Which of the following statements accurately describes salinisation?
- Salinisation is the process where the salt concentration in the soil increases.
- High evaporation rates can contribute to salinisation.
- Salinisation is a concern in areas with low evaporation rates.
- Salinisation is synonymous with soil salinity.
What is salinisation?
- Salinity refers to the salt content of the soil.
- Salinisation is a decrease in the concentration of salts in the soil.
- Salinisation is a problem primarily found in non-irrigated arid regions.
Regarding the Great Green Wall movement, identify the correct statements.
- The Great Green Wall movement was initiated to combat desertification.
- It is located in the Sahel region, south of the Sahara Desert.
- The movement was started in 2007.
- The Great Green Wall is a physical barrier made entirely of concrete.
What are the classifications of desertification based on productivity reduction?
- A reduction in productivity between 10% and 25% is considered severe desertification.
- Desertification is classified as moderate if productivity reduction is between 10% and 25%.
- A productivity reduction exceeding 50% is termed very severe desertification.
- Severe desertification occurs when productivity decreases by more than 50%.
What factors contributed to the emergence and growth of cities in desert regions, according to the provided text?
- Ancient cities developed in desert regions primarily due to their proximity to major river systems, allowing for extensive agriculture.
- Key ancient cities served as central points for administration, education, religion, commerce, and transportation.
- Modern urban development in areas like West Asia and North Africa has been significantly driven by oil wealth.
- The appeal of entertainment, such as casinos and golf courses, was a primary factor in the establishment of ancient desert cities.
Identify the false statement regarding the characteristics and significance of certain desert cities.
- Dubai is a modern desert city celebrated for its luxurious lifestyle and global tourism.
- Las Vegas is primarily known for its historical significance as an ancient trade route.
- Mecca and Medina hold profound religious importance in Islam.
- Ancient cities in desert regions were typically located on the edges rather than the centers of deserts.
Which of the following statements accurately describe the historical development and characteristics of urban centers in desert regions?
- Cities in desert regions of Asia and Africa primarily emerged in the central, most arid parts of the deserts.
- Ancient cities like Cairo, Damascus, and Baghdad were significant hubs for administration, learning, faith, trade, and transit.
- The discovery of oil wealth in West Asia and North Africa has had no impact on the creation or modernization of cities in these areas.
- Mecca and Medina are recognized as the holiest cities within the Islamic faith.
Which of the following statements accurately describe the impact of mining discoveries on desert ecosystems?
- The discovery of gold in Australia led to the settlement of Karlgoorlie and Coolgardie in the late nineteenth century.
- Diamond and copper mining in the Kalahari desert has benefited its San inhabitants.
- The presence of valuable minerals in deserts has generally led to minimal ecological changes.
Which of the following statements about the crops and resources utilized in the Nile valley is correct?
- Rice and cotton were summer crops, while wheat and barley were winter crops.
- Palm trees were grown, but their parts were not significantly utilized.
- The irrigation system primarily supported the cultivation of grains.
Regarding the irrigation techniques used in the Nile valley, which statement is accurate?
- The Nile's overflow was stored in shallow basins for irrigation.
- Water-lifting devices were primarily powered by wind energy.
- The stored floodwater was used to cultivate crops only during the winter season.
Which of the following statements about settled agriculture is correct?
- Settled agriculture is only feasible with a consistent water supply.
- Farmers in the Nile valley have practiced agriculture for less than 1000 years.
- They utilized floodwaters by storing Nile overflow in deep pits.
How has modern transportation affected the role of the camel for caravan traders?
- Modern mechanized transport has significantly reduced the reliance on camels.
- The development of new transport methods has increased the importance of camels.
- Camels are now exclusively used for ceremonial purposes in desert regions.
What made the camel an indispensable animal for caravan traders in the desert?
- Camels are well-adapted to desert survival, capable of enduring long periods without food and water.
- They can carry significant loads, enabling traders to transport substantial quantities of goods.
- Camels provide milk and meat, which are vital resources for sustenance during long journeys.
- Camel hair is used to create rugs and carpets that can be traded, adding to the economic viability of the trade.
Which of the following statements accurately describes caravan traders?
- Caravan traders are a nomadic group primarily found in desert environments.
- They primarily transport goods using horses and donkeys.
- Their main role is to guide travelers through the desert.
- Caravan traders engage in the buying and selling of various goods across the desert.
Identify examples of nomadic herder groups.
- The Bedouins of Arabia are an example of nomadic herders.
- The Tuaregs of Western Sahara practice pastoral nomadism.
- The Bishari of northeast Africa are also known nomadic herders.
- The Kurds, historically, have been primarily settled agriculturalists with no nomadic traditions.
What resources do animals provide to nomadic herders?
- Animals provide herders with essential food sources like milk and meat.
- The hides and leather from animals are used for clothing, tents, and footwear.
- Animals are primarily used for transportation of goods in settled communities.
Which regions are known for pastoral nomadism?
- Pastoral nomadism is common in the deserts of North Africa and West Asia.
- It is also prevalent in the dense rainforests of South America.
- The practice is widespread in the tundras of Siberia.
What is pastoral nomadism?
- Pastoral nomadism is a lifestyle that emerged after humans learned to domesticate animals.
- It is primarily practiced in regions with consistent and abundant rainfall.
- Pastoral nomads rely on settled agriculture as their main source of income.
Which of the following statements are true about the SPSC’s role and limitations?
I. The SPSC is known as the ‘watchdog of the merit system’ in state services.
II. The SPSC is consulted on reservations of appointments for backward classes.
III. The SPSC advises on the suitability of candidates for promotions and transfers.
IV. The state government is not bound to accept the SPSC’s recommendations.
Which of the following statements are true regarding the removal of SPSC members?
I. The President can remove an SPSC member for insolvency without consulting the Supreme Court.
II. The Governor can suspend an SPSC member during an enquiry for misbehaviour.
III. Misbehaviour includes being interested in a contract made by the Government of India or a state.
IV. The Governor can remove an SPSC member for physical or mental incapacity.
Which of the following statements are true for the SPSC?
I. The Governor determines the conditions of service for the Chairman and members of the SPSC.
II. The SPSC is consulted on all matters related to the classification of state services and cadre management.
III. The SPSC submits an annual performance report to the Governor, which is placed before the state legislature.
IV. The SPSC’s jurisdiction can be extended to local bodies and public institutions by an act of the state legislature.
Examine the following statements about the Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC):
a. A JSPSC is a constitutional body created by an act of Parliament on the request of the concerned state legislatures.
b. The Chairman and members of a JSPSC are appointed by the President and hold office for a term of 6 years or until the age of 62, whichever is earlier.