12 Questions
When did the Indus Valley Civilization begin?
2500 BCE
Which phase of Indian history was characterized by the rise of urban centers along major river valleys?
Proto-Historic Period
Which two empires emerged during the Historic Period of India?
Maurya and Gupta Empires
What sectors largely drive the growth of the Indian economy?
Services and Manufacturing
What was India's approximate GDP in 2022?
$3 trillion
Which major event led to British colonization in India?
Islamic invasions
What is the main focus of Indian Polity?
Governance structure and political system
Which sector accounts for the most jobs in urban areas in India?
Service sector
In terms of land area, where does India rank globally?
Seventh-largest country
Who is the head of state and government in the Indian political system?
President
Which country does NOT share a border with India?
Russia
Which recent event was a notable development in India?
Record highest rainfall in Mumbai
Study Notes
General Studies
In the context of this article, 'General Studies' refers to a broad field of knowledge encompassing various disciplines relevant to India. The following sections will cover the history of India, its economy, polity, geography, and current affairs.
History of India
The history of India is a vast subject with numerous periods reflecting diverse cultures, religions, languages, and empires. It begins with the Indus Valley Civilization around 2500 BCE. Historians divide this period into three phases: prehistoric, proto-historic, and historic.
Prehistoric Period
The earliest evidence of human life in India dates back to 75,000 years ago. Stone tools from that era have been found in Tamil Nadu.
Proto-Historic Period
This phase was marked by the rise of several urban centres along major river valleys. Excavations have revealed pottery, bronze implements, and settlements dating back to 1500 BCE.
Historic Period
From 2000 BCE to 1 ACE, India saw the emergence of several powerful empires such as the Maurya and Gupta Empires. Later, Islamic invasions led to the establishment of Muslim rule followed by British colonization.
Indian Economy
India has one of the fastest-growing economies globally, driven largely by services and manufacturing sectors. Its economy grew at approximately $3 trillion in 2022, with a nominal GDP of $3.353 trillion. Agriculture remains a significant part of rural employment, while the service sector accounts for most jobs in urban areas.
Indian Polity
Indian polity refers to the political system and governance structure of India. Established under the Constitution adopted in 1950, it comprises a parliamentary democracy with a federal system of government. It features a President who is both head of state and of government, and a Prime Minister who leads the executive branch.
Geography of India
Geographically, India spans over 32 million square kilometers, making it the seventh-largest country by land area. It lies primarily between 8°4' N and 37°6' N latitudes and 68°7' E and 97°24' E longitudes. India shares borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Maldives.
Current Affairs
Current affairs refer to recent events in local, national, regional, and global news. Notable recent developments in India include a record highest rainfall in Mumbai since 1904, a successful test launch of Agni P-5 missile, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic response, and policies aimed at promoting electric vehicles.
Test your knowledge on various aspects of India including its history, economy, political system, geography, and current affairs in this General Studies quiz.
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