Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 138

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -138

1. With reference to cancellation of public recruitment examinations, consider the following statements:

1. Cancellation may be justified when serious irregularities undermine the credibility of an examination.
2. Cancellation automatically establishes criminal liability of every official associated with the examination.
3. Repeated cancellations can themselves impose substantial costs on genuine candidates.
4. Preventive institutional reform is preferable to relying mainly on cancellation after irregularities occur.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 1, 3 and 4 are correct. The Jharkhand controversy shows the tension between restoring examination credibility and protecting genuine candidates from repeated disruption. Statement 2 is incorrect because cancellation does not itself prove individual criminal guilt; investigation must establish responsibility. Elimination clue: administrative failure and criminal liability are not identical. The deeper reform should include secure question-setting, transparent evaluation, digital audit trails, independent investigation and time-bound grievance redress. Public recruitment ultimately derives legitimacy from equality of opportunity and institutional credibility.

2. Consider the following statements regarding a rural employment-guarantee programme:

1. Increasing the statutory number of guaranteed employment days necessarily means that actual rural employment will increase.
2. Employment guarantees can act as a livelihood safety net when agricultural conditions deteriorate.
3. Person-days of employment generated are relevant for evaluating implementation.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (b)