All 188 UPSC Civil Services Prelims Environment and Ecology questions asked across 11 exam years, each with the correct answer, a detailed explanation and the source it was drawn from.
Consider the following statements about Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid) :
1. It is an epiphytic orchid.
2. The species is endemic to North-east India.
3. It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
Which of the following statements with regard to Green Hydrogen is/are correct ?
1. It is decarbonized hydrogen obtained from natural gas reforming combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS).
2. It is produced using electrolysis of water with electricity generated by renewable energy.
3. National Green Hydrogen Mission of India aims for abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Consider the following statements with reference to India's response to climate change :
I. India's Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) is a crucial tool for achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
II. India's 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted in December, 2024 recorded around 8% decrease in Greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 over 2019.
III. Climate-resilient development necessarily depends on quick and short-term achievement of emission reduction targets.
Which of the following relationships among the above statements is/are correct ?
1. Statement I is empirically supported by statement II.
2. Statement III contradicts the approach implicit in statement I.
3. Statement I and statement III together establish the premise of long-term sustainability.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Which of the following statements in relation to NIRANTAR (National Institute for Research and Application of Natural Resources to Transform, Adapt and Build Resilience), a platform of institutions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is/are correct ?
1. Ecosystem Survey and Analysis is a vertical under this platform, the lead institute of which is Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata.
2. Research and Management of Ecosystem Service is a vertical under this platform, the lead institute of which is Central Zoo Authority, New Delhi.
3. Capacity Development Support is a vertical under this platform, the lead institute of which is Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Which of the following statements with regard to the arrival of Amur Falcons at Doyang Lake in Nagaland each year from Mongolia is/are correct?
1. It showcases how sustained local conservation efforts can contribute to the arrival and protection of international migratory birds.
2. It reflects the global success of advanced tracking technologies that guide migratory birds back to their stopover sites.
3. It confirms that Amur Falcons have adapted to permanent residency in India due to favourable habitat changes.
Select the answer using the code given below:
With respect to the Western Hoolock Gibbons, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. A Sanctuary in North-east India is home to this ape species listed as Endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
2. They have specialized brachiation and can easily swing between trees.
3. They possess a strong and heavy build like gorillas, yet are remarkably agile tree climbers.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Which one of the following is the first Plan Vivo certified Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) project in India ?
With reference to Madhav National Park, which of the following statements is/are correct ?
1. It was declared a Tiger Reserve in India in 2025.
2. Sakhya Sagar, which is designated as a Ramsar Site, is situated within this National Park.
3. Its area is shared between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Which of the following best explain(s) the rationale for protecting mangrove ecosystems in the context of climate resilience?
1. Mangroves reduce tidal energy and store freshwater, making them ideal sites for paddy cultivation in saline estuarine belts.
2. Their salt-sensitive roots filter seawater, making mangroves key to converting coastal land into freshwater aquaculture zones.
3. By withstanding tidal surges and offering biomass resources, mangroves function both as natural bio-shields and livelihood bases for rural communities.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Statement II:
Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs.
Statement III:
Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Which organization has enacted the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss?
Consider the following:
I. Cigarette butts
II. Eyeglass lenses
III. Car tyres
How many of them contain plastic?
Consider the following statements:
I. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in India are less than 0.5 t CO₂/capita.
II. In terms of CO₂ emissions from fuel combustion, India ranks second in Asia-Pacific region.
III. Electricity and heat producers are the largest sources of CO₂ emissions in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
Activated carbon is a good and an attractive tool to remove pollutants from effluent streams and to remediate contaminants from various industries.
Statement II:
Activated carbon exhibits a large surface area and a strong potential for adsorbing heavy metals.
Statement III:
Activated carbon can be easily synthesized from environmental wastes with high carbon content.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), India refrained from signing the "Declaration on Climate and Health".
Statement II:
The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a binding declaration; and if signed, it becomes mandatory to decarbonize health sector.
Statement III:
If India's health sector is decarbonized, the resilience of its health-care system may be compromised.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate change is frequently discussed in global discussions on sustainable development and climate change.
Statement II:
Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate change sets out the principles of carbon markets.
Statement III:
Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate change intends to promote inter-country non-market strategies to reach their climate targets.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Artificial way of causing rainfall to reduce air pollution makes use of
Which one of the following launched the 'Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific'?
With reference to the planet Earth, consider the following statements:
I. Rain forests produce more oxygen than that produced by oceans.
II. Marine phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria produce about 50% of world's oxygen.
III. Well-oxygenated surface water contains several folds higher oxygen than that in atmospheric air.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Consider the following statements:
I. Without the atmosphere, temperature would be well below freezing point everywhere on the Earth's surface.
II. Heat absorbed and trapped by the atmosphere maintains our planet's average temperature.
III. Atmosphere's gases, like carbon dioxide, are particularly good at absorbing and trapping radiation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
Scientific studies suggest that a shift is taking place in the Earth's rotation and axis.
Statement II:
Solar flares and associated coronal mass ejections bombarded the Earth's outermost atmosphere with tremendous amount of energy.
Statement III:
As the Earth's polar ice melts, the water tends to move towards the equator.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements:
I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.
II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
Studies indicate that carbon dioxide emissions from cement industry account for more than 5% of global carbon emissions.
Statement II:
Silica-bearing clay is mixed with limestone while manufacturing cement.
Statement III:
Limestone is converted into lime during clinker production for cement manufacturing.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
With reference to Direct Air Capture, an emerging technology, which of the following statements is/are correct?
I. It can be used as a way of carbon sequestration.
II. It can be a valuable approach for plastic production and in food processing.
III. In aviation, it can be a source of carbon for combining with hydrogen to create synthetic low-carbon fuel.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35 °C. Which of the following statements best reflect(s) the implication of the above‐said report?
I. Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts.
II. The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
17. With reference to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are used in making many consumer products, consider the following statements :
1. PFAS are found to be widespread in drinking water, food and food packaging materials.
2. PFAS are not easily degraded in the environment.
3. Persistent exposure to PFAS can lead to bioaccumulation in animal bodies.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
25. Consider the following statements :
1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.
3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
29. Consider the following :
1. Butterflies
2. Fish
3. Frogs
How many of the above have poisonous species among them ?
23. Consider the following pairs :
Country | Animal found in its natural habitat
1. | Brazil | Indri
2. | Indonesia | Elk
3. | Madagascar | Bonobo
How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched ?
39. "Membrane Bioreactors" are often discussed in the context of :
22. Consider the following statements :
Statement-I : Many chewing gums found in the market are considered a source of environmental pollution.
Statement-II : Many chewing gums contain plastic as gum base.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
26. Which one of the following is the correct description of 100 Million Farmers' ?
28. Which one of the following shows a unique relationship with an insect that has coevolved with it and that is the only insect that can pollinate this tree ?
30. Consider the following :
1. Cashew
2. Papaya
3. Red sanders
How many of the above trees are actually native to India ?
46. Consider the following materials :
1. Agricultural residues
2. Corn grain
3. Wastewater treatment sludge
4. Wood mill waste
Which of the above can be used as feedstock for producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel ?
90. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions ?
92. Consider the following statements :
Statement-I : India does not import apples from the United States of America.
Statement-II : In India, the law prohibits the import of Genetically Modified food without the approval of the competent authority.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
16. One of the following regions has the world's largest tropical peatland, which holds about three years worth of global carbon emissions from fossil fuels; and the possible destruction of which can exert detrimental effect on the global climate. Which one of the following denotes that region ?
96. Consider the following statements :
Statement-I : The European Parliament approved The Net-Zero Industry Act recently.
Statement-II : The European Union intends to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 and therefore aims to develop all of its own clean technology by that time.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
18. Consider the following :
1. Carabid beetles
2. Centipedes
3. Flies
4. Termites
5. Wasps
Parasitoid species are found in how many of the above kind of organisms ?
20. Consider the following statements :
Statement-I :The Indian Flying Fox is placed under the "vermin" category in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Statement-II : The Indian Flying Fox feeds on the blood of other animals.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
24. Consider the following fauna:
27. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian squirrels:
1. They build nests by making burrows in the ground.
2. They store their food materials like nuts and seeds in the ground.
3. They are omnivorous.
How many of the above statements are correct?
59. Consider the following heavy industries:
1. Fertilizer plants2. Oil refineries3. Steel plants
Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in decarbonizing how many of the above industries?
43. Consider the following statements:
Statement- I:Carbon markets are likely to be one of the most widespread tools in the fight against climate change.
Statement-II:Carbon markets transfer resources from the private sector to the state.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
99. Consider the following statements:
1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the realization of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol. 2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
29. Which one of the following makes a tool with a stick to scrape insects from a hole in a tree or a log of wood?
33. Consider the following trees:
1. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)
2. Mahua (Madhuca indica)
3. Teak (Tectona grandis)
How many of the above are deciduous trees?
18. Consider the following statements:
Once the Central Government notifies an area as a ‘Community Reserve'
1. the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest2. hunting is not allowed in such area3. people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce4. people of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices
How many of the above statements are correct?
22. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: Marsupials are not naturally found in India.
Statement-II: Marsupials can thrive only in montane grasslands with no predators.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
89. Consider the following statements regarding mercury pollution.
1. Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world.
2. Coal-based thermal power plants cause mercury pollution.
3. There is no known safe level of exposure to mercury.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
30. Consider the following:
1. Aerosols2. Foam agents3. Fire retardants4. Lubricants
In the making of how many of the above are hydrofluorocarbons used?
78. Consider the following activities:
1. Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively
2. Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime
3. Capturing carbon dioxide released by various industries and pumping it into abandoned subterranean mines in the form of carbonated waters.
How many of the above activities are often considered and discussed for carbon capture and sequestration?
23. Invasive Species Specialist Group' (that Global Invasive Species develops Global Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations?
25. Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?
80. Which one of the following best describes the term "greenwashing"?
84. Consider the following statements:
1. Gujarat has the largest solar park in India.
2. Kerala has a fully solar-powered International Airport.
3. Goa has the largest floating solar photovoltaic project in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
44. In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements:
1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 pg/m3 and the annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 pg/m3.
2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during periods of inclement weather.
3. PM10 can penetrate the lung and enter the bloodstream.
4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
100. Consider the following:
1. Carbon monoxide2. Nitrogen oxide3. Ozone4. Sulfur dioxide
Excess of which of the above in the environment is/are the cause(s) of acid rain?
30. Consider the following pairs:Wetland/Lake – Location1. Hokera Wetland – Punjab2. Renuka Wetland – Himachal Pradesh3. Rudrasagar Lake – Tripura4. Sasthamkotta Lake- Tamil Nadu
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
42. Consider the following statements:
1. "The Climate Group" is an international non-profit organization that drives climate action by building large networks and runs them.
2. The International Energy Agency in partnership with the Climate Group launched a global initiative "EP100".
3. EP100 brings together leading companies committed to driving innovation in energy efficiency and increasing competitiveness while delivering on emission reduction goals.
4. Some Indian companies are members of EP1
00.
5. The International Energy Agency is the Secretariat to the "Under2 Coalition".
Which of the statements given above are correct?
21. Among the following crops, which one is the most important anthropogenic source of both methane and nitrous oxide?
90. Certain species of which one of the following organisms are well known as cultivators of fungi?
50. The "Miyawaki method" is well known for the:
75. Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986?
77. Which one of the following statements best describes the ‘Polar Code'?
81. Consider the following statements:1. High clouds primarily reflect solar radiation and cool the surface of the Earth.2. Low clouds have a high absorption of infrared radiation emanating from the Earth's surface and thus cause a warming effect.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
41. "Climate Action Tracker" which monitors the pledges of different emission reduction countries is a:
43. "If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys." Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statement?
89. With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements:
1. Wild animals are the sole property of the government.
2. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled to equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside.
3. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing.
Which of the statements, given above is/are correct?
45. With reference to "GuCChi" sometime, mentioned in the news, consider the following statements:
1. It is a fungus.
2. It grows in some Himalayan forest areas.
3. It is commercially cultivated in the Himalayan foothills of north-eastern India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
22. "System of Rice Intensification" of cultivation, in which alternate wetting and drying of rice fields are practiced, results in:
1. Reduced seed requirement
2. Reduced methane production
3. Reduced electricity consumption
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
47. Which of the following is not a bird?
49. "Biorock technology" is talked about in which one of the following situations?
Q79. What is blue carbon?
Q47. Consider the following statements: Statement 1: The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Arbor Day Foundation have recently recognized Hyderabad as the 2020 Tree City of the World. Statement 2: Hyderabad was selected for recognition for a year following its commitment to grow and maintain the urban forests.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements:?
Q39. In the context of India's preparation for Climate-Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements: (1) The ‘Climate-Smart Village' approach in India is a part of a project led by the Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), an international research program. (2) The project of CCAFS is carried out under the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) headquartered in France. (3) The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR's research centres.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Q24. At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006?
Q67. In the case of which one of the following biogeochemical cycles, the weathering of rocks is the main source of release of nutrients to enter the cycle?
Q13. Consider the following statements: (1) Moringa (drumstick tree) is a leguminous evergreen tree (2) Tamarind tree is endemic to South Asia (3) In India, most of the tamarind is collected as minor forest produce (4) India exports tamarind and seeds of moringa (5) Seeds of moringa and tamarind can be used in the production of biofuels
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Q65. Magnetite particles, suspected to cause neurodegenerative problems, are generated as environmental pollutants from which of the following? (1) Brakes of motor vehicles (2) Engines of motor vehicles (3) Microwave stoves within homes (4) Power plants (5) Telephone lines
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q61. Which one of the following is used in preparing a natural mosquito repellent?
Q69. The ‘Common Carbon Metric', supported by UNEP, has been developed for
Q77. Why is there a concern about copper smelting plants? (1) They may release lethal quantities of carbon monoxide into the environment. (2) The copper slag can cause the leaching of some heavy metals into the environment. (3) They may release sulphur dioxide as a pollutant.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q64. With reference to the ‘New York Declaration on Forests', which of the following statements are correct? (1) It was first endorsed at the United Nations Climate Summit in 2014. (2) It endorses a global timeline to end the loss of forests. (3) It is a legally binding international declaration. (4) It is endorsed by governments, big companies, and indigenous communities. (5) India was one of the signatories at its inception.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q62. Consider the following kinds of organisms: (1) Copepods (2) Cyanobacteria (3) Diatoms (4) Foraminifera
Which of the above are primary producers in the food chains of oceans?
Q32. With reference to ‘palm oil', consider the following statements: (1) The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia. (2) Palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes. (3) Palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Q66. Which one of the following is a filter feeder?
Q68. Which of the following are detritivores? (1) Earthworms (2) Jellyfish (3) Millipedes (4) Seahorses (5) Woodlice
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q70. Which of the following have species that can establish symbiotic relationships with other organisms? (1) Cnidarians (2) Fungi (3) Protozoa
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q36. Consider the following statements: (1) The Global Ocean Commission grants licenses for seabed exploration and mining in international waters. (2) India has received licenses for seabed mineral exploration in international waters. (3) ‘Rare earth minerals are present on the seafloor in international waters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Q76. ‘R2 Code of Practices' constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of
Q78. With reference to furnace oil, consider the following statements: (1) It is a product of oil refineries. (2) Some industries use it to generate power. (3) Its use causes sulphur emissions into the environment.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Q4. Bisphenol A (BPA), a cause of concern, is a structural/key component in the manufacture of which of the following kinds of plastic?
Q80. In nature, which of the following is/are most likely to be found surviving on a surface without soil? (1) Fern (2) Lichen (3) Moss (4) Mushroom
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q40. "Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome and as a result, the soil surface is often almost bare. Apart from trees, the vegetation is largely composed of plant forms that reach up into the canopy vicariously, by climbing the trees or growing as epiphytes, rooted on the upper branches of trees." This is the most likely description of
Q31. How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?(1) Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are pre-dominant. (2) Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such a phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.(3) Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions. (4) Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q63. Consider the following animals: (1) Hedgehog (2) Marmot (3) Pangolin
To reduce the chance of being captured by predators, which of the above organisms rolls up/roll up and protects/protect its/their vulnerable parts?
Q95. Which one of the following protected areas is well known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous?
Q55. With reference to India's Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?
1. It is spread over two districts.
2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.
3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q100. What is the use of Biochar in farming?
Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in the vertical farming
When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it promotes the growth of nitrogen fixing microorganisms.
When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it enables the medium to retain water for a longer time.
Which of the above given statements is/are correct?
Q65. Which one of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon'?
It is a measure, in monetary value, of the
Q61. If a particular plant species is placed under Schedule VI of the Wildlife Protection Act,1972, what is the implication?
Q93. Which of the following Protected areas are located in Cauvery basin?
1. Nagarhole National Park.
2. Papikonda National Park.
3. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q98. In rural road construction, the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?
Copper slag
Cold mix asphalt technology
Geotextiles
Hot mix asphalt technology
Portland cement
Select the correct answer using the given code below
Q97. Which of the following are the most likely places to find the musk deer in its natural habitat?
Askot Wildlife Sanctuary
Gangotri national Park
Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary
Manas national Park
Select the correct answer using the given code below
Q58. Consider the following statements:
1. 36% of India's districts are classified as "overexploited" or "critical" by the Central Ground Water Authority(CGWA).
2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act.
3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
Q60. Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under "Critical Tiger Habitat" ?
Q64. According to India's National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels?
1. Cassava
2. Damaged wheat grains
3. Groundnut seeds
4. Horse gram
5. Rotten potatoes
6. Sugar beet
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q70. In the context of India, which of the following is/are considered to be practice(s) of eco-friendly agriculture?
1. Crop diversification
2. Legume intensification
3. Tensiometer use
4. Vertical farming
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
Q8. Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?
Automobile exhaust
Tobacco smoke
Wood burning
Using varnished wooden furniture
Using products made of polyurethane
Select the correct answer using the given code below-
Q40. Consider the following pairs
International agreement/setup Subject
Alma Ata declaration Healthcare of the people
Hague convention Biological and Chemical Weapons
Talanoa dialogue Global Climate Change
Under2 Coalition Child Rights
Which of the pairs above is/are correct?
Q92. With reference to Indian Elephants, consider the following statements :
1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
4. Among the States in India, the highest population is in Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
Q94. With reference to India's Biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are
Q96. Steel slag can be the material for which of the following?
Construction of base road
Improvement of agriculture soil
Production of cement
Select the correct answer using the given code below
Q99. Consider the following statements
Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury.
Coal fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment.
High ash content is observed in Indian Coal.
Which of the above given statements is/are correct?
Q63. What is/are the advantage/advantages of zero tillage in agriculture ?
1. Sowing of wheat is possible without burning the residue of the previous crop.
2. Without the need for nursery of rice saplings, direct planting of paddy seeds in the wet soil is possible.
3. Carbon sequestration in the soil is possible.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Q1
00. Consider the following statements:
1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q39. As per the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the following statements is correct?
Q70. Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads' that are released into the environment?
Q3
5. Consider the following statements:
1. As per a recent amendment to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, forest dwellers have the right to fell the bamboo grown in forest areas.
2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, bamboo are a minor forest produce.
3. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 allows ownership of minor forest produce to forest dwellers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q78. Which one of the following National Parks lies completely in the temperate alpine zone?
Q9
4. Which of the following statements are correct about the deposits of ‘methane hydrate?
1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.
2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate' are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.
3. Methane in the atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Q67. Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve?
Q6
2. Consider the following statements:
1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only.
2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.
3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q18. Consider the following statements1. As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.2. People's participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programs carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q69. Consider the following pairs:
Wildlife Naturally found in
1. Blue-finned Mahseer Cauvery River
2. Irrawaddy Dolphin Chambal River
3. Rusty-spotted Cat Eastern Ghats
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
Q66. In the context of which one of the following are the terms ‘pyrolysis and plasma gasification' mentioned?
Q6
8. Consider the following statements:
1. Some species of turtles are herbivores.
2. Some species of fish are herbivores.
3. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores.
4. Some species of snakes are viviparous.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Q8. In India, ‘extended producer responsibility' was introduced as an important feature in which of the following?
Q38. Consider the following statements:The Environment Protection Act, 1986 empowers the Government of India to1. state the requirement of public participation in the process of environmental protection, and the procedure and manner in which it is sought2. lay down the standards for emission or discharge of environmental pollutants from various sources
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
Q8
1. Consider the following statements:
1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into the environment.
2. Cattle release ammonia into the environment.
3. Poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into the environment.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q8
3. In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements:
1. The main advantage of the use of H-CNG is the elimination of carbon monoxide emissions.
2. H-CNG as fuel reduces carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions.
3. Hydrogen up to one-fifth by volume can be blended with CNG as fuel for buses.
4. H-CNG makes the fuel less expensive than CNG.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q91. Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of
Q9
3. Consider the following States:
1. Chhattisgarh2. Madhya Pradesh3. Maharashtra4. Odisha
With reference to the States mentioned above, in terms of the percentage of forest cover to the total area of the State, which one of the following is the correct ascending order?
Q9
5. Consider the following:
1. Carbon monoxide2. Methane3. Ozone4. Sulphur dioxide
Which of the above are released into the atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?
Q99. In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate, and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as
Q65. In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of the cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulfate aerosol into the stratosphere?
94. In which one of the following States is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located ?
100. With reference to organic farming in India, consider the following statements :
1. 'The National Programme for Organic Production' (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development.
2. 'The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority' (APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP. Sikkim has become India's first fully organic State.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
35. With reference to the 'Global Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture (GACSA), which of the following statements is/are correct?
83. The Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE), a UN mechanism to assist countries transition towards greener and more inclusive economies, emerged at
98. Consider the following statements :
1. The definition of "Critical Wildlife Habitat" is incorporated in the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
2. For the first time in India, Baigas have been given Habitat Rights.
3. Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change officially decides and declares Habitat Rights for Primitive and Vulnerable Tribal Groups in any part of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
13. Which of the following has/have shrunk immensely/dried up in the recent past due to human activities ?
81. Which of the following is/are the possible consequence/s of heavy sand mining in riverbeds ?
86. Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in news ?
88. "Momentum for Change : Climate Neutral Now" is an initiative launched by
60. The term "sixth mass extinction/sixth extinction" is often mentioned in the news in the context of the discussion of
65. Which of the following statements best describes "carbon fertilization" ?
4. How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) ?
82. With reference to agricultural soils, consider the following statements :
87. Consider the following statements :
2. Which of the following leaf modifications occurs) in the desert areas to inhibit water
loss ?
95. Which of the following is geographically some of the lions from their natural habitat in closest to Great Nicobar ? Gujarat to which one of the following sites ?
67. If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit ?
59. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for
35. According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law ?
91. In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply ?
25. In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration ?
65. Consider the following statements:
80. The term 'M-STrIPES' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of
21. Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences ?
52. With reference to 'Global Climate Change Alliance', which of the following statements is/are correct?
6. Consider the following statements in respect of Trade Related Analysis of Fauna and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC) :
14. In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of bioremediation technique ?
4. From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats ?
22. It is possible to produce algae based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry?
6. With reference to 'Agenda 21', which of the following statements is/are correct?
25. What is/are the importance/importances of the "United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification?
Options:
65. With reference to ‘Red Sanders', sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
33. ‘Gadgil Committee Report' and ‘Kasturirangan Committee Report', sometimes seen in the news, are related to
81. Consider the following pairs:
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
51. Which of the following best describes the aim of the 'Green India Mission' of the Government of India?
67. What is ‘Greenhouse Gas Protocol'?
71. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
35. Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)'?
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
39. The FAO accords the status of "Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)" to traditional agricultural systems. What is the overall goal of this initiative?
21. What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel', a breed found in India?
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
50. In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill' in its natural habitat?
14. On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
64. With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)', which of the following statements is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
66. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the UN-REDD+ Programme?
Proper design and effective implementation of UN-REDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to:
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
70. Consider the following statements with respect to the Sustainable Development Goals:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
74. Which of the statements given above about the International Solar Alliance is/are correct?
40. In the context of the Air Quality Index in Indian cities, which of the following atmospheric gases are considered?
84. The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of
22. Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?
44. Recently, which of the following States in India declared a particular butterfly as the 'State Butterfly' for the first time?
Environment has grown from a peripheral topic into one of the largest blocks in GS Paper I, and it is the subject with the least settled preparation material. Questions draw on conservation status, protected areas, international agreements and the ecology of specific species — much of it triggered by something that was in the news that year.
National parks, wildlife sanctuaries and biosphere reserves, conservation status under the IUCN list, the Wildlife Protection Act schedules, and species-specific questions on habitat and range. Location-based questions on protected areas are common.
The UNFCCC process, the Paris Agreement and successive COP outcomes, carbon markets, and India's own climate commitments and missions. This block moves fastest and depends most on the year's current affairs.
Ecosystem services, food chains and nutrient cycles, wetlands and Ramsar sites, air and water pollution standards, and waste management rules. Questions here often pair a scientific concept with the regulation that governs it.
How many Environment and Ecology questions appeared in each UPSC Civil Services Civil ServicesPrelims question paper, and what share of the paper they made up. These are counts from the questions tagged on this site, not estimates.
| Exam year | Environment and Ecology questions | Share of the paper | Full paper |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2026 | 9 | 9% | View 2026 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2025 | 16 | 16% | View 2025 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2024 | 16 | 16% | View 2024 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2023 | 14 | 14% | View 2023 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2022 | 19 | 19% | View 2022 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2021 | 24 | 24% | View 2021 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2020 | 19 | 19% | View 2020 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2019 | 21 | 21% | View 2019 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2018 | 15 | 15% | View 2018 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2017 | 14 | 14% | View 2017 paper |
| UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2016 | 21 | 21% | View 2016 paper |
Environment is the subject where reading current affairs and studying the static syllabus have to happen together — a species in the news is only useful if you also know its habitat and protection status. Work through these previous year questions to see how often a news trigger became a question about the underlying ecology rather than about the event.
Every question on this page carries the correct answer and a detailed explanation, so the set doubles as an answer key you can check against after an attempt. Previous year questions do not replace mock tests, but they are the only material that shows which topics UPSC Civil Services Civil Serviceshas actually rewarded — treat them as the backbone of your Prelims preparation rather than a revision exercise bolted on at the end. Remember that GS Paper I carries negative marking of one-third, so in CSE Prelims a wrong answer costs candidates more than a blank one: practise deciding when not to attempt, not only what to attempt. Browse the full set of UPSC Civil Services Prelims previous year question papers to work through other subjects the same way.
Its weightage has risen steadily as climate and biodiversity have moved up the policy agenda, and it now rivals polity and economy in question count in some years. The table above shows the trend across every year on this site.
The static portion is small enough to cover from one standard reference, but the current affairs portion is not book-shaped at all. Most of the marks come from linking a news item to the concept or convention behind it.
Typically habitat, range and conservation status rather than biology — where a species is found, whether it is protected, and under which schedule or list. Species that appeared in the news that year are disproportionately likely to be asked about.
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