up under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for establishing new medical colleges attached to district/referral hospitals.
- The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
- The objective is to increase MBBS seats and strengthen healthcare facilities in underserved districts.
- AIIMS Kalyani is located in Nadia district, West Bengal, under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).
- In later years, additional government medical colleges became functional, increasing the total number in West Bengal. However, for the 2020 WBCS examination, the correct answer remains 6.
Question 196. ‘DUMA’ is related to Russia in the same way as ‘ECCLESIA’ is related to ________.
(A) Bhutan
(B) Afghanistan
(C) Greece
(D) Germany
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (C) Greece
Explanation
The Ecclesia (Ekklesia) was the principal popular assembly of citizens in Ancient Greece, especially in Athens. It was responsible for debating and deciding important matters such as laws, war, and foreign policy. Similarly, the Duma is the legislative body of Russia, making Greece the correct answer.
Exam Facts
- Duma refers to the State Duma, the lower house of the Federal Assembly (Parliament) of Russia.
- The Federal Assembly of Russia is bicameral, consisting of:
- State Duma (Lower House)
- Federation Council (Upper House)
- Ecclesia (Ekklesia) was the citizens’ assembly in Ancient Athens, regarded as one of the earliest institutions of direct democracy.
- In Ancient Athens, all adult male citizens could participate in the Ecclesia; women, slaves, and foreigners were excluded.
- The Boule (Council of 500) prepared the agenda for meetings of the Ecclesia.
- Ancient Greece is widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy, particularly through the democratic system of Athens.
- Parliament of Bhutan: Parliament of Bhutan (National Assembly and National Council).
WBCS Prelims General Knowledge Questions 2020
Question 46. International Day of the Tropics is observed every year on
(A) 23rd March
(B) 4th July
(C) 22nd September
(D) 26th June
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D) 26th June
Explanation
The International Day of the Tropics is observed annually on 26 June to highlight the unique challenges and opportunities faced by tropical countries. The day also raises awareness about the importance of the tropics in achieving sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.
Exam Facts
- International Day of the Tropics is observed on 26 June every year.
- The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2016.
- It commemorates the publication of the first State of the Tropics Report on 26 June 2014.
- The Tropics lie between the Tropic of Cancer (23½° N) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23½° S).
- Nearly 40% of the world’s population lives in the tropical region.
- Tropical regions are known for their rich biodiversity, tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and high agricultural productivity.
- Tropic of Cancer (23°30′ N) passes through 8 Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram.
Question 51. Who was known as the creator of modern Hindi literature?
(A) Lalluji Lal
(B) Padmakar Bhatta
(C) Premchand
(D) Harishchandra
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D) Harishchandra (Bharatendu Harishchandra)
Explanation
Bharatendu Harishchandra (1850–1885) is regarded as the “Father of Modern Hindi Literature” (Adhunik Hindi Sahitya ke Janak). He played a pioneering role in the development of modern Hindi prose, poetry, drama, and journalism. His writings promoted social reform, nationalism, and the use of Khari Boli Hindi.
Exam Facts
- Bharatendu Harishchandra (1850–1885) is known as the “Father of Modern Hindi Literature.”
- He is also called the “Father of Modern Hindi Theatre.”
- His famous works include Andher Nagari, Bharat Durdasha, Satya Harishchandra, and Chandravali.
- He promoted the use of Khari Boli Hindi in place of Braj Bhasha for modern literary writing.
- Premchand (1880–1936) is known as the “Upanyas Samrat” (Emperor of Novels) in Hindi literature. His famous works include Godaan, Gaban, Nirmala, and Karmabhoomi.
- Lalluji Lal (1763–1835) wrote Prem Sagar, one of the earliest works in modern Hindi prose.
- Padmakar Bhatta was a renowned Braj Bhasha poet of the Riti period.
Question 66. Teachers’ Day is observed every year in India on
(A) September 5
(B) October 2
(C) November 6
(D) December 25
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) September 5
Explanation
Teachers’ Day is celebrated in India every year on 5 September to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President and an eminent philosopher, teacher, and educationist. The day recognizes the invaluable contribution of teachers to society and the nation.
Exam Facts
- Teachers’ Day in India: 5 September (birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan).
- First celebrated: 1962, the year Dr. Radhakrishnan became the President of India.
- Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975) served as:
- 1st Vice President of India (1952–1962)
- 2nd President of India (1962–1967)
- He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1954.
- World Teachers’ Day is observed on 5 October by UNESCO, commemorating the 1966 UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.
- National Education Day in India is observed on 11 November, the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
- Children’s Day is celebrated on 14 November, the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Question 86. Who established the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of India in 1948?
(A) P.K. Iyengar
(B) M.R. Srinivasan
(C) Vikram Sarabhai
(D) Homi Bhabha
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D) Homi Bhabha
Explanation
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of India was established on 10 August 1948 by the Government of India under the Department of Scientific Research. Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha was its first Chairman and is regarded as the Father of India’s Nuclear Programme. Under his leadership, India laid the foundation for peaceful uses of atomic energy and nuclear research.
Exam Facts
- The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) was established on 10 August 1948.
- Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha was the first Chairman of the AEC and is known as the Father of India’s Nuclear Programme.
- The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) was established on 3 August 1954 and functions directly under the Prime Minister of India.
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is located at Trombay, Mumbai. It was originally established as the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (AEET) in 1954 and renamed BARC in 1967 after Homi Bhabha.
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) was founded by Homi Bhabha in 1945 in Mumbai.
- Vikram Sarabhai is known as the Father of the Indian Space Programme and was the founder of ISRO (1969).
- India’s first nuclear test, Pokhran-I (Smiling Buddha), was conducted on 18 May 1974 in Rajasthan.
Question 89. National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) was previously named as:
(A) National Centre of Disaster Management
(B) National Council of Disaster Management
(C) National Committee for Disaster Management
(D) National Task Force on Disaster Management
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (A) National Centre of Disaster Management
Explanation
The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) was originally established as the National Centre for Disaster Management (NCDM) under the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi, in 1995. After the enactment of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, it was renamed the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and became the apex national institute for disaster management training, research, and capacity building.
Exam Facts
- NIDM was previously known as the National Centre for Disaster Management (NCDM).
- It was established as NCDM in 1995 under the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi.
- It became the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
- NIDM Headquarters: New Delhi.
- The Disaster Management Act, 2005 provides the legal framework for disaster management in India.
- The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) was constituted in 2005 under the Disaster Management Act.
- The Prime Minister of India is the Chairperson of the NDMA.
Question 96. Samvidhan Divas or Constitution Day is celebrated in India on
(A) 3rd December
(B) 25th October
(C) 5th January
(D) 26th November
Answer & Explanation
Answer: (D) 26th November
Explanation
Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) is observed every year on 26 November to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. The Government of India officially began observing the day in 2015 to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.
Exam Facts
- Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas): 26 November every year.
- On 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution of India.
- The Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950, celebrated as Republic Day.
- Constitution Day has been officially observed since 2015.
- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee and is known as the Chief Architect of the Indian Constitution.
- The Constituent Assembly held its first meeting on 9 December 1946.
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly, while Dr. B. R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee.
Important Notice
We are currently providing Previous Year Questions with detailed answers and clear explanations. Since each question needs proper explanation and formatting, it takes time to upload all the years together.
We will be uploading the remaining years’ question answers one by one in the coming days. Please check this page regularly for updates. Your support helps us to create more accurate and useful content for every aspirant.
Leave a Comment