General Studies II
Q.1
Medium
The Western Ghats in Karnataka are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In which year was this designation granted?
Explanation:
The Western Ghats were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 for their exceptional biodiversity.
Q.2
Medium
Which of the following is NOT a major coffee-producing region in Karnataka?
A Chikmagalur
B Kodagu
C Hassan
D Tumkur
Correct Answer:
D. Tumkur Explanation:
Chikmagalur, Kodagu, and Hassan are major coffee-producing regions. Tumkur is primarily known for other crops.
Q.3
Medium
The Vijayanagara Empire had its capital at Hampi in Karnataka. In which century was this empire established?
A 13th century
B 14th century
C 15th century
D 16th century
Correct Answer:
B. 14th century Explanation:
The Vijayanagara Empire was established in the 14th century (1336 CE) by Harihara and Bukka Raya.
Q.4
Medium
Which schedule of the Indian Constitution primarily deals with allocation of powers between the Union and States?
A Fifth Schedule
B Sixth Schedule
C Seventh Schedule
D Eighth Schedule
Correct Answer:
C. Seventh Schedule Explanation:
The Seventh Schedule contains three lists (Union, State, and Concurrent) defining legislative powers.
Q.5
Medium
Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) falls under which ministry?
A Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
B Ministry of Urban Development
C Karnataka State Government (Urban Development Department)
D Ministry of Commerce
Correct Answer:
C. Karnataka State Government (Urban Development Department) Explanation:
BDA is a state-level authority under the Karnataka State Government's Urban Development Department.
Q.6
Medium
Under the 73rd Amendment Act, which of the following is a mandatory function of Gram Panchayats?
A Defense and Foreign Affairs
B Taxation and Revenue Collection
C Agriculture and Rural Development
D Nuclear Energy Policy
Correct Answer:
C. Agriculture and Rural Development Explanation:
The 73rd Amendment mandates Gram Panchayats to focus on agriculture, rural development, and allied activities as per the Eleventh Schedule.
Q.7
Medium
Which of the following committees is responsible for examining administrative grievances in Karnataka?
A Public Accounts Committee
B Administrative Reforms Commission
C Ombudsman (Lokayukta)
D State Election Commission
Correct Answer:
C. Ombudsman (Lokayukta) Explanation:
The Lokayukta or Ombudsman institution examines and addresses administrative grievances against government officials.
Q.8
Medium
Which district in Karnataka has the highest literacy rate as per recent census data?
A Kodagu
B Hassan
C Udupi
D Chikmagalur
Explanation:
Udupi district consistently shows the highest literacy rate in Karnataka according to recent census data.
Q.9
Medium
A Karnataka-based company intends to establish a Special Economic Zone. Under which Act would this be primarily governed?
A Factories Act, 1948
B Special Economic Zones Act, 2005
C Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
D Bharatiya Labour Code, 2023
Correct Answer:
B. Special Economic Zones Act, 2005 Explanation:
Special Economic Zones are governed by the SEZ Act, 2005, which provides the framework for their establishment and operation.
Q.10
Medium
The Rajya Sabha has the exclusive power to create new All-India Services. Which article of the Constitution grants this power?
A Article 312
B Article 245
C Article 256
D Article 263
Correct Answer:
A. Article 312 Explanation:
Article 312 empowers the Rajya Sabha to create new All-India Services by a two-thirds majority in the presence of not less than two-thirds of members.
