Explore topic-wise InterviewSolutions in Current Affairs.

This section includes 7 InterviewSolutions, each offering curated multiple-choice questions to sharpen your Current Affairs knowledge and support exam preparation. Choose a topic below to get started.

1.

Explain the economic and trade relations of India with Bangladesh.

Answer»

The economic and trade relations between India and Bangladesh are multifaceted. They embraced trade transaction, credit arrangements, joint ventures, transaction facilities and transport development. Their relation has remained intact even under adverse political conditions. Closer economic ties benefited to stabilize political relation between the countries especially after 1992.

Bangladesh is one of the most important markets for India’s export. In 2011-12 India’s total export to Bangladesh reached sizeable level. Setting up of South Asian Preferential Treaty Arrangement, Group of Eminent persons led by the leaders of South Asian countries are the land marks in the economic integration of the two countries.

2.

What is meant by G – 20 global group of countries?

Answer»

G – 20 refers to the largest established and emerging economies of the world. India is also a member of G – 20 countries.

3.

Write the objectives of India’s Foreign Policy.

Answer»

Objectives of India’s Foreign Policy are as follows: 

  • While maintaining friendly relations with neighboring countries, ensure that the defense and security of India are not affected.
  • Not to compromise about the geographical boundaries of the nation.
  • Protect the unity and integrity of the country. 
  • Protect the interests of India’s citizens living in other countries. This responsibility is fulfilled by the Indian embassies there. 
  • To establish economic and commercial relations with other countries for achieving the economic development of India.
4.

Explain the basic principles of Indian Foreign Policy in brief.

Answer»

The basic principles of Indian Foreign Policy are as follows:

(a) Non-Alignment which means not to join any military’ pacs and to remain independent in foreign affairs.

(b) India is always opposing the imperialism and colonialism. It played a major role in liberating the countries from the cluches of such power.

(c) As a founding member of UN. India has played a major role in achieving world peace through active support to the UN.

(d) India has stood by the principle of racial equality and opposes discrimination on the basis of race, religion, caste, colour and gender.

(e) Panchasheel is the fundamental principle of Indian foreign policy which emphasizes five principles of peaceful co-operation.

(f) India’s foreign policy emphasizes its concern towards small countries and sympathy towards divided countries.

(g) It is against to the cold war to end an attitude of rivalry.

5.

Explain the basic principles of Indian Foreign Policy.

Answer»

The basic principles of Indian Foreign Policy are as follows:

(a) Non-Alignment: India’s foreign policy has been based on the principle of non-alignment. This policy means refusal to accept any definite commitment or to join a system of military pacts or alliances. It implies a policy of peace. It is based on the belief that war should be avoided. Nehru declared, In the sphere of foreign affairs. India will follow an independent policy, keeping away from the politics of groups aligned against one another. India is also a leading member of the NAM.

(b) Opposition to Imperialism and Colonialism: Since India itself remained a victim of British imperialism, it has always opposed all forms of imperialism and colonialism. It has supported the cause of the exploited nations against the colonial powers. It popularized feelings and movements against imperialism. It has defended the rights of Indonesia, Namibia. Bangladesh etc. to become Independent nations.

(c) Faith in United Nations of Organisation: India has great faith in the UNO. It is a founder member of the UNO. India stands for the maintenance of international peace and security through the efforts of the UNO. It has always actively participated in all the activities of the UNO. India looks upon the UNO as an important instrument for bringing about a reduction of tensions and the establishment of honourable peace among the nations of the world.

(d) Opposition to apartheid and racial discrimination: India realized that racial discrimination is more dangerous than war itself. It has, therefore, consistently raised its voice against discrimination on the basis of race, religion, caste, colour and sex. It openly condemned South Africa for its policy of apartheid’.

(e) Panchsheel: The term panchsheel is associated with the foreign policy of India. It is based on five principles of international conduct. These principles were enunciated in the agreement of friendship between India and China in 1954. 

The principles are:

  • Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity’ and sovereignty. 
  • Non-aggression. 
  • Non-interference in internal affairs. 
  • Mutual benefit and equality. 
  • Peaceful co-existence.

(f) Tie with Commonwealth: Although India got its independence from British imperialism. India decided to remain within the Commonwealth of Nations. It is made up of Britain and other countries which had once been its colonies. Traditionally. India had many economic ties with UK and other member countries of Common wealth Association to get financial aid.

(g) Disarmament: Another essential concern for peace in India’s foreign policy has been arms control, disarmament and related matters, from the very beginning, India has advocated the prohibition of nuclear weapons and check on the proliferation of all kinds of weapons in the United Nations and other forums. In general, a major objective of India’s foreign policy has been comprehensive disarmament.

(h) Sympathy towards divided countries: Partition of India and Pakistan due to divide and rale policy of British in 1947, resulted in terrible communal riots, enormous suffering of people who moved out of their homes and had to begin their life again as refugees. Because of the bitter experience of this incident, India is sympathetic towards divided countries of the world.

(i) Affinity towards Afro-Asian countries: Though India has the relations with all countries of the world, it has special affinity towards the countries in Asia and Africa. India supported the freedom struggle of African countries and Nelson Mandela to become the first black leader as a President. India’s role is significant in the formation of ASEAN, SAARC as regional organisations to promote the regional interests.

(j) Against cold war: Cold war began with the formation of two power blocs at the end of II world war viz., US and USSR. Rivalry between them resulted in the emergence of many military alliances. 

Ex: NATO, ANZUS. SEATO. CENTO. As a leader of NAM, it stayed away from the two blocs. Hence India is emphasizing to end cold war and to restore world peace.

6.

Name any two Indian leaders who contributed for Indian Foreign Policy.

Answer»

Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vaajapeyee are the two leaders who contributed for India Foreign Policy.

7.

India coriducted nuclear tests in 1974 at ........(a) Sriharikota (b) Thumba (c) Pokharan(d) Jaitapur

Answer»

(c) Pokharan

8.

Explain the role of India in the minimizing of Sri Lankan ethnic problems.

Answer»

The extremist activities by LTTE with the support of Tamil communities in South East Asia and Tamil Nadu of India leads to violence in Sri Lanka in great extent during 1987. It arose the fear in large number of non-combatant Tamil population. In this tense atmosphere. Rajiv Gandhi-Jayewardene Agreement was signed in 1988 to solve the problem bilaterally.

The Agreement provided for an Indian Peace Keeping Force to oversee the surrender process of Tamil militants. The IPKF tries to combat the extremist activities in Sri Lanka and finally India agreed to withdraw the IPKF. India had shown its good neighbouring approach to minimize the Sri Lankan ethnic problems as far as possible.

9.

Bangladesh got freedom due to the efforts of ……(a) Nehru (b) Indira Gandhi (c) Gandhi

Answer»

Bangladesh got freedom due to the efforts of Indira Gandhi.

10.

……… principles were incorporated in the Bandung Declaration. (a) Non – Aligned Movement (b) Panchsheel (c) Trade and commerce (d) Racial discrimination

Answer»

(b) Panchsheel

11.

China became a Republic in ……(a) 1945 (b) 1947 (c) 1949

Answer»

China became a Republic in 1949.

12.

Which Institute provides training for officers of Indian Foreign Services (IFS)?(a) The Foreign Services Training Institute (b) An international association(c) Ministry of external affairs of India (d) All the above

Answer»

(a) The Foreign Services Training Institute

13.

Assertion(A): India has formal diplomatic relations with most of the nations. Reason(R): India is the World’s second most populous country.(a) A is correct and R explains A(b) A is correct and R does not explain A (c) A is wrong and R is correct (d) Both are wrong.

Answer»

(a) A is correct and R explains A

14.

……… policies aim to promote welfare economics and collective self-reliance among the countries (South Asia) (a) SAARC (b) Panchsheel (c) Non – Alignment (d) none

Answer»

Correct Answer is: (a) SAARC

15.

Foreign policy is framed to establish economic and ..... relations with other countries for achieving economic development of India,(a) Social (b) Commercial(c) Economic(d) All of above

Answer»

(b) Commercial

16.

Highlight the contribution by Nehru to India’s foreign policy.

Answer»

Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, as opposed to the rivalry of the two superpowers (America and Russia). The aim of India’s foreign policy of that time was ‘world co-operation, world peace, end of colonial imperialism, racial equality and non-alignment’.

17.

Describe the meaning and importance of Indian Foreign Policy.

Answer»

Meaning: Foreign policy in general terms means maintenance of relations with other countries and participation in international political and economic affairs. It is a combination of principles, interests and objectives through which a state formulates and conducts its relations with other countries. Importance of Indian Foreign Policy:

(a) External Sovereignty: The foreign policy of a nation represents its external sovereignty and freedom. India adopted its own foreign policy after the emancipation from British colonialism and emerged as a sovereign nation in the world.

(b) Protection of National Interest: India’s foreign policy emphasizes the glory of Indian freedom struggle, importance of India’s geographical location for its economic development and patriotism.

(c) Peace and Non-Violence: An important facet of India’s foreign policy is the concern for Gandhian ideals of peace and nonviolence. India achieved its independence by using these weapons and succeeded in inspiring the world.

(d) Economic Development: India’s foreign policy comprises of economic development and political stability to ensure the unity and integrity of the country. National security was conceived to protect the independence, territorial integrity, self-reliance.

(e) Democratic Ideals: India supports the Human Rights as the basic condition for democratic world and for egalitarian world. Indian believes in promotion of the principle of democratic ideals to strengthen the foreign policy.

18.

Prime Minister ...... shaped India’s Foreign Policy during the early period.(a) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (b) Dr. Manmohan Singh (c) Atal Bihari Vajpayee (d) Rajiv Gandhi

Answer»

(a) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

19.

The is an important aspect of India’s foreign policy ......(a) free economic policy (b) interdependence (c) non-alignment (d) nuclear development

Answer»

(c) non-alignment

20.

……… is the world’s second most populous country. (a) China (b) India (c) Pakistan (d) Srilanka

Answer»

India is the world’s second most populous country.

21.

Name the Prime Minister who followed these policies?(i) ....... : Look East (ii) ..... : Efforts to increase Foreign Direct Investment

Answer»

(i) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru: Look East

(ii) P. V. Narasimha Rao: Efforts to increase Foreign Direct Investment

22.

Name the three factors that influenced India’s foreign policy in the early phase.

Answer»

Three factors that influenced India’s foreign policy in the early period are: 

1. We made an effort to understand all international events and developments independently, without any pressure from any power. Peace has always been a central feature of India’s foreign policy.

2. The threats from China and Pakistan were also taken into account.

3. One more feature of India’s foreign policy at this time was the insistence on self reliance.

23.

Describe India’s relations with foreign nations post 1970.

Answer»

(i) In the decade of the 1970s, there came about some stability in India’s Foreign Policy.

(ii) India had risen as a powerful regional power in South Asia.

(iii) By conducting nuclear tests in 1974, India had also proved its nuclear capability.

(iv) From 1980, however, some changes began to take place. In order to increase cooperation among South Asian countries, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established.

(v) India initiated a dialogue to improve relations with China. India also started interaction with America for cooperation in the field of security.

24.

Flow did India promote the concept at regional development in the beginning?

Answer»

(i) In the beginning, India decided to improve relations with countries in Asia.

(ii) Efforts were taken to cooperate with Asian countries in order to achieve development and to keep our independence intact.

(iii) This concept of regional development later expanded to include Africa, as well.

(iv) But some Asian-African countries participated in the military pacts led either by America or the Soviet Union.

(v) This stopped the process of regional development. After this, countries of Asia and Africa,which did not participate in these military pacts supported the concept of non-alignment.

(vi) Peace and freedom became the fundamental principles of non aligned policy.

25.

Describe the conflicts India had to face in its early phase of foreign policy.

Answer»

In the early period, India had to face conflict with neighbouring countries. Wars happened between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir question in 1947 - 48 and 1965. In the third war, which happened in 1971, Pakistan broke apart and independent Bangladesh was created.

26.

Name the three things that influenced India’s foreign policy in the early phase.

Answer»

(i) Three things that influenced India’s foreign policy in this period.

(ii) We made an effort to understand all international events and developments independently, without any pressure from any power. Peace has always been a central feature of India’s foreign policy.

(iii) The threats from China and Pakistan were also taken into account.

(iv) One more feature of India’s foreign policy at this time was the insistence on self reliance.

27.

Describe the important changes that took place in India’s foreign policy from the 1980s.

Answer»

From 1980, some important changes began to take place. In order to increase cooperation among South Asian countries, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established. India initiated a dialogue to improve relations with China. India also started interaction with America for cooperation in the field of security.

28.

Write about Pandit Nehru’s contribution to India’s foreign policy in the early phase.

Answer»

Prime Minister Pandit Nehru shaped India’s foreign policy in the early period. He opposed colonialism through India’s foreign policy. He took an internationalist position and gave priority to global peace and security.

29.

State the importance of foreign policy.

Answer»

(i) Interdependence being a key feature in the international system each country has to decide the nations with which it should be friendly, in which bloc it should participate or what position it should take in international relations.

(ii) Such decisions should be made thoughtfully.

(iii) The theoretical framework in which such decisions are taken is called Foreign Policy.

(iv) Every sovereign and independent country decides its own Foreign Policy.

(v) Hence in the discipline of international politics, which studies international relations between nations, Foreign Policy has an important place.

30.

Consider the developments of India’s Foreign Policy from 1991 till date.

Answer»

(i) India’s Foreign Policy became more comprehensive and dynamic in the second stage. 

(ii) In the post-cold war period, the priority no longer remained on political and military relations. 

(iii) Several other dimensions like the economy, trade, education, and technology got included in foreign policy.

(iv) After 1991, India reduced the government controls over the economy and adopted the free market policy. 

(v) In the decade after 1990, our relations with South Asian countries like Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc. became stronger.

(vi) Our trade exchange with Israel, Japan, China, and European Union increased.

(vii) India began to participate in organizations at the international and regional levels more than before.

(viii) For example, G-20 and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa).

(ix) Our relations with America strengthened.

(x) India’s nuclear policy is an important part of India’s foreign policy. India undertook the nuclear energy program immediately after independence. India built nuclear weapons and conducted nuclear tests in 1998. India is now a country that has nuclear weapons.

31.

Describe the factors included in National interest in any country.

Answer»

The following factors are included in the national interest of any country. 

  • Defence, i.e. the protection of our country’s independence, sovereignty, and integrity is the highest national interest. 
  • Economic development is also an important national interest. 
  • An economically weak nation will not be able to maintain its independence. 
  • Hence, economic development is understood to be an important national interest, next only to defense.
32.

What is AH India Services?

Answer»

A group of persons who are appointed by Union Government and belongs to both central and state governments is called All India Services.

33.

Write a note on Geographical Location.

Answer»

(i) In the globe or map of the world. We see the geographical location of any nation of the world.

(ii) Some countries are far away from other countries, while there are several neighbouring countries around some countries. Some nations have a long coastline, while some have plenty of mineral wealth.

(iii) In sum, the size, population, topography, coastline, availability of natural resources, all these factors need to be considered while deciding the foreign policy of any country.

34.

Who acts as the eyes and ears of the Prime Minister?

Answer»

Cabinet Secretary acts as the eyes and ears of the Prime Minister.

35.

What is the tenure of the members of Karnataka Public Service Commission?

Answer»

The tenure of the members of Karnataka Public Service Commission is 6 years.

36.

What is the retirement age of the members of Karnataka Public Service Commission?

Answer»

The retirement age of the members of Karnataka Public Service Commission is 62 years.

37.

How many AH India Services are there in India?

Answer»

There are 3 All India Services in India.

38.

Which article of the constitution provides for the creation of State Services?

Answer»

Article 309 of Indian Constitution provides for the creation of State Sendees.

39.

What is the tenure of the members of the Union Public Service Commission?

Answer»

The tenure of the members of the Union Public Service Commission is 6 years.

40.

Which article of the Constitution provides powers to the Parliament for the creation of Central Services?

Answer»

Article 312 of Indian Constitution provides powers to the Parliament for the creation of Central Services.

41.

Expand  IPS.

Answer»

Indian Police Service.

42.

Write an essay on eminent folk deities of Rajasthan.

Answer»

Tejai, Gogaji, Pabuji, Ramdevji, and Dev Narayanji were some famous folk deities of Rajasthan.

Tejaji: Tejaji was a folk diety, saviour of cows. He was born in Kharnal village in Nagaur district in 1130 Vikram Samvat. He belonged to a Jat family. His mother’s name was Ram Kunvari and wife’s name was Pemal. He became injured during a fight to snatch the cows of Lachha Gujari from the thieves and he died due to snake bite. The information of his death was brought by his mare Lilan (Singari) to his house. The news of Tejaji’s action of freeing the cows spread everywhere. The people suffering from snake bite come to his Than for remedy. He is worshipped as god of snakes, well wisher of agricultural activities.

A popular belief is that a person or cattle wearing Teja’s amulet (thread) is protected against snake bite. A biggest mela (fair) is held in Bhadrapad Shukla Dashmi where animals are purchased and sold.

Gogaji: Gogaji was a folk deity who fought against Sultan Firoz Shah of Delhi. He was born in Chauhan family, at Dadrava village in Churn district. His father’s name was Zewar Singh and mother’s name was Bile. His mother was the devotee of Goraknath. He was pleased with her services and gave her a snake made up of Google Dhoop and said “dissolve it in milk and drink.” She did the same and gave birth to Gogaji.

He fought against Firoz Shah, the emperor of Delhi. Gogaji sacrificed his life to protect cows and to defend the country from Muslim rulers. Hence, he is worshipped * as a folk deity. He is also considered as a god of snakes. After the rains, the farmers of Rajasthan tie a sacred thread ‘Goga Rakhdi’ to the plough and the person who ploughs before ploughing the field. The than of Gogaji is called Gogamedi, which is located at the fort of Indramangarh. The fair of Gogamedi is organised every year in which people came from outside Rajasthan also.

Pabuji: Pabuji was a folk deity. He sacrificed his life to save the cows of Deval Devi. He was born in 13th century at Kolhugarh village near Pabuji (Jodhpur). His father’s name was Dhadal and mother’s name was Kamlade. He had a god sister named Deval Charan. He had a mare named Kesar Kalvi. Deval used to guard the cows with the help of mare. At the time of his marriage, Pabuji got this information that the cows of his god sister Deval Charani had been carried away by Jind Rao, Khinchi of Jayal. Hearing this news, Pabuji left the marriage ceremony and rode on the Kesar Kalvi. He followed Jind Rao and sacrificed his life during the fight to free the cows. Respect for women, affection to those who came to him for protection and bravery were his particular traits. His eulogy is collected in the book named ‘Pabuji ki Phad’.

Ramdevji: Ramdevji was also a famous folk deity. He was born in 15th centuiy in Ajmalji and Mainna Devi’s home in a village of Pokhran. He gave the message of social equality and opposed casteism. He gave stress on kindness for all living creatures, respect for Guru, labour and mankind. His main functions were-doing Bhajans with Dalits and untouchables. He opposed religious rituals and gave stress on Hindu-Muslim unity.

He stressed on pureness of deeds and greatness of Guru. In rural society Baba Ramdevji is worshipped as a saviour of cows. He was a symbol of social brotherhood. He breathed his last in 1515 Vikram Samvat (1458 AD) in Runecha. A great fair is held every year at this place from Bhadrapad Shulka second to tenth.

Dev Narayanji: Dev Narayanji was a folk deity. He gave stress on the protection of cows. He was born in Bagadawat family near Bhilwara. He belonged to Nag family Gurjar. He fought bravely against the ruler of Bhinay to protect cows. He is particularly considered to be the folk deity of Gurjar caste. Gurjar people respect his work. He preached his followers to guard the cows. He fought against evils throughout his life and gave birth of goodness. His main temple is located at village Jodypuriya (Tonk). He is worshipped as folk deity. His phad is the largest and popular in Rajasthan.

43.

Illustrate the causes and results of war held between Babar and Rana Sanga.

Answer»

After Maharana Kumbha, Maharana Sangram Singh who became famous with the name Rana sanga was the most important ruler. He extended kingdom of Mewar and organized all kings of Rajputana under his reign. After the death of Raimal in 1509 he became the king of Mewar. He organized his power by joining hands with Rajputs leaders. He struggled with Mahmud Begda of neighbouring state of Gujarat. To achieve Kumbha’s gloiy, continued struggle with Muslim powers.

He had a struggle with king of Gujarat in 1520 and achieved victory. He defeated Sultan Mahmud Khilji released him after promising of good behaviour. He joined parts of Delhi Sultanate in his kingdom which were near the territory of Mewar. Khatoli war was held between Sanga and Sultan of Delhi Ibrahim Lodhi in 1517. In this, Lodhi was defeated. He was also defeated in the battle of Badi (Dholpur). In local literature it is illustrated that many times Maharaja Sanga defeated the sultans of Mandu, Gujarat and Delhi.

Babar occupied Delhi by defeating Ibrahim Lodhi in the first battle of Panipat. He had real challenge from Sanga as he was the only ruler at that time who had capability to occupy Delhi. At this time Mewar became the centre of war. All neighbouring states recognized Sanga’s power.

Battle of Khanwa was fought between Sanga and Babar. During this war, Sanga was injured by an arrow. He was taken away from the battlefield and, therefore, Babur won the battle. After this, Babur became the emperor of India and the Mughal empire was established permanently. The unity among Rajputs and their gloiy came to an end after Maharana Sanga. Rana Sanga was the bravest and strongest ruler, but he could not understand the cunningness and war skills of his enemy. He could not adopt the new techniques of war, and due to this his enemy took the advantage and he died.

44.

When and by whom was ‘The Prarthna Samaj’ established ?

Answer»

The ‘Prarthna Samaj’ was established in 1867 CE in Bombay by Atmarang Pandurang.

45.

Write note on All Indian services.

Answer»

Article 312 of the Constitution of India provides for the creation of All India Services for the Union and States. 

Presently India has three All India Services: 

(a) Indian Administrative Services. 

(b) Indian Police Services. 

(c) Indian Forest Services.

The eligible persons to these services are recruited by the Union Government. The sen ice of these officers could be utilized by both the Union and state governments. Parliament is empowered to create All India Services to ensure coordination between Union and State Governments. The service rules and other emoluments are determined by the Parliament from time to time. Article 312(i) of the India Constitution states that, Rajya Sabha initiates a resolution supported by not less than 2/3rd of the members present, to create one or more All India Services.

46.

List out the features of public administration in contemporary society.

Answer»

The features of public administration in contemporary society are as follows: 

(a) Preservation of the polity.

(b) Maintenance of stability and order. 

(c) Institutionalization of socio-economic change. 

(d) Management of large scale commercial sciences. 

(e) Ensuring the growth of economic development. 

(f) Protection of the weaker sections of society. 

(g) Formation of public opinion. 

(h) Influencing public policies and political trends.

47.

Write a note on Central Secretariat and write the flow chart of administrative hierarchy.

Answer»

The word Secretariat means office of the Secretaries: For the purpose of administration, the. Government of India is divided into Ministry and Departments which constitute the Central Secretariat. For efficient discharge of business allotted to a ministry, it is divided into various Departments, Wings, Branches and Sections.

Hierarchical order of Central Secretariat is as follows: 

  • Department – Secretary 
  • Wing – Additional/Joint Secretary 
  • Division – Deputy Secretary 
  • Branch – Under Secretary 
  • Section – Section Officer
48.

Who is empowered to impeach the chairman and members of KPSC and on what basis?

Answer»

The Chairman and the members of the KPSC can be removed under the same circumstances as applicable to the Chairman and members of UPSC.

49.

Who is empowered to impeach the chairman and members of UPSC and on what basis?

Answer»

The Chairman and the members of UPSC can be removed from the office only by an order of the President, on the ground of misbehavior proved by the Supreme Court.

50.

Where does the Lai Bahadur Shastri Academy situated?

Answer»

Lai Bahadur Shastri Academy is situated at Massourie.