KPSC KAS 2021 previous year paper practice · PYQ-pattern set

KPSC KAS 2021 PYQ-pattern questions

Showing 10 of the 18 PYQ-pattern questions in this set — freshly worded in that year's pattern, not the original questions. Answers and solutions open under each question.

1. Q1 · Indian Economy and Reforms

   Which among the following is NOT a direct tax levied by the Government of India?

   • A. Income Tax
   • B. Wealth Tax
   • C. Goods and Services Tax
   • D. Corporate Tax
   Answer and solution

   Answer: C

   Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services. Direct taxes like Income Tax, Wealth Tax, and Corporate Tax are imposed directly on individuals and corporations based on their income or wealth.

2. Q2 · History of Karnataka

   Which Vijayanagara emperor is known for his patronage of the Telugu poet Allasani Peddana, who composed 'Manucharitram'?

   • A. Harihara I
   • B. Krishnadevaraya
   • C. Devaraya II
   • D. Achyutadevaraya
   Answer and solution

   Answer: B

   Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529 CE) was a great patron of arts and literature. He maintained the 'Ashtadiggajas' (eight great poets) at his court, among whom Allasani Peddana, who wrote 'Manucharitram', held the title of 'Andhra Kavita Pitamaha' (the father of Telugu poetry).

3. Q3 · Comprehension

   Read the passage and answer the question: "Public administration in a democratic setup must balance efficiency with accountability. While bureaucratic processes ensure rule-based governance, excessive procedural rigidity can hamper timely service delivery. Modern reforms emphasize citizen-centric approaches, leveraging technology to enhance transparency and reduce discretionary powers that breed corruption." What is the main concern highlighted in the passage?

   • A. Technology cannot replace human decision-making in governance
   • B. Excessive adherence to procedures may delay service delivery despite ensuring accountability
   • C. Democratic systems are inherently slower than authoritarian regimes
   • D. Bureaucrats lack the training to use modern technology effectively
   Answer and solution

   Answer: B

   The passage discusses the need to balance rule-based governance with timely service delivery, indicating that excessive procedural rigidity—while ensuring accountability—can slow down administration.

4. Q4 · English Language

   Arrange the following sentences in a logical sequence: 1. However, success in these fields requires dedication and continuous learning. 2. India has emerged as a global leader in information technology and software services. 3. This has created numerous employment opportunities for young professionals. 4. Many multinational companies have established their operations in Indian cities. Choose the correct sequence:

   • A. 2-4-3-1
   • B. 2-3-4-1
   • C. 4-2-3-1
   • D. 3-2-4-1
   Answer and solution

   Answer: A

   The logical flow starts with India's emergence as IT leader (2), followed by MNCs establishing operations (4), creating opportunities (3), and concluding with the requirement for success (1).

5. Q5 · English Language

   Fill in the blank with the appropriate preposition: The minister presided ________ the important meeting on rural development.

   • A. on
   • B. over
   • C. at
   • D. with
   Answer and solution

   Answer: B

   The correct preposition to use with 'presided' is 'over', forming the phrase 'presided over' which means to lead or be in charge of a meeting.

6. Q6 · Environment and Ecology

   Consider the following statements regarding 'Carbon Offsetting': 1. It involves reducing emissions in one place to compensate for emissions elsewhere. 2. Tree plantation is the only recognized method of carbon offsetting under international protocols. 3. Carbon credits can be traded between countries under the Paris Agreement framework. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

   • A. 1 and 3 only
   • B. 2 and 3 only
   • C. 1 only
   • D. 1, 2 and 3
   Answer and solution

   Answer: A

   Carbon offsetting involves compensating emissions through reduction projects elsewhere (statement 1 correct). Multiple methods exist—renewable energy, energy efficiency, afforestation, etc.—not only tree plantation (statement 2 incorrect). The Paris Agreement allows carbon credit trading (statement 3 correct).

7. Q7 · Geography of Karnataka

   Which among the following is the highest peak in Karnataka?

   • A. Mullayanagiri
   • B. Kudremukh
   • C. Tadiandamol
   • D. Pushpagiri
   Answer and solution

   Answer: A

   Mullayanagiri in the Chikkamagaluru district is the highest peak in Karnataka, standing at 1,930 metres above sea level.

8. Q8 · Data Interpretation

   The following line graph shows the number of students enrolled in a coaching institute over five years: Year | Students 2017 | 320 2018 | 380 2019 | 420 2020 | 360 2021 | 440 In which year was the enrollment the lowest?

   • A. 2017
   • B. 2018
   • C. 2019
   • D. 2020
   Answer and solution

   Answer: A

   The enrollment in 2017 was 320, which is the lowest among all the given years.

9. Q9 · English Language

   Read the following passage: The concept of judicial activism remains contentious. Proponents argue that courts must protect fundamental rights when legislatures fail to act. Critics contend that excessive judicial intervention undermines legislative supremacy and the principle of separation of powers. The balance between judicial oversight and democratic governance continues to be debated. What can be inferred about the author's view on judicial activism?

   • A. The author strongly supports judicial activism
   • B. The author is completely against judicial activism
   • C. The author presents both perspectives without taking a clear stance
   • D. The author believes courts should never intervene in legislation
   Answer and solution

   Answer: C

   The passage presents arguments from both proponents and critics without indicating the author's personal position, showing a balanced presentation.

10. Q10 · Karnataka Economy and Administration

    Which sector contributes the highest share to Karnataka's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) as per recent economic surveys?

    • A. Agriculture and Allied Activities
    • B. Manufacturing and Industry
    • C. Services Sector (including IT/BT)
    • D. Construction and Real Estate
    Answer and solution

    Answer: C

    The Services sector, particularly driven by IT/BT industries in Bangalore, contributes the largest share (approximately 60-65%) to Karnataka's GSDP, making it the dominant economic driver.