03.05.2025 UPSC PRELIMS MCQs

Q1. Consider the following items:

1. Alcoholic liquor for human consumption
2. Petroleum crude
3. Natural gas
4. Aviation turbine fuel
5. Healthcare services
6. Educational services

Which of the above items are currently excluded from the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India?

Q2. With reference to the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), consider the following statements:

1. It is an annual international conference focused on developments in media, entertainment, and digital content industries.
2. The summit is jointly organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
3. It aims to position India as a global content hub and promote international collaborations in the audio-visual sector.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q3. With reference to the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, consider the following statements:

1. It is India's first deep-water container transshipment port located adjacent to an international shipping route.
2. The port requires regular capital dredging due to its artificial depth of 18 meters.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q4. With reference to the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), consider the following statements:

1. It is India's first indigenously designed multi-role helicopter that can operate in both utility and attack roles.
2. The Shakti engine used in newer variants was developed as a joint venture between HAL and a Russian aerospace company.
3. The weaponized version of ALH Dhruv is known as HAL Rudra.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the Indus Water Treaty:

1. It was signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, with the World Bank acting as a mediator and signatory to the treaty.
2. Under the treaty, India has exclusive control over the waters of the three eastern rivers - Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej, while Pakistan has control over the three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab.
3. The treaty contains specific dispute resolution mechanisms including the appointment of a Neutral Expert and a Court of Arbitration.
4. The treaty does not include provisions for groundwater management or address challenges related to climate change.

How many of the above statements are correct?