UPSC Prelims Practice Questions — Cabinet approves Development of Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum at North and South Block Complex, New Delhi

Q1. Consider the following statements: Which of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

  1. Even though the World Heritage Convention of 1972 already existed, UNESCO adopted a separate convention in 2003 to safeguard intangible cultural heritage.
  2. International instruments on cultural and natural heritage were framed around physical heritage such as monuments and sites, and needed new provisions for living practices and expressions passed on across generations.
  • A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
  • B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
  • C. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
  • D. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Q2. Consider the following statements: Which of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

  1. The CCEA's approval of the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum was an executive decision that needed no enabling Act of Parliament.
  2. Cabinet committees such as the CCEA owe their existence to an Act of Parliament, which gives their decisions statutory force.
  • A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
  • B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
  • C. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
  • D. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Q3. With reference to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the protection of monuments, consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. The ASI is a statutory body created by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
  2. Once a monument is declared to be of national importance under the 1958 Act, it comes under central protection, and the ASI is responsible for its maintenance.
  3. The ASI's work goes beyond protecting monuments and includes running museums at archaeological sites.
  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. 1 only
  • C. 1, 2 and 3
  • D. 1 and 3 only

Q4. Consider the following facts: The North and South Block buildings were vacated after Government offices moved out under the Central Vista Redevelopment. A museum on this site is to be built in phases between FY 2026-27 and FY 2030-31, starting with an inaugural gallery. It is expected to earn income from tickets, food and beverage, events, digital experiences, tours and retail. Its collection will come from the National Museum, ASI site museums, state museums and private collections. Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the above?

  1. The buildings could be put to a new use because their earlier administrative function had ended.
  2. Parts of the museum can be opened to visitors before the whole project is finished.
  3. The museum's earned income will free it from any need for government funding to meet its running costs.
  4. Putting the collection together requires coordination with custodians outside the Central Government.
  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 1, 2 and 4 only
  • C. 1, 2, 3 and 4
  • D. 2, 3 and 4 only

Q5. With reference to the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above is/are NOT correct?

  1. The Act defines an antiquity mainly by age, with a threshold of not less than one hundred years for objects such as sculptures and coins.
  2. The Act empowers the Government to compulsorily acquire an antiquity when it considers that the object should be preserved in a public place.
  3. A private dealer holding a licence under the Act may export antiquities for sale abroad.
  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. 1, 2 and 3
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 3 only

Q6. A Union ministry's proposal for a large capital project is appraised by the Public Investment Board. The Board recommends changes, and the ministry accepts them. What must happen next before the project can be implemented?

  • A. It must be referred to Parliament for a vote approving the project itself
  • B. It must be sent back to the Board for a second appraisal before any approval
  • C. It must be submitted for approval to the competent authority, such as the CCEA
  • D. It can go ahead with implementation on the strength of the Board's appraisal alone