Instructions: –
1. Attempt all the questions.
2. Once you have completed all the questions of a particular section click on the submit button for scores and explanations then move to the next sections.
3. For each correct answer, you receive 1 mark. For this mock, there is no negative marking.
English Language
Each set of questions in this section is based on a single passage. Please answer each question based on what is stated or implied in the corresponding passage. In some instances, more than one option may be the answer to the question; in such a case, please choose the option that most accurately and comprehensively answers the question.
In recent years, renewable energy has emerged as a critical component of global energy strategies, driven by the need to address climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal, offer sustainable alternatives that can help mitigate the adverse effects of greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. One of the most significant drivers of the shift towards renewable energy is the increasing recognition of the environmental impact of traditional energy sources. Fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, are major contributors to air pollution and global warming. In contrast, renewable energy sources produce little to no greenhouse gases during operation, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in making renewable energy more viable and cost-effective. Innovations in solar panel efficiency, wind turbine design, and energy storage systems have significantly reduced the costs associated with renewable energy technologies. As a result, renewable energy is becoming increasingly competitive with conventional energy sources in terms of both cost and performance.
Quantitative Techniques
In 2022, the Finance Department of a regional government and a private company both conducted detailed budget analyses to better allocate their resources. The government allocated its budget as follows: 30% on infrastructure development, 20% on healthcare, 15% on education, 10% on public safety, 5% on environmental initiatives, and 20% on administrative expenses. The total government expenditure for 2022 was ₹ 1,50,000.
On the other hand, the private company allocated its budget in 2022 as follows: 25% on research and development (R&D), 18% on marketing, 12% on employee training, 20% on operations, 15% on infrastructure, and 10% on other expenses. The total expenditure of the private company in 2022 was ₹ 80,000.
Logical Reasoning
In recent years, the traditional office workspace has undergone significant changes, driven by evolving employee preferences and advancements in technology. Companies are increasingly adopting flexible workspace models, which include open-plan offices, co-working spaces, and remote working arrangements. These changes reflect a shift from rigid, hierarchical office structures to more dynamic and collaborative environments. A key factor in this transition is the growing emphasis on employee well-being and productivity. Studies have shown that flexible work arrangements can enhance job satisfaction and performance by providing employees with more control over their work environment. For example, open-plan offices promote collaboration and communication among team members, while remote work options offer greater work-life balance and reduce commuting stress.
However, the shift towards flexible workspaces also presents several challenges. Companies must address concerns related to privacy, security, and maintaining a cohesive corporate culture. Open-plan offices can lead to increased noise levels and distractions, potentially affecting productivity. Remote work can also create issues with team cohesion and communication, as employees may feel isolated from their colleagues. To successfully implement flexible workspaces, companies need to carefully balance these benefits and challenges. They must invest in appropriate technology to support remote work, establish clear communication protocols, and design office spaces that foster both collaboration and individual productivity. Additionally, companies should consider employee feedback and preferences when making decisions about workspace configurations.
The evolution of corporate workspaces illustrates a broader trend towards more adaptable and employee-centric business practices. By addressing the challenges associated with flexible work environments and leveraging their benefits, companies can create workspaces that enhance both employee satisfaction and organizational performance.
Legal Reasoning
A writ is a public law remedy-a formal, written order by a judicial authority that commands an individual or an organization to perform or not to perform a certain act. Where the High Court exercises its judicial review power, it does not act as an appellate court. Instead, it considers cases only about illegality, irrationality, and procedural remissiness of state or statutory authorities. The High Court may, in the enforcement of Fundamental Rights, or otherwise, issue directions, orders, or writs. It is vested with writ jurisdiction on principles of discretion and equity.
A mandamus is a writ which orders a public authority to perform a public duty connected with its office. This writ can be issued only if the authority has some legal obligation, and the petitioner has a right to enforce the performance of that duty. It is used to make people do the required public duties, whether it is of an administrative, ministerial, or statutory nature. It thus follows that a writ of mandamus issues to a party who can show a legal right and against those who have a legal duty to act who have refused or neglected so to do. This duty arises by operation of law. The writ of mandamus is broad in its remedial nature and seeks to avoid anarchy through failures in the administration of justice; it is available whenever the law has not provided a specific legal remedy.
Current Affairs & General Knowledge
The Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park opening at Bankhandi in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, shall be India’s milestone achievements in terms of its conservation and eco-tourism initiatives. This zoo would become the first in India that has been awarded a certificate by the Indian Green Building Council. The chief minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, declared this project on 2 November 2024 as the government has concerns for projects that ensure environmental responsibility, conservation of biodiversity, and development.
IGBC certification is considered one of the highest environmental accolades because it shows the completion of compliance according to the best environmental practices. This is a building and landscape certification, where it ensures that Durgesh Aranya Zoo would undergo extremely strict criteria about energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, and every other measure towards sustainability. The IGBC assessment will study the environmental impact from infrastructure to operational aspects at the zoo. Layout, facilities, and designs for the zoo will blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings in terms of environmental balance and resource conservation. Development in the park is set forth in a manner that the site reflects an eco-friendly, rich experience for the visitors with awareness and understanding about the wildlife conservation. Sustainability is an integral part of the concept of the Durgesh Aranya project, much like the broader vision of the Himachal Pradesh government to include eco-friendly practices in tourism and infrastructure. The zoo will be a learning platform that involves local people and tourists in its conservation efforts and education programs about indigenous and endangered species. It will have properly designed programs and exhibits meant to create a sense of wildlife and habitat preservation.
This phase of the project of Durgesh Aranya is about 25 hectares and is estimated at ₹230 crore. Completion is envisioned for the third quarter of 2025. The overall project has a budget of ₹619 crore, indicative of considerable expenditure in the name of sustainable tourism. But Durgesh Aranya comes into its own not only through conservation but also as a major economic contributor for Kangra and the larger region by attracting tourists, generating revenue, and providing jobs to the local people. It will disseminate the rich cultural heritage of Kangra and transform the park into a flagship tourist destination within northern India.
This will include a design that mainly conserves and innovates in the habitats to very closely mirror the animals’ original homes. This will both facilitate visitor experience and improve welfare among the animals. Different species find safe haven here while considering the balance between human involvement and wildlife preservation. Upon completion, Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park will be a new benchmark for future green infrastructure projects in India. As a model for sustainable development, it will inspire similar initiatives across the country and show that eco-friendly practices are feasible in large-scale public projects. This commitment to sustainability positions the park as a beacon of responsible tourism, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
